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I see a possible strategic reason for Cruz holding back. In military terms, he is acting like “reserves”, not being deployed until at a critical moment when he throws in to create overwhelming momentum.

Importantly, such strategic thinking would mean that he has long been on friendlier terms with Trump than either have let on, which seemed to be the case during much of the primary campaign. This is a good possibility when you are dealing with two smart guys who see the big picture.

It would also mean that Cruz would have a prominent place in the Trump administration. Not as a front man, but someone in a position of great power.

Again, thinking strategically, one of Trump’s first really big fights is going to be his nominee to the SCOTUS to replace justice Scalia. It is guaranteed to be a knock down drag out. For him to nominate Cruz would unify the Democrat opposition like nothing else.

So it would be best to nominate a conservative less controversial. Granted, he will still be savaged, but when confirmed will return the conservatives to a tentative 5-4 majority, with justice Kennedy being the weakest link. However, once that is done, much of the fight will be knocked out of the Democrats.

My guess is that Ruth Bader Ginsburg will retire soon after. And *then* would be optimum to nominate Cruz to the SCOTUS. Sure it will still be a fight, but with Cruz in, there will be no argument about the court being strongly conservative. It would be a strategic victory, and make the rest of the Trump administration much easier.