I understand that people who have t2 diabetes are more likely to have complications if they contract a virus. is it also the case that they are more vulnerable to contracting a virus in the first place?

Infection risk: Infection symptoms or a higher risk of complications in people with poorly controlled diabetes. If glucose control is good, any increased risk is minimal. This is primarily a problem for bacterial infections, like pneumonia, cellulitis, or infected diabetic foot ulcers; not so much for viruses. And your question is wise: it's mostly outcomes, not increased risk if exposed.