GOP Launches 'Nuclear Option' to Confirm Judge Gorsuch

The transcript discusses the Senate's use of the nuclear option to confirm Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court. It covers the historical context of the filibuster and nuclear option, highlighting the Democrats' 2013 actions and the current Republican strategy led by Mitch McConnell. The discussion emphasizes the increasing partisanship in the Senate and its implications for future nominations. The confirmation process for Gorsuch is detailed, noting the expected rule change to allow a simple majority vote.

What significant change did the Democrats make in 2013 regarding Senate nominations?

• They reduced the number of Supreme Court justices.

• They introduced a new filibuster rule.

• They eliminated the 60-vote threshold for most nominations.

• They increased the vote threshold to 70.

What is the 'nuclear option' in the context of the Senate?

• A tactic to delay legislative processes indefinitely.

• A method to bypass the President's veto.

• A procedure to change Senate rules by a simple majority.

• A strategy to increase the number of Senate seats.

Which party first used the nuclear option in 2013?

• Republicans

• Democrats

• Independents

• Libertarians

What has been the impact of the nuclear option on Senate partisanship?

• It has decreased partisanship significantly.

• It has had no impact on partisanship.

• It has increased partisanship over nominations.

• It has led to more bipartisan cooperation.

What was the expected outcome of the Senate vote regarding Neil Gorsuch's nomination?

• His nomination would be postponed indefinitely.

• He would be confirmed by a simple majority.

• He would be rejected by a large margin.

• He would be confirmed by a unanimous vote.