AUSTIN (KXAN) – Two men whose political careers are just starting to blossom Julian Castro and Ted Cruz. 

Castro, the San Antonio mayor, that was picked to deliver the keynote speech at the Democratic National Convention. 

On the Republican side, Ted Cruz, Texas’ former solicitor general now running for the U.S. Senate, who rallied the RNC with his speech against the Obama administration. 

On September 22, the two politely, stood firm by their beliefs in a debate at the Texas Tribune Fest.

One of the issues Castro referred to as pinata politics, was that of immigration.  And the idea that both sides are badgering each other without a resolution.

“I don’t think in the long run, the U.S. is going to be well-served by being a nation that sends a signal to the world,” Castro said. “Even though we’re saying we like immigrants, we’re really comfortable with where we’re at.”

“I think one of our great strengths of our nation, is that all of our ancestors came from all over the world, seeking freedom and opportunity,” Cruz said. “And, i think we need to remain a nation that celebrates legal immigrants, and at the same time, secures our border and gets serious about stopping the problem.”

It likely won’t be the last time, Cruz and Castro square off.  At 41 and 37 years old respectively, these two Harvard-grads have a long future ahead as leaders of their parties.

For more on the Texas Tribune Festival visit Political Reporter Josh Hinkle’s blog .