AUSTIN, Texas – State Rep. Senfronia Thompson, the next presumptive speaker of the Texas House, unveiled a bipartisan transition team designed to smooth the start of the 90th legislative session. The team features six former speakers who bring decades of institutional knowledge to the chamber.
Former Republican leaders join the effort
Among the Republican veterans is Dade Phelan, who served as speaker from 2021 to 2023. Phelan stepped down after the 88th Legislative Session when he lost favor among some members of his own party. “Ms. Thompson has served this chamber for more than five decades, and few understand its traditions better than she does,” Phelan said. “The Texas House works best when its members put people before party: when we come together, work together, and govern in a bipartisan way for the good of all Texans. I look forward to working alongside her to restore those traditions and to make the 90th session one that Texans can be proud of.”
Two other former Republican speakers, Joe Straus and Dennis Bonnen, also signed on. Both Straus and Bonnen have long reputations for navigating the House’s procedural complexities and for fostering cross‑party dialogue.
Democratic voices add balance
Completing the six‑member roster are three former Democratic speakers: Ben Barnes, Gib Lewis and Pete Laney. Their inclusion underscores Thompson’s commitment to a truly bipartisan approach. “These former Speakers know the House does its best work when Members treat each other with respect, put their districts first and take care of the people’s business,” Thompson said. “I’m grateful that they’re willing to help the House get off to a good start. Not many people have held the Speaker’s gavel, and I am eager to hear ideas and advice from some who have.”
Why a bipartisan transition team matters
Thompson’s decision arrives at a pivotal moment. The Texas House is preparing for a session that will address critical issues such as education funding, border security, and the state’s ongoing economic recovery. By drawing on the experience of former leaders from both parties, the speaker‑elect hopes to bridge partisan divides and focus on policies that benefit all Texans.
Political observers note that the inclusion of former Republican speakers, especially a recent speaker like Phelan, signals a willingness to move beyond the partisan battles that have characterized recent sessions. “Having seasoned voices from both sides can help temper extreme positions and keep the legislative process moving,” said a senior analyst at a Texas‑based public‑policy institute.
Looking ahead to the 90th session
With the transition team in place, Thompson plans to convene a series of informal meetings over the next few weeks. The goal is to gather input on procedural reforms, committee assignments, and priority legislation. “Our focus is on restoring the House’s traditions of civility and effective governance,” Thompson added.
The bipartisan team will also serve as a resource for newer members, many of whom are navigating the complex rules and customs of the Texas Capitol for the first time. By leveraging the collective wisdom of former speakers, the speaker‑elect hopes to set a tone of cooperation that will carry through the entire 90th session.
Community response
Local civic groups have welcomed the announcement, praising the emphasis on respect and district‑first decision‑making. “Texans want a legislature that works for families, churches, and small businesses, not partisan grandstanding,” said the president of a statewide family‑values organization.
As the 2027 legislative calendar approaches, all eyes will be on how effectively Thompson can translate the transition team’s guidance into tangible outcomes for the state’s citizens.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
