How a Rule Change Can Help Judge Barrett Get Confirmed

The transcript discusses the impact of a 2017 Senate rule change that allowed Republicans to confirm Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court after Democrats blocked his nomination. It also covers the 2016 nomination of Merrick Garland by President Obama, which was blocked by Republicans due to it being an election year. The transcript concludes with a historical overview of the Supreme Court nomination process, noting that most nominees are confirmed within 70 days.

What was the significant change in the Senate rules in 2017 that affected Supreme Court nominations?

• Implementation of the nuclear option

• Requirement of a two-thirds majority

• Introduction of a filibuster

• Abolishment of the Senate Judiciary Committee

Who was the first Supreme Court nominee affected by the 2017 Senate rule change?

• Brett Kavanaugh

• Amy Coney Barrett

• Merrick Garland

• Neil Gorsuch

Why did Republicans refuse to hold confirmation hearings for Merrick Garland in 2016?

• He was not qualified

• It was an election year

• The Senate was in recess

• He was a controversial figure

What percentage of Supreme Court nominees have historically been confirmed?

• 50%

• 60%

• 90%

• 77%

On average, how long does the Supreme Court nomination process take?

• 90 days

• 30 days

• 50 days

• 70 days