What Is Cloture?

Cloture is the procedural mechanism in the United States Senate used to end debate on a matter and bring it to a vote. Under Senate Rule XXII, a cloture motion requires the signatures of at least 16 senators to be filed, and then a vote is held after an intervening day. If at least 60 senators vote in favor of cloture, debate is limited to an additional 30 hours before the final vote must occur. Cloture is the primary tool for overcoming a filibuster. Without it, any senator or group of senators can extend debate indefinitely, effectively blocking legislation or nominations from reaching a vote. The 60-vote threshold has made cloture a central feature of Senate politics, as it means that most significant legislation requires at least some bipartisan support to advance. The history of cloture reflects the tension between the Senate’s tradition of unlimited debate and the practical need to conduct business efficiently.

This entry is part of the Republican Leaders Political Glossary, an educational reference on American government, legislative processes, and civic institutions.