Kamala Harris’ recent endorsement of removing the Senate filibuster to pass abortion legislation has drawn sharp criticism from Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), two lawmakers known for their moderate positions. Harris, who is now running for president, argued that scrapping the filibuster is necessary to protect abortion rights, but her stance has angered even members of her own party.
Manchin, who has frequently defended the Senate’s use of the filibuster, warned that eliminating the rule would do irreparable harm. “It basically can destroy our country,” Manchin said, emphasizing that the filibuster is vital for encouraging bipartisan compromise. He stressed that protecting the country’s democratic processes is more important to him than any one policy or ideology. Manchin also said he could not support Harris over her position on this issue.
Sinema, who recently left the Democratic Party and became an independent, echoed Manchin’s concerns. She argued that getting rid of the filibuster to codify Roe v. Wade is a dangerous move because it would open the door for a future Congress to ban abortion altogether. Sinema described Harris’ plan as “absolutely terrible” and warned that the decision could have lasting negative consequences.
Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) criticized Harris for her change in stance, reminding the public that she once signed a letter defending the filibuster. He called her new position an example of political maneuvering aimed at appealing to voters.
Harris’ proposal to eliminate the filibuster has put her at odds with members of both parties, raising questions about how this move might affect her presidential campaign and broader efforts to pass abortion legislation.
