"Rep. John Smithee: The Heroic Speaker Candidate and Advocate for Paxton Supporters"
Republican state representative John Smithee, who vigorously opposed the impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, has emerged as a potential candidate for House speaker among Paxton's allies. Smithee's speech during the impeachment trial earned praise from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who mentioned him six times. Despite being an unlikely ally for the far-right, Smithee's opposition to Paxton's impeachment made him the face of the opposition. While Smithee has a primary opponent, some House members are openly encouraging him to run for speaker. The next speaker election is scheduled for the start of the 2025 regular session.