Search people, articles, bills, and more
The Senate voted 80-13 to end debate on a procedural motion to consider H.R. 6938, clearing a major hurdle for the bill.
The Senate held a vote to invoke 'cloture' on the motion to proceed to H.R. 6938. In the Senate, a cloture vote is a procedural tool used to end debate on a topic. It is the primary way the Senate stops a 'filibuster,' which occurs when opponents of a measure try to prevent a vote by continuing to talk or raising procedural hurdles. Because this vote concerned a piece of legislation rather than a presidential appointment, it required a 'supermajority' of 60 votes to pass. This high bar is intended to encourage bipartisan cooperation, as it is difficult for a single party to reach 60 votes on its own. By reaching this threshold, the Senate has agreed to stop debating whether it should consider the bill and can now move toward discussing the bill's actual contents. The final count was 80-13, showing strong bipartisan support with a majority of both Democrats and Republicans voting in favor. The Senate will now officially begin debate on H.R. 6938, which will likely involve further discussion and potential votes on amendments before a final vote on the bill itself.
The Senate will proceed to formal debate on H.R. 6938, which may include proposing changes (amendments) and eventually holding a final vote on passage.
Why it matters. Reaching the 60-vote threshold on a motion to proceed is often the most significant hurdle for any legislation in the Senate. This result indicates the bill has a high likelihood of eventual passage.
Who’s affected. The Senate: The chamber can now pivot from procedural debate to substantive work on the legislation.
Democrats. A large majority of the Democratic caucus (35 senators) voted to advance the bill, while 6 were opposed.
Republicans. Most Republicans (41 senators) supported moving the bill forward, with only 7 voting against the motion.
On Cloture on the Motion to Proceed H.R. 6938
Jan 12, 2026
The Senate voted 80-13 to end debate on a procedural motion to consider H.R.
6938, clearing a major hurdle for the bill.