Gavel falls at 81st Legislature

AUSTIN (KXAN) - The public gallery overlooking the House chamber at the Texas Capitol began filling up at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, as onlookers gathered to see the first day of the 81st Legislature. Though the day is primarily pomp and circumstance, there will be an evident change in the tone and attitude, as a new Speaker is sworn in and the two parties realize they must work together.

The Texas House is now composed of 76 Republicans and 74 Democrats, the closest they have been in number in years.

"I'm excited about the opportunity for fairness and an open process where all members get an opportunity to represent their district," said Rep. Garnet Coleman (D-Houston). "I believe this is going to be a really bipartisan House with a lot of harmony. I don't believe in retribution and an eye for an eye. The world is just blind after that."

At the end of session '07, Rep. Coleman engaged in a verbal fight with conservative Rep. Leo Berman (R-Tyler).

Watch the first day of the 81st Legislature Tuesday and read KXAN's political blog.

(See related items for the video that was produced and narrated by Jay Root of the Associated Press, during former House Speaker Tom craddick's tumultuous final weekend of the 80th Legislature in May 2007. The video takes a look at the troubles Craddick had and what some Republicans said led to his final downfall from his powerful post.)