While there is much deserved speculation and talk about filibuster reform, we are all missing the one reform that needs to be done.
Change the part of Rule XXII which says it takes 67 votes to end debate on rule changes and require only a majority to end debate on rule changes!
The real problem with the Senate is that they cannot change rules during the session to address problems as they occur. Currently it requires 67 votes to end debate on a rule change. This basically means that no rule change is going to occur without 67 votes in support.
The number of votes needed to end debate on a rule change should be reduced to a simple majority. This way the majority can change the rules, during the session, as needed. As needed to adjust to different issues that come up. As needed to adjust to different delaying tactics that are used.
All the talk about the Constitutional Option is only necessary because of this 67 vote requirement. If the senate was able to change its rules whenever a majority wanted we would not be discussing the "Constitutional Option" at the beginning of the session and we would not be calling changing rules during the session the "Nuclear Option."
The Democrats can use this very simple change, accomplished at the beginning of the session by the Constitutional Option, as one last warning to the Republicans. One last warning that if they abuse the filibuster the rules will be changed during the session to adjust. One last warning that any more delay of nominations will bring change in the rules. One last warning that unnecessary obstruction will bring change.
The sole idea behind the Constitutional Option is that under the current rules the beginning of a session is the only time to change rules by majority vote or live with the rules already in place -- no matter how bad or how good they are.
Well, the start of the session is the perfect time to change that rule.
At the beginning of the session simply change Rule XXII to allow a majority to change the rules and you will have control over the minority for the entire session.