filibuster

(noun)

A delaying tactic, especially the use of long, often irrelevant speeches given in order to delay progress or the making of a decision, especially on the floor of the US Senate.

Related Terms

Examples of filibuster in the following topics:

  • Debate

    • In the Senate, Senators sometimes use this rule to filibuster a bill—that is, continue debating a bill endlessly so that it cannot be voted on.
    • The only way to end a filibuster is for three-fifths of all Senators to vote for a cloture resolution, which ends all debate and brings the bill up for voting.
    • Use of the filibuster tends to be controversial.

  • Advice and Consent

    • For appointments, a majority of senators are needed to pass a motion "to advise and consent", but unless the appointment has the support of three-fifths of senators, a filibuster blocking the passage of the motion is possible.
    • For appointments, a majority of senators are needed to pass a motion "to advise and consent," but unless the appointment has the support of three-fifths of senators, a filibuster blocking the passage of the motion is possible.
    • For a treaty, a two-thirds vote of the Senate is required anyway; thus, a filibuster could only delay passage.

  • Sunset Laws

    • Among other provisions, it affects Senate rules of debate during the budget reconciliation, not least by preventing the use of the filibuster against the budget resolutions.

  • Roving Wiretaps

    • Senator Russ Feingold from the District of Washington promised to lead a filibuster to block approval of retroactive immunity.

  • Political Parties

    • However, minority party members will have to rely on negative powers such as blocking legislation in committees, or using filibuster techniques.

  • The Nomination Process

    • If it reaches the floor, senators then can vote to confirm or reject the nomination, or filibuster so that a vote is delayed or does not take place.