It may not be Cruz at all, but the fear of D. Trump getting in?
What drives the hatred so?
Cruz is just the face, a happenstance. The "thing" being protected is an oligarchy that tolerates ineffective dissent.
I don't follow Limbaugh any more, but did years ago. This is not the first time he's buried or misrepresented facts and misled his audience (and in some cases his opinion would have made a difference, never mind the facts - e.g., government shutdown under Newt), not by a long shot.
One other thought, and there is no doubt this happens too. A good propagandist doesn't have to start out with that intention. Many are recruited after they have developed rapport and trust with their listeners or readers.
TPP. Billions of dollars from U.S. and foreign interests to drive this last nail in our coffin.