What’s the filibuster and why does Trump want to get rid of it during the shutdown?
What happened
President Donald Trump has called on Senate Republicans to eliminate the filibuster, a longstanding Senate rule, during an ongoing government shutdown. The filibuster requires that at least 60 out of 100 senators agree for most bills to advance.
Key facts
- President Trump is advocating for the removal of the filibuster rule in the Senate.
- The filibuster requires a supermajority of 60 senators to agree for most legislation to proceed.
- The call to eliminate the filibuster comes during a government shutdown.
- The current Senate composition does not have 60 members from a single party.
Background & context
The filibuster is a procedural rule in the United States Senate that has been in place for many years. It is designed to encourage bipartisan cooperation by requiring a supermajority for most legislative actions. This rule often plays a crucial role in shaping the legislative process, as it can prevent a simple majority from passing significant legislation without some level of cross-party agreement.
Why it matters
For US readers, the debate over the filibuster is significant because it affects how easily legislation can be passed in the Senate. Removing the filibuster could lead to more partisan legislation being enacted with only a simple majority, potentially altering the balance of power and the nature of legislative negotiations. This is particularly relevant during a government shutdown, where swift legislative action may be necessary to resolve funding issues.
What to watch next
- Reactions from Senate Republicans and Democrats regarding the proposal to eliminate the filibuster.
- Potential impacts on the legislative process if the filibuster is removed.
- Developments in the ongoing government shutdown and any related legislative actions.
Sources
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