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Metadata

ID:
2025-05-29-gary-sheng-ted-cruz-ayn-rand-vinyl-gift
Participants:

Brief Interaction with Senator Ted Cruz - Ayn Rand Vinyl Gift

Context​

During the Texas Venture Gala, Gary Sheng had a brief opportunity to speak directly with Senator Ted Cruz.

Interaction Summary​

  • Gary Sheng to Senator Cruz:

    • Expressed gratitude for the Senator's work on school choice in Texas.
    • Emphasized the need for Texas to improve its education ranking from 40th to 1st and even beyond, given the rapidly changing world.
    • Presented Senator Cruz with a rare 1965 vinyl record of Ayn Rand.
      • Content of the record: Ayn Rand discussing "the new fascism ruled by St. Petersburg."
    • Complimented the Senator: "You're honestly a shining light in the sea of talkers."

  • Senator Ted Cruz's Response:

    • Acknowledged he has "read a lot of Ayn Rand."
    • Expressed thanks for the unique gift: "Thank you so much - I can't wait to give this a listen."

Key Takeaway​

A brief but impactful exchange where Gary Sheng acknowledged Senator Cruz's work on a key issue (school choice) and offered a thoughtful, unique gift related to political philosophy, which the Senator appeared to appreciate.