Senate Republicans Divided on Filibuster as Shutdown Talks Continue
Following recent Democratic election victories, Senate Republicans are grappling with internal divisions over potential changes to the filibuster rule as government shutdown negotiations persist. The debate was sparked after former President Trump urged Republicans to consider eliminating the filibuster during a breakfast meeting with the caucus.
senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) acknowledged the former President’s suggestion, stating it “gives you a lot to think about,” but expressed concern that ending the filibuster would relieve pressure on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. “He’s being incredibly irresponsible keeping the government shut down,” cassidy told CBS News.
Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) indicated openness to modifying Senate procedures, specifically regarding appropriations. “The portion that cries out for change is the fact we haven’t been able to do regular appropriations for a while,” Cornyn said to reporters. he argued that the current system,allowing a minority to obstruct legislation,is unsustainable,notably in light of the ongoing shutdown. “And now, with the sort of Schumer shutdown, having a willful minority be able to shut down the government anytime they want to, obviously, we can’t tolerate that,” he added, suggesting appropriations bills and continuing resolutions (CRs) could be considered for a filibuster carveout.
However, not all Republicans are on board with altering the longstanding rule.Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) voiced strong support for finding a solution to end the shutdown, even if it requires meaningful changes. In a video posted to X (formerly Twitter), Banks stated, “It’s time to reopen the government, get back to work, and do all of the things that the American people elected us to do.” He added, “Let’s do what it takes, whether that’s changing the filibuster rules in the Senate. Whatever it takes.”
Several senators voiced firm opposition to any changes. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) reiterated her stance against eliminating the filibuster, while Senator James Lankford (R-OK) stated, “I’m in the same spot I’ve always been on the filibuster – that should not change.” Senator john Kennedy (R-LA) also maintained his position, emphasizing the importance of the filibuster for the minority party.
“The role of the senator is not just to advance good ideas. The role of the senator is to kill bad ideas,” Kennedy explained.”And when you’re in the minority… it’s significant to have a filibuster. We killed a lot of President Biden’s goofy ideas through the filibuster, and someday the shoe will be on the other foot.”
