Senate Republicans on Thursday invoked the so-called “nuclear option” and changed the chamber’s rules to more easily confirm dozens of President Trump's stalled sub-Cabinet nominees.
The 53-43 party-line vote came after negotiations intensified earlier Wednesday on a bipartisan deal to speed the nominations, but it failed to get enough Democratic support and Republicans moved forward with the partisan rule change.
“This … has to be fixed,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), who was visibly frustrated on the floor.. “We offered you a proposal that had your fingerprints on it. It wasn’t even your fingerprints, you initiated it.”
“It’s time to move. It’s time to quit stalling. … It’s time to fix this place,” Thune continued.
The move allows Republicans to confirm nominees “e