“Late Show” host Stephen Colbert confronted Republican presidential candidate Texas Sen. Ted Cruz on Monday night on his views on gay marriage, Reagan’s amnesty policy, and raising taxes.
“I haven’t seen anyone saying the thing we want of Republicans is to give into Barack Obama and the direction we’re going,” Cruz said. “I don’t hear that across the country.”
But, Colbert wanted to know, could the senator support some of Reagan’s policies?
“Are those aspects of Reagan something you could agree with? Raising taxes and amnesty for illegal immigrants?” Colbert asked.
Cruz quickly replied, “No, of course not.”
Like Reagan, could he compromise, Colbert wondered.
“Will you be willing to compromise? It’s entirely possible that your plan might be the right one. If it turns out not to be the right one would you be willing to compromise with the other side, change you mind and do something the other side wants and not feel like you capitulated with the devil?” Colbert said.
Cruz said when his opponents (or allies) insult him, he doesn’t “respond in kind.”
When Colbert asked his position on gay marriage, Cruz said the Supreme Court should not have final say.
“I don’t think we should entrust governing our society to five unelected lawyers in Washington.” He added, “If you want to win an issue, go to the ballot box and win at the ballot box. That’s the way the Constitution was designed.”
Colbert, who is often praised for his thoughtful interview style, chastised his audience for booing the senator.
“Guys, guys, however you feel, he’s my guest so don’t boo him,” Colbert said.
Watch the clip on Cruz and Reagan, from CBS, below:
