Jan. 6, 2021, was a dark, dark day for American democracy, friend. And it was made possible by shameless, self-serving politicians like Ted Cruz, whose false claims about the 2020 election helped incite the insurrection.

I was on the House floor that day. I remember hearing the glass break and the shouts coming closer and then learning that the unthinkable was about to happen: A violent mob was about to breach the Capitol.

As they pounded on the doors, I texted my wife, Aly, who was seven months pregnant with our second child, "Whatever happens, I love you." Then I took off my jacket and got ready to fight off anyone who came through the door. Thankfully, because of the bravery of the Capitol and D.C. Metro Police it didn't come to that.

While my colleagues and I were barricaded on the House floor, bracing for the worst with our gas masks in hand, Ted Cruz – who had been excited to "fight for freedom" on Jan. 6, objected to the election results, and had cheered on the mob – hid in a supply closet. That's Ted for you: all hat, no cattle.

That day is one of so many reasons I know Ted Cruz has got to go. People lost their lives, and we came very close to losing our democracy. His MAGA extremism is a threat to Texans and our democracy, and it's time we hold him accountable.

2024 is our chance to finally replace Ted Cruz and give Texans the Senator we deserve. But I need your help to get it done, friend. Will you donate now to help power our grassroots movement all the way to Election Day? Every dollar gets us that much closer to defeating Ted Cruz. →

I'm ready to do everything I can to protect and strengthen our democracy and ensure the events of Jan. 6 never happen again. Thank you for being with me in this fight.

Colin Allred