Looks like Senator Merkley is doing an honest-to-God filibuster, a talking one. I can’t remember the last time that’s actually happened, although I recall Senator Paul once talked a lot and called it a filibuster, even though it really was just talking a lot.
They are going to use the nuclear option, and it will wind up happening on legislation during this term too. The filibuster is a good way to force moderate legislation and judicial appointments, but I doubt there is any real value in mandating its existence, as gridlock isn’t good for anyone either.
Probably just need to shrug and say it was good while it lasted.