Texas officials react to Rep. Dustin Burrows’ election as state House speaker

AUSTIN, Texas — Texas officials are reacting after state Rep. Dustin Burrows was elected as the House speaker following two rounds of voting Tuesday. 

Burrows (R-Lubbock) received 85 votes compared to state Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield), who received 55 votes. Nine representatives abstained from voting in the second round. This concludes a contentious fight over the speakership after Dade Phelan chose not to seek for the speaker position again. 

“The removal of the disgraced and corrupt Dade Phelan as speaker of the House is a positive step for Texas. His close ally, Dustin Burrows, was elected with the support of most Democrats after he refused to honor the rules of the Republican Caucus. 

Texas Republican made it clear they want conservative legislation to pass this session. It is now important that Speaker Burrows and his leadership team pass every conservative legislative priority in a timely manner to make our state more secure and more prosperous. This is what Texas Republicans expect. 

I’ve been fighting to reform the Texas House for over two decades and will not stop. We have made incredible progress in the past two years and must remain steadfast and hold our representatives responsible for their actions.”

“After a long and contested speaker race, the Texas House of Representatives has now spoken and elected Dustin Burrows to lead us forward during the 89th Legislative Session. Congratulations, Speaker Burrows!

I look forward to working with you and our colleagues to settle on a reformed House rules package and then quickly get to work passing strong conservative legislation. Together with the Senate, we can accomplish a strong conservative agenda during the 89th. 

I came here to fight for East Texas values and conservative legislation that will make Texas stronger and more free. We’re on the clock. Let’s get to work.”

As more statements come in, this article will be updated.