Texans head to the polls for the 2024 primaries, with particular attention on the District 21 House race in southeast Texas. Incumbent Republican Dade Phelan, a two-term representative and current House Speaker, faces a well-funded challenge from David Covey, endorsed by Attorney General Ken Paxton and former President Donald Trump.
Phelan has remained steadfast on his stance regarding impeachment, highlighting Paxton’s alleged abuses of office even after the state Senate acquitted Paxton. He has garnered support from establishment Republicans, including former Texas Governor Rick Perry.
On the other hand, Covey, backed by Paxton and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, positions himself as an outsider and has received Trump’s endorsement, criticizing the impeachment as an “absolute embarrassment.”
Both candidates in the District 21 Republican race hold conservative views. Phelan, as Speaker, supported stringent abortion restrictions, permitless handgun carry, bans on gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, and funding for border walls. Covey has criticized Phelan for collaborating with Democratic committee chairs and expressed sympathy for the Texas secession movement.
The Paxton impeachment has injected uncertainty into the race, dividing Republicans. Additionally, a third candidate, Alicia Davis, may impact the outcome, although she is considered a long shot.
To avoid a runoff, a candidate needs to secure 50% of the vote. Otherwise, the top two candidates will compete in a runoff on May 28, with the winner advancing to the general election on Nov. 5.
