In a decisive runoff vote on Tuesday, Rep. Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) was elected Speaker of the Texas House, securing the position with an 85-55 victory over Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield). Burrows, a veteran representative for the 83rd District, becomes the first speaker from the area since Tom Craddick's tenure from 2003 to 2009.
The election has sparked significant local interest, with representatives from West Texas standing firmly on either side of the decision. Here’s how key area lawmakers voted and their reactions to the result.
Rep. Caroline Fairly (R-Amarillo) Supports Burrows Amid Controversy
Casting her first vote as a newly elected representative, Rep. Caroline Fairly stood firmly behind Burrows despite allegations that he secured the position through deals with Democrats. In a statement released following the vote, Fairly said:
“Simply put, I believe Representative Burrows is the most conservative candidate and will be the best leader for the Texas House."
Acknowledging the claims of political compromise, Fairly dismissed them after her own discussions with Burrows, stating, "If I believed this to be true, I would not vote for him." She further criticized external campaigns that sought to influence the vote through threats of primary challenges.
“I won’t start my tenure as your representative capitulating to outside pressure to place a vote I disagree with,” she asserted.
Rep. John Smithee (R-Amarillo) Backs Cook After Suspending His Own Speaker Bid
Rep. John Smithee, a veteran legislator, cast his vote for Cook despite previously declaring his candidacy for the speaker position. Smithee suspended his campaign before the vote, signaling his alignment with Cook’s candidacy in the runoff.
Rep. Ken King (R-Canadian) and Rep. Carl Tepper (R-Lubbock) Stand with Burrows
Rep. Ken King and Rep. Carl Tepper both voted in favor of Burrows. Tepper highlighted the broader significance of Burrows' victory for West Texas and the state as a whole, expressing optimism for the future:
“This is a fantastic day not only for West Texas but for our entire state... Speaker Burrows’ victory ensures that West Texas will receive an unprecedented level of attention."
Tepper reaffirmed his commitment to resisting outside political influences:
"Our vote today is a clear sign that our state and elections are not for sale."
Lubbock County GOP Stands Behind Burrows
The Lubbock County Republican Party expressed strong support for Burrows' leadership. Chairman David Bruegel emphasized unity and the significance of Burrows’ role for the region:
“Today marks a historic day for Lubbock County and House District 83... Representative Burrows’ leadership will undoubtedly bring great changes to Austin and amplify the voice of West Texas in the Capitol.”
A Leader for West Texas
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