GOP Split: Trump Demands Filibuster End as Thune Defends It
Former President Donald Trump’s renewed push to eliminate the Senate filibuster has been met with staunch opposition from Senator John Thune (R-S.D.), the Senate’s No. 2 Republican. The clash highlights deepening fractures within the GOP ahead of the 2024 elections.
Trump, who blames the filibuster for blocking conservative priorities, recently called its retention a “death wish” for Republicans. But Thune, a longtime institutionalist, argues the 60-vote rule safeguards minority rights and prevents extreme policy swings.
Trump’s Filibuster Criticism Escalates
The filibuster—requiring 60 votes to advance most legislation—has long been a target for Trump, who faced gridlock during his presidency. In a social media post, he slammed Senate Republicans as “weak” for keeping it, claiming it blocks action on border security and election laws.
“The filibuster is a disaster for the GOP,” Trump wrote. “If we don’t change it, we’ll never take back the country.” His stance aligns with far-right lawmakers who want to pass conservative bills with a simple majority.
Thune’s Defense: “Filibuster Ensures Stability”
Thune, a close ally of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), insists the filibuster forces bipartisanship and prevents radical overhauls. He warns scrapping it would let Democrats pass sweeping reforms unchecked if they regain power.
“The Senate was designed for consensus, not majority tyranny,” Thune said. Even former VP Mike Pence has backed the rule, calling it a “critical check” on power.
Broader GOP Divide: Populists vs. Traditionalists
The Trump-Thune rift mirrors a wider GOP battle:
– Populists (MAGA wing) want aggressive rule changes to pass conservative agendas.
– Institutionalists (Thune, McConnell) prioritize Senate norms and long-term stability.
Democrats also face internal splits, with progressives like Bernie Sanders pushing to abolish the filibuster for voting rights and climate bills, while moderates like Manchin and Sinema side with Thune to preserve it.
What’s Next for the Filibuster?
The 2024 elections could decide the rule’s fate:
– A Trump win + GOP Senate majority may revive elimination talks.
– Thune and allies likely resist without guarantees against Democratic overreach.
For now, the filibuster stands—but the GOP’s civil war over its future is just heating up.
Follow NextMinuteNews for updates on this pivotal political battle.
