May 16, 2005
What’s in a name?
In describing the GOP tactic, McConnell used his personal favorite: the “Byrd Option.” Noting that Republicans have already relied on “nuclear option” and “constitutional option,” Josh suggested this is the third GOP-approved word for abolishing the filibuster. As it turns out, we’d be lucky if there were only three. At this point, by my count,
Republicans have used six different names to describe the same tactic. Let’s take them one at a time, in the order in which the GOP crafted them:
1. Nuclear Option <snip>
2. Constitutional Option <snip>
3. Byrd Option <snip>
4. Filibuster Reform <snip>
5. Fairness Option <snip>
6. Majority Rules Option <snip>
Please note, we’re not talking about six different ideas with subtle differences;
these are competing labels to describe the exact same tactic. And because Orwellian lawmakers believe poll-tested rhetoric is the key to all policy disputes, we’re treated to this wide variety of descriptions. What a treat for us all.
http://www.thecarpetbaggerreport.com/archives/4207.html