Trump’s Big Move: Pushing to End the Filibuster Amid the Government Shutdown

Meanwhile, Democrats are watching closely. Some view the push as a sign of desperation from Republicans and are poised to use it as a campaign issue in upcoming elections. Trump, however, dismisses such concerns, arguing the GOP must move boldly now.

Analysts say the drama underscores a deeper question: whether the Senate should maintain its long‑held rules that encourage cross‑party negotiation, or whether majorities should be able to legislate unimpeded.

For federal employees and citizens impacted by the shutdown, the procedural debate may appear abstract. But for Trump and his allies, the rule is more than procedural—it stands between policy implementation and legislative gridlock.

Republican leaders argue the filibuster keeps legislation stable and prevents rapid swings with each election. Without it, they say, the opposition would have no effective check if power shifts.

In his remarks, Trump directly tied the rule to the shutdown, blaming the delay in reopening the government on the inability of Republicans to bypass the 60‑vote threshold. He said defeating the rule would allow the majority to act on popular issues such as border security, election reform, and tax cuts.Continue reading…