Merkley: The Experiment Has Failed, We Need Filibuster Reform Now

[kpete]

Source: Talking Points Memo

SAHIL KAPUR MAY 2, 2013, 10:23 AM 4660
The Senate’s leading supporter of filibuster reform is back at it, declaring in an email to supporters late Wednesday that the modest rules changes enacted this January has “failed” and that real reform is urgently needed.

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) is teaming up with the liberal advocacy group Democracy For America to build public awareness of filibuster abuse and court supporters for reform.

“It’s now clear the experiment has failed. The Senate remains broken,” Merkley wrote to supporters. “Senate Republicans continue to force delays — even on bills with overwhelming public support, and even on nominees widely considered well-qualified.”

“Please join me and Democracy for America - and put yourself on record at FixTheFilibuster.com: We can’t wait any longer to make the Senate work.”

Read more: http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2013/05/jeff-merkley-filibuster-reform-email.php?ref=fpb

[bemildred]

1. That's it, keep hammering away. nt

[SlimJimmy]

2. Next year, I suspect.

Too late for any reform this session.

[Redfairen]

3. Paging Harry Reid. Paging Harry Reid.

[Myrina]

4. So what's Harry's excuse going to be this time?

More powder to keep dry?

[Javaman]

5. it seems as if his "powder" is always at the dry cleaners.

I won't ever forgive him for not reforming it.

[0rganism]

6. prediction: filibuster reform will happen the day Republicans take over the senate

I'm talking day #1 of that unfortunate session, during the rules votes. It will be over quickly and the press will barely cover it.

Anyone want to bet against me on this? We could find out as early as Jan. 2015.

[nikto]

8. I'll bet...

You are exactly right, Organism.

I expect the same.

The Senate will be 51-vote majority again.
But only for the GOP.

[24601]

7. What about Senators who put holds on nominations to positions that require confirmation?