This morning, the sitting Speaker of the Texas House, Dade Phelan (R-Beaumont) released a statement announcing that he was withdrawing his candidacy to remain Speaker in the 89th Legislative Session. 

Phelan’s statement announcing his decision said, in part, “Out of deep respect for this institution and its members, and after careful consideration and private consultation with colleagues, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the race for Speaker of the Texas House.” 

This is a big win for fiscal conservatives and taxpayers across the State, as Phelan’s speakership saw two sessions of Texas fail to act on some of the most pressing issues facing taxpayers, including real property tax relief and elimination, banning taxpayer-funded lobbying and stopping hostile nations like China from buying Texas’ real property. 

Texans not only saw a lack of action on these issues during Phelan’s Speakership, but also saw the rapid expansion in the size and scope of government at nearly every level, with the 88th legislative session resulting in the largest spending increase in Texas history. 

However, almost immediately after Phelan announced his withdrawal, one of his staunchest lieutenants, Rep. Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) filed his paperwork to run for the Speaker’s chair. 

Burrows has been an active supporter of Phelan and his policies and practices, defending him at nearly every turn. Burrows entered the Texas House in 2015 and was a conservative champion, earning an A- on TFR’s Fiscal Responsibility Index. However, that version of Burrows quickly disappeared, and he quickly earned himself a failing grade on the Index every year since, scoring a 48% in 2023. 

Burrows would almost certainly be a continuation of the Phelan-style of leadership: putting Democrats in positions of power, and putting the interest of lobbyists, government bureaucrats and big-spenders above the needs and wishes of ordinary Texas taxpayers. 

The Republican House Caucus vote on their nominee for Speaker is scheduled for Saturday. Concerned taxpayers should contact their Representatives.

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