Lubbock’s Dustin Burrows Elected Speaker

AUSTIN, TX — State Rep. Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) was elected Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives on Tuesday, concluding a months-long internal conflict within the Texas Republican Party. Burrows secured 85 votes in the second round of voting, defeating State Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield), who garnered 55 votes. Nine representatives abstained from voting.

The election marks the culmination of a contentious battle that began during the last legislative session, following a split in the Republican Party over then-Speaker Dade Phelan’s decision to oppose Gov. Greg Abbott’s school voucher agenda. Despite surviving a primary runoff in November, Phelan opted not to seek another term as speaker.

Burrows and Cook emerged as the leading contenders, with the Republican House Caucus initially endorsing Cook. However, Burrows asserted he had sufficient support to claim the role, which was solidified in Tuesday’s vote. Reports indicate Attorney General Ken Paxton had urged Republican representatives to back Cook.

The Texas House, comprising 150 members, requires a simple majority of 76 votes to elect a speaker. Republicans hold 88 seats this session, maintaining control over the chamber.

As Speaker, Burrows will preside over the House, determining which bills advance to a vote and ensuring order during floor debates. His position is part of Texas’ “Big Three” state leaders, alongside the governor and lieutenant governor. The Texas Constitution mandates the election of a speaker at the start of each legislative session, with the speaker responsible for signing all bills and joint resolutions passed by the Legislature.

According to the Texas Tribune, relationships among these leaders can determine the success of a legislative session. Fractures in leadership last session resulted in a record four special sessions to address property taxes, immigration, teacher pay, and school vouchers.

The school voucher program remains a contentious issue. Gov. Greg Abbott has been a strong proponent, financing primary challenges against Republicans who opposed it. With a newly claimed majority of 79 “hardcore school choice proponents” in the House, Abbott is confident he can secure the 75 votes needed to pass the measure. Burrows has publicly supported private school vouchers, indicating it may be a priority under his leadership.

Burrows represents Texas House District 83, encompassing Borden, Crosby, Dickens, Floyd, Garza, Kent, Lubbock (part), Lynn, Mitchell, Scurry, and Terry Counties. His elevation to Speaker positions him at the forefront of Texas politics, tasked with navigating a divided Republican Party while addressing the legislative priorities of the state’s leaders.