On Saturday, Republican lawmakers in the Texas Legislature overwhelmingly selected State Rep. David Cook of Mansfield as the Republican nominee for Speaker of the House.
However, State Rep. Will Metcalf (R–Montgomery) appears to have broken his promise to support the caucus’ choice, instead aligning with Democrats to back State Rep. Dustin Burrows (R–Lubbock) for the position.
After the caucus selected Cook, Burrows hastily held a press conference, claiming he had secured the support of 76 members—38 Republicans and 38 Democrats. In the hours following the announcement, several individuals listed as Burrows’ supporters publicly denied backing him. Among them were Don McLaughlin, Gary Gates, Paul Dyson, Josey Garcia, and Charles Cunningham, with additional dissent reportedly brewing behind the scenes.
Despite his name appearing on Burrows’ list, Metcalf has remained silent. Emails obtained by Texas Scorecard reveal that he had assured constituents he would support the Republican nominee—now Cook.
In a December 4 email, Metcalf wrote:
With a new legislative session starting in January 2025, I anticipate a vote this month for the House Republican Caucus to select and endorse a candidate to serve as the Speaker of the Texas House for the 89th Legislative Session. As a staunch Conservative Republican, I will stand by whoever is chosen at our caucus meeting later this year as our party’s endorsed candidate to serve as Speaker this upcoming January.
Metcalf has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding his inclusion on Burrows’ list or whether he is indeed backing Burrows.
Burrows entered the race at the last minute after current House Speaker Dade Phelan withdrew. Rather than focus on securing Republican support, Burrows has predominantly courted members of the Democrat Caucus.
The Republican Party of Texas has reiterated its stance that any member failing to support Cook will face censure—a move that could disqualify them from running under the party’s banner in future elections per newly established rules.
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