**Bipartisan Backlash Against Harris’ Filibuster Plans Signals Trouble Ahead for Democrats**
In a striking political landscape, Vice President Kamala Harris has found herself facing significant backlash from a key Democratic figure over her vow to eliminate the Senate filibuster to codify abortion rights.
Joe Manchin, the retiring West Virginia independent and a prominent moderate voice, has publicly denounced Harris’ intentions, stating, “Shame on her.”
Manchin, a long-time defender of the filibuster, emphasized that this rule is essential for maintaining a democratic process in the Senate and warned that attempting to gut it would drastically undermine the institution’s functionality.
“The filibuster is the Holy Grail of democracy,” he asserted, underscoring its role in prompts collaboration and debate rather than partisanship.
Harris’ proposal, made during an interview with Wisconsin Public Radio, intends to lower the threshold for passing legislation from the traditional 60 votes to a simple majority of 51.
Such a move has sparked fears among Republicans and moderates alike, with GOP Senate Whip John Thune stating that Democrats’ readiness to change the filibuster threatens not only Senate integrity but the nation as a whole.
Thune, vying for leadership following Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s announcement of his departure, expressed concern about Democrats’ broader agenda should they successfully eliminate this critical legislative tool: “Once they do it there, they will do it on everything.”
In contrast to Harris’ controversial stance, Manchin has remained consistent, rejecting her overtures for collaboration as she pursues her agenda without the filibuster.
Compounding Harris’ vulnerability is the reality that she is facing a historically unfavorable matchup against Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election.
Recent informal polling, including a unique cookie poll from a Cincinnati bakery, shows Trump leading Harris by a significant margin, reflecting a broader sentiment that may resonate nationally as the election draws near.
This growing discontent among Democrats, particularly expressed through Manchin’s withdrawal of support and concerns over Harris’ proposals, suggests that the upcoming elections could present serious challenges for the Democratic Party.
As the political climate evolves, Harris’ bid for the presidency is being scrutinized not just from Republican circles, but increasingly from within her own party.
If the Democrats continue on this path of divisive tactics, they may find themselves facing a decisive defeat in the upcoming elections.
Sources:
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