Their positions are pretty close. I think Trump would probably hit the ground much faster on trade and the economy than Cruz while Cruz may be able to help tackle the Washington leviathan.
I think both Trump and Cruz would eventually have to cave on some conservative positions in order to push more important stuff through.
As for thick skin, I'm dedicated to not being part of the rhetoric that makes Free Republic a toxic place.
“the Washington leviathan”
...will have to be fired. Almost ALL of it.