There were some odd “lapel pins” on display in the House last week.

It took a moment to recognize the shiny oval on Rep. Michael Thompson’s suit jacket. But there on the Anderson Republican’s chest was a tiny picture of a smiling Speaker David Wilkins, R-Greenville.

Rep. Ken Kennedy, D-Williamsburg, had one, too. Rep. Jim McGee, R-Florence, had one affixed to the center of his tie.

“It’s the bipartisan speaker’s caucus!” Kennedy said.

McGee said Wilkins was dubious when he saw the “lapel pins” — actually, they were stickers, but “lapel sticker” just doesn’t sound right.

“He asked, ‘Is it a joke, or are you honoring me,’” McGee said.

Pause.

“It’s a joke.”

THE MERRILL SHOW

House Majority Leader Jim Merrill, R-Charleston, is quickly becoming the Buzz’ favorite legislator.

Just this past week, Merrill fixed his sights on Rep. Jim Harrison, R-Richland. Following the opening prayer at Tuesday’s GOP caucus meeting, Merrill declared that Harrison was chattering through the whole thing.

“We might need to install a cry room back there for Jim Harrison. He’s back there just talkin’, talkin’,” Merrill said.

Harrison said he was not just talking.

“I was praying back here!”

Speaker David Wilkins, R-Greenville, who has been the target of Merrill’s barbs, implored the Buzz to ignore him.

“As long as you keep putting his quotes in the Sunday paper, you’re encouraging bad behavior,” Wilkins said. “Of course, it keeps you from having to go over to the Senate to see if they do something cute.”

Trust us, Mr. Speaker, there is very little cute about the Senate.