America is about freedom of speech and debate, especially in the halls of Congress. The Republican majority is seeking to limit debate on important legislative and judicial topics by pursuing the “nuclear option” to end the filibuster.
The filibuster is an important method to extend debate on controversial legislative topics and judicial nominations. Throughout American history, the Senate filibuster has served as an important element of the checks and balances system, preventing a partisan majority from ruling through tyranny while promoting bipartisan compromise and moderation. It has served as a particularly important check when all three branches of government are controlled by one party.
Republicans and Democrats should freely debate topics and judicial nominations that will greatly affect our country. The nuclear option will stifle that spirit of dialogue and debate. In an increasingly polarized country, it is crucial to encourage a wide range of dialogue in a government dominated by one party.
Sen. Gordon Smith is an important voice in his party and he needs to hear from his constituents that oppose the elimination of the filibuster. Urge him to join other prominent Republicans who have spoken out against Bill Frist’s push to eliminate the filibuster.
Jonathan Evans
Eugene