John Thune faces White House pressure over stalled SAVE America Act

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump’s patience with Senate Majority Leader John Thune is “running out” as the Senate fails to advance the SAVE America Act. The bill, which would require proof of U.S. citizenship and photo ID to register to vote and tighten mail‑in ballot rules, needs 60 votes to overcome a filibuster, meaning Democratic support is essential. Trump has publicly urged Republicans to pressure Thune, calling the Senate a place where “you send things when you want them to die,” and has pledged to call holdout senators himself. Thune responded that the Senate lacks the votes and suggested the administration help secure Republican votes, while warning that the measure also competes with broader government‑funding negotiations. Critics argue the legislation could restrict voting access, and the dispute has highlighted intra‑party tensions over election‑security reforms.

The conflict continues as the Senate approaches its August recess, with both sides emphasizing the need to resolve the impasse before a potential government shutdown deadline on Sept. 30.