Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Tex) became the first serious contender to formally announce plans to run for president in the 2016 election on Monday.

Ted Cruz Announces Bid

Speaking at the evangelical Liberty University in Virginia, Cruz expressed his goal to become the next president of the United States. “I believe in you. I believe in the power of millions of courageous conservatives rising up to reignite the promise of America,” Cruz said, speaking to the students of the school founded by Christian leader Jerry Falwell. “That’s why today, I am announcing that I am running for president of the United States.”

“It is the time for truth, it is the time for liberty, it is the time to reclaim the constitution of the United States,” Cruz said in his remarks. “The power of the American people when we rise up and stand for liberty knows no boundaries.”

Cruz also announced his bid on Twitter with a 30-second spot. “It’s a time for truth, a time to rise to the challenge, just as Americans have always done,” Cruz says in voiceover. “I believe in America and her people. I believe we can stand up and restore her promise. It’s going to take a new generation of courageous conservatives to help make America great again. And I’m ready to stand with you, to lead the fight.”

I’m running for President and I hope to earn your support! pic.twitter.com/0UTqaIoytP

— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) March 23, 2015

Cruz was elected to the Senate in 2012. Before that, he served as the the solicitor general of Texas.