John Thune Orders Senate Vote on Trump-Backed SAVE America Act Amid Shutdown

The U.S. Senate is preparing to vote on the SAVE America Act, a controversial election bill backed by former President Donald Trump as lawmakers remain locked in a separate fight over funding the Department of Homeland Security.

The legislation would require Americans to provide documentary proof of citizenship — such as a passport or birth certificate — when registering to vote in federal elections, a major shift in U.S. election law. According to AP News, the bill already passed the House but faces strong Democratic opposition in the Senate and likely lacks the 60 votes needed to break a filibuster.

At the same time, Congress remains stuck in a stalemate over DHS funding, which expired in February and triggered a partial shutdown affecting agencies like the Transportation Security Administration.

Trump has pushed Republicans to advance the bill and warned he may block other legislation until it reaches his desk.

With the Senate vote expected soon, both parties are preparing for a showdown over federal authority in elections and the future of voter registration rules.

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