Phelan: 'I see 149 people, ordinary Texans, who are eager to get to work on extraordinary things'

The 88th session of the Texas Legislature marks State Rep. Dade Phelan’s (R-Beaumont) second term as speaker of the Texas House of Representatives.

Austin CBS affiliate KEYE reported that Phelan easily fended off a challenge for the position from State Rep. Tony Tinderholt (R-Arlington) on Tuesday, which was the first day of the 140-day legislative session.

According to KEYE, Phelan was handed the gavel once again by virtue of an overwhelming 145-3 vote. 

“As I look out upon this distinguished gathering, I see 149 people, ordinary Texans, who are eager to get to work on extraordinary things,” the Southeast Texas legislator said, the station reported. 

Per KEYE, among Phelan’s biggest priorities for this session is property tax reform.

Aside from a sophomore stint as speaker, Austin NBC affiliate KXAN reported, he’s also in his fourth term as a member of the lower chamber. 

The station reported that one of Phelan’s biggest supporters for his speakership came from the other side of the aisle in State Rep. Tracy King (D-Uvalde).

According to KXAN, King said that Phelan expressed honesty and compassion during a recent meeting with the surviving families of the victims of last year’s fatal shooting at Robb Elementary School.

His biography on the House website says he’s a real estate developer by profession and a married father of four. 

He holds a bachelor's degree in government and business from the University of Texas at Austin (UT). 

Phelan’s district includes most of Jefferson and Orange counties.