Description
Book SynopsisTrade ReviewRich in historical anecdotes about instances when the strange antics to delay Senate decisions actually led to better policy making, this book will become the 'go to' authority on the filibuster. This volume should be valuable to general readers, students, and research faculty. . . . Highly recommended.
* Choice *
An impassioned and cogent defense of the Senate's most controversial practice.
* Kirkus Reviews *
Arenberg and Dove successfully explain why, despite its flaws, the filibuster is worth preserving or reforming rather than eliminating. (Reviewing a previous edition)
* ForeWord Reviews *
Regardless of whether you agree with [the authors'] conclusions, the book will be a must read for anyone who wants to be a part of the debate about how to improve the function of the Senate. (Reviewing a previous edition)
* Roll Call *
Legislative battles over healthcare and the federal budget have spurred demands to reform or abolish the filibuster in the US Senate. The authors argue that the filibuster is fundamental to the very character of the Senate, and that it protects the rights of the minority in American politics.
* Survival *
Clearly written and amply supported, Defending the Filibuster is a must-read for all Americans, especially during these highly contentious times.
* joannalouisejohnson.com *
Table of ContentsForeword by Senator Olympia Snowe
Preface
1. Soul of the Senate
2. Filibuster, Cloture, and Unfettered Amendment
3. History of the Filibuster
4. Polarized Politics and the Use and Abuse of the Filibuster
5. Criticisms of the Filibuster
6. The Dangers of Overzealous Reform
7. Related Tactics: Holds
8. Related Tactics: Filling the Amendment Tree
9. Circumventing the Filibuster: Reconciliation
10. Reforming the Filibuster: The Constitutional Option
11. Reforming the Filibuster: The Nuclear Option
12. Bring in the Cots
13. Defending the Filibuster
14. Looking Ahead
Notes
Selected Bibliography
Index
