Ted Cruz and Colin Allred to Clash in Lone Texas Senate Debate Before Election

The single debate between the two Texas Senate candidates will be on October 15. Senator Ted Cruz and Democratic Representative Colin Allred will compete. WFAA will host and broadcast the conversation across the state at 7 p.m., giving voters a rare chance to face the two candidates three weeks before the election. 

Both parties are running more attack ads for the Senate, fueled by national attention and funding. Allred, a Dallas congressman, is reducing the polling gap against Cruz, setting up a close election on November 5.

The debate defined both candidates. Cruz, who wants a third term, will try to win back supporters and address critics. Allred, however, will try to build on his recent gains and sway undecided voters. 

Analysts expect both sides to attack the other's policy beliefs and performance, mirroring their acidic advertising. The discussion may be crucial for Democrats seeking a Senate seat in a Republican state. 

The "The Texas Debate," hosted at WFAA's studio, will allow Texans to hear directly from candidates on issues that may affect the election's final days.