Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan has withdrawn his intention to remain in office in the next Congress. The move could dramatically change the chances of passing major conservative legislation next year.
“Out of deep respect for this institution and its members, after careful consideration and personal consultation with my colleagues, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the race for Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives,” Speaker Phelan said Friday morning. said in a written statement. . “By stepping back, we will surround new candidates who uphold the principles that make our House of Representatives one of the most exceptional deliberative institutions in this country: a place of honor, honesty, and integrity.” I believe that we can create the best opportunity for members to come together, and the right of every member to vote in their district is paramount.”
Fox26 Houston reported Earlier this year, it was revealed that the Texas Republican Party had targeted Mr. Phelan. Motion for censure. He is the fourth lawmaker to be reprimanded by the party. In April, the speaker almost died in the intense heat. contested preliminary racedefeated the challenger by a margin of 366 votes.
texas tribune report Phelan's withdrawal from the speaker race opens up the possibility of a potential fight between state Reps. Duston Vallone (R-Lubbock) and David Cook (R-Mansfield).
The 89th Texas State Legislature is comprised of 88 Republicans and 62 Democrats. Cooks' campaign reportedly plans to win the speaker's gavel with 76 Republican votes without needing Democratic support.
Under House Republican caucus rules, if a candidate receives 60% of the vote at Saturday's caucus, all 88 Republicans must vote for that candidate. The Texas Tribune reports that Cook is four votes shy of that threshold after receiving endorsements this week from Jacksonboro Republican David Spiller and Lufkin Republican Trent Ashby.
If no Republicans meet that threshold, Democrats would need to work with just 14 Republicans to choose the next speaker.
Phelan will remain in his seat and work with his colleagues to find “the candidate who can best unify the House and ensure that our beloved chamber remains a beacon of integrity and conservative leadership in the 89th Congress.” He said he would cooperate to nominate a person.
bob price He is an associate editor and senior news contributor on the Breitbart Texas Border Team. He is an original member of the Breitbart Texas team. Price is a regular panelist on Fox 26 Houston What is your point? sunday morning talk show. He is also the president of blue wonder cancer care products.
