The Nuclear option was first considered during the Bush years with the Republican Majority threatening to use it.
But they did not do it.
The nuclear option was brought to prominence in 2005 when Majority Leader Bill Frist (Republican of Tennessee) threatened its use to end Democratic-led filibusters of judicial nominees submitted by President George W. Bush. In response to this threat, Democrats threatened to shut down the Senate and prevent consideration of all routine and legislative Senate business. The ultimate confrontation was prevented by the Gang of 14, a group of seven Democratic and seven Republican Senators, all of whom agreed to oppose the nuclear option and oppose filibusters of judicial nominees, except in extraordinary circumstances.
This time Reid just wants it his way.
The Dems want those big Government Progressives in Obama's administration no matter what.
To hell with the other half of the country that does not want the government to be in complete control over all of us.