Summary
President Trump wants to end the filibuster, a Senate rule, to speed up government decision-making. The filibuster requires 60 votes to pass most laws, but ending it could allow a simple majority to decide. Many Republicans do not support ending the filibuster because it could backfire if Democrats gain control.
Key Facts
- President Donald Trump demands the end of the filibuster to reopen the government.
- The filibuster requires 60 votes to pass most Senate legislation.
- Ending the filibuster would let a simple majority of senators pass bills.
- Republicans have 53 seats, which could allow them to pass bills without Democratic votes if the filibuster is removed.
- The "nuclear option" is a way to end the filibuster by changing Senate rule interpretation.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune opposes ending the filibuster, saying it forces compromise.
- Many Republicans worry ending the filibuster could harm them if Democrats control the Senate in the future.
