WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has rejected efforts to revise its rules to restrict filibusters. Senators voted decisively to retain current rules that require 60 votes to overcome filibusters that are blocking votes on legislation or nominations. Republicans, now in the minority, were united in opposing any weakening of the main power they have to block the Democratic agenda. Democrats, foreseeing the possibility of returning to the minority in the near future, were also reluctant to support the change.
Instead, the two top Senate leaders reached an agreement where Republicans would voluntarily curtail some filibusters in exchange for a Democratic promise that Republicans could offer more amendments.
The Senate did agree to curtail the practice of secret "holds" where a single senator can anonymously block legislation or nominations.