[jacquej]

I am embarrased that I do not know how filibisters work, from a parliamentary point of view.

Could someone who knows give me a short explanation? I know it is a tactic used to prevent action being taken, but would love to know what "tricks" to watch for.

And, how many of you will be watching it all the way thru?

[hoosiermama]

If I remember my government class correctly (It's been thirty+ years) The party that is filibustering yields the floor only to members of their own party. Not allowing those who might wish to close the filebuster to talk. They may read the phone book, previous speeches, anything to keep the vote from taking place.

[nicmarlo]

What is a Filibuster?

[steve in DC]

The parlimentary short form is this:

Motion, Second, Discussion, Close debate, Vote.

Technically the discussion, or debae, can last forever.

You can move to "call the question", which means that you have a vote to end debate on the motion and move it to a vote. (This is called a "cloture" vote). It takes two thirds majority to cut off debate and call a question.

Typically, the procedure is to move on to other matters if a cloture vote is unsuccessful. But, whenever that particular issue comes back for discussion, the debate continues, just like it never stopped.

The chair of the committee, (or President of the Senate, in the case where the Senate is debating an issue as a body) can opt to defer the issue, or to hold the floor open for more discussion.

Holding the floor open really focusses the entire business of the committee (or the Senate) on the issue.

Filibustering is a method of literally talking an issue to death, in most cases.

Focussing the committee's entire effort on the filibuster, however, really challenges the strength of the conviction of the filibustering party.

[CyberAnt]

I'm wondering what station will be willing to keep it on the air all the time ...??

Certainly CSPAN will not want to show their darlings in such a bad light ...?

[Salvation]

What is a filibuster?

There is a movie "Mr. _______________ goes to Washinginton" or something like that where he starts talking and continues until they accept his point of view. Gives you some idea without all the Senate legal hoops. Just a movie.

Sorry I can't remember the correct title.