LETS GET READY TO RUMBLE

Yesterday I broke down some of the arguments regarding the minority filibuster rule in congress as well as giving some of my own thoughts on the issue. The Washington Post is reporting that Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist "is all but certain to press for a rule change that would ban filibusters of judicial nominations.."

This decision by Frist could have many ramifications, as the Post speculates that a move to ban minority filibusters could create a situation in which the passage of President Bush's Agenda becomes much more complicated and difficult.

As I said yesterday, I support the filibuster law, as it prevents a tyranny of a slight majority. Although some other bloggers have been calling for the Democrats to give in and eliminate the filibuster, I can not say enough how much I disagree with that idea. Although the Democrats may face problems in the future when the tables are turned and they have a majority, their are enough Democrats in this country who want the party to fight for their beliefs even if they do not hold a majority in congress. If the Democrats abandoned the filibuster and simply rolled over on this issue it would end up eroding at the base of the party, and I costing more votes in the long run as life long Democrats will feel that their elected law makers have simply given up.

If the GOP wishes to use filibusters in the future to stall Democratic policy then so be it, they will deal with the consequences of their actions. Honestly, do you think if the tables were turned the GOP would simply give in and surrender the right to a filibuster? Absolutely Not.

Hopefully enough Republicans can concede the of a minority filibuster, and Frist's plans will never come to fruition. In the mean time, call your representatives and demand that they respect the filibuster as is.

Ryan Oddey
Ryan@TAFMess.com