Inside the House Speaker's apartment

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Speaker Joe Straus gave the capitol press corps a tour of the Speaker's apartment. The apartment has come under fire due to the expensive renovations done under former Speaker Tom Craddick.

"It was done with private money and with obviously a lot of care and good taste," said Straus.

As to why he decided to give the tour, he said he wants to build a culture of transparency.

"As far as this office is concerned, its going to be based on open government and we will play by the rules," said Straus.

The speaker said he plans to make committee assignments next week and is currently meeting with all of the house members to find out what they want.

"It's not just up to me," Straus said. "There is also a seniority system."

Straus said he is spending nights in the speaker's apartment a lot more than he expected.

"I've been working on getting these committee assignments done," Straus said. However, Straus said the apartment is open to all members.

Watch below to see our tour of the apartment.

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