Sorry, but I see no evidence supporting conservatives like Cruz gaining stature under the weak-kneed R leadership. Instead, Cruz gets slammed for doing the right thing - such as the budget showdown.
It is seriously screwed up when the party that stabs you in the back then screams at you that you "must" support them. (Not you - but the GOPe)
You still cannot deny that Cruz and other conservatives are in a better position without Dingy Harry as Majority Leader. That's why it's important to regain the Senate, even if it has to be done by holding noses and voting for RINOs.