Mike Levin: “The Republican leader, a few moments ago, said this happens around here from time to time--that 60 votes are required.…”

“The Republican leader, a few moments ago, said this happens around here from time to time--that 60 votes are required. Is it not true the reason 60 votes are required from time to time is because there is the threat of a filibuster unless the opponents succeed in getting an agreement that there be 60 votes? It is the short way to find out whether the debate will be had. Is it not true, though, that it is the threat of a filibuster the opponents make which produces an agreement to get 60 votes?”