First, while senators know what to expect with Lt. Gov Dan Patrick at the legislative body's helm, who controls the lower chamber will be decided on Tuesday in a full-floor vote. State representatives David Cook (R-Mansfield) and Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) have been campaigning neck-and-neck to secure the votes needed to become Texas House speaker.

The 89th Texas Legislature will convene Tuesday. Here are some of the members who will help shape state policies.

Here’s a rundown of how legislation moves through the Capitol, the ways lawmakers operate and who the power players are.

Tom Brady’s transition into the world of commentary hasn’t been the smoothest ride, and it appears to be hitting new bumps along the way. Whoopi Goldberg showed some support to Carrie Underwood on “The View” (via Entertainment Weekly) amid backlash against the “American Idol” winner and country music star for her decision to perform “America the Beautiful” at Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan.

Members of the Texas Democratic Party say there are several things they want to accomplish for the state in 2025. The new session of the Texas legislature starts on Tuesday. Republicans have a solid majority in both the House and Senate.

The Texas House will be faced with a decision for House Speaker when the session begins Tuesday. Last month, Rep. Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) said he had enough support between Democrats and Republicans to become speaker.

The Texas Legislature meets every two years to introduce bills that it hopes will become law. Over 1,636 house bills have been submitted so far.