Are you disputing his assertion that the GOP set a record this Congressional session for most filibusters by a minority party?
No, I'm not. I tried a few simple searches but came up empty with respect to any refuting information.
I have a question. If a bill is filibustered (or threatened by one), subsequently modified to incorporate changes and then passed by significant majorities of both parties, does it still count as a filibuster? What are your thoughts?
The reason I ask is this description from Wikipedia about 3 bills that were introduced in early 2007. Details below.
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110th Congress (2007-2008)
Following the 2006 congressional elections, Democrats held a 51-49 Senate majority in the 110th Congress. The Republican minority used the filibuster frequently in the first month of the session.
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Legislative Transparency and Accountability Act
On January 17, an attempt to change ethics laws and rules failed after forty-five Republicans blocked it from coming to the floor for a vote. Several days later, the measure passed 96-2 after Senate leaders were able to compromise on their differences.[4]
* See Congresspedia page on the Legislative Transparency and Accountability Act of 2007.
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Raising the minimum wage
On January 23, forty-three Republicans blocked an attempt to raise the federal minimum wage from $5.15 to $7.25 over two-years.[5]
Senate record vote:
To invoke cloture on a bill raising the federal minimum wage
January 24, 2007
Failed, 54-43, view details
Dem: 47-0 in favor, GOP: 5-43 opposed, Ind: 2-0
Several days later, the increase was passed 94-3 after several amendments allowing for small business tax breaks were added to the bill.
* See Congresspedia page on minimum wage legislation.
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Opposing the "surge"
On February 5, 2007, forty-six Republicans blocked an attempt by Democrats to consider a resolution opposing President Bush's plan to send an additional 21,500 troops into Iraq.[6]
Senate record vote:
To invoke cloture on bill opposing Iraq troop "surge"
February 5, 2007
Failed, 49-47, view details
Dem: 47-1 in favor, GOP: 2-45 opposed, Ind: 1 opposed
* See Congresspedia page on the Iraq troop "surge".
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I assume the third bill about the surge stayed blocked, since the troop surge did in fact take place later in the year. |
