AUSTIN — The 89th legislative session began Tuesday with members of the Texas House electing Rep. Dustin Burrows as their new speaker after a month-long divisive battle among Republicans. Burrows won the speaker's race by a vote of 85-55.

A leader who learned to keep promises, a chance at chairing committees, and what they see as more chances for a fairer playing field.

AUSTIN — Texas House lawmakers elected Republican Rep. Dustin Burrows as speaker Tuesday, shortly after the Legislature’s 89th regular session began.

AUSTIN — Newly elected Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, R-Lubbock, struck a conciliatory tone in his victory speech after defeating David Cook, R-Mansfield in what split the GOP.

The political donations came in the two weeks before the fundraising blackout period tied to the legislative session.

Dustin Burrows is elected Speaker of the Texas House, signaling potential bipartisanship in addressing state issues.

Burrow’s win was an assertion of the chamber’s longstanding independence, and it set up another session of likely clashes with the more partisan Texas Senate.

Texas Rep. Jared Patterson of Frisco discusses why Dustin Burrows is the right person for the Texas House Speaker.