Governor Greg Abbott (R) endorsed state Rep. Dustin Burrows (R) for re-election this week during a campaign reception in Lubbock.
State Rep. Burrows represents House District 83, which he’s represented since 2015, and he is also the speaker of the Texas House, a role that has earned him significant criticism from Texas Republicans.
In a statement, Governor Abbott praised state Rep. Burrows, saying that “Dustin did a fantastic job as Speaker this session. He is consequential to the future of our state, and that’s why I endorse and support Dustin Burrows for re-election to his House seat and for re-election as Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives.” “Texas is far better today than we were before Dustin Burrows was Speaker and I know Texas is going to be far better in the future when Lubbock returns Dustin Burrows to the Texas House and he is re-elected again as Speaker of the House for two more years,” the governor added.
The governor praised state Rep. Burrows’ leadership during the 89th Legislative Session, citing his ability to guide the chamber through crises, deliver results, and uphold conservative priorities. Governor Abbott also pointed to President Donald Trump’s (R) endorsement of state Rep. Burrows, adding that it shows the Speaker’s significance in the GOP.
During the governor’s remarks, he highlighted several legislative achievements under Speaker Burrows’ leadership, including the passage of camp safety and flood relief measures following the deadly July 4th floods, bail reform laws aimed at keeping violent offenders off Texas streets, and initiatives to strengthen economic development and health care in rural communities.
State Rep. Burrows’ ascendancy to the speakership received major blowback after it was revealed that he received significant support from Texas House Democrats. Since his election to the post, he has received criticism from the likes of state Rep. Brian Harrison (R), who argues that he has not prioritized conservative principles.
