Tom Craddick is a Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives, representing District 82 . Born September 19, 1943, in Midland, he is the longest-serving legislator in Texas history, first elected at age 25 in 1968 and currently serving his 29th term as of 2025. He announced his candidacy for a 30th term in 2026. Notable achievements include serving as Speaker of the Texas House from 2003 to 2009—the first Republican in over 130 years—during which Texas shifted from a $10 billion budget deficit to a $10 billion surplus, passed the largest property tax cut in state history, and reformed the unconstitutional school finance system. In 1975, he became the first Republican committee chair in over a century . Since 2011, he has held the title of "Dean of the House" as the longest-serving member . He currently chairs the Transportation Committee and serves on Energy Resources.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: BBA and MBA , both from Texas Tech University.
• Political Experience:
  • Texas House of Representatives, District 82: 1968–present.
  • Speaker of the House: 2003–2009.
  • Chair, House Natural Resources Committee: 1975 .
  • Chair, House Public Health Committee: 1991 .
  • Chair, House Ways and Means Committee: 73rd–75th Legislatures.
  • Chair, Land & Resource Management Committee .
  • Member, State Affairs Committee .
  • Delegate, 1974 Texas Constitutional Convention.
  • Committees on National Conference of State Legislatures .