State Rep. Senfronia Thompson launched her campaign for speaker of the Texas House on Tuesday night, before the House had officially changed hands, according to The Texas Tribune. As of Thursday, someone from her campaign said she had as many as 65 members ready to back her. A Republican member who had been contacted by someone counting votes for Thompson said at least five of her supporters are Republicans. The Tribune said it had not seen the list of names. A candidate needs 76 votes to win the gavel.
State Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, endorsed Thompson on Thursday evening. He said Democrats had "won and won big" and must deliver for Texas families. Thompson has scheduled a press conference for 2 p.m. Friday.
State Rep. Eddie Morales Jr., D-Eagle Pass, announced his candidacy for speaker on Thursday afternoon. In a statement, he said every member's district would have a voice under his leadership and that Texas faces critical challenges that must be addressed quickly. The Legislature is scheduled to begin its session on Jan. 12.