As soon as Barack Obama was reelected in 2012, Republicans (and most likely other political groups) began implementing their strategies to elect the next president of their own ilk. Over those two years, many names have come from the Republican camp as their front-runner for president in 2016. Perhaps the fastest climber in those talks has been Senator Ted Cruz from Texas. Cruz took office earlier this year and has wasted no time in cementing his legacy – whether it be good or bad – as a firebrand Senator who holds no bars when it comes to speaking his mind (as well all know following his 21-hour filibuster against the Affordable Care Act). However, Cruz may have allowed his political stardom to reach too far too soon.

On December 6, Really Big Coloring Books, Inc. publisher Wayne Bell released the Ted Cruz to the Future™ – Comic Coloring Activity Book for sale. And in a shocking turn of events, the 10,000 copy run sold out the very next day. The odd success of the coloring book prompted Bell to hire more employees and start another run, which sold out just as fast as the first. The coloring book is currently on its third production and Bell expects this one to be a sell-out as well: “It’s wild. It’s almost mind-boggling what is happening with this book,” stated Bell.

The description of the coloring book states, “The Cruz to the Future™ book is a non-partisan, fact-driven view of how Texas Sen. Rafael Edward “Ted” Cruz became a U.S. senator and details, through his quotes and public information his ideas for what he believes will help America grow. Cruz has openly identifies with the Tea Party and garners support from the Republican Liberty Caucus and many independents including democrats.”

Wayne Bell adds his own commentary to the description of the coloring book, stating “The Cruz to the Future™ coloring book is suitable for any student desk in America, as millions of people across the country admire, respect and portray Mr. Cruz as a positive role model for children. Parents have told our company they enjoy modern day heroes and positive role models in children’s literature and Mr. Cruz as a sitting U.S. Senator certainly meets the criteria.”

The title of the coloring book perhaps says it all and more, though. It displays Senator Cruz standing next to a tree (perhaps a tree of democracy?), which starts with grass and roots (paying homage to Cruz’s Tea Party leanings) and develops into a two branches labeled “U.S. Constitution” and “Ten Commandments” (because we all know those two documents are the foundations of our democracy….) The tree then sprouts leaves showcasing classic American charismatic terms, such as opportunity, freedom, and gun rights.

Rumors have stated that Ted Cruz will definitely run for president in 2016. While it is true that Republicans have struggled in pulling in younger voters, one can assume that they were not talking about children ages 3-8. However, if Cruz runs for President in 2028, one can properly bet that this indoctrination may pay dividends.

[Image via ColoringBook.com]