Senate filibuster: How we got it, and whether it’s possible or even desirable to eliminate it

President Joe Biden plans to pass a COVID relief bill, build on Obamacare, and address climate change. But there is a massive hurdle in the way: the Senate filibuster. That’s the rule requiring 60 votes to end debate on a bill before it can come to a vote. Both parties have used the filibuster when they’re in the minority to kill legislation. It’s the main reason why Congress doesn’t pass many bills.