What’s the filibuster? The controversial history, explained. From Aaron Burr to Joe Manchin, this complex legislative tool has changed the political landscape and created something not found in any other democracy in the world. Nick Beauchamp, assistant professor of political science at Northeastern, breaks down how the filibuster evolved from an obscure rule to a tool used to grind Senate deliberations to a halt. by Cam Sleeper February 17, 2022