Senate Republicans deploy nuclear option, ending Gorsuch filibuster

Senate Republicans today changed Senate rules, clearing the way for the confirmation of Hon. Neil M. Gorsuch to the U.S. Supreme Court.  After a 55-45 vote failed to end a Democratic filibuster, Republicans used the “nuclear option,” allowing the nomination to move forward with a simple majority vote.  Parties on both sides of the aisle expressed concern that this rule change will lead to more partisan, ideological judges in the future.  In 2013 Democrats changed the rules as applied to lower courts and other government positions, but left the filibuster in place for Supreme Court nominees.  It is expected Gorsuch will be confirmed tomorrow.