The recent committee assignments announced by Speaker Dustin Burrows represent a blatant betrayal of Texas Republican voters. Despite holding a Republican majority in the Texas House, Burrows has appointed six Democrats as chairs of newly created “permanent standing subcommittees,” ensuring democrats maintain significant influence over the legislative process. This move undermines the will of conservative Texans who voted for Republican leadership.

Texas Republicans fought hard to secure a legislative majority, expecting this power would be used to advance Republican principles—not to give Democrats a backdoor to control. Yet, Burrows’ decision effectively nullifies recent rule changes meant to prevent Democrat committee chairs. While the new rules require Republican chairs and Democrat vice-chairs for standard committees, the creation of these subcommittees conveniently sidesteps restriction.

One of the most egregious appointments is El Paso Democrat Joe Moody’s return as Speaker Pro Tempore, a powerful leadership position. Moody, a liberal, should not be anywhere near a leadership role. Yet, Burrows has reinstated him, showing clear disregard for the priorities of Texas conservatives.


Former Speaker Dade Phelan, who infamously handed chairmanships to Democrats in previous sessions, has also been given a leadership role as chair of the Licensing and Administrative Procedures Committee. This further signals the Republican establishment has no intention of breaking from the failed leadership strategies of the past.

Conservatives across Texas should be outraged. There is no reason—none whatsoever—Democrats should be chairing any committee, let alone ones wielding significant power. A Republican-controlled House should act like one. The Republican delegates sent a clear message at the State Convention: the House should no longer empower democrats to have powerful positions. Instead, Speaker Burrows has ensured Democrats will still have a seat at the table, influencing policy and obstructing conservative reforms.

This is not what Republican voters signed up for. The Parker County GOP condemns these committee assignments and calls on true conservative lawmakers to stand up against this betrayal. It’s time for Republican leadership prioritizing the will of the people, not the demands of Democrats.