A filibuster can significantly impact legislative proceedings in Congress by allowing a minority of senators to delay or block a vote on a bill. This tactic involves prolonged debate or speechmaking to prevent a bill from coming to the floor for a vote, requiring a supermajority of 60 votes to end the debate through cloture. As a result, important legislation can be stalled or altered drastically, reflecting the power dynamics within the Senate. Filibusters are often seen as a tool for minority parties to exert influence, but they can also lead to legislative gridlock.