Senate Work May Come to Halt If GOP Bars Judicial Filibusters

Washington Post

Senate Democrats formally threatened yesterday to bring the chamber to a virtual standstill if Republicans carry out a plan to change Senate rules and bar filibusters of judicial nominations.

The comments, which Republicans quickly denounced, signal that the two parties remain on a collision course whose outcome could be so explosive that it is generally called the "nuclear option."

Democrats have made similar threats in recent interviews and speeches, but yesterday's actions -- including a letter to GOP leaders and a mass gathering on the Capitol's east steps -- marked their biggest effort yet to show solidarity on an issue that many expect to reach a climax next month.......

Minority Leader Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.) unveiled his two-page letter to Frist at a Capitol steps photo opportunity, surrounded by most of his party colleagues. Noting that countless Senate procedures and shortcuts require all 100 senators' consent, Reid's letter said that if Republicans remove the right to filibuster judges, "the majority should not expect to receive cooperation from the minority in the conduct of Senate business."

He said Democrats would cooperate on legislation "supporting our troops" and keeping the government running, but otherwise would refuse to facilitate actions "even on routine matters."......