President Donald Trump’s patience with Senate Republicans is reportedly waning as the chamber struggles to pass the SAVE America Act, a key election security bill. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on Thursday that Trump wants the legislation passed by the August recess, calling it a priority for the American people. The bill, which requires proof of citizenship and photo IDs for voting, has stalled due to a lack of votes to overcome the 60-vote filibuster threshold.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) responded to the White House’s remarks by urging administration officials to engage directly with lawmakers to secure votes. 'She or somebody else ought to get on the phone and get the votes,' Thune told reporters, adding that the White House should focus on persuading Democrats and wavering Republicans rather than criticizing GOP leadership.
Trump has repeatedly criticized the Senate’s inaction, calling the chamber a 'graveyard for legislation' during a Georgia rally. He has also pushed for eliminating the filibuster to pass the bill, a move Thune has said lacks sufficient Republican support. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans, including those who previously opposed Thune’s leadership, have rallied behind him, downplaying the White House’s frustration.
The House passed a budget reconciliation bill on Wednesday that includes parts of the SAVE America Act, but Thune acknowledged there are not enough votes to advance it in the Senate. He emphasized that funding the government remains the top priority. The White House has also expressed concerns about government funding, urging Congress to avoid a shutdown after September 30.
The SAVE America Act has faced opposition from Democrats, who argue it would restrict voting rights, and some Republicans who oppose weakening the filibuster. The bill’s future remains uncertain as the Senate approaches its August recess.