The real problem in Texas is that, especially in the large cities, we have a lot of those squishy, middle of the road Bush RINO types. If Texas goes blue it will be because of them.
Cruzlims cost Trump votes in 2016. Many of them are proud Nevertrumpers and either skipped the President race or voted for Gary Johnson or McMuffin.
From a former statewide election official—in 2018 Beto was young, fresh and exciting and he was running against the most unlikable, arrogant candidate ever.