Short answer: Several members attempted to make a motion to vacate the Speaker’s chair. Craddick refused to recognize them, refused to allow an appeal of his rulings, and declared that he had sole and total discretion in the matter. If that sounds to you like he promoted himself from Speaker of the House to Supreme Dictator For Life, I’d say you’re on the right track.
For the long answer, I recommend reading the accounts of the people who stayed up much later than I did to watch it all:
BOR: Rep. Hill Takes the Podium- Motion to Vacate
BOR: Picture Worth A Thousand of Terry Keel’s Words
BOR: Todd Smith (R-Euless) Plays Key Anti-Craddick Role
BOR: House Adjourns, What A Night
Texas Observer: His House, His Rules
Capitol Letters: Wonder what the heck just happened?
Capitol Letters: In case you’re wondering…
Capitol Letters: The Craddick Rationale
Capitol Letters: Edgar Bergen and Charlie McCarthy
Chron Blog: A view from the wrong side of the door
Chron Blog: Thoughts on the night
Chron Blog: I say it here, it comes out there
EOW: Otto Craddick application of Rule 5 Section 24
PinkDome: The Craddicktator
The Muse: Charlie McCarthy and Edgar Bergen Co-Speakers of the Texas House
And I’m sure there will be plenty more today. Stay tuned.
UPDATE Missed Postcards from the Lege, Craddick’s Legal Rationale Released, Craddick ruling splits Centex supporters, and Rose talks about decision to leave Craddick camp.