Change is an inevitable part of life. Changes are made daily, weekly, monthly, and even yearly. Without them progress would be impossible. However, it is necessary that certain portions of the original object are still relevant in any change. An example of change being necessary may be illustrated by Congress. The original objectives of the founding fathers have been amended several times since their creation. However, certain portions of the original objectives will never change. The filibuster is a certain element of congress that is needed, but must be reformed.
The term filibuster has a specific definition. It is derived from the Spanish word filibusteros. (Arenberg, Dove, Udall, and Kaufman ) The Spanish word describes rebellious pirates. (Arenberg, Dove, Udall, and Kaufman ) This is similar to the English definition because the term supports rebellion. In the United States it is identified as certain methods of preventing something from being voted on. (Ellis and Nelson) These methods may be dilatory or obstructive. (Arenberg, Dove, Udall, and Kaufman ) It is used in the United States Senate primarily. There are two forms of filibuster.
The filibuster is utilized by multiple counties. The filibuster has been traced to the ancient Roman Empire. (Arenberg, Dove, Udall, and Kaufman ) The filibuster is also utilized in England. It is a common practice in this country. Australia also utilizes filibusters. (Arenberg, Dove, Udall, and Kaufman )
[...] Recently filibuster reform has been revisited. This is due to President Barack Obama's nominees being faced with filibusters. (Terbush ) Earlier this year Democrats established that filibuster reform was not a priority for the party. Since then Republicans have blocked votes regarding several measures. These measures include cabinet appointees, budget issues, and assault weapon bans. (Terbush )The Democrats hope that this reform will force the Republican party to vote on certain issues. They hope that they can bypass the Republicans if they cannot force them to vote. [...]
[...] This filibuster lasted for six days total. (Arenberg, Dove, Udall, and Kaufman ) The types of filibuster in the United States vary. The first type of filibuster is a veto. It is specifically identified as a Senatorial line- item veto. An example of this may be illustrated by Joe Lieberman. Lieberman prevented a compromise on the public option that had the potential to spread Medicare to age 55 for certain people. He utilized a line-item veto to prevent this. (Arenberg, Dove, Udall, and Kaufman )The Line-Item Veto Act was enacted in 1996. [...]
[...] This could be changed with reform efforts. The Senate will follow the reform if it is strictly enforced. If the senators are not allowed to vote based on unruly activity they will not participate in such actions. Filibusters are the only thing that give the minority of senators a chance to be heard. Without them the majority will rule the senate without opposition. This defeats the purpose of having two opposing sides. With filibusters the minority at least has a chance of being heard. [...]
[...] I also support filibuster reform in certain instances. I do not think that the issue should be revisited only when it provides a problem for a certain group. In my opinion these groups only want the reform because it is hard for them to pass bills. However, if they feel strongly enough about these bills they should work hard enough to get them passed. Filibuster reform should be established one time for the future. This would provide solutions to several arguments for and against reform. [...]
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