Stop filibuster abuse. Help Michael Bennet do it.

You’ve got to hand it to Michael Bennet - of course he’s a Democrat, he’s trying to do something productive! -  of Colorado. Today I got an email to support a petition he’s running to change the stupid rules on the use of the filibuster in the Senate.

The filibuster isn’t inherently stupid or evil. Unfortunately, stupid and evil people are using it in a abusive manner that is slowing down the important business for the narrow agendas of a few intent on disrupting the democratic process.

This isn’t the filibuster of the movies. We aren’t dealing with Jimmy Stewart, and the battles of the ‘little guy’. This is about stopping guys like Sen. Jim Bunning trying to stop a 30 day extension of unemployment benefits.

If you complain that Congress isn’t working, then help Bennet.

Read on:

During the past year I’ve had conversations with thousands of people from all parts of Colorado, and I’ve heard a common refrain: Washington isn’t working. Last week, the obstructionist actions of Republican senator Jim Bunning left no doubt that the people of Colorado are right — Washington is broken, and it’s getting worse.

The filibuster was originally intended to protect minority rights and encourage meaningful debate on the Senate floor. Today, this important rule is being abused at an unprecedented rate, and it’s grinding the business of the Senate to a standstill.

That’s why I am introducing new legislation to reform the Senate’s rules — to reform the filibuster in a responsible, practical way. My bill protects minority rights, while allowing the Senate to more efficiently conduct the people’s business and put an end to pointless delays.

But I can’t make this change alone. I need you to click here to contact your senators now. Urge them to support my bill to reform the filibuster today.

The real problem is that the filibuster is being abused with unprecedented frequency. Individuals and parties are using it to obstruct progress, and the American people are paying the price.

Here are the specifics of my filibuster reform proposal:

• Ends anonymous holds so senators will have to answer to their constituents;
• Requires filibuster supporters to actually show up and vote;
• Filibusters at the beginning of debate will be eliminated so we can get back to the business of deliberating bills; and,
• Creates incentives to encourage bipartisanship and allows bills with bipartisan support to move more quickly.

If you want to help me fix the Senate and get Washington working for you again, click here to contact your senators. Urge them to reform the filibuster today.

The political games that have stopped business in the Senate need to end — we can do better. Please stand with me, and let’s put Washington back to work for Colorado’s families. Tell your senators to support my bill today.

Sincerely,

Michael Bennet
U.S. Senator