Texas House Republicans choose their speaker candidate, but the loser declares victory

In initial rounds:

• Cook led Burrows 48-40 in round one
• The second round ended with him ahead 47-41

Two breaks followed before reaching victory threshold. The third-round threshold was set at 60% (53 if all were present), met by Cook’s supporters. Meanwhile: The House Democratic Caucus stated its members are free to vote for any candidate "except for David Cook." Discussions occurred with Burrows without detailed disclosure. The statement assured continuation of bipartisan traditions within Texas House. Phelan appointed Democrats as committee chairs; this practice faced criticism from Republican activists which Cook vowed to end while Burrow’s stance remains unclear. Backgrounds: David Cook: Former Mayor (Mansfield), served on Criminal Jurisprudence Committee and Calendars Committee. Entered speakership race amid discontent over Phelan’s handling related issues like Attorney General Ken Paxton impeachment & school choice failure. Burrow’s Profile: Elected since '14; chaired influential committees including Ways & Means; re-elected five times. Paxton criticized him post-vote against Paxton impeachment calling it betrayal towards conservatism movement backing primary challenger Wade Cowan who lost despite strong campaign efforts winning March primaries easily securing significant voter base support percentage-wise according results released earlier this year during election cycle analysis reviews conducted periodically assessing political landscapes shifts observed across various regions statewide level contexts considered holistically analyzing trends impacting dynamics involved therein comprehensively evaluated thoroughly throughout duration process undertaken systematically ensuring accuracy reliability standards maintained consistently adhered throughout execution phases implemented successfully achieving desired outcomes effectively efficiently optimizing resources available maximizing potential benefits derived ultimately contributing positively towards overall objectives sought accomplishing intended goals established 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