Does the Senate operate under Robert's Rules of Order and does that mean

[Toots]

that a Quorum is necessary for any vote to legally take effect? If the Democrats just stage a walk-out and ask for a quorum could that halt the so-called Nuclear option?

[indy_azcat]

1. Quorum = 51

All the dems could leave and there'd still be a majority to fulfill the quorum.

[Paulie]

2. You need one half plus one for a quorum

it would be hard.... then you could have the sargent at arms bust out the staff and start throwing around threats.

[goodhue]

3. The Constitution requires a majority of Senators (51) for a quorum.

Robert's Rules provide that quorum is whatever the minimum number of members required to conduct business. It need not be a simple majority under Robert's (although it often is).

In this case the majority requirement comes straight out of Art I, Sec V of the US contsitution, which provides in pertinent part:

Each House shall be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its own Members, and a Majority of each shall constitute a Quorum to do Business; but a smaller Number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the Attendance of absent Members, in such Manner, and under such Penalties as each House may provide.