Texas Democrats hope to keep committee chairs with new House speaker

AUSTIN, Texas – Rep. Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) won the Texas House speaker’s gavel Tuesday during the opening session.

The win left some GOP leaders fuming over his win. They wanted Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield) to win the gavel.

What’s next:

Burrows’ win came from support from the Democratic side of the aisle, where 49 Democrats voted alongside 36 Republicans.

The next fight will be if Democrats can keep their committee chair positions.

The House has a unique situation where a few Democrats lead committees despite being in the minority.

Members will debate House rules next week.

There is some pressure on Burrows to stop the tradition of giving Democrats power, but some Republicans think Burrows will still give some committee chairs to Democrats.

What they’re saying:

Some Republicans think the end of Democratic chairs is coming.

“I think that for the first time in the history of Texas, the Senate and House will neither have Democratic chairs this session,” Rep. Jared Patterson (R-Frisco) said.

Others think the Democrats will still have a voice.

“I think that time is coming to an end, but the minority party still has to have a voice and how that voice reflects and represents we will see this session,” Rep. Mano DeAyala (R-Houston) said.

North Texas Democrats think Borrows will still let them have a voice.

“I think [Burrows] is open and willing to let every member have an opportunity to get things done for their districts,” Rep. Toni Rose (D-Dallas) said.

Some believe they will keep some chairs.

“That’s a real possibility, I feel strongly about it,” Rep. Rhetta Bowers (D-Garland) said. “Just receiving an appointment myself today, I look forward to what the days will bring.”

The other side:

The floor debate on the rules is Wednesday.

Over in the Senate, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick says he’s willing to work with the House, but he will only pass what he considers conservative legislation.