AUSTIN, TEXAS — In response to Rep. Dustin Burrows' election as Texas House Speaker, Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu issued the following statement:
“Thanks to a bipartisan coalition of Democrats and principled Republicans, the Texas House of Representatives will not be auctioned off to the highest bidder, handed over to Greg Abbott, Dan Patrick, and Ken Paxton, or surrendered to their billionaire donors who seek to dismantle our democratic foundations. Even in these divided times, the Texas House has demonstrated they understand the difference between true leadership and extremism.
“This House cannot function without Democratic participation and leadership. While Speaker Burrows and our caucus may not see eye to eye on every policy issue, we stand united in rejecting the control of political extremists and protecting the integrity of the People’s House. We look forward to working with Speaker Burrows to address the real challenges facing Texas families: fully funding neighborhood schools, expanding access to healthcare, fixing our failing electrical grid, and building a better future for all Texans.
“The voters of Texas sent us here to serve their interests — not to bow to the demands of extremists or their wealthy backers. Today's vote ensures that every duly elected voice in our chamber will continue to be heard, regardless of party affiliation. That’s not just a Democratic value — it’s a Texas value.”