Democrats block Senate GOP police reform bill

WASHINGTON — Democrats on Wednesday denied Republicans the votes needed to advance the Senate GOP’s policing reform bill, casting doubt on the future of the effort as thousands of people continue to protest over the death of George Floyd, and police misconduct and excessive use of force.
Sixty votes were needed to bring the GOP-backed Justice Act, sponsored by Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), up for consideration. The chamber’s 53 Republicans needed support from at least seven Democrats to proceed.