Even though the Democrats had a good working majority in both chambers of Congress when Barack Obama was elected president, Senate Republicans pointed out that they could still block some of his appointments using a

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Senate Republicans could use the filibuster, which allows any senator to hold the floor and speak for as long as they wish, to prevent a vote on certain appointments. By continuing to speak, they could delay or even prevent the confirmation of a nominee. The filibuster can only be overcome with 60 votes in favor of cloture, which is a motion to end debate and proceed to a vote. Therefore, even if the Democrats had a majority, they still needed some Republican support to overcome a filibuster and confirm an appointment.

Even Though the Democrats Had a Good Working Majority in Both