The Senate voted Tuesday to begin a marathon debate session over the SAVE America Act, an elections bill that President Donald J. Trump has been pressing Republicans in Congress to pass, despite its dim prospects in the upper chamber. In a 51 to 48 vote, the Senate advanced the measure Tuesday afternoon. Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski (Alaska) voted with all Democrats against the move.
For months, conservatives have rallied around the legislation, which would require proof of citizenship to register to vote, along with photo ID to cast a ballot. And President Trump upped the ante last week when he threatened not to sign most other bills until Congress passes the SAVE America Act, adding to growing calls for Republicans to maneuver around the Senate’s 60-vote filibuster threshold. But Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-South Dakota) has been clear in recent weeks that Republicans simply don’t have the votes to do so. Instead, he has promised a “full and robust debate” on the legislation this week, teeing up discussion on the Senate floor that could last a week or more. With 53 Republicans in the Senate, support from Democrats is needed to reach the 60-vote threshold to advance most legislation. And since GOP leaders are opting against deploying the so-called “talking” filibuster — which would gum up the Senate floor for weeks and require near-unanimous support from the GOP conference — the bill has no chance of passing. But the exercise will force Democrats to take uncomfortable votes on amendments, while attempting to appease conservatives with ample floor time to make their case on the legislation that Mr. Trump has prioritized above all others.
Following Leader remarks, the Senate resumed consideration of the House Message to accompany S.1383, legislative vehicle for the SAVE Act.
At around 5:00 P.M. the House is expected to take up: Democratic Motion to Recommit on H.R. 556, Passage of H.R. 556 – Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act and Passage of H.R. 1958 – Deporting Fraudsters Act of 2026.
