Discover how long Cory Booker has been filibustering in the Senate and the key reasons behind his actions. Learn about his political strategies and influence.

Cory Booker, a U.S. Senator from New Jersey, has long been known for his advocacy on civil rights, social justice, and progressive reform. One of the key tools in his political arsenal is the filibuster, a procedural tactic used in the Senate to delay or block legislation. While filibustering has been used for centuries in American politics, Booker has made headlines for his recent use of this tactic in his efforts to block certain bills. But just how long has Cory Booker been filibustering, and what are the reasons behind his actions? Let’s explore.

Before diving into Booker’s specific actions, it’s essential to understand what a filibuster is. A filibuster is a tactic employed by a Senator to prevent a vote on a piece of legislation. By speaking for an extended period or using procedural maneuvers, the filibustering Senator can delay the legislative process. This technique is often used by minority party members or Senators aiming to draw attention to a particular issue or cause.

Though the filibuster itself is not new, the media spotlight on its usage has intensified over the years, especially with lawmakers like Booker who have used it to take a stand on issues of national importance.

Cory Booker’s first notable instance of filibustering occurred in 2018 when he opposed a controversial judicial nomination. His stand was a response to what he described as the dangerous and regressive judicial philosophy of certain nominees. Booker’s efforts to block these confirmations highlighted his willingness to use any tool at his disposal to protect civil rights and advocate for progressive values.

However, Booker’s filibustering efforts have not been limited to judicial appointments. Over the years, he has used the filibuster as a way to stall or block legislation he believes would harm vulnerable communities or undermine his vision for a more just America. His most recent filibuster occurred in 2023, when Booker stood firm against a proposed bill he argued would infringe on voting rights.

Booker’s strategy of filibustering is often calculated and deliberate. By using the filibuster, Booker aims to create a public dialogue around the issues he cares about, forcing his colleagues in the Senate and the public to confront important social issues. His filibusters are a key component of his broader political strategy to push progressive policies forward and protect minority rights.

Key Issues Cory Booker Has Targeted with Filibustering

Over the years, Booker has focused his filibustering efforts on a few key areas. These include:

1. Voting Rights: Booker has long been an advocate for voting rights, and he has used the filibuster to prevent legislation that would restrict access to voting, particularly among marginalized groups. His commitment to preserving democracy and ensuring fair access to the polls has been a cornerstone of his political career.
2. Criminal Justice Reform: As a former mayor of Newark, New Jersey, Booker has been an outspoken advocate for criminal justice reform. He has used filibustering to prevent legislation that he believes would exacerbate mass incarceration or undermine the progress made in recent years toward reforming the criminal justice system.
3. Healthcare Access: Booker has consistently supported policies that expand healthcare access to all Americans. When legislation has been proposed to roll back protections under the Affordable Care Act or limit access to healthcare, Booker has used his filibustering powers to halt such bills.
4. Climate Change Legislation: In his efforts to combat climate change, Booker has filibustered bills that would roll back environmental protections or slow progress on addressing climate change.

What Does the Future Hold for Cory Booker’s Filibustering?

As of 2025, Cory Booker’s use of the filibuster remains an important aspect of his political strategy. While the filibuster is a controversial tool, it allows him to elevate critical issues and push back against legislation that he views as harmful to vulnerable populations. However, the future of the filibuster itself is uncertain. There has been ongoing debate about whether the filibuster should be reformed or abolished altogether.

For now, Booker’s commitment to using the filibuster as a way to fight for the issues that matter most to him and his constituents remains a central part of his political identity.

Conclusion

Cory Booker has been filibustering for several years, using this Senate tactic to stand against legislation he believes would harm vulnerable communities. From judicial appointments to voting rights and healthcare access, Booker’s filibusters highlight his deep commitment to social justice. As the Senate debates the future of the filibuster, Booker’s use of it will continue to be a topic of discussion, reflecting the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding American democracy and the role of the Senate in shaping policy.