“The Senate Majority Leader has the unilateral ability to stand up and say, 'If you defy Congress, if you defy the Constitution, if you defy the American people, none of your nominees will be confirmed.'”

U.S. senator and former Texas attorney general, born in 1970. A conservative Republican, he is best known for his contentious political career, including his 2016 presidential primary campaign and his role in the 2013 government shutdown. His rhetoric often emphasizes limited government, constitutionalism, and opposition to progressive policies.