Can you use the twist ties that are used to wrap the wires that come in the kit?
No, this is not allowed. Specifically, Rule <R5b> makes this practice illegal. The rule is quoted below.
<R5> Robots may be built ONLY from Official Robot Components from the VEX IQ product line, unless otherwise specifically noted within these rules.
b. Only the VEX IQ components specifically designed for use in Robot construction are allowed. Using additional components outside their typical purpose is against the intent of the rule (i.e. please don’t try using VEX IQ apparel, team or event support materials, packaging or other non-robot products on a VEX IQ Challenge Robot).