Texas Gov. Greg Abbott responded to a political ad that seemed to imply he supports State Representative Dustin Burrows’ bid for Speaker.

“To be clear, that text with my picture was issued without my authorization or even knowing about it. My focus is singular: work with both House & Senate leaders to pass the conservative agenda that I campaigned on & that voters expect,” Abbott wrote on X.

The political ad included a picture of Gov. Abbott and Burrows together overlaid with the words “SUPPORT BURROWS.”  The ad was paid for by The American Opportunity PAC.

As previously reported by The Dallas Express, State Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield) won the GOP caucus’ endorsement for Speaker, securing 48 votes out of the 88 caucus members. Burrows garnered 14 in the third and final round of voting.

In response, Burrows (R-Lubbock) released a list of 76 supporters, including 38 Republicans and 38 Democrats.

The deceptive image has been criticized by state reps.

“Thanks Governor @GregAbbott_TX for clarifying that you had in fact not authorized the use of your photo… More deception…” Cook wrote on X.

“It’s getting WILD 🔥😎@Burrows4TX made a deal to empower Dems, falsely claimed to be “speaker-elect”, lied about the support of many Republicans who have since corrected him, & now falsely eluded [sic] to having @GregAbbott_TX’s endorsement! @DavidCookTexas has my vote! #txlege,” State Rep. Nate Schatzline posted on X.

The Dallas Express reached out to Dustin Burrows’ office for comment but did not receive a response.