Burrows is elected as new Texas House speaker

The Texas House of Representatives has elected a new speaker to begin the start of the legislature’s 89th session.  It took two rounds of voting, but Representatives elected Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) Tuesday afternoon as the new House Speaker.  “Pursuant to the Constitution and laws of the state of Texas, I declare the Honorable Dustin Burrows of Lubbock County to be the duly elected Speaker of the House of Representatives of the 89th Legislature,” Secretary of State Jane Nelson said.

Burrows won the gavel on a vote of 85 to 55 over Representative David Cook of Mansfield.  Burrows, an ally of former House Speaker Dade Phelan, was backed by both Republicans in his bid to become speaker.  Phelan dropped out of the Speaker race.  Cook received the backing of Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

“Every member.  Every member will have a voice.  Every district.  Every district will have a seat at the table,” said Burrows in his speech after winning the speakership.