Glossary

Cloture

The Senate procedure for ending debate on a measure, normally requiring three-fifths of senators.

Also called: closing debate, cloture vote, Rule XXII

Cloture is the formal way the U.S. Senate cuts off debate and moves toward a final vote on a bill, nomination or other matter. It is governed by Senate Rule XXII, adopted in 1917 after a filibuster blocked a measure to arm merchant ships.

A cloture motion needs the signatures of 16 senators. After it is filed, the Senate votes one hour after it convenes on the second day of session. Ending debate on most legislation takes three-fifths of senators duly chosen and sworn, normally 60 of 100; changing the Senate's rules takes two-thirds of those present. If cloture is invoked, post-cloture consideration is limited to 30 hours, and in 2013 and 2017 the Senate lowered the threshold to a simple majority for nominations, with shorter time limits for most nominees.

Because 60 votes are usually needed, a minority of 41 senators can stop most legislation by denying cloture, which is the practical power of the filibuster. Both parties have defended the supermajority when in the minority and criticized it when in the majority. Matters under budget reconciliation avoid cloture, and the nuclear option changes the threshold by precedent.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Filibuster The use of extended debate or the threat of it to delay or block Senate action, effectively requiring 60 votes for most bills. Nuclear option A Senate maneuver that changes the effective rules by simple majority precedent, bypassing the usual two-thirds requirement. Unanimous consent A Senate procedure in which the chamber agrees to a request when no senator objects, used to organize nearly all of its business. Budget reconciliation A fast-track budget process that lets the Senate pass certain tax and spending legislation by simple majority, without a filibuster.