Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan will face a runoff in his campaign for reelection. Phelan was first elected to the district in Southeast Texas in 2014 and became speaker in 2021.
Last year, he voted in favor of the impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. During the campaign, Paxton, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and even former President Donald Trump endorsed Phelan's challenger, David Covey.
Covey is a former chair of the Orange County Republican Party.
In last night's race, Covey led with 46% of the vote, Phelan finished second with 43%. A third person, Alicia Davis, earned 10.5%. Since no one earned 50%, Covey and Phelan will face each other in a runoff May 28.
"The people of House District 21 have put every politician in Texas, and the nation, on notice," Covey said in a statement sent by his campaign Tuesday night. "Our elected officials are elected by the people and work for the people, and when they don’t, there will be consequences."
Covey says he looks forward to "connecting with voters for the next 84 days." His campaign says he would lead "boldly" on border security, election integrity and education freedom.
Phelan watched returns with his family Tuesday night.
"This runoff is not just another race, it's the frontline of the battle for the soul of our district. While my opponent hides behind empty rhetoric, dishonest advertising and surrogate voices, I stand before voters with a clear record of service and conservative success," Phelan wrote in a statement.
Former Governor Rick Perry has campaigned with Phelan; current Governor Greg Abbott did not make an endorsement in the race.
Phelan has said his record shows his conservative credentials. During his time as Speaker, he says the Texas House has passed laws improving border security, permitless carry and banning abortions.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube