On his "extreme" views:
The media will tell us that believing in free market values, believing in the Constitution, believing in freedom, that those are extreme views. It is a lie. If it were not a lie, why do so many Democrats, when they’re running, pretend to be conservatives? (Applause.) For that matter, why do so many Republicans do the same? (Cheers, applause.)
On White House negotiations:
So this afternoon President Obama has invited the Senate Republicans to the White House. (Laughter.) So after leaving here, I’m going to be going to the White House. (Cheers, applause.) I will make a request: If I’m never seen again, please a search and rescue team. (Laughter, applause.) I very much hope tomorrow morning I don’t wake up amidst the Syrian rebels. (Laughter.)
On Joe Biden and the 2nd Amendment:
We’ve got the Second Amendment which no administration in this – history of this country has come after guns like this administration. Now, Vice President Joe Biden – (laughter) – you know the nice thing? You don’t need a punch line. (Laughter, cheers, applause.) You just say his name, people laugh. But Vice President Joe Biden had some advice. He said, if anyone’s attacking your home, just go outside with a double barreled shotgun and fire both barrels in the air, which is very, very good advice, if it so happens you’re being attacked by a flock of geese. (Laughter.)
On hecklers:
It seems that President Obama’s paid political operatives are out in force today. (Laughter, cheers, applause.) And you know why? And you know why? Because the men and women in this room scare the living daylights out of them. (Cheers, applause.)
On his outspoken father:
Many of y’all know my father, Rafael Cruz. (Cheers, applause.) I am hoping in time I can encourage him not to be such a wallflower. (Laughter.)
Full transcript available here.
