The Texas House Republican Caucus is backing Dade Phelan of Beaumont for a second session
as House Speaker.The caucus voted Saturday in a closed-door meeting at the Capitol, choosing
Phelan over Rep. Tony Tinderholt of Arlington by a vote of 78 to six. Phelan first served as
speaker in the 2021 legislative session, when he supported the abortion ban and permitless carry
of handguns.Next month, all 150 members of the House will select a speaker, but Saturday's
vote indicates that Phelan has solid support from his base.