Question

what is a filibuster?
the filibuster refers to continuing debate endlessly to prevent a vote on a proposed law that is likely to pass. the rules of the house of representatives do not allow a filibuster, but in the senate, a minority of the senators can block a vote on a proposed law that has majority support. sixty percent of senators must vote to end debate (cloture) before a vote on the proposed law can be taken. nowadays, the senate usually moves on to other business until a sufficient number of senators can be convinced to support cloture rather than wasting time with endless debate.

1. the filibuster is an example of:

(a) federalism
(b) checks and balances
(c) limitations on the power of the majority
(d) separation of powers
(e) constitutionalism

Explanation:

• Option A: Federalism is about the division of power between national and state governments, not related to filibuster.
• Option B: Checks and balances involve different branches checking each other, filibuster is within the Senate, not about branch checks.
• Option C: The filibuster allows a minority in the Senate to block a law with majority support, limiting the majority's power to pass a law immediately, which matches.
• Option D: Separation of powers is about dividing power among branches, filibuster is a Senate rule, not about branch separation.
• Option E: Constitutionalism is about government following the constitution, filibuster is a Senate procedure, not directly about constitutionalism.

Answer:

C. Limitations on the power of the majority