Senate Republicans demonstrated majority support for the SAVE America Act during a late-night vote, but procedural rules continue to prevent the election integrity legislation from advancing.
The bill would require proof of U.S. citizenship and photo identification for federal election registration. The measure has become a priority for President Donald Trump and Republican leadership in Congress.
The Vote
During Senate “vote-a-rama” proceedings last week, Republicans attached an amendment version of the SAVE America Act to a $70 billion border security and immigration package. Sen. Mike Lee’s amendment received 50 votes in favor and 49 against.
Sen. Susan Collins switched her position to support the measure after opposing an earlier version offered by Sen. Lindsey Graham. With Vice President JD Vance available to cast a tie-breaking vote, supporters contend the bill has backing from 51 senators.
“That means that but for the Zombie Filibuster, the House-passed SAVE America Act would now be on its way to the White House for President Trump’s signature,” Lee wrote following the vote.
Procedural Obstacles
Senate rules requiring 60 votes to overcome a filibuster prevent the legislation from moving forward. The result has renewed conservative debate over potential Senate procedure reforms, including modifications to filibuster requirements.
🚨 JUST IN: Speaker Johnson GOES OFF on California's fraudulent "late mail-in ballot" counting against Spencer Pratt — says he will CONTINUE pushing the SAVE America Act
"It STINKS to high heaven and EVERYBODY knows that!"
"Let's have votes on an election the DAY of the… https://t.co/BgPAn0zrFL pic.twitter.com/qHGqCM64yj
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) June 8, 2026
Supporters argue the current system allows a minority of senators to block legislation without publicly defending their positions. Trump intensified pressure on Senate leadership Monday, calling for the removal of Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough after she ruled the SAVE America Act could not be included in the border security package under reconciliation rules.
“We have every right to change her, and should do so, IMMEDIATELY,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has resisted those calls, noting that parliamentarian rulings affect both parties.
Election Integrity Arguments
Republican leaders have highlighted concerns about election administration in states including California. Speaker Mike Johnson recently criticized California’s ballot-counting process, arguing delayed results undermine public confidence.
“It stinks to high heaven and everybody knows that,” Johnson said. “Let’s have votes on an election the day of the election.” Johnson emphasized the importance of voter identification requirements, citing polling he said shows overwhelming public support for such measures.
Thune acknowledged frustrations with California’s election system while urging caution about fraud allegations. “You have to prove if there was cheating,” he said. “This is a stupid way to run elections. It undermines confidence.”
Federal officials continue pursuing legal action against California over voter registration records. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli accused state officials of obstructing Department of Justice efforts to audit California’s voter rolls.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Politics team contributed to this report.
