As the political jockeying continues over who will be the next speaker of the Texas House, the issue driving the race—just under the radar—is school choice. The opponents are lining up behind Republican Dustin Burrows of Lubbock.
Burrows has reportedly promised Democrats he would kill Gov. Greg Abbott’s marquee reform in 2025 in exchange for their support in the speakership contest.
Of the Republicans who opposed Abbott’s school choice push in the 2023 regular and special sessions, all are currently backing Burrows instead of their caucus nominee.
In contrast, the Texas House Republican Caucus’ official nominee—David Cook (R-Mansfield)—has pledged to support all the party platform priorities, including school choice.
National school choice advocate Jeff Yass spent heavily in Texas to promote Abbott’s initiative. Much of that spending—$10 million—was entrusted directly to Gov. Abbott to dispense. Another $5.7 million of Yass’ money went through the American Federation for Children Victory Fund for the same purpose.
The results were historic. More than a dozen GOP opponents of school choice lost their primary elections. On paper, the Texas GOP caucus is more “pro-school choice” than ever. Polling consistently shows support for education freedom among Texas voters on both sides of the aisle, especially with Republicans and racial minorities.
Meanwhile, the Democrats rely heavily on campaign cash from labor unions—including teacher unions. But they have not won a statewide office in three decades, so their power in the Texas Legislature is relegated to being the hatchet-bearers for liberal Republicans.
So far, Gov. Abbott’s office on the second floor of the Texas Capitol has been completely silent as this battle over his marquee legislative fight has played out. Making the governor’s silence all the more notable is that Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Attorney General Ken Paxton have both sided with David Cook and the Republican caucus.
Ironically, Burrows—like Cook—voted for school choice in 2023. But, unlike Cook, Burrows stands willing to empower opponents in his quest for the speakership.
