Understanding the Filibuster

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What is a talking filibuster?

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A talking filibuster is a Senate rule change requiring senators attempting to block a vote on a bill to physically hold the Senate floor and speak continuously to delay or prevent a vote.

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What is the current 'silent filibuster'?

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The 'silent filibuster' allows a minority of senators to block a bill simply by indicating their intent to filibuster, without needing to speak.

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What does lowering the threshold for cloture mean?

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Lowering the threshold for cloture means reducing the number of votes required to end debate on a bill, resolution, or amendment and force a vote on the matter.

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What is a filibuster in the context of government?

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In government, particularly the U.S. Senate, a filibuster is a parliamentary procedure used by a minority of members to delay or block a vote on a bill, resolution, amendment, or other debatable question.

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What is the origin of the word 'filibuster'?

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The word 'filibuster' derives from a Dutch term for 'freebooter' or 'pirate', later applied to legislative obstruction, suggesting senators were 'pirates raiding the Congress for their own political gain'.

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How does unlimited debate relate to the filibuster in the U.S. Senate?

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The Senate's tradition of allowing unlimited debate is the basis for the filibuster.

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What does 'holding the floor' mean in the context of a filibuster?

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'Holding the floor' traditionally involves a senator or group of senators speaking for extended periods, sometimes for hours or even days, to delay proceedings.

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What is a 'silent filibuster' in today's context?

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Today, the threat of a filibuster is often enough to stall legislation. If 41 or more senators signify their intent to filibuster, the majority leader may not bring the measure to a vote, effectively killing it.

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What is cloture in the U.S. Senate?

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Cloture is the process to end a filibuster and move towards a vote, requiring a three-fifths majority vote (usually 60 out of 100 senators). Once invoked, debate is limited, and the measure can be voted on.