At a time when Republicans and Democrats remain deeply divided, Rep. Bass’ remarks suggest a potential change on the horizon, at least regarding police reform. The Democrat representative stated that GOP senators are working together with the left “in good faith” to reach an agreement on a police reform bill.
Passing legislation in the House will be easy; however, the Senate is an entirely different ballgame. During Bass’ interview with CNN, she acknowledged this reality. The Democrat lawmaker explained that congressmembers working on police reform are aiming for supermajority support in the Senate.
A Senate supermajority is comprised of 60 votes, rather than the standard majority that just includes 51 votes. Due to the even split in the Senate, a supermajority vote will require at least ten GOP senators to get on board with police reform.
The odds of a bipartisan bill on police reform
Democrat Rep. Rashida Tlaib stated last week that she believes policing in America is beyond reformation and should no longer exist. Several Democrats, including President Biden, have since put distance between themselves and this rhetoric.
