State Representative Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) secured the Texas House speakership after two rounds of voting on the opening day of the 89th Legislative Session. The process marked a historic shift, as Burrows' victory relied on a coalition of 36 Republicans and 49 Democrats—making it the first time in recent memory that a speaker was elected with a minority of his own party's support.
In his acceptance speech, Burrows emphasized unity and collaboration across party lines.
“This is the people's House,” Burrows declared. “This is greater than any one person, and any one faction. This is a sacrifice, and I accept that sacrifice readily. If you voted against me, my door will be open for you.”
Vote Breakdown and Runoff Outcome
The final vote tally saw Burrows receiving 85 votes, while state Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield) garnered 55. Nine representatives registered as present but did not vote. Burrows was sworn in by Secretary of State Jane Nelson shortly after his victory was declared.
The race required two rounds of voting. In the initial round, Burrows fell five votes short of the 76-vote majority needed to win. Cook secured 56 votes, and state Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos (D-Dallas) captured 23. With no candidate meeting the threshold, Ramos was eliminated, leading to a runoff between Burrows and Cook.
Candidate Nominations and Speeches
Each candidate was nominated by a group of colleagues, setting the tone for their respective campaigns:
Dustin Burrows: Nominated by Reps. Charlie Geren (R-Fort Worth), Mihalea Plesa (D-Dallas), Toni Rose (D-Dallas), and Lacey Hull (R-Houston).
David Cook: Nominated by Reps. Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin), Ellen Troxclair (R-Lakeway), James Frank (R-Wichita Falls), and Richard Raymond (D-Laredo).
Ana-Maria Ramos: Nominated by Reps. Christina Morales (D-Houston), John Bryant (D-Dallas), and Jolanda Jones (D-Houston).
Ramos’ supporters expressed dissatisfaction with GOP leadership, advocating for a change in direction. Cook’s backers highlighted the need for procedural reforms, aiming to empower individual members and reduce the influence of the speaker. Meanwhile, Burrows’ advocates criticized external pressures from GOP activists and political action committees, urging the House to resist outside interference.
Response and Future Outlook
Despite rumors of a potential third Republican candidate, only Burrows, Cook, and Ramos were formally nominated. Cook supporter Rep. Mitch Little (R-Lewisville) voiced skepticism about meaningful change under Burrows’ leadership.
"I think you’re going to see business as usual at the Texas House," Little remarked. "I don’t think there will be any material difference between Dade Phelan's regime and Dustin Burrows' regime."
Establishing the Speaker Election Parameters
House Resolution 1, which governed the election process, was adopted with a 145 to 5 vote. The resolution set the required vote line at 76, mandated record votes, and established a runoff system between the top two candidates if no initial majority was reached.
The typically contentious atmosphere of Texas House politics took a quieter turn during this election, with relatively straightforward voting and minimal disruption. However, as the legislative session unfolds, all eyes will be on Burrows to see how his leadership shapes the direction of the Texas House.
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