76% of GOP now 'conservative,' pick Cruz for 2016 nomination

◼ According to a new PPP poll, which has Sen. Ted Cruz the top choice for the 2016 Republican nomination, those who describe themselves as “very conservative” make up 39 percent of the splintered party. Add in those who consider themselves “somewhat conservative,” and the right-leaning voters comprise 76 percent of the party. - Paul Bedard/Washington Examiner

Among the conservative voters, Cruz is the leading choice for the GOP nomination. He won 34 percent of that group. But he also shows remarkable crossover as 32 percent of the “very liberal” crowd also prefer him.

◼ Poll: Ted Cruz Is Top Republican Primary Voter Choice For 2016 Prez Race - IJ Review

That Canadian-born Cuban Constitutionalist has filibustered his way into America’s heart. Or at least the hearts of Republican primary voters anyway.

◼ Cruz emerges as GOP leader - PPP

Our numbers also suggest that Cruz is now viewed more broadly as the leader of the Republican Party. When asked whether they trust Cruz or GOP leader Mitch McConnell more, Cruz wins out 49/13. When it comes to who's more trusted between Cruz and Speaker John Boehner, Cruz has a 51/20 advantage. And when it comes to Cruz and 2008 GOP nominee and Senate colleague John McCain, Cruz wins out 52/31. He now has more credibility with the GOP base than the folks who have been leading the party for years.