What is the term used when a Senator speaks for an extended time to avoid voting on a bill?

What is the term used when a Senator speaks for an extended time to avoid voting on a bill?

• A. Closure
• B. Filibuster
• C. Veto
• D. Agenda

Answer: (B)

The term that refers to when a Senator speaks for an extended time to avoid voting on a bill is "filibuster." A filibuster is a tactic used in the Senate where a senator can delay or block legislative action by extending debate on the bill. This often involves making long speeches or introducing various amendments in order to prolong the discussion, thereby preventing a vote from taking place. This tactic can be employed as a means to express opposition to a bill or to push for modifications. Its purpose is to allow minority opinions to be heard and to protect against rushed decisions in the legislative process. Historically, filibusters have been used in various contexts, and the rules governing them allow for debate to continue unless a supermajority of the Senate votes to invoke cloture, effectively ending the extended debate and proceeding to a vote. The other options provided do not accurately describe this specific procedural tactic. Closure refers to a motion to end debate on a bill and proceed to vote, while a veto is the power of the president to reject legislation. An agenda is a list of items to be discussed or acted upon in a meeting but does not pertain to the process of delaying a vote like a filibuster does.

The term that refers to when a Senator speaks for an extended time to avoid voting on a bill is "filibuster." A filibuster is a tactic used in the Senate where a senator can delay or block legislative action by extending debate on the bill. This often involves making long speeches or introducing various amendments in order to prolong the discussion, thereby preventing a vote from taking place.

This tactic can be employed as a means to express opposition to a bill or to push for modifications. Its purpose is to allow minority opinions to be heard and to protect against rushed decisions in the legislative process. Historically, filibusters have been used in various contexts, and the rules governing them allow for debate to continue unless a supermajority of the Senate votes to invoke cloture, effectively ending the extended debate and proceeding to a vote.

The other options provided do not accurately describe this specific procedural tactic. Closure refers to a motion to end debate on a bill and proceed to vote, while a veto is the power of the president to reject legislation. An agenda is a list of items to be discussed or acted upon in a meeting but does not pertain to the process of delaying a vote like a filibuster does.