Ted Cruz Files for 2018 Re-election Bid: 'I'm Not Giving in to Washington Cartel'

Sen. Ted Cruz says he wants another term in the Senate.

The Texas lawmaker said in a statement Wednesday that he had filed the official paperwork for a re-election bid in 2018. The move reactivates his Senate campaign committee that would collect money for his run.

Cruz quit the presidential race last week after a crushing defeat in Indiana. He said in his statement that he will continue fighting for "jobs, freedom and security ... for 27 million Texans and all Americans."

He added that the conservative movement remains strong and vibrant.

Cruz has alienated several of his Republican colleagues during his time in the Senate, helping engineer a 16-day partial government shutdown in 2013 and calling Majority Leader Mitch McConnell a liar on the Senate floor.

"When I suspended my presidential campaign, I vowed to never stop fighting for our shared conservative values," Cruz said in an email statement.

"Today, I have an important announcement, and I want you to be the first to know.

"You see: the Washington Cartel has done everything in their power to defeat me -- but I'm not giving in...

"While my campaign for president didn't end the way you and I had hoped -- after serious prayer and careful consideration, Heidi and I have decided we are going to keep fighting, and I hope you will too.

"So, this afternoon I've filed my official paperwork to run for re-election to the United States Senate in Texas.

"As conservatives, you and I are facing a MONUMENTAL battle in 2016 and beyond. That is why I'm emailing you today.

"In the Senate, I will continue fighting for jobs, freedom, and security for 27 million Texans and all Americans across this great country. When conservatives are united, we are far more effective -- the conservative movement remains strong and vibrant.

"Our presidential campaign was only as successful as it was because people like you stood side-by-side with me every step of the way.

"And if I'm going to stand against the liberal agenda of Washington insiders -- I need you by my side fighting for our shared conservative values."