WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans began an effort Tuesday to hold the Senate floor and debate a bill requiring stricter voter registration rules, despite acknowledging it is unlikely to pass. The move comes as President Donald Trump pressures Congress to act on the legislation before November’s midterm elections.
The debate, which could last a week or longer, sees Senate Majority Leader John Thune navigating Trump’s insistence on the issue and unified Democratic opposition. Trump has urged Thune to eliminate the legislative filibuster, which requires 60 votes to advance legislation in the 100-member Senate, or find another way to pass the bill. Thune has stated he does not currently have the necessary votes.
Republicans intend to use the debate to highlight their support for the legislation, formally known as the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAVE America Act. However, its passage is unlikely, as Republicans hold 53 seats, while 45 Democrats and both independents who caucus with them oppose the bill.
Despite the expected failure, Thune stated the debate will “put Democrats on the record.” Trump issued a warning on social media Tuesday, stating he will not endorse any Republican who votes against the bill.
Efforts to Assert Federal Control
Trump has claimed, without evidence, that Democrats can only win the midterms through cheating and that Republicans need the SAVE America Act to secure a victory. The House passed the legislation earlier this year, but the Senate shifted focus when it became clear it lacked sufficient support. Trump has also indicated he will not sign other legislation, including a bipartisan housing bill, until the voting bill is passed.
The bill would establish new penalties for election workers who register voters without proof of citizenship and require states to share voter data with the Department of Homeland Security. Trump has also proposed a ban on most mail-in ballots, stating the bill “will guarantee the midterms.”
Democratic Opposition
Democrats and voting rights groups argue there is limited evidence of noncitizen voting and that the bill would disenfranchise voters, including Republicans, by creating obstacles to proving citizenship. Opponents point out that it is already illegal for non-citizens to vote and that required documentation may be difficult for some to obtain.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer characterized the bill as an attempt to “purge the voter rolls,” potentially preventing eligible voters from participating in elections.
Senate Floor Strategy
While Trump and Senator Mike Lee of Utah initially pushed for a talking filibuster, the broader GOP conference rejected the idea, fearing it would give Democrats an opportunity to amend the bill. Instead, Republicans are taking over the floor with speeches, operating outside normal time limits. Democrats are expected to respond with procedural tactics, potentially requiring Republicans to remain near the Senate for extended periods.
Lee acknowledged uncertainty about how the situation will unfold, stating Trump “understands that we need to put in an aggressive effort here.” He added that Trump’s satisfaction will depend on whether Republicans “gave it everything we have.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act?
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, also known as the SAVE America Act or the SAVE Act, is a bill that would require Americans to provide proof of citizenship before registering to vote and to show accepted voter identification when casting a ballot.
What does President Trump want to happen with this bill?
President Trump wants the bill passed before the midterm elections and has said he won’t sign other legislation until it is passed. He has also urged the Senate to eliminate the legislative filibuster to allow the bill to pass with a simple majority.
What is the likelihood of this bill passing?
The bill is unlikely to pass, as Republicans hold 53 seats in the Senate and 60 votes are needed to advance it. All 45 Democrats and both independents who caucus with them oppose the bill.
Given the current political landscape, how might this debate influence voter turnout in the upcoming midterm elections?
