More candidates are announcing their campaigns against Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan, as his popularity wanes among Republicans in his district.
Phelan has come under fire this session for failing to pass legislation on a variety of key issues such as banning Chinese ownership of Texas land, universal school choice, and border security. Phelan has also received national attention after leading the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton after he called on Phelan to resign due to apparent intoxication on the House floor.
Now former Orange County Republican Chairman David Covey has officially launched his campaign for the seat.
“Today, I officially announce my run to be your next State Representative in House District 21. As a lifelong Texan and resident of Southeast Texas, it would be my honor to be your champion in the right for our conservative values. For me, God comes first, then family, and everything else after those two,” said Covey in his announcement.
Covey also took aim at Phelan’s decision to appoint Democrats to key leadership positions.
“I am your choice if you believe Republicans should not compromise with liberal Democrats and lock arms with them to kill conservative legislation,” said Covey. “I am your choice if you believe we should eliminate property taxes, secure our borders, and protect our children.
“Please join me in sending a message to Austin that Republicans are tired of losing when we have a Republican majority in the Texas House. Stop making excuses and let’s get the job done,” he added.
Covey joins Alicia Davis of Jasper County, who has also announced her intention to run for the seat. Shilo Platts, a Jefferson County precinct chair, was set to launch his campaign on Saturday but reversed his decision, citing other “experienced, qualified, and capable” candidates emerging.
House District 21 contains all of Orange and Jasper Counties, as well as a portion of Jefferson County. The Texas Republican primary will be held March 5, 2024.
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