Not in Texas growing up. My parents went to a convention when I was a kid. They were very middle class working folks: engineer and realtor.
Ray Hutchison (Kay Bailey Hutchison’s spouse) worked his way up the chains to be head of the Republican party in Texas. I lived 1 street over from him growing up in Lake Highlands. Known his family my entire life.
I’m in California and not involved in state politics here. I don’t think the Republicans are very good out here, especially compared to Texas.
Practically non existent. Sonny Bono's wife lost his seat last election in a conservative stronghold. Maybe uncontrolled illegal immigration is changing the demographic.
Cruz got in by running as a TeaParty candidate and then sold out the Tea Party by voting to give Obama fast track!