The Senate failed to advance a voter ID amendment to the SAVE America Act on Thursday, with a 53-47 vote falling short of the 60 needed to overcome a Democratic filibuster. The amendment, proposed by Rep. Mike Husted, would have required photo identification for in-person voting and restricted mail-in voting. Meanwhile, the Senate passed a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) early Friday, ending a partial government shutdown. The DHS funding bill excludes Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol funding, angering conservative House Republicans who demand its inclusion.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The Senate rejected the Husted amendment to the SAVE America Act, which would have mandated voter ID and limited mail-in voting. The bill passed the House last month but faces a Democratic filibuster in the Senate. President Donald Trump has repeatedly called for ending the filibuster to pass the SAVE Act. Meanwhile, the Senate approved DHS funding, but House conservatives threaten to block it unless ICE and Border Patrol funding are included.
Deeper Dive & Context
Voter ID Amendment Fails
The Husted amendment sought to require photo ID for in-person voting and restrict mail-in voting, with exceptions for military, travel, or illness. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) called the bill "Jim Crow 2.0" and argued it would disenfranchise millions of voters. President Trump has urged Republicans to "terminate the filibuster" to pass the SAVE Act, which includes five provisions aimed at immigration, border security, and election integrity.
DHS Funding and Conservative Backlash
The Senate passed a DHS funding bill that excludes ICE and Border Patrol funding, prompting House conservatives to demand its inclusion. The House Freedom Caucus has threatened to block the bill unless it includes funding for ICE, Border Patrol, and the SAVE Act. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) instructed members to remain in Washington for potential votes over the weekend.
Political Divide on Voter ID
Democrats argue the SAVE Act would suppress voter rights, while Republicans frame it as a necessary measure to prevent fraud. The bill's future remains uncertain as the Senate adjourns for a two-week recess, with no clear path forward for the SAVE Act.