The Texas House on Tuesday elected state Rep. Dustin Burrows (R) to lead the chamber in a blow to the rising far-right wing of the party, defeating a candidate supported by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) and other top state figures.

The Texas Republican caucus had nominated state Rep. David Cook (R) for the role, but lawmakers voted 85-55 for Burrows, an ally of outgoing Speaker Dade Phelan (R).

"The duty bestowed upon me today as Speaker of the Texas House is one of immense responsibility and honor, and I thank each of my colleagues for their trust and........

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