"Texas Democrat Roland Gutierrez Challenges Ted Cruz in 2024 Senate Race"

Democratic state senator Roland Gutierrez, known for his advocacy of gun control, has announced his candidacy for Senator Ted Cruz's seat in Texas. Gutierrez, who represents Uvalde, Texas, is the second major Democratic politician to enter the race, joining Representative Colin Allred. Both candidates plan to focus their attacks on Cruz rather than each other. Gutierrez gained national attention for his push for gun control after a massacre in Uvalde last year. He plans to make gun violence a centerpiece of his campaign, highlighting the unwillingness of Texas Republicans to regulate guns. Gutierrez faces a fundraising disadvantage compared to Allred but expects support from Democrats eager to defeat Cruz.