Political Quotes

On the recordJune 28, 2010
Senator Byrd served long enough to know that, as he put it: As long as the Senate retains the power to amend and the power of unlimited debate, the liberties of the people will remain secure. He believed that when he was lecturing Republicans in 2005 who were trying to change the rules when there was a controversy about President Bush's appointees to the Federal judiciary, and he said the same thing to young Democrats who grew impatient this year and wanted to change the rules to limit unlimited amendment and unlimited debate. Perhaps his last Senate appearance was before the Rules Committee on May 19, 2010, where his opening statement on the filibuster and its consequences warned against a rules change.
Said by
Heidi Alexander
Labour Party

Editor's note · Context

The speaker reflects on Senator Byrd's views on Senate rules and the importance of unlimited debate.

Share

More from Heidi Alexander

Jul 13, 2026

Everyone deserves to enjoy their summer holiday without delays – which is why we are doing all we can to help travellers get through these new EU security checks as smoothly as possible.

independent.co.uk
Sep 15, 2020

this morning in the Education Committee, we had a really interesting discussion on intercollegiate athletics--specifically on the proposals that are appearing in various States to pay student athletes for their name, image, and likeness…

govinfo.gov
Dec 3, 2020

I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to legislative session and be in a period of morning business, with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

govinfo.gov
Jun 21, 2026

I’m grateful to emergency services who are on the scene, attending to those affected.

thenational.scot

Other voices in this conversation