Which procedure is formally used to end a filibuster in Congress?

• A. Oversight
• B. Logrolling
• C. Pocket veto
• D. Cloture

Answer: (D)

Cloture is the formal procedure used to end a filibuster in Congress. A filibuster occurs when one or more senators extend debate on a piece of legislation to delay or prevent a vote. To overcome this tactic and bring a measure to a vote, the Senate can invoke cloture. This requires a supermajority of 60 votes from the 100-member Senate. Once cloture is invoked, it limits further debate on the legislation to 30 additional hours, after which a vote must be taken.

Other options listed do not serve this purpose. Oversight refers to Congress's ability to review and supervise the operations of federal agencies, programs, and policy implementation. Logrolling is a legislative practice where lawmakers agree to vote for each other’s proposed legislation, facilitating compromise and cooperation. A pocket veto is a specific type of veto that occurs when the President does not sign a bill into law within ten days while Congress is adjourned, effectively blocking the bill without an official veto. These processes are distinct from the cloture process which specifically addresses the issue of prolonged debate in the Senate.