Key Takeaways:
– Vice President Kamala Harris expressed her support for eliminating the Senate filibuster to uphold Roe.
– She urges the reelection of Senator Tammy Baldwin to maintain the Senate majority for Democrats.
– Harris argues for legislative changes that can only happen with a Democratic Senate majority, like codifying Roe and restoring the Voting Rights Act.
Getting the Majority in the Senate
In a recent radio interview, Vice President Kamala Harris told listeners to reelect Senator Tammy Baldwin. Why? By ensuring a Democratic majority in the Senate, it’s more likely that specific legislative changes, like preserving abortion rights and upholding voting rights, will pass. Another essential change involves adjusting the filibuster rules in Congress.
A Look at Filibusters
But first, let’s understand what a filibuster is. Think of it as a lawmaking roadblock. When a senator doesn’t want a bill to pass, they might use a filibuster. It’s a way of stalling or preventing a vote on a proposal. Now, the VP wants to remove this obstacle. That way, crucial bills that would protect abortion rights don’t get stuck in the Senate.
Harris’s Views on Filibusters and Roe
Harris has openly declared her stance on filibusters. Her view? They should be taken out for specific issues, like the Roe v. Wade case, which impacts reproductive rights for women. She believes that the government shouldn’t decide what women can do with their bodies. If the filibuster were eliminated, she reasons, bills protecting these rights would sail through the Senate unhindered.
The Role of the Senate Majority
Harris’s remarks throw light on why keeping the Senate majority is crucial for Democrats. As it stands, the Senate’s composition could allow the filibuster rule change. If the Democrats continue to hold the majority, they could move forward with plans like codifying Roe, reinstating the Voting Rights Act, and countering certain Supreme Court decisions.
Harris’s Senate Experience
Unlike President Joe Biden, VP Harris brings her experience in the modern, more partisan US Senate to the table. She’s aware of the Senate’s latest dynamics and behavioral patterns and how these can affect legislative outcomes. Harris knows that if Democrats want to push through significant actions, alterations to the filibuster will be necessary.
Biden’s Struggles in a Partisan Senate
While Biden has made notable strides in areas like the economy, he has experienced challenges navigating the increasingly partisan Senate on social matters. As such, his ability to influence decisions and pass necessary legislation has faced hurdles. Conversely, Harris’s understanding of the Senate’s modern workings puts her in a favorable position to overcome such obstacles.
Securing Abortion Rights isn’t Just a Slogan
Harris’ push for codifying Roe isn’t merely a catchy campaign slogan. There’s a plan behind it. To turn this plan into reality, however, the Democrats need to retain the Senate majority. Their ability to implement legislative changes depends heavily on this advantage.
In conclusion, Vice President Kamala Harris urges the public to help Democrats keep the Senate majority by reelecting Senator Tammy Baldwin. Additionally, she advocates for the elimination of the filibuster, especially when it comes to issues like abortion rights. She believes that these efforts are key to implementing critical legislation and ensuring politically progressive action on various social issues.