U.S. Senate GOP debates SAVE America Act amid budget reconciliation

Senator Shelley Moore Capito said she is optimistic that elements of the SAVE America Act could be included in the Senate’s $95 billion budget reconciliation package before the chamber recesses for August. The bill would require proof of citizenship to register to vote and a national photo‑ID for voting.

Republican senators, however, remain divided over the proposal. Senators John Kennedy and Mike Lee expressed uncertainty about the plan and warned they could block the Senate’s adjournment if the legislation is not passed. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, under pressure from President Donald Trump, acknowledged the difficulty of reaching the 50‑vote threshold needed under the reconciliation process. The debate occurs as the budget also funds Pentagon operations in the ongoing Iran conflict and other priorities.