Trump's SAVE America Act push stalls Congress, housing bill signing canceled

President Trump has created a congressional standoff by linking the passage of the SAVE America Act to unrelated legislation, including canceling a signing ceremony for a bipartisan housing affordability bill. This move aims to pressure Congress into adopting controversial voting requirements, such as proof of citizenship and restrictions on mail-in ballots.

The SAVE America Act, a priority for Trump and House conservatives, faces significant hurdles in the Senate. Senate Republican leaders, including Majority Leader John Thune, have repeatedly stated that the bill does not have the 60 votes needed to advance. Thune acknowledged the president's desire for action but noted the reality of the vote count, saying, "We don't have the votes. But that's not a conclusion obviously he would like to see us draw."

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We've made the point a number of times, as you know, that we don't have the votes. But that's not a conclusion obviously he would like to see us draw.

This is not the first time Trump has used legislative leverage. Earlier this year, he threatened to withhold support for most bills until the SAVE America Act was passed. He also refused to reauthorize a warrantless surveillance authority unless the election bill was attached. Despite these tactics, Senate Republicans have not found the votes, and some, like Sen. Lisa Murkowski, argue that the president's insistence is hindering his own agenda.

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If he chooses to hold up his own agenda because he wants action on