Republicans’ Struggle to Advance Trump’s Voter ID Bill

Senate Republicans face challenges in advancing the voter ID and citizenship verification bill supported by former President Donald Trump. A late-night vote gave some hope to an issue previously thought defeated. During a ‘vote-a-rama’ to progress the GOP’s $70 billion immigration package, Republicans made two attempts to attach the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act to the larger bill.

Both attempts failed as a group of Republicans joined Democrats to block it. The amendments from Senators Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Mike Lee, R-Utah, needed to overcome the filibuster to succeed. Graham’s proposal included new policies, such as barring men from women’s sports, which Trump had insisted upon. Some Republicans, like Senators Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, voted against it, preventing the bill from reaching the necessary 50 votes to succeed.

However, Lee’s attempt gathered 50 votes, with Collins changing her stance to support the original SAVE America Act. Lee expressed optimism on social media, mentioning Vice President JD Vance as a potential 51st vote, suggesting the Act might pass.

Conservatives, including Lee, have encouraged Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., to initiate a talking filibuster. This strategy would pressure Senate Democrats and pass the legislation with a simple majority. However, Thune worries Republicans may not remain united against significant Democratic amendments that could alter the legislation or affect other parts of Trump’s agenda.

In March, Senate Republicans began a debate on the SAVE America Act, but momentum has since decreased. Another Republican strategy could involve abolishing the filibuster, a move Trump has occasionally demanded during his term. Yet this remains divisive within the party, as some Republicans worry about potential repercussions when Democrats regain power.

Trump has also criticized Senate rules referee, Elizabeth Macdonough, who ruled that the SAVE America Act was not suitable for inclusion in the immigration package without a 50-vote threshold. Trump has called on Thune to remove her, arguing that her presence hinders their chances of passing the Act.

John Thune is cautious about such drastic actions. He points out that rulings from the parliamentarian vary, benefiting both parties at different times. The decision to replace the parliamentarian remains complex and politically charged.

Alex Miller reports on U.S. Senate news for Fox News Digital.