Legislative Process
Nuclear Option
Definition
A Senate procedure that changes the rules to allow a simple majority to end debate, bypassing the 60-vote cloture requirement. Used in 2013 for executive-branch and lower-court nominations, and extended to Supreme Court nominations in 2017.
Related Terms
Cloture
A Senate procedure to end debate and bring a measure to a vote. Requires 60 votes for legislation. Nominations need only a simple majority, after rule changes in 2013 (most nominations) and 2017 (Supreme Court).
FilibusterA tactic used in the Senate to delay or block a vote by extending debate. Can only be ended by invoking cloture.
More Legislative Process Terms
Common Questions
- What does "Nuclear Option" mean?
- A Senate procedure that changes the rules to allow a simple majority to end debate, bypassing the 60-vote cloture requirement. Used in 2013 for executive-branch and lower-court nominations, and extended to Supreme Court nominations in 2017.
- What terms are related to nuclear option?
- Related terms include: Cloture, Filibuster. Understanding these related concepts helps provide context for nuclear option.