Thursday, January 16, 2014

Democrats could fight back, but will they with a "talking filibuster?"

I thought this the Huffington Post story was invaluable advice for the Democratic Party. It's time the abused party in this political relationship fights back. And the filibuster rule should change:
Republicans filibustered the extension of unemployment benefits on the Senate floor Tuesday. Why? Because they can get away with it. If the public doesn't know that filibusters are occurring, how can democracy hold Republicans accountable for doing it?

Instead they hear from the corporate media that the bill is "stalled," "the Senate failed" or "the Senate deadlocks" due to "finger-pointing" or "partisan squabbling." What message does the public get from that? Probably that they shouldn't bother to vote.

The silent filibuster keeps the majority from delivering for the public, without letting the public know why the majority is not delivering.

Again, if the public doesn't know the Republicans are filibustering and obstructing things the people need, they can't hold the Republicans accountable for it. Change the Senate rules to make them talk if they want to filibuster legislation. And then start the drumbeat to stop obstruction in the House. Serve the public by letting the public know what is going on.

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