Procedural Obstruction

Definition

Using technical rules and parliamentary procedure to delay or block action without a substantive argument against the underlying policy. It's what you do when you know your idea is bad but still want to prevent others' ideas.

Example Usage

The opposition resorted to procedural obstruction, raising points of order and demanding roll call votes on everything.

Origin

Direct terminology for using procedures to obstruct progress

Fun Fact

As substantive debate has declined in legislatures, procedural obstruction has become the primary tool of minorities trying to slow majorities

Source: Legislative procedure terminology

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