AUSTIN, Texas − As tensions rise over a GOP-led effort to create a private school voucher-like program in Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott addressed critics of his chief policy goal Wednesday in front of a gathering of grassroots conservatives in Austin.

Gov. Greg Abbott and Speaker Dustin Burrows predict a school voucher bill will pass through the Texas House, which last year blocked such a program.

The new leader of the lower chamber finally announced committee assignments, formalizing a new order in the lower chamber.