Senators Mike Lee and Rick Scott are scheduled to meet with President Trump and Senate Republicans for a lunch on Wednesday to discuss the SAVE America Act. Lee and Scott have been advocating for the legislation, which includes requirements for voter ID and proof of citizenship, as well as new restrictions on mail-in voting. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has expressed skepticism about the bill's viability, stating that there are not enough votes to eliminate the filibuster or to gain support from Democratic senators.
Scott invited Trump to the weekly lunch organized by the conservative Senate GOP Steering Committee. Thune commented on the invitation, indicating that he was informed about it by Scott. In a letter sent to fellow senators, Scott outlined his priorities, including the passage of the SAVE America Act or parts of it.
Some Senate Republicans are becoming frustrated with the push from Lee and Scott. Senator Thom Tillis criticized Lee's approach, suggesting it was more about gaining social media attention than achieving legislative goals. Senator John Cornyn echoed this sentiment, stating that Lee is promoting unrealistic expectations regarding the bill's chances.
The SAVE Act previously received 48 votes when it was proposed as an amendment to a budget reconciliation bill. Senators Mitch McConnell, Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Tillis voted against it. The closest the GOP has come to passing related measures was a narrower amendment requiring photo ID, which garnered 53 votes. Other amendments related to voter registration and proof of citizenship failed to secure majority support. Senator Shelley Moore Capito emphasized the lack of political will and votes for the proposed changes.
Despite the challenges, Lee and Scott are urging GOP leadership to pursue aggressive procedural tactics to advance the bill, with Lee calling for immediate action to debate the SAVE America Act. Thune responded by suggesting that the lack of progress on similar issues over the past century indicates deeper challenges.