Showing surprising viability in deep red Texas, Beto O’Rourke hauled in $2.4 million in individual contributions in the 4th quarter of 2017.  “Lying” Ted Cruz (as dubbed by Trump) was about a half million behind with $1.9 raised.  LTC still leads in the critical cash on hand column with about $2.7 million more in the coffer than Beto.  O’Rourke is closing the gap, however, and maintains a respectable $4.6 million on hand with no viable primary opponent.  On the other hand, Cruz has the benefit of his willingness to accept money from anyone including dark money PACs; while Beto is relying entirely on individual contributions.  Red still puts Beto as a longshot to win but November is a long time away.