Bring back Mr. Smith

Most of us baby boomers and those of our parents' generation remember that venerable old movie "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" starring the anti corruption Senator played by James Stewart. This movie has stood the test of time. In fact today, most of us who follow the political scene continue to wonder how the filibuster requires nothing more than a vote count of 60. None of the wonderful and difficult to complete theatrics exist anymore. Senator Sanders from Vermont attempted to revive it before the holidays and it got a little coverage but in essence an active Republican minority in the Senate has abused this privilege 275 times during the 111th Congress, more than in all the years they were in charge combined. Now I for one respect Madisonian philosophy for the need to avoid the overreaching tyrrany of the majority, but abusing the filibuster has created a divisiveness in D.C. that has caused disgust far outweighing tea party fanatisism...On the first day of the new Congress, the Senate is permitted by a simple majority to change its rules. There are some good ideas that have been suggested....keep the cloture rule at 60, but require on the floor committments from a growing number of Senators over successive days. This approach would frustrate those with appointments at the gym, or with a lobbyist or at a fundraiser, therefore making them do it only under uniquely important circumstances. All of us should advocate for such changes to be made so that we have a chance at real governance in the future. Where are you Americans for reason and truth?