What is a filibuster?
A filibuster is the use of extended debate to delay or block a vote in the Senate.
Short AnswerUsing extended debate to delay or block a Senate vote
Explanation
How Congress WorksSenate rules allow debate to continue until the chamber votes to end it, so opponents can hold up a vote. Ending debate takes a cloture vote under Senate Rule XXII.
Source
Other Questions in This Topic
- Is the filibuster in the Constitution?
- How many votes does it take to invoke cloture on most legislation?
- How many senators must sign a cloture motion before it can be filed?
- After cloture is invoked on a measure, how much more time can the Senate spend on it?
- What does it take to invoke cloture on a proposal to change the Senate's rules?
- What vote is needed today to end debate on a presidential nomination?
- Before 1975, what was needed to invoke cloture?
- Which kind of bill can pass the Senate by simple majority because debate on it is limited by law?
- What does the Byrd rule do?
- Does the House have a filibuster?