Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

American Politics Commons

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Selected Works

Gregory Koger

2011

Articles 1 - 1 of 1

Full-Text Articles in American Politics

The Past And Future Of The Supermajority Senate, Gregory Koger Dec 2010

The Past And Future Of The Supermajority Senate, Gregory Koger

Gregory Koger

The distinguishing feature of the modern U.S. Senate is the ability of any senator to block legislation and nominations, forcing the rest of the chamber to limit debate using a slow process that requires a 60-vote supermajority. This article explains the development of this new and powerful veto in the legislative process, its use as a minority party veto, and then reviews options for restoring the balance between governance and deliberation.