Senate Vote on SAVE America Act
During the Senate’s marathon “vote-a-rama” session on June 4, Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) forced a vote on the House-passed version of the SAVE America Act.
The amendment passed by a vote of 50-49, giving the measure majority support in the chamber. However, because the proposal was offered as a waiver to budget rules within the reconciliation process, Senate rules required a three-fifths supermajority, or 60 votes, for adoption.
Legislation Requirements and Provisions
The legislation would require proof of U.S. citizenship for federal voter registration and strengthen voter identification requirements nationwide.
When Lee later introduced the clean House version of the legislation, Collins switched her vote and joined the rest of the Republican conference in support of the measure.
That earlier proposal included additional provisions beyond the House-passed SAVE Act.
Arguments in Support
Supporters of the legislation argue that requiring documentary proof of citizenship would help ensure that only eligible citizens participate in federal elections and would increase public confidence in election outcomes.
Opposition and Procedural Obstacles
Murkowski, McConnell, and Tillis continued to oppose the amendment.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has frequently cited the 60-vote cloture requirement as the primary obstacle preventing passage of election-related legislation, noting that Democrats remain united in opposition.
The legislation previously passed the House and has received strong backing from President Trump, Vice President Vance, and conservative advocacy groups.
For now, the SAVE America Act remains blocked by Senate procedural requirements despite receiving majority support.