Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Manchin Slams Cornyn Over Filibuster Change Amid Trump Pressure

3/14/2026

36 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Former Senator Joe Manchin criticized Senator John Cornyn for backing elimination of filibuster to move the SAVE America Act.
Manchin quoted Cornyn on the dangers of such a change.
Manchin attributed the shift to extreme election-year politics amid pressure from President Donald Trump and a competitive primary against Ken Paxton.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune warned there may not be enough Republican support to change filibuster rules.

History

Historical Context

In 2013, Senate Democrats, led by Majority Leader Harry Reid, invoked the "nuclear option," reducing the cloture threshold for most judicial nominations from 60 votes to a simple majority. This decision followed significant Republican obstruction, with over 80 nominees stalled, particularly for the D.C. Circuit Court. The ongoing debate over filibuster rules continues to shape Senate dynamics and legislative effectiveness today.

1 of 2

Story summary

Former Senator Joe Manchin criticized Senator John Cornyn for backing elimination of filibuster to move the SAVE America Act.
Manchin quoted Cornyn on the dangers of such a change.
Manchin attributed the shift to extreme election-year politics amid pressure from President Donald Trump and a competitive primary against Ken Paxton.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune warned there may not be enough Republican support to change filibuster rules.

1 / 2