Question

The use of the filibuster and cloture in the United States Senate

a. has increased to record highs.
b. has stayed the same since an increase in the 1960s.
c. has declined to record lows,
d. is less than it was during the days of strong Speakers in the late nineteenth century.

Answer 1

The use of the filibuster and cloture in the United States Senate has increased to record highs, especially during periods of high partisanship and political conflict, such as the Obama administration. The correct answer is option a.

Step-by-step explanation:

The use of the filibuster and cloture in the United States Senate has evolved since its inception. Initially, the filibuster was a method by which a senator could hijack the floor by speaking for lengthy periods, preventing a vote on a bill. This tactic is rooted in a tradition allowing for unlimited debate, a feature that offered the minority party the power to impede legislation they opposed.

Over time, and particularly during times of high partisanship, the frequency of filibuster usage increased, peaking during moments of intense political strife, such as the civil rights era. The cloture rule, requiring a supermajority of 60 votes to end debate and move to a vote, became a pivotal tool in overcoming filibusters. This transitioned the Senate to a de facto supermajority requirement for passing most legislation.

The modern filibuster is often not a marathon speaking effort but rather a strategic use of Senate rules to require a 60-vote threshold to proceed. Record highs in its use were observed during periods such as the Obama administration, signifying an increase in partisanship and obstruction by the minority party.

Therefore, the correct option regarding the use of filibuster and cloture in the United States Senate is:

a. has increased to record highs.