Sen. Moreno Advocates for Filibuster Reform in Senate

Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) has proposed that if lawmakers cannot engage in genuine debate and defend their viewpoints, the Senate should do away with the filibuster altogether.

During a panel discussion at a Breitbart News event, Moreno emphasized the need for reforming Senate rules. He pointed out that former President Donald Trump has urged Republicans to eliminate the filibuster, which would lower the threshold to pass legislation from 60 votes to a simple majority of 51. This change is particularly aimed at facilitating the passage of the SAVE America Act— a bill that mandates proof of citizenship for voter registration and includes voter ID requirements.

An audience member raised a question about the possibility of a new Senate majority leader should Republicans retain control of the Senate in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Matthew Boyle, from Breitbart News, mentioned the growing discontent among the base directed towards Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) due to the Senate’s struggles in advancing the Save America Act, which has already passed in the House. Thune has stated that there aren’t enough votes within the party to abolish the filibuster.

Moreno shared that leadership elections would take place shortly after Election Day, expressing his hope that the chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) ensures candidates have the necessary resources for success. He explained that, crucially, while John Thune is the majority leader, he lacks the power to hire or discipline other senators. His influence is largely reliant on persuasion, which can be challenging, especially with some senators not aligned with the envisioned direction for the Republican Party.

He noted that while it’s not entirely Thune’s fault, he does face the dual challenge of managing internal disagreements alongside significant obstruction from Democrats. Moreno reiterated the importance of discussing Senate rules in the current political climate, implying that changes might be necessary.

Encouraging his colleagues to maintain an open mindset, Moreno stated that if the filibuster is to remain, there must be real debate in the Senate. He believes the American public deserves to hear a variety of arguments from their elected representatives. For instance, he contended that if Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) opposes voter ID requirements, he should have the opportunity to present his stance in a formal debate. This way, constituents can be informed on the topic and assess different viewpoints.

Moreno concluded his remarks with a clear assertion: without meaningful debate, the continuation of the filibuster may no longer be justifiable.