Power balance
The filibuster shifts power from the majority to the minority, requiring 60 votes instead of 51 for most legislation.
In plain English
When a minority can stall the Senate.
The filibuster lets a Senate minority slow or stop legislation by refusing to end debate, forcing a 60-vote supermajority to move forward.
Simple example
In 2021 Senate Democrats failed to advance voting-rights legislation because they could not muster the 60 votes needed to end a Republican filibuster.
Why it matters
What the term actually changes.
Legislation slowdown
Many bills die without ever getting a vote because the majority lacks the 60 votes needed to end debate.
Constant debate
Whether to eliminate or reform the filibuster is one of the most persistent procedural fights in Congress.
How it works
The mechanics, in practice.
Holding the floor
Any senator can extend debate on a bill indefinitely — today usually by signaling intent rather than speaking for hours.
The 60-vote wall
Ending debate requires a cloture vote with 60 senators. Without 60, the bill stalls even if 59 support it.
Carve-outs
The Senate has exempted budget reconciliation and most nominations, so those pass with a simple majority.
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Glossary
Cloture
Cloture is the only formal way to end a Senate filibuster — get 60 senators to vote to close debate, and the bill moves to a vote.