Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) admitted her advocacy to abolish the filibuster was tied to Democrats’ political control rather than an unwavering principle. During a press conference Monday, the Congressional Progressive Caucus chairwoman explained her position in light of the party’s recent election losses.
Jayapal said eliminating the filibuster would have been essential if Democrats controlled the Senate, House, and White House. “Had we had the trifecta, I would have been [for abolishing the filibuster] because we have to show government can deliver,” she said.
Rep. @RepJayapal admits Democrats only oppose scrapping the filibuster because they lost: "If we had control of the trifecta & got rid of the filibuster to pass minimum wage & sick leave & many of these things on abortion access & the ballot measures that are so popular, those… pic.twitter.com/yQoqqAwNhR
— Tom Elliott (@tomselliott) November 12, 2024
Her remarks reflect a significant shift, as she now plans to use the filibuster to protect Democratic policies from Republican rollback. Jayapal justified the change, arguing Democrats could have built trust with voters by delivering on key promises like paid sick leave and abortion protections.
The filibuster remains a divisive issue, with moderates like Sens. Joe Manchin (I-WV) and Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) blocking efforts to eliminate it. Manchin defended the rule as a safeguard against “partisan whiplash,” emphasizing its role in stabilizing governance and promoting cooperation.
Progressive Rep. Pramila Jayapal reneges on support for axing filibuster after Republicans flip the Senate https://t.co/xou9cFKT3Q pic.twitter.com/pnpyPscfvp
— New York Post (@nypost) November 12, 2024
Jayapal has previously criticized the filibuster, labeling it a “Jim Crow relic” on her official website. Despite her earlier push for abolition, her comments reveal the partisan considerations that shape the debate.
New: Progressive Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal announces that she will no longer back abolishing the filibuster now that the GOP has a trifecta. pic.twitter.com/wvYDymCe8q
— Trending Politics (@tpbreaking) November 12, 2024
As Democrats adjust to their minority status, Jayapal’s remarks highlight the evolving strategies around the filibuster. Her admission underscores how political power dynamics influence calls for reform, raising questions about the rule’s future under divided government.
