Search people, articles, bills, and more
The Senate voted to end debate on presidential nomination PN22-13, moving the appointment closer to a final confirmation vote. Although the vote total was below 60, procedural rules for nominations allowed the motion to succeed with a simple majority.
This vote was a motion for 'cloture' on presidential nomination PN22-13. Cloture is a procedural step used to limit debate and prevent a filibuster, which is when opponents try to delay a final vote by speaking indefinitely. By agreeing to this motion, the Senate has cleared the way for a final confirmation vote on the nominee. In the Senate, ending debate usually requires a supermajority of 60 votes. However, under current rules for most presidential appointments—often referred to as the 'nuclear option'—a simple majority of those voting is sufficient to move forward. This procedural era began in 2013 and applies to executive-branch and lower-court nominations. The motion was agreed to with a 51-47 vote, meaning the Senate will now move toward a final vote on whether to confirm the individual for the position. The vote was bipartisan in its outcome, as both the Democratic and Republican caucuses were internally split on whether to allow the nomination to advance.
The Senate will hold a final vote on the nomination, where a simple majority will be required for confirmation.
Why it matters. This vote determines whether a presidential appointment can move forward to a final confirmation or if it will be blocked by a filibuster.
Who’s affected. Presidential Administration: Successful cloture allows the President to fill a vacancy in the executive or judicial branch.
Democrats. The Democratic caucus was split, with 25 members voting to end debate and 20 voting against.
Republicans. The Republican caucus was also split, with 25 members voting in favor and 24 voting against.
The Senate voted to end debate on presidential nomination PN22-13, moving the appointment closer to a final confirmation vote.
Although the vote total was below 60, procedural rules for nominations allowed the motion to succeed with a simple majority.