State Rep. Senfronia Thompson announced Friday at a news conference in Austin that she has the support of a majority of House members in her bid to become speaker of the Texas House of Representatives. The report says a win would make history as the chamber prepares for its 90th Legislative Session.

Thompson said she was honored by her colleagues' support. She said she is confident in leading a House with both Democrats and Republicans, and that the two parties can work together to make a difference for Texans. She joked about the moment as she entered the House press office, where she was greeted with applause.

Thompson said she does not plan to rule by decree. She said she expects members to represent their districts, work hard and deliver on their campaign promises. She also stressed the need for bipartisan cooperation to address the state's challenges.