DALLAS, Texas — Like most debates, the Texas Debate began with a handshake before the gloves came off.
"When the lights went out in the energy capital of the world, he went to Cancun,” said Democratic Congressman Colin Allred who's challenging Republican Senator Ted Cruz.
Much of the back and forth mirrored what you’ve probably been seeing in political ads.
“Colin Allred and Kamala Harris are both running on the same radical agenda,” said Cruz.
According to a UH poll released earlier Tuesday, Cruz came into the debate with a four-point lead.
Political science professor Brandon Rottinghaus told us after the debate that Allred confronting Cruz about the capitol riot was a moment to stand out against a generally more dynamic opponent.
"You can’t be for the mob on January 6th and for the officers, you can’t," said Allred as Cruz smirked. "It’s not funny because you’re a threat to Democracy.”
Issues including abortion rights, the border, crime and the economy expectedly came up as did a lengthy exchange about trans youth in sports.
"The Equality Act mandated that boys be allowed to go into girls’ bathrooms, locker rooms, changing rooms, he voted for it,” said Cruz.
"You know, when Ted Cruz starts talking about team sports, watch out," said Allred. "Because the only position he ever played was left out.”
Experts said it’s the two-term incumbent’s race to lose with exactly three weeks to go.