During the past year I've had conversations with thousands of people from all parts of Colorado, and I've heard a common refrain: Washington isn't working. Last week, the obstructionist actions of Republican senator Jim Bunning left no doubt that the people of Colorado are right -- Washington is broken, and it's getting worse.
The filibuster was originally intended to protect minority rights and encourage meaningful debate on the Senate floor. Today, this important rule is being abused at an unprecedented rate, and it's grinding the business of the Senate to a standstill.
That's why I am introducing new legislation to reform the Senate's rules -- to reform the filibuster in a responsible, practical way. My bill protects minority rights, while allowing the Senate to more efficiently conduct the people's business and put an end to pointless delays.
The real problem is that the filibuster is being abused with unprecedented frequency. Individuals and parties are using it to obstruct progress, and the American people are paying the price.
Here are the specifics of my filibuster reform proposal:
- Ends anonymous holds so senators will have to answer to their constituents;
- Requires filibuster supporters to actually show up and vote;
- Filibusters at the beginning of debate will be eliminated so we can get back to the business of deliberating bills; and,
- Creates incentives to encourage bipartisanship and allows bills with bipartisan support to move more quickly. ...
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