The Filibuster
A Senate procedure allowing unlimited debate on a bill, effectively requiring 60 votes (out of 100) to pass most legislation rather than a simple majority.
Real World
In 2022, Senate Republicans used the filibuster to block the Freedom to Vote Act, preventing Democrats — who held a Senate majority — from passing federal voting rights legislation despite winning the 2020 elections.
Exam Focus
State the cloture threshold (60 votes) precisely and explain its effect on majority government; vague references to 'blocking' alone will not score highly.
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