A majority of Texas House Republicans have released a statement saying they will not support Democratic committee chairs, strongly countering embattled House Speaker Dade Phelan.
“In a collective effort to respond to Republican voters and reform the Texas House, we will only vote for a candidate for speaker pursuant to the Platform and the Caucus By-Laws who will only appoint Republicans as committee chairs,” the document stated.
The statement has reportedly garnered 46 signatures from Republican House members and nominees thus far.
It has also garnered support from top Republican leaders across the state.
“This is a step in the right direction. I applaud those who are serious about reforming the House. Those who haven’t signed yet shouldn’t be left behind. There is still time,” Attorney General Ken Paxton wrote on X.
Former state senator Don Huffines also voiced his support.
“Texans strongly oppose Democrat committee chairmanships,” Huffines said on X. “The radical Left has only increased its attacks on Texas. Texas Republicans shouldn’t give them an ounce of power.”
Phelan (R-Beaumont) has previously supported the practice of giving committee chair positions to Democrats, which has earned him censure and the ire of many within his own party, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
“The issues facing our great state will require thorough conversations and collaboration inside the Texas House, and our chamber does its best work when lawmakers use their skill sets and strengths to work together and build consensus,” he said last year, per The Dallas Morning News.
Phelan recently won his party primary in a runoff election, while many of his allies were less fortunate.