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Before the midterm elections, CNN Opinion asked commentators to weigh in on
the races they were watching most closely. We have asked those commentators to
assess the outcome of those races -- and what they mean for the future of American
politics. The views expressed are solely their own.
Raul Reyes: Chances are, we have not heard the last from Beto
On Tuesday, just hours before the polls closed in Texas, Beyonce made a surprise
endorsement for Democrat Beto O'Rourke over Republican Ted Cruz in the race
for Texas senator. Maybe Queen Bey should have weighed in a little sooner.
Maybe O'Rourke should have run a more traditional campaign, instead of refusing
to run negative ads. Maybe O'Rourke should have worked harder at winning over
Republican voters, rather than focusing on identifying new voters.
The "what-if's" will no doubt linger around O'Rourke's candidacy for a long time,
as incumbent Cruz defeated him in the Lone Star State by single digits. Though
O'Rourke excited voters in a way reminiscent of Barack Obama, this was not
Beto's night. His narrow defeat was a heartbreaker for Democrats who have long
dreamed of turning this state blue.
Still, this has been an extraordinary campaign, one that O'Rourke can and should
be proud of. If he had run a conventional campaign, it likely would not have
captured national attention, inspired Texas Democrats and made "Beto" a
household name. O'Rourke should be pleased with the fact that he has awakened
the state's Democrats. Just the fact that, until around 10 p.m. Tuesday night, the
race was seen as a tossup is an accomplishment in itself.
O'Rourke has shown that a progressive Democrat can mount a serious challenge in
a red state. He has brought in thousands of first-time voters, among them many
Latinos and millennials. And he did this while refraining from personal attacks and
staying true to his inclusive values.
Ted Cruz likely benefitted from the structural electoral advantages that
Republicans enjoy in Texas -- as well as a healthy dose of political tribalism. But
thanks to his charisma and sharp political instincts, O'Rourke has made a
substantial impact on Texas politics. He is well-positioned to challenge Sen. John
Cornyn, or even consider a presidential run. Chances are, we have not heard the
last from Beto.
Raul A. Reyes is an attorney and member of the USA Today board of contributors.
Follow him on Twitter @RaulAReyes.