John Frullo already has senior status among the three freshmen state representatives from the South Plains.
With family, friends and supporters looking on, Frullo took the oath of office for his first stint in the Texas house, which will only last about seven weeks as he fills what is left of Carl Isett's term in House District 84.
Frullo will begin his own full term in the seat when the legislature convenes January 11th. The new rep said he will get a head start on tough challenges facing the Lubbock area and the state as a whole.
"Three priorities first off are going to be the budget shortfall, the redistricting, and then everything else. it is going to be, we've got two 800 pound gorillas," Frullo said.
Before Frullo can tackle those issues, incoming house members must decide who their leader will be.
While Frullo is sticking to his earlier promise to support current speaker Joe Strauss of San Antonio, his fellow South Plains freshman are aligning with a challenger.
Representatives-elect Charles Perry of Lubbock and Jim Landtroop of Plainview are endorsing the newest speaker contender, Ken Paxton from McKinney.
A joint statement noted "after praying about it and seeking the will of districts 83 and 85,both Perry and Landtroop decided to help elect a conservative speaker through a united republican caucus vote. and are pleased to pledge their support to conservative candidate, Ken Paxton."
Perry initially expressed support for Pampa republican, Warren Chisum.
