What is a filibuster?

What is a filibuster?

• A. Nonstop Senate debate that prevents a bill from coming to a vote
• B. A type of committee assignment
• C. A method to expedite floor action
• D. A vote by voice to approve a bill

Answer: (A)

A filibuster is a tactic in the U.S. Senate where a senator or group uses extended debate to block a bill from coming to a vote. The Senate allows unlimited debate, so a prolonged speech or other delaying maneuver can stall legislation for as long as needed. To end a filibuster and move to a vote, the Senate can invoke cloture, which typically requires a supermajority (around 60 votes). This distinguishes filibusters from a committee assignment (which is about committee work), from methods that expedite floor action, and from a simple voice vote (a quick decision on the bill).

A filibuster is a tactic in the U.S. Senate where a senator or group uses extended debate to block a bill from coming to a vote. The Senate allows unlimited debate, so a prolonged speech or other delaying maneuver can stall legislation for as long as needed. To end a filibuster and move to a vote, the Senate can invoke cloture, which typically requires a supermajority (around 60 votes). This distinguishes filibusters from a committee assignment (which is about committee work), from methods that expedite floor action, and from a simple voice vote (a quick decision on the bill).