Donald Trump entered the 2016 presidential race on June 16, 2015. Find out where he stands on four of the biggest issues this election: immigration, ISIS, job growth and gay marriage. (Daniel Desrochers/McClatchy DC)
">

Cruz has been careful not to criticize Trump because he sees Trump supporters as looking to him as an alternative.

Cruz sought to downplay his remarks Thursday, refusing to confirm them, and his campaign issued a release labeling the Times’ report “misleading.” But the audio of Cruz’s remarks was leaked Friday.

I believe gravity will bring both of those campaigns down.

Sen. Ted Cruz

Cruz sought to join forces with Trump by tweeting Friday that “The Establishment’s only hope: Trump & me in a cage match.” He went on to say “Sorry to disappoint -- realDonaldTrump is terrific. #DealWithIt.”

December 11, 2015