The U.S. Senate was designed to encourage deliberation, but, increasingly, Senators and others have criticized it as an institution in gridlock that is incapable of producing major legislation or moving nominations. A number of Senators have backed proposals for reform of the rules governing filibusters and practices such as holds that slow down the pace of Senate business. Others have argued that a change in the Senate’s rules or practices will distort the fundamental nature of the institution. A panel of experts and observers, including Marge Baker of People for the American Way, Ruth Marcus of the Washington Post and John Samples of the Cato Institute, will discuss whether reform is needed and, if so, what form it should take. Professor William Yeomans, American University Washington College of Law, will moderate the session.