Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan Withdraws from Leadership Race

Phelan steps down after internal GOP tensions over his leadership, setting the stage for a contentious race to select his successor.

Dade Phelan, the current Texas House Speaker, announced his withdrawal from the race for a third term, citing a desire to unify the chamber under new leadership.
Phelan faced mounting opposition from far-right Republicans over his handling of Attorney General Ken Paxton’s impeachment and his practice of appointing Democrats to committee leadership roles.
State Rep. David Cook of Mansfield has emerged as a leading contender, supported by a majority of the GOP caucus, though other candidates, including Rep. Dustin Burrows, have also entered the race.
The Republican caucus will meet on December 7 to select its nominee, with the chosen candidate requiring support from at least 60% of the caucus to secure the endorsement.
The next Texas House Speaker, who will be officially elected in January, will play a pivotal role in shaping legislative priorities, including contentious issues like school vouchers and committee leadership practices.