Texas House GOP Leaders vie for Speakership

The Texas House of Representatives is embroiled in a contentious speaker race, following state Rep. David Cook's endorsement by the GOP caucus with 48 votes against Rep. Dustin Burrows' 14. Cook's victory comes after incumbent Speaker Dade Phelan withdrew his candidacy amid scrutiny from conservative factions within the party. However, Burrows claims he has secured enough bipartisan support to potentially claim the speakership, indicating a divide in the Republican ranks. Despite the GOP caucus rules mandating support for Cook, Burrows' assertion suggests some members may defy these rules. The full vote for the speakership will be held in January, and the outcome remains uncertain as both candidates seek additional support. This conflict highlights ongoing tensions within the Texas Republican Party regarding leadership direction and coalition-building strategies.