Typically, it takes 51 votes for a bill to be passed during a debate in the Senate. However, it only takes one Senator to threaten a filibuster to essentially kill a bill. Unlike a regular debate, it takes 60 votes to end a filibuster. Sixty votes are then required to pass a law rather than just the 51 majority.
With the even partisan split in the Senate, the filibuster’s use has increased rapidly in recent years. Although some argue that the filibuster is used to facilitate debate and to give a voice to the minority, the filibuster actually shuts down debate—and allows for the minority to dictate which bills should even make it to a Senate floor vote. It is urgent that the filibuster be abolished while Republicans have 53 votes and can pass the legislation that they promised to voters.
In 2015, Democrats eliminated the filibuster for most presidential nominees. In 2017, Republicans did the same for Supreme Court nominees. Both sides blamed obstruction from the other.
In 2022, Democrats attempted to eliminate the filibuster entirely but fell short as Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema voted to keep it in place. Both have since retired.
Why it Matters:
The filibuster was first introduced by southern segregationists in the early 1800s to prevent any anti-slavery legislation from becoming law and to protect the interests of pro-slavery plantation owners. Following abolition, it was used to preserve Jim Crow laws, halt early Civil Rights legislation, and block anti-lynching laws.
Today, it’s still being used to perpetuate and deepen gridlock and dysfunction, to stop America First policies and caused the longest government shutdown in US history.
The Status:
The filibuster has to be eradicated now for Republicans to have any hope of passing legislation before the 2026 midterm elections. The GOP holds 53 Senate seats. Just 50 Senators plus JD Vance with a tie-breaking vote are needed. Most GOP Senators however are hesitant about ending the filibuster. Marjority Leader John Thune also resisted ending it during the government shutdown. Some others are open to reforming it.
Reform is NOT enough. Congress must eliminate the filibuster if the Trump Administration is to accomplish any of its goals. If Democrats win control of the Senate, they won’t hesitate to try again. It’s not out of the question that they could paralyze the Trump Administration even further by reinstating the filibuster to confirm nominees.
TAKE ACTION
What Can I Do?
We must mobilize to bring an end to the filibuster. Call your Senators and urge them to support its elimination. Urge them to vote with their fellow Republicans and put the well-being of their constituents over their special interests.
How Do I Do It?
Every US Senator can be reached at the Capitol Switchboard at show contact info
. A directory of current Senators is available here: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm
If they are in their home state, they can be contacted in their local offices. Check their websites for their contact information.
What Do I Say?
“I am calling to urge Senator [NAME] to support eliminating the filibuster. With the current Republican Senate majority, it is important to act now while conservative legislation can be adopted. If the filibuster remains, Democrats will continue to block any and all bills introduced by Republicans. All Republican Senators must unite against the filibuster to get rid of this regressive and anti-democratic tactic. It is vital that Senator [NAME] pledge his/her support.”
Spread the Word
Encourage others to take action by spreading the word on social media about the danger of the filibuster. Below are examples of social media posts that can help:
The filibuster is threatening our rights by preventing the passing of essential legislation to protect election integrity and border security. We must urge Congress to #EndtheFilibuster now.
The filibuster is unconstitutional and is a product of the US’ racist history. It is time we do away with this harmful practice!
We cannot let the filibuster continue to stand in the way of progress! #EndtheFilibusterNOW
@[Senator handle] Please support the elimination of the filibuster to protect the rights of all of your constituents.