US EditionFormer Speaker Dade Phelan Won’t Seek Reelection to Texas House
Dade Phelan faced political pressure after the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton and failure to pass key legislation, leading to his retirement after two terms as speaker.
- On Thursday, Former Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan announced he will not seek reelection to the Legislature; he is a Beaumont Republican first elected in 2014 who served two terms as speaker beginning in 2021.
- Facing backlash from his party, Phelan endured deep divisions in the Republican caucus after overseeing Attorney General Ken Paxton's impeachment and faced pressure following the 2024 primary and failed private school voucher program.
- In a social media post, Phelan said, `After reflection with my family, I will not seek re-election as State Representative for House District 21 in 2026` and thanked staff from six legislative sessions, calling the Chuck Norris video his final political ad.
- His decision creates an open race as Phelan's departure leaves House District 21 vacant; he stepped aside to help members rally around new leadership amid warnings of 'immense intimidation' from outsiders influencing the chamber.
- Phelan pointed to accomplishments including property tax reductions, infrastructure funding, and VA hospital financing, while critics noted moves alienated GOP activists and cited failed leadership.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Former Texas speaker announces retirement through Chuck Norris video
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- A former Texas speaker of the House announced his retirement is happening in 2026, and he had a unique way of making that announcement on Thursday with the help of a well-known "Texas Ranger." Dade Phelan posted on X, saying his last political ad for the House was coming from none other than actor Chuck Norris. "Hey Dade, Chuck Norris here. Thank you for serving Texas, my friend. Good luck in the next chapter of your life in 202…
Rep. Dade Phelan Announces Retirement
Former Texas House Speaker and current District 21 Republican State Representative Dade Phelan announced his retirement today on X.Rep. Phelan posted a video of Chuck Norris thanking him for his service to Texas and wishing him luck on the next chapter of his life.ShareCurrent Revolt® is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 70% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
