They bought Reagan who IMHO was equally conservative. However I think it is in Ted's delivery. He has not learned the almost Spartanesque efficient use of the English Language to get his point across, he is too wordy, unless he is under-fire and on point. You then add his Faith/Religious component to that and it is a a turn off because he comes across as preachy. I like those that have Faith and are quiet and live it, it is so subtle, and beautiful quiet frankly.
Yes Reagan was conservative but he was the “great communicator” and very likeable. He like Trump also already had great name recognition and his accomplishments were many at the time of his campaign for President. Reagan was a quiet Christian, humble in his faith.
I hate to see people try to compare Ted Cruz to Reagan because they are not alike in any way.