Phelan has withdrawn from Speaker of the House race

Texas Speaker of the House, Dade Phelan announced Friday that he is withdrawing from the Texas Speaker of the House race.

Phelan was elected as Speaker in 2021, however there was a good deal of animosity between Phelan and Texas Republican leaders over several issues.

Though Phelan is stepping down from the position of Speaker, he says he will continue to serve in the Texas House of Representatives.

A member of the Republican Party, Phelan serves in the Texas House of Representatives in District 21, which includes most of Jefferson and all of Orange and Jasper Counties.

Phelan has released the following statement regarding this decision;

"Serving in the Texas House is one of the greatest honors of my life, beginning as a staff member in this Capitol, advancing to represent my community as a state legislator, and ultimately leading for four years as Speaker of the Texas House."

"Out of deep respect for this institution and its members, and after careful consideration and private consultation with colleagues, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the race for Speaker of the Texas House. By stepping aside, I believe we create the best opportunity for our members to rally around a new candidate who will uphold the principles that make our House one of the most exceptional, deliberative legislative bodies in the country—a place where honor, integrity, and the right of every member to vote their district takes utmost precedent."

"I am profoundly grateful to those who have supported me throughout my speakership—principled conservatives who have shown steadfast resolve and courage in the face of immense intimidation from outsiders wishing to influence our chamber and its processes. Though the battle for my speakership is over, the war for the integrity of this chamber wages on—and we will win."

"I will continue to serve in the Texas House of Representatives and look forward to working with my colleagues to nominate a candidate who can best unite the House and ensure our beloved chamber remains a beacon of integrity and conservative leadership in the 89th Legislature."