President Trump on Friday called on the Senate to end the filibuster rule in order to make it easier for the Republican majority to pass legislation.
“With the ridiculous Filibuster Rule in the Senate, Republicans need 60 votes to pass legislation, rather than 51. Can’t get votes, END NOW!” Trump tweeted.
With the ridiculous Filibuster Rule in the Senate, Republicans need 60 votes to pass legislation, rather than 51. Can’t get votes, END NOW!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 15, 2017
Ending the legislative filibuster would let the GOP pass bills with just 51 votes, instead of the 60 needed to advance them. Republicans have 52 seats in the Senate.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has said he opposes changing the rule.
Trump has called for the change many times in the past after legislation to reform healthcare failed in the Senate. However, that bill was brought up under reconciliation rules and only needed 50 votes to pass, and failed by just one vote.
“If Republican Senate doesn’t get rid of the Filibuster Rule & go to a simple majority, which the Dems would do, they are just wasting time!” Trump tweeted on Aug. 23.
