Filibuster: A letter to my Senators...

Senator,

Recently I watched Mitch McConnell filibuster his own debt ceiling bill on the Senate floor.  It would have been comic if it wasn't so appalling. I strongly support changing the current filibuster rules. The abuse of this device has paralyzed congress and has jeopardized the confidence of the American public. I understand the importance of the filibuster and I’m not proposing it be eliminated, however I’d like to see it restored to its historic, limited use. It is egregious that a Senator can shutdown debate by merely signaling his or her intent to filibuster, like a coach trying to have an undefeated season by canceling every game!  Instead the Senator should have to verbally make their case on the floor for however long is necessary, like in the movie “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington”.  I know the historic filibuster process was painful for all those involved and seemed to slow the wheels of congress, but the current process has brought congress to a complete halt. Please help restore the public’s confidence in the senate.