AP Analysis shows Straus' differences to Craddick

AUSTIN - If the Texas House wanted a whole new ballgame with its new speaker -- it's getting it in Republican Joe Straus of San Antonio. The Associated Press reports Straus poses a sharp contrast to Tom Craddick of Midland, who dropped his bid for a fourth term.

Straus is urban. Craddick is rural.

At 49, the political career of Straus is just taking off.

Craddick, at 65, is in the twilight of his leadership.

Craddick has been in office since 1969 and wields his power with an iron fist. The most senior Republican in state elected office often mumbles and can be difficult to understand.

AP reports that Straus, who took office in a January 2005 special election, is more polished, friendly and easy going.

Straus is believed to be the first Jewish speaker since Texas became a state. Craddick is Catholic.

Straus is an insurance executive who hails from a wealthy and well-known San Antonio family with deep ties to the GOP and the gambling industry. He's made energy conservation a top priority in his four years in office.

Straus says he has enough pledges to win Tuesday's election for speaker.