CAPITOL LETTERS

Five sessions and I've never seen the speaker refuse to recognize someone for a motion. Including earlier this month when Geren was recognized on his motion to overrule the chair, which he won.

And here in the past half hour it's happened like six times.

Sylvester Turner in the chair:
Asked about whether the chair has to recognize a highly privileged motion and if his refusal to recognize it can be appealed, Turner makes this quote-of-the-week-worthy comment:
"The power of the chair, Mr. Dunnam, is absolute."

Rep. Jose Menendez, D-SA, has the floor to lay out his bill. (yes, there's legislation happening, what?!)

Rep. Craig Eiland, D-Galveston on the back mic: "Mr. Speaker?"
Sly: Not at this time.
Eiland: Not at this time, what? (or something like that.) I have a parliamentary inquiry.
Sly: You're not recognized (paraphrased). Mr. Menendez has the floor.
Eiland: Mr. Menendez, will you yield?
Menendez plays ball: I yield.
Eiland: Mr. Speaker, parliamentary inquiry.

Gattis in the chair to Merritt: You are incorrect and you are not recognized for this motion.

Sly to Merritt: You are not recognized for anything at this time.