What is a filibuster?

A filibuster is a tactic used in the United States Senate specifically to delay or block legislative action. This parliamentary procedure allows one or more senators to extend debate on a proposal, effectively preventing a vote from taking place. The intention behind a filibuster is to stall legislation or to force modifications to a bill by prolonging debate, thus requiring a supermajority to conclude the debate (usually 60 out of 100 votes) instead of a simple majority. This procedure highlights the unique powers of the Senate and is a crucial aspect of how minority opinions can influence legislative processes.

In contrast, the other options refer to entirely different functions and roles within the legislative or electoral processes. For example, the appointment of Supreme Court justices follows a separate procedure involving the Senate's advice and consent, while presidential elections and constitutional amendments have their own defined processes that do not involve filibustering.