Kamala Harris’ support for eliminating the Senate filibuster to pass abortion rights legislation has triggered a strong reaction from moderates in both parties. Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) have criticized the proposal, warning that such a drastic change could backfire and harm the country.
Manchin did not hold back in his criticism, saying that Harris’ endorsement of the idea could “destroy our country.” The West Virginia senator argued that the filibuster is essential for promoting discussion and compromise in the Senate, and he expressed concerns that removing it would lead to increased partisanship and gridlock.
Sinema voiced similar concerns, warning that while removing the filibuster might temporarily help Democrats pass a national abortion law, it could later be used by Republicans to pass legislation that bans abortion nationwide. Sinema, who left the Democratic Party and became an independent, said the proposal was “absolutely terrible” and lacked foresight.
Republican Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) also weighed in, accusing Harris of flip-flopping. He pointed to a letter she signed as a senator supporting the filibuster, calling her current stance politically motivated and inconsistent.
Harris’ move has sparked debate even among those who support abortion rights, with some on the left questioning whether removing the filibuster is worth the potential long-term consequences.
