Short answer: A filibuster is a parliamentary tactic used to delay or block action on a bill or other measure by extending debate, usually through lengthy speeches or procedural maneuvers. In the modern U.S. Senate, it typically means that objections from a minority of senators can prevent a vote unless enough votes are found to end debate. How it works in practice

• Purpose and basic idea
  • The filibuster preserves minority influence by allowing extended debate to stall legislation, potentially forcing negotiation or killing the measure if a path to passage cannot be found. This can apply to bills, amendments, or nominations.

• Core mechanism (cloture)
  • To end a filibuster and proceed to a vote, the Senate typically must invoke cloture, which places a time limit on further debate. Since the 1970s, ending a filibuster generally requires a supermajority of 60 votes to adopt cloture, after which debate is capped and a final vote is held.

• What counts as a filibuster
  • The term is a broad label for actions that delay or block action, whether through formal procedural moves or extended speeches. The exact Senate rules don’t explicitly say “filibuster,” but the effect is to prolong debate and delay votes.

• Historical and political context
  • Filibusters have been used across many issues in U.S. history, and debates about reform or elimination persist. Proponents argue it protects minority interests and fosters compromise; opponents say it leads to gridlock and prevents majority priorities from advancing.

• Contemporary considerations (examples)
  • In times of political brinkmanship or government shutdowns, discussions about weakening or eliminating the filibuster often rise, with debates focusing on whether 60 votes for cloture should be maintained or lowered. Recent discussions have highlighted calls to reform or end the practice, depending on which party holds the Senate and the legislative environment.

Key terms to know

• Filibuster: A tactic to delay or block a vote by extended debate or procedural maneuvers.

• Cloture: A motion to end debate, requiring a supermajority (60 votes in the modern Senate) to pass.

If you’d like, I can tailor this explanation to a specific country’s legislature or provide a quick comparison of filibuster-like practices in other parliaments.