In Defense of Filibusters

[Barkeep49]

I teach 7th grade social studies and want my class to examine the issue of filibusters as it relates to the current dispute over judicial nominees. I have found a good article laying out the facts of what is going on, and another good article explaining why the filibuster is unconsitutional. Does anyone know of a good article which defends the filibuster? So far the best I've come up with is one from George Will, but his being a conservative, and thus hedging on some of the issues, is only likely to confuse my students I fear.

[Warhammer]

Originally Posted by Barkeep49

I teach 7th grade social studies and want my class to examine the issue of filibusters as it relates to the current dispute over judicial nominees. I have found a good article laying out the facts of what is going on, and another good article explaining why the filibuster is unconsitutional. Does anyone know of a good article which defends the filibuster? So far the best I've come up with is one from George Will, but his being a conservative, and thus hedging on some of the issues, is only likely to confuse my students I fear.

What do you mean hedging on some of the issues?

A true filibuster is not really unconstitutional. A true filibuster is part of parliamentary procedure. Unfortunately, no one forces anyone to run a true filibuster any more. I remember a few filibusters back in the day, when they ran all day, and had to have someone on the floor 24 hours a day. The press would go nuts, and so would citizens. They would begin demanding for a vote, etc.

I would definitely use the George Will column, if it is the one I am thinking of, because it also brings up parliamentary procedure, which is essential to understanding the workings of Congress. It also talks about the "nuclear option" of defeating a filibuster and the ramifications that would have.

[Kodos]

I found The Horse Whisperer to be a good Philly buster.