Ted Cruz and Heidi Nelson –  Together Since 2001

Heidi and Ted Cruz met while working on George W. Bush’s presidential campaign, quickly bonding over shared ambitions. Their first date in January 2001 in Austin led to a swift marriage in May, marked by Ted’s quirky choice of playing “A Whole New World” from Disney’s “Aladdin” at their wedding.

Initially, both held prominent roles in the Bush administration, but Ted’s career shift as Texas’ solicitor general resulted in a challenging long-distance marriage. Heidi made a significant sacrifice, leaving her dream job to join Ted in Texas. Overcoming this period of struggle, Heidi thrived as a managing director, and the couple welcomed two daughters, Caroline and Catherine, into their lives.