Senator Fetterman Advocates Filibuster Carve-Out to prevent Future Government Shutdowns
Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) is once again pushing for a strategic change to Senate rules, specifically advocating for a carve-out to the filibuster to ensure the consistent passage of continuing resolutions and prevent future government shutdowns. He believes this targeted adjustment is “entirely appropriate” and would create a more stable governing process, irrespective of which party holds power.
This isn’t a call to eliminate the filibuster entirely, Fetterman clarifies. He’s focused on a specific exception for funding the government. “I’m referring to carving out this specific item right now. I’m not talking about eliminating the entire filibuster,” he stated.
Why a Carve-out for Government Funding?
Fetterman argues that removing the 60-vote threshold for continuing resolutions would dramatically reduce the risk of politically motivated shutdowns. here’s a breakdown of his reasoning:
* Prevents Disruptions: It would make it significantly harder for either party to halt government operations.
* Consistent Funding: Ensures a more predictable and reliable funding process for essential services.
* Addresses Hypocrisy: Fetterman pointedly noted the Democratic Party’s past stance on the filibuster, stating, “[Democrats] ran on killing the filibuster, and now we love it.”
He doesn’t shy away from challenging his own party, urging them to act on promises made during campaigns. ”Carve it out so we can move on. I support it as it makes it more tough to shut the government down in the future, and that’s where its entirely appropriate,” he said. “And I don’t want to hear any Democrat clutching their pearls about the filibuster. We all ran on it. I ran on that.”
Fetterman’s Independent Stance on Reopening the Government
Fetterman has consistently prioritized keeping the government open, even when it meant breaking with his party. He, along with Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and independent Senator Angus King (I-ME), have voted with republicans to advance their continuing resolutions.
He believes inaction sends the wrong message. “I can’t ever or will ever vote to shut our government down,” Fetterman declared on Fox News.He previously criticized Republican-led shutdowns, and vowed to oppose any attempt to repeat them, emphasizing the negative impact on everyday Americans.
Recent Criticism and Future Political Landscape
Fetterman’s willingness to work across the aisle and express independent views hasn’t been without scrutiny. Representative Brendan Boyle (D-PA) recently criticized Fetterman on social media for a post praising former President Trump’s efforts regarding the war in Ukraine. Boyle referred to Fetterman as “Trump’s favorite Democrat.”
While Boyle hasn’t announced a formal challenge, he is considered a potential primary opponent when Fetterman seeks reelection in 2028. This highlights a growing tension within the Democratic Party regarding Fetterman’s more centrist and pragmatic approach.
Ultimately, Senator Fetterman’s push for a filibuster carve-out reflects a desire for pragmatic solutions to prevent disruptive government shutdowns and prioritize the needs of constituents. His willingness to challenge party lines and engage in open dialog positions him as a unique voice in the Senate, even as it attracts criticism from within his own party.
