A third Texas Republican has signed up to attempt a bid for Texas Speaker of the House in 2019.
Tan Parker, a Republican state representative from Flower Mound, announced this week that he has decided to run for House Speaker in 2019. Parker, who is the chairman of the House Republican Caucus, announced that he would be stepping down from his position as caucus chairman in order to run for Speaker.
"I am ready to continue to serve Texas in a new leadership role bringing a unified effort for the betterment of our members and this great state," Parker said in a statement to the Texas Tribune. "Yet, we have much more work ahead, and I am prepared to lead. Together, we will keep Texas the leading state for prosperity, liberty and opportunity."
Parker is the third House Republican to line up for a bid for the job in 2019. Republicans Phil King (R-Weatherford) and Dr. John Zerwas (R-Richmond) have both filed for the job, as well. Representative Four Price (R-Amarillo), who was just re-elected by local voters, has also been floated as a potential contender for the job.
No Democrats have announced any plans to run for Speaker in 2019.
The winner of the race for Speaker will succeed incumbent Joe Straus. Straus, who has served in the role since 2009, announced his retirement last year.
