In this bonus episode following the main recording of What is a Filibuster? Liam and special guest Gregory Koger continue their discussion on the history of filibuster's, including its British origins and the role they played in the Civil Rights Act.
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Special guest for this episode:
- Gregory Koger, a professor of political science at the University of Miami, who specializes in legislative politics and political parties and author of the book Filibustering: A Political History of Obstruction in the House and Senate
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Highlights from this episode:
- Filibusters can be a complex political tool, not just a stubborn roadblock to legislation. They serve a purpose in forcing issues onto the agenda, showcasing their strategic use in U.S. politics.
- The history of filibustering dates back to the 19th century, with early examples even found in the UK Parliament, illustrating that this isn't just a U.S. phenomenon.
- Negotiating under pressure is crucial in politics, and filibusters often create that necessary urgency for lawmakers to reach agreements.
- Filibusters can sometimes prevent disastrous outcomes, such as a government default, highlighting their importance in legislative processes.
- The role of filibusters in campaign finance reform discussions in the 1990s demonstrates how they can bring critical issues to the forefront, ultimately leading to significant legislation.
- Understanding filibusters enriches our perspective on political maneuvering, revealing how they can be leveraged for both obstruction and progress in legislative debates.
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Additional Resources:
Filibustering: A Political History of Obstruction in the House and Senate by Greg Koger
U.S. Senate: About Filibusters and Cloture
10 Wildest Filibusters In History - Listverse
How The Filibuster Has Been Used To Block Civil Rights Progress | NBC News NOW
The filibuster has been a thorn in Democrats' side. Now it's their last hope - Fast Company
Filibuster Reform - Center for Effective Government
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And if you like this episode, you might also love:
What Was the Constitutional Convention?
Why Does the President Only Serve Two Terms?
Is the President Above the Law?
How Are Presidents Elected?
What is the US Constitution?
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