Overview

• Phelan announced the decision on X, sharing a Chuck Norris video wishing him luck in his next chapter.
• He has represented a Beaumont-based district since 2015 and served as House speaker from 2021 to 2025 before yielding the gavel to Dustin Burrows.
• During his speakership, the House advanced permitless carry, a near-total abortion ban, restrictions affecting transgender Texans, and tougher immigration enforcement measures.
• He presided over the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton, later facing a formal censure by the Republican Party of Texas and public criticism from Paxton.
• He survived a 2024 primary by 366 votes against a challenger backed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Paxton, and his departure will create an open seat in Southeast Texas.