Topic: Quorum

The history of Texas Democrats breaking quorum dates back to 1870, including the "Killer Bees" of 1979 and the 2003 flight to Oklahoma. A notable 1870 incident involved senators blocking wartime powers intended to combat KKK lynchings. Current Democratic messaging on the standoff has utilized various "knife fight" and "Alamo" tropes.

Texas Democrats fled the state to prevent a quorum and block voting reform legislation, a move with historical precedent in California and previous Texas sessions. While the lawmakers have engaged in high-profile media appearances and rallies with figures like Beto O'Rourke, the standoff is expected to be resolved through subsequent special sessions.

Eleven Republican state senators in Oregon left the state to prevent a quorum and block the passage of dramatic climate change legislation. The Republicans are demanding a public referendum on the measure rather than a legislative vote. This tactic has effectively stalled the Democratic majority's agenda regarding greenhouse gas emissions.

Senator Elizabeth Warren is observed delivering a speech on the Senate floor to an empty chamber, which the hosts interpret as posturing for cameras. One host maintains a long-standing prediction that Warren will eventually emerge as the Democratic nominee at the convention if Hillary Clinton's campaign falters.

A new Greek law passed 29 days ago allows a parliamentary committee to determine the quorum for referendums deemed of national importance. This legal change allows the Greek government to potentially rig the outcome of the bailout vote by controlling voter representation requirements.