BONUS: Talk Until You Drop - The Wild World of Filibusters

BONUS: Talk Until You Drop - The Wild World of Filibusters

Author: Liam Heffernan March 1, 2025 Duration: 8:10
America: The Story of the USA
HistoryCultureNewsPoliticsSocietySociety & Culture

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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Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com

Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for...


Hosted by Liam Heffernan, America: The Story of the USA is a deep and ongoing conversation about the forces that have shaped the nation. This isn't just a history lesson; it's an exploration of how the past directly informs today's headlines and cultural shifts. Each episode brings together a remarkable range of voices, from Nobel laureates and acclaimed historians to veteran journalists, to dissect pivotal moments and current events with nuance and depth. You'll hear discussions that connect the dots between a centuries-old political decision and a modern social movement, or examine a breaking news story through the lens of long-standing cultural patterns. The aim is to provide a richer, more connected understanding of the American experience in all its complexity. By weaving together threads from history, politics, society, and culture, this podcast offers a comprehensive and thoughtful narrative. For those who want to look beyond the soundbites and understand the deeper currents running through the United States, this series serves as an essential and engaging resource. Tune in for a consistently insightful analysis that treats the American story as the living, evolving saga that it truly is.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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