In 2009, the emergence of the tea party rallies in Texas marked a significant moment for citizens frustrated with the political establishment. This movement attracted individuals dissatisfied with politicians from both major parties, who they believed were mismanaging the economy through excessive taxation and debt accumulation while ignoring their constituents' voices.

Ted Cruz, along with his father, participated in some of these early rallies, emphasizing the collective demand for accountability in governance. The tea party embodied a grassroots response to political actions that many felt were detrimental to the nation's financial health and democratic principles.