AUSTIN – Senator Paul Bettencourt (SD-7) was unanimously elected to serve as Chairman of the Texas Senate Republican Caucus by his colleagues in the Texas Senate. He will replace Senator Kelly Hancock (SD-9) who was elected Chairman during the 84th Legislative Session, following then Chair, Senator Joan Huffman (SD-17).

“I am honored by the confidence that my colleagues have placed in me with this vote,” said Senator Bettencourt. “I am committed to building on the success of the prior caucus chairs and ensuring that all caucus members are best equipped to succeed.”

The Senate Republican Caucus was organized to promote, protect and defend conservative Texas values. It includes all Republican members of the Texas Senate, who serve diverse constituencies from all across Texas.

“As we continue with the interim studies issued by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and prepare for the 85th Legislative Session, I look forward to serving my fellow Senators in this role as we develop innovative conservative solutions to Texas challenges,” continued Senator Bettencourt. “With Vice-Chairman Brandon Creighton as part of the team as well, I know that the Caucus will be a great resource for all our members as we address pressing issues like border security, infrastructure and transportation, education, property taxes and many others.”

Senator Bettencourt represents District 7, which is located in Harris County and includes Bunker Hill Village, Hedwig Village, parts of Houston, Hunters Creek Village, Jersey Village, Piney Point Village, Spring, the Cy-Fair area, Tomball, and a large part of unincorporated Harris County. He currently serves as Chair of the Select Committee on Property Tax Reform and Relief, Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Relations Committee, and is a member of the Finance, Education, and Higher Education committees. At the conclusion of the Legislative Session, Senator Bettencourt was recognized by Capitol Inside as “Most Valuable Freshman” and by Governor Abbott as an “architect of tax relief.”