Consider This from NPR 'We Have To Stop Rewarding Obstruction:' Will Democrats Nuke The Filibuster?
Jan 25, 2021
Adam Jentleson, former deputy chief of staff to Senator Harry Reid and author of *Kill Switch*, unpacks the filibuster's transformation into a tool of obstruction rather than debate. He argues for its elimination, believing that it would allow Democrats to pass crucial legislation with a simple majority. Jentleson highlights the historical use of the filibuster to stymie civil rights and emphasizes its detrimental impact on legislative effectiveness amid increasing partisan polarization. His insights illuminate the urgent need for change in the current political landscape.
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Obama's Dog Catcher
- In 2010, President Obama joked about the difficulty of confirming even a dog catcher due to Republican filibusters.
- This anecdote highlights the extent of obstruction faced by the Obama administration.
The Nuclear Option (2013)
- In 2013, Democrats used the "nuclear option" to eliminate the filibuster for presidential appointees, except for Supreme Court nominees.
- This change allowed for a simple majority vote on confirmations.
Gorsuch Nomination
- In 2017, Republicans eliminated the filibuster for Supreme Court nominees to confirm Neil Gorsuch.
- This further weakened the filibuster's power.
