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The Texas House Republican Caucus is backing Dade Phelan of Beaumont for a second session as House Speaker. The caucus voted Saturday in a closed-door meeting at the Capitol, choosing Phelan over Rep. Tony Tinderholt of Arlington by a vote of 78 to six. Phelan first served as speaker in the 2021 legislative session, when he supported the abortion ban and permitless carry of handguns. Next month, all 150 members of the House will select a speaker, but Saturday's vote indicates that Phelan has solid support from his base.