Well, I had the opportunity to talk to Sen Cruz about FR, when I met him, last week.
I actually got him aside for a few minutes, and asked if he knew of the FReepers. He looked a bit puzzled, and then I said "Free Republic. You have quite a group of supporters there. Even the owner, JR, is a big fan of yours." Sen Cruz said, "God bless you all!"
(and ya never tell where yer best fishin' spot is d:^)