President Donald Trump has intensified his demands for Senate Republicans to eliminate the legislative filibuster, amid ongoing divisions over the rule and a partial government shutdown linked to DHS funding stalemate.
Trump's Direct Appeals
- In a social media post, Trump wrote: “When is ‘enough, enough’ for our Republican Senators. There comes a time when you must do what should have been done a long time ago, and something which the Lunatic Democrats will do on day one, if they ever get the chance. TERMINATE THE FILIBUSTER, and get our airports, and everything else, moving again.”
- He separately posted in all caps: “TERMINATE THE FILIBUSTER!”
- Trump also urged adding all five items from the SAVE America Act, saying “Go for the Gold!!!”
GOP Leadership Opposition
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other Republicans have expressed concerns about eliminating the filibuster.
- Sen. Thom Tillis criticized the move to scrap the filibuster for the SAVE America Act, calling it a “foolish and lazy idea.”
- Leaders warn that abolishing the rule could backfire if Democrats regain Senate control.
Context and Implications
- The filibuster requires 60 votes to advance most legislation, and Trump argues its removal is essential to bypass gridlock.
- The debate occurs as the government partially shuts down due to impasse over DHS funding.
- Trump's push highlights internal Republican rifts as the party seeks to advance its agenda.
