Texas Speaker Showdown Intensifies: Burrows Declares Victory, Cook Disputes Claims

Rep. Dustin Burrows of Lubbock claimed Saturday that he had gathered 76 votes, the minimum required to take the gavel, in a stunning escalation of the Texas House Speaker contest. His declaration coincided with the GOP caucus endorsing his competitor, Rep. David Cook of Mansfield, creating a political confrontation.

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Concerning support from 38 Republicans and 38 Democrats, Burrows said at a brief news conference, "The speaker's race is over," The assertion was immediately challenged, though, since three legislators identified as supporters claimed they had not voted for Burrows.

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Following a walkout by supporters of Burrows, the GOP caucus had earlier chosen Cook as its nominee by a 48-14 vote. Under caucus guidelines, Cook will be voted for by all 88 Republican members at the January session. Cook stays confident, appreciating members who helped the process and pledging to unite the caucus.

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Cook noted, "This is still a race." "We must proceed as one Republican body, unified."

Both camps published lists of supporters; numerous names, including Rep. Don McLaughlin, who denied supporting Burrows, appeared on both. "Every claim I support Dustin Burrows is pure dishonesty," McLaughlin said.

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The Texas House has a controversial session beginning in January as emotions rise; the gavel of the Speaker hangs precariously.

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