WASHINGTON (AP) — How much difference will it make if Republicans win the Senate majority in the Nov. 4 election, joining the Republican-run House against a Democratic White House?
Congress’ persistent gridlock is due largely, but not entirely, to the current power split in the two chambers.
But even if Republicans add Senate control to their safe House majority, big legislative roadblocks will remain.
President Barack Obama still can veto legislation. Should Democrats lose six or more Senate seats, ceding the majority, they can use the power of the filibuster — a Senate rule that requires 60 votes to bring legislation to a final vote — to thwart dozens of Republican initiatives.
Republicans have employed this tactic from the minority side.