Senfronia Thompson Unopposed for Texas House Speaker Post

Thompson Becomes Sole Candidate After Rival Withdraws

Rep. Senfronia Thompson is now the only declared candidate for Texas House speaker following the withdrawal of her rival, Rep. Eddie Morales Jr., who endorsed her on Friday. The development leaves Thompson as the unopposed contender for the chamber’s top leadership position. During a news conference on Friday, Thompson declared that she has secured sufficient support to become the next Speaker of the Texas House. She stated, “The gavel belongs to the people of this state of Texas.” A Republican member of the legislature reported that someone soliciting votes on Thompson’s behalf claimed as of Thursday that she had as many as 65 members ready to back her. Additionally, sitting Speaker Dustin Burrows reported that 20 colleagues publicly committed to Thompson, including herself. Former Texas House Speaker Dennis Bonnen also endorsed Thompson’s candidacy for the role. Bonnen said, “Her qualifications are better than any possible member of the Legislature.”

Historic Potential and Chamber Shifts

If Thompson wins the speakership in January, she would become the first woman to hold the Texas House speakership and the first Black person to hold the seat. She currently holds the title of Texas House Dean. Thompson was born in 1939 and was first elected to the Texas House in 1972. Reports describe her tenure as serving in the Texas Capitol since 1973. She represents House District 141, which covers Northeast Houston and Humble. The shift toward Thompson’s potential leadership follows recent election results that altered the balance of power in the chamber. Early returns showed Democrats winning 76 of the chamber's 150 districts and leading in seven of 14 uncalled races. Sitting Speaker Dustin Burrows became a lame duck following this shift in control. Thompson previously sought the speakership in 2020 when Democrats failed to take control of the chamber.