First on CNN: Cruz invited to key 2016 presidential state

Manchester, New Hampshire (CNN) - An influential social conservative organization in New Hampshire has invited Sen. Ted Cruz to speak to its members, an offer that would present the Texas Republican an opportunity to begin meeting primary voters if he decides to run for president.

Cornerstone Action specifically asked Cruz to address their annual fundraising dinner that will take place in the fall.

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"I am very impressed with his record on social issues and education," said Ashley Pratte, executive director of Cornerstone Action. "He would be a good keynote speaker for this organization."

There is speculation that Cruz, who was elected in November, is eyeing a run for the GOP presidential nomination in 2016. Earlier this month, Cruz traveled to South Carolina – another important early presidential voting state – to headline a Republican Party fundraiser.

The senator's office said it has not confirmed whether or not he will attend the New Hampshire event.

Cruz, 42, has been an outspoken opponent of President Barack Obama's policies and he has even criticized his own political party. His willingness to do so has earned him accolades from conservatives.

Cornerstone describes its mission as "preserving New Hampshire's traditional values, limited government, and free markets through education, information, and advocacy."

In recent years, the Cornerstone dinner has served as a venue for GOP presidential candidates. Last year, Texas Gov. Rick Perry delivered the keynote address, a speech that went viral because of his bizarre delivery of it. In 2011, former Sen. Rick Santorum and businessman Herman Cain spoke at the Cornerstone fundraiser.

Already, two potential Republican presidential candidates have visited New Hampshire to help raise money for the GOP. This past Monday, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul was the featured speaker at a New Hampshire Republican Party fundraiser, while Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal raised money for state Senate Republicans earlier this month.