Defending the filibuster
Subtitle: the soul of the senate
By: Richard A. Arenberg and Robert B. Dove ; foreword by Senator Mark Udall and Senator Ted Kaufman
Contributors: Dove, Robert B.
Publisher: Indiana University Press
Published: 2012
Place of publication: Bloomington
Language: eng
Number of pages: 261
ISBN-13: 9780253001917; 9780253006981
Subjects: United States; Freedom of debate; United States. Congress. Senate; Filibusters (Political science)
Description: Recent legislative battles over healthcare reform, the federal budget, and other prominent issues have given rise to widespread demands for the abolition or reform of the filibuster in the US Senate. Critics argue that members? traditional rights of unlimited debate and amendment have led to paralyzing requirements for supermajorities and destructive parliamentary tactics such as "secret holds." In Defending the Filibuster, a veteran Senate aide and a former Senate Parliamentarian maintain that the filibuster is fundamental to the character of the Senate. They contend that the filibuster protects the rights of the minority in American politics, assures stability and deliberation in government, and helps to preserve constitutional principles of checks and balances and separation of powers. Richard A. Arenberg and Robert B. Dove provide an instructive historical overview of the development of Senate rules, define and describe related procedures and tactics, examine cases related to specific pieces of legislation, and consider current proposals to end the filibuster or enact other reforms. Arguing passionately in favor of retaining the filibuster, they offer a stimulating assessment of the issues surrounding current debates on this contentious issue.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.