Dade Phelan Exits Texas House Speaker Race Amid Leadership Turmoil

Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan has withdrawn his bid for a third term amid a contentious leadership battle within the Republican Party. Phelan, who faced opposition from state Rep. David Cook and other conservatives, decided to step aside to allow for a new candidate to unify the party. His withdrawal has intensified the race for the speakership, with state Rep. Dustin Burrows emerging as a potential candidate. Phelan's decision follows a period of declining support due to his stance on issues like school vouchers and his involvement in the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton.