Texas Legislature ignites with push to oust Craddick [View All]

[Judi Lynn]

Source: Houston Chronicle

May 26, 2007, 1:51AM
THE LEGISLATURE
Texas Legislature ignites with push to oust Craddick
Speaker says he wouldn't have to recognize motion for ouster

By R.G. RATCLIFFE and JANET ELLIOTT
Copyright 2007 Houston Chronicle Austin Bureau

AUSTIN — The Texas House fell into chaos Friday night as its parliamentarians resigned and Speaker Tom Craddick brought the chamber to a standstill for 2 1/2 hours, saying he does not have to recognize a member for a motion to throw him out of office.

Shortly after midnight, state Rep. Fred Hill, R-Richardson, a candidate for speaker, read a motion to vacate the chair to throw Craddick out of office and asked if Craddick would recognize him to make that motion. Craddick said he would not.

Hill then asked if the House could vote on overriding Craddick's refusal to recognize him for that motion. Craddick said he would not.

Hill moved to suspend the House rules, but Craddick said, "You're not recognized for that motion." Further, Craddick said his ruling was unappealable.

Earlier, the Texas Eagle forum sent out an emergency message to members claiming a "coup d'etat" was taking place in the House and urged members to call Republican lawmakers to pledge loyalty to Craddick.





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