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The Speaker of the Texas House, Dade Phelan, has decided not to run for another term after facing opposition from the right wing of the Republican Party in Texas. Despite winning a primary against a candidate supported by former President Trump, Phelan lost support from his own conservative caucus. This internal conflict has been ongoing within the Texas GOP.
Written by David W. Chen and David Montgomery.
David W. Chen wrote the article from New Orleans, while David Montgomery contributed from Austin, Texas.
Dade Phelan, the speaker of the Texas House, decided on Friday to withdraw his attempt to maintain his position as leader, as a result of pressure from conservative members of the Republican caucus.
At 49 years old, Mr. Phelan holds significant influence as an elected official in Texas. He has led the legislature towards more conservative stances on topics like immigration, abortion, gun control, religion, and elections.
However, he often disagreed with far-right Republicans, particularly with Ken Paxton, the attorney general, who felt he wasn’t conservative enough. Despite winning a tough primary runoff in May against a newcomer supported by President-elect Donald J. Trump, Mr. Phelan’s support has wavered this week from important allies, putting his chances of becoming the new speaker in jeopardy as Texas House Republicans gather on Saturday to make their selection.
"After thinking carefully and discussing with colleagues, I have decided to withdraw from the race for Speaker of the Texas House out of respect for the institution and its members," stated Mr. Phelan. He mentioned that he will collaborate with his colleagues to choose a candidate who can bring unity to the House and maintain its reputation for integrity and conservative leadership.
Mr. Phelan, a representative from southeast Texas since 2015, stated that he will continue serving in the House. He mentioned the high expenses involved in internal party conflicts, pointing out that wealthy individuals from West Texas and out-of-state school-choice advocates spent a lot of money supporting his opponent, David Covey. On the other hand, Mr. Phelan received financial support from wealthy Republican donors such as Miriam Adelson, who owns a casino in Las Vegas.
"I am very thankful for the support I have received during my time as speaker. I appreciate the principled conservatives who have stood strong and brave in the face of pressure from outside influences trying to control our chamber and how it operates," he expressed. "Even though the fight for my speakership has ended, the struggle to maintain the integrity of this chamber continues – and we will come out victorious."
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