How The 'Nuclear Option' Might Change Washington    Embed Code
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WEEKEND EDITION from NPR News. I'm Scott Simon. A momentous
event in the U.S. Senate this week that could have far-reaching
consequences. Democratic majority leader Harry Reid announced
that henceforward, only a simple majority of senators will be
required to cut off debate on presidential appointments.  Up to
now, such appointments have been subject to filibusters,
prolonged debate, if you please, depending on your point of
view, that could only be broken with a three-fifths majority of
the chamber, usually 60 votes. This new interpretation of the
rules, which has not yet been extended to debates on legislation
or Supreme Court nominations, should make it easier for the
president to fill vacancies in high government posts and on the
federal bench.  Republicans immediately charged it will make the
Senate even a less collegial in