David Cook, the former mayor of Mansfield, earned the support of other Republicans eager to build a united front against Dade Phelan.

Amarillo Republican Rep. John Smithee became the seventh person to enter the race for Texas House speaker when he announced his candidacy Friday.

Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos is the first Democrat to challenge Speaker Dade Phelan, who also faces opposition from 5 fellow Republicans.

Rodríguez Ramos of Richardson faces an uphill battle, as Democrats are the minority party with 64 seats in the 150-member Texas House.

Perry is Texas’ longest-serving governor who also served as a state representative, lieutenant governor and agriculture commissioner.

Amarillo Republican Rep. John Smithee became the fifth person to enter the race for Texas House Speaker when he announced his candidacy Friday.