Texas senator and former presidential candidate Ted Cruz just gave an epic non-endorsement for Donald Trump, telling GOP convention-goers to vote according to their consciences.
“We deserve leaders who stand for principle, who unite us all behind shared values, who cast aside anger for love,” Cruz said on Wednesday night at the Republican National Convention in Cleveland. “That is the standard we should expect from everybody. And to those listening, please, don’t stay home in November. If you love our country and love your children as much as I know that you do, stand and speak and vote your conscience, vote for candidates up and down the ticket who you trust to defend our freedom and to be faithful to the constitution.”
Cruz’s remarks met equal parts booing and applause from the audience and a thumbs-up from Donald Trump — an indication the real-estate mogul was wary about his former campaign rival’s remarks.
“We will unite the party, we will unite the country by standing together for shared values, by standing for liberty,” Cruz said. “God bless each and every one of you, and God bless the United States of America.”
Cruz concluded his remarks without endorsing Trump — a notable standout move compared to any other convention speaker.