A filibuster is a tactic used in the US Senate to delay or block a vote on a measure by preventing debate on it from ending. A senator who is recognized is entitled to speak for as long as they can hold the floor. Only when debate concludes, can the measure be put to a vote.
Mr. Smith Goes To Washington (1939)
When a senator from Kentucky dies Governor Hubert Hooper appoints youth leader Jefferson Smith to fill the position. In office Senator Smith decides to create a bill for a boy's camp. In doing this Senator Smith comes into conflict with Jim Taylor a rich businessman and political boss who has plans for the same piece of land as the proposed camp. Leading a conflict that ends with a one-man filibuster
Billy Jack Goes To Washington (1977)
Having much of the same plot as Mr. Smith Goes To Washington (1939). Governor Hooper pardons Billy Jack of the crimes he committed in The Born Losers (1967) and Billy Jack (1971) and is made a US Senator. As a Senator Billy Jack makes enemies of political leaders of his state and fights for justice on the floor of the senate with a one-man filibuster.
Advise and Consent (1962)
Based on the novel Advise and Consent by Allen Drury [First Published in 1959] A second term president near the end of his life nominates a new Secretary of State that will continue the Presidents foreign policy plans after his death. The senate debate the appointment.
Louisa Purchase (1941)
Based on the stage play Louisa Purchase (1940) A senate investigator has come to Louisa about government corruption. State Representative Jim Taylor has been selected to be the fall guy. Wanting to avoid this He comes up with plans to sabotage the investigation.
TV Episodes with a filibuster plot point
Parks and Recreation (2009-2015): Season 6: Episode 6 - Filibuster
Scandal (2012-2018): Season 5: Episode 9 - Baby, It's Cold Outside
The West Wing (1999-2006): Season 2: Episode 17 - The Stackhouse Filibuster
King of the Hill (1997- 2009) (2025-?): Season 4: Episode 22 - Flush With Power
Highway To Heaven (1984-1989): Season 3: Episode 11 - Jonathan Smith Goes To Washington
