AUSTIN — Texas House lawmakers elected Republican Rep. Dustin Burrows as speaker Tuesday, shortly after the Legislature’s 89th regular session began.

The trial lawyer from Lubbock has served in the House since 2015, slowly building his stature and overcoming a scandal in 2019.

The unusually public battle to helm the Texas House divided both Democratic and Republican lawmakers between Rep. Dustin Burrows and Rep. David Cook.

A leader who learned to keep promises, a chance at chairing committees, and what they see as more chances for a fairer playing field.

As the new House Speaker Rep. Burrows (R-Lubbock) will have a critical role in deciding the legislative priorities during the new session.

There is a new speaker of the Texas House. That was the top issue as the 89th session of the Texas Legislature began.

Dustin Burrows is elected Speaker of the Texas House, signaling potential bipartisanship in addressing state issues.

The Texas House of Representatives elected Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) as its next speaker of the house. The House voted 85-55 in favor of Burrows over Rep. David Cook (R-Mansfield). Nine members did not vote. Burrows' votes came from 46 Democrats and 39 Republicans.

When Democratic lawmakers cast their votes for speaker of the Texas House on Tuesday, the vast majority of them saw a clear choice between two Republicans.

Speaker Vote Fallout -  A contentious vote ends a months-long battle that divided Texas lawmakers.  In the end, Lubbock Republican Dustin Burrows won the vote for House Speaker.  But some of his opponents believe the fight is not over.

A contentious vote Tuesday ended a months-long battle that divided Texas lawmakers. Lubbock Republican State Rep. Dustin Burrows won the vote for House Speaker. But some of his opponents believe the fight is not over.