I agree that given the times we are in, Trump is the one we need to shake things up and take no prisoners. If not Trump, then Cruz is my next choice, but I think he'll have a difficult time in the general election. Many Democrats and Independents will turn out to vote against Cruz (as they see him as a scary Bible Belt right-winger) whereas many of those same folks would cross over to vote for Trump.
Yes, Cruz is a more pure conservative but if we nominate him only to lose to Shrillary, it will be a devastating blow. I think Trump will clobber her in a crushing landslide.
Many Democrats and Independents will turn out to vote against Cruz (as they see him as a scary Bible Belt right-winger) whereas many of those same folks would cross over to vote for Trump. It's possible, but Cruz demeanor, logic, knowlege, and speaking style can win these people over.
The media demonization could backfire when people hear him speak for himself.