Donald Trump prodded Republicans in the Senate to end the filibuster for Supreme Court nominations as early as 1 February, less than two weeks after taking office. Photo: ReutersWashington: President Donald Trump threatened Tuesday to force a government shutdown later this year after congressional Democrats and Republicans struck a budget deal that largely neglected his priorities. The message appeared to goad the Republican-controlled Senate to change rules that now require 60 votes to end a filibuster of legislation. Republicans reduced the threshold to 51 votes for Supreme Court nominees this year and could do the same for legislation with a simple majority vote. Republicans voted to do so on 6 April, clearing a path for confirmation of Supreme Court justice Neil Gorsuch over Democratic objections.

Source: Mint May 02, 2017 15:22 UTC