Cloture

Definition

Cloture is a legislative procedure used in the U.S. Senate to end a filibuster and bring a bill or nomination to a final vote. By invoking cloture, senators can limit debate on a measure, ensuring that it does not continue indefinitely and allowing the legislative process to move forward. This procedure requires a supermajority of votes, typically 60 out of 100 senators, which reflects the need for bipartisan support to overcome prolonged debate.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cloture was first introduced in the Senate in 1917 as a way to overcome filibusters that were becoming increasingly common.
2. To invoke cloture, a senator must file a petition signed by at least 16 senators, which then requires a subsequent vote where at least 60 senators must agree.
3. If cloture is invoked, it typically limits further debate to 30 additional hours before a final vote must take place.
4. The cloture rule helps maintain order in the Senate by preventing an individual senator or a small group from indefinitely blocking legislation.
5. In recent years, changes in the use of cloture have led to increased partisanship, with both parties employing it strategically to advance their legislative agendas.

Review Questions

• How does the cloture process affect the power dynamics within the Senate when it comes to passing legislation?
  • Cloture significantly impacts the power dynamics within the Senate by requiring a supermajority for bills and nominations to advance beyond extended debate. This means that even if one party holds a simple majority, they still need cooperation from members of the opposing party to successfully invoke cloture. As such, it encourages negotiation and compromise between parties, making bipartisan support essential for legislative success.
• Evaluate how the implementation of cloture has evolved since its introduction and its impact on Senate proceedings today.
  • Since its introduction in 1917, cloture has evolved from being a rarely used tool to a common mechanism for overcoming filibusters. Initially seen as a way to protect minority rights in the Senate, its frequent invocation today reflects an increasingly polarized political environment. The rise in cloture votes indicates that Senators are more willing to limit debate to expedite legislative processes, leading to concerns about diminishing deliberation and bipartisanship.
• Analyze the implications of increased reliance on cloture in contemporary Senate politics and its effect on legislative outcomes.
  • The growing reliance on cloture in contemporary Senate politics suggests a shift towards more confrontational and less collaborative approaches among lawmakers. As parties increasingly utilize cloture to push through their agendas, it can result in fewer opportunities for thorough debate and compromise. This trend may lead to more partisan legislation being passed, while also heightening tensions between parties and reducing overall effectiveness in governance, as important issues might be addressed without adequate discussion or input from diverse perspectives.

Related terms

filibuster: A tactic used in the Senate where one or more senators delay or block a vote on a proposal by extending debate on the measure.

supermajority: A requirement for a proposal to gain a higher level of support than a simple majority, often set at two-thirds or three-fifths of the members.

motion: A formal proposal made in a meeting or legislative assembly, often leading to a debate and vote on the proposed action.