Texas House Speaker Elected With MORE Support from Dems Than Republicans

In a surprising turn of events, Rep. Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) has been elected as the new Texas Speaker of the House, securing victory with significant Democratic support and exposing deep divisions within the Texas GOP.

At a Glance

  • Rep. Dustin Burrows won the Texas Speaker of the House election with more Democratic than Republican votes
  • The election result highlights internal rifts within the Texas GOP
  • Burrows defeated Rep. David Cook in a runoff vote of 85 to 55
  • Conservative Republicans have criticized Burrows’s election, with some calling for censure
  • Concerns exist that a speaker elected with Democratic support could hinder the conservative agenda

A Divided House: Burrows’s Controversial Victory

The Texas House of Representatives has elected Rep. Dustin Burrows as its new Speaker for the 89th Legislative Session, but the victory comes with significant controversy. Burrows secured the position with more support from Democrats than from his own party, receiving votes from 49 Democrats and only 36 Republicans. This outcome has exposed deep fissures within the Texas GOP and raised concerns about the future of conservative legislation in the state.

The final tally showed Burrows defeating state Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield) in a runoff vote of 85 to 55. This result came as a shock to many, considering Republicans hold 88 seats in the House compared to the Democrats’ 62. The election has left many questioning the unity of the Republican party and the potential implications for upcoming legislative sessions.

Conservative Backlash and Party Divisions

The election result has not been well-received by conservative factions of the Texas GOP. Some members have gone as far as calling for censure and primary challenges against Burrows and his supporters. The Texas GOP itself aired ads against Burrows, urging him to support Cook instead. This internal conflict has spilled over onto social media, with figures like Donald Trump Jr. joining the fray.

The situation has become so contentious that Rep. Cody Harris filed a complaint against state GOP Chairman Abraham George, accusing him of ethics violations related to the speaker election. George defended his actions, stating that there was nothing wrong with urging members of the Republican caucus to unite behind Cook for speaker.

Despite the controversy surrounding his election, Burrows has attempted to present a unifying message. In his acceptance speech, he emphasized representation for all districts and bipartisanship.

“Every member will have a voice. Every district will have a seat at the table,” Burrows said.

Burrows is known for his controversial “Death Star” bill, a super preemption law limiting local government regulation of businesses. This background, combined with his election circumstances, has led to mixed opinions among local leaders. Some view him as potentially detrimental to local control, while others, like Councilman Marc Whyte, see him as a potential ally for cities like San Antonio.

As the 89th Legislative Session begins, all eyes will be on Burrows and the Texas House.