Days after the Texas House GOP caucus backed Cook, Abbott made clear that he expects Republican representatives to do the same.

The House speaker is the presiding officer during the legislative session for the House of Representatives. The speaker maintains order during floor debates, recognizes legislators wishing to speak and rules on procedural matters. The speaker also signs all bills and joint resolutions passed by the Legislature.

Texas Republicans are squabbling over who they want as the next speaker of the Texas House. Two lawmakers both claim they have the votes.

Dustin Burrows of Lubbock and David Cook of Mansfield both say they're confident they'll become Texas House Speaker when all is said and done.