Democrats in the Texas House of Representatives elected District 116 state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, D-San Antonio, as chair of the House Democratic Caucus.

Representing much of the northwest San Antonio area, Martinez Fischer was re-elected to a third term in the Nov. 8 election. He previously served in the state house from 2001-17.

In a statement, Martinez Fischer thanked colleagues who voted for him as caucus chair, saying the selection of a Latino member to lead Democratic Party’s legislative agenda in the Texas House reflects his party’s commitment to serving the needs of Texas’s diverse communities.

“As I prepare to enter this role in the 88th Legislative Session, it is clear our party must do things differently to protect our state from the growing extremist tendencies of the majority-held Republican Party,” Martinez Fischer said.

Martinez Fischer voiced respect for Texas House Speaker and Republican Dade Phelan, and expressed hope that Phelan will remain committed to preserving integrity of the legislative institution and allowing the two political parties to find common ground whenever possible, especially on issues related to growing the state’s economy, creating jobs, providing residents inflation relief and increasing funding for state programs.

“However, it must be made clear Democratic House members will not allow radical political agendas to drag our state further into divisive culture wars. Under my leadership, we will not capitulate to any political attempts to discriminate against our most vulnerable residents, including women, immigrants, people of color and the LGBTQ community,” Martinez Fischer said.

Martinez Fischer said he and fellow Democratic lawmakers will focus on improving the economy, restoring women’s rights, adequately funding public education and strengthening voting rights in the 88th legislative session.

“Our fight will not be easy, but House Democrats are united and prepared to deliver real solutions for all Texans,” he said.