State Representative Dustin Burrows will sit at the helm of the Texas House after a contentious race to determine who would lead the lower legislative chamber. Burrows' victory marks a devastating blow for GOP frontrunner David Cook (R-Mansfield),

AUSTIN — The 89th legislative session began Tuesday with members of the Texas House electing Rep. Dustin Burrows as their new speaker after a month-long divisive battle among Republicans. Burrows won the speaker's race by a vote of 85-55.

The trial lawyer from Lubbock has served in the House since 2015, slowly building his stature and overcoming a scandal in 2019.

Since then, the vast majority of House speakers have been elected by acclamation or with more than 140 votes. Even Rep. Dade Phelan, whom hard-right Republicans forced from seeking a third term, received 143 votes in 2021 and 145 in 2023.

Texas AG Ken Paxton rallies for Rep. David Cook as Speaker, opposing Rep. Dustin Burrows, amidst GOP division.

A contentious vote Tuesday ended a months-long battle that divided Texas lawmakers. Lubbock Republican State Rep. Dustin Burrows won the vote for House Speaker. But some of his opponents believe

Dustin Burrows is elected Speaker of the Texas House, signaling potential bipartisanship in addressing state issues.

The Texas attorney general was on the road this week, speaking to adoring crowds about the importance of defeating their mutual enemies.

As the new House Speaker Rep. Burrows (R-Lubbock) will have a critical role in deciding the legislative priorities during the new session.

The Texas GOP has been divided since the state House impeached Attorney General Ken Paxton, who was acquitted in the Senate.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who heads the Texas Senate, opposed Burrows’ run for Speaker. He has since released a statement saying both the house and senate are required to pass legislation and he’s “counting” on Burrows to pass conservative legislation.

AUSTIN — Newly elected Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, struck a conciliatory tone in his victory speech after defeating David Cook, R-Mansfield in what split the GOP.