Cruz Lends a Hand to Campbell in SD-25 Race

_{*Correction appended.}

In the competitive primary for SD-25, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz has thrown some supporting words to a fellow Tea Party favorite, Sen. Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels. While he didn't go so far as to endorse her, Cruz said in a statement that "Donna Campbell is a much-needed fighter in the state Senate to help stop Obamacare from spreading its destruction throughout Texas."

As a freshman senator, Campbell, a dual-certified physician in emergency medicine and ophthamology, opposed Medicaid expansion and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in the 2012 legislative session. She received national attention for calling the point of order that ended state Sen. Wendy Davis’ filibuster of proposed abortion regulations.

But community leaders in Campbell's district have criticized her for establishing a municipal utility district alongside the Blanco River in Wimberley, and approving a $10 increase in vehicle registration fees, which are being tapped to build toll lanes in San Antonio. The criticism has fueled challenges from two fellow Republicans — Elisa Chan, a former San Antonio city councilwoman, and Mike Novak, a former Bexar County commissioner — hoping to unseat Campbell in the March 4 primary. 

Correction: The headline of this story previously said Cruz had formally endorsed Campbell. He has not.