DHS funding talks in limbo after Trump insists GOP pass SAVE America Act
Senate talks aimed at ending the 38-day DHS shutdown hit a new roadblock after President Trump called on Republicans to hold out for passage of the SAVE America Act.
"I'm suggesting strongly to the Republican Party, don't make any deal on anything," Mr. Trump said. "The most important thing we can have is called the SAVE America Act."
The SAVE America Act , which would require proof of citizenship to register to vote and photo ID to cast a ballot, has already been a headache for Senate Republicans. The chamber has been debating the measure for nearly a week in an attempt to placate conservatives who have demanded that the Senate maneuver around a 60-vote threshold to pass the bill. But Senate Majority Leader John Thune has been clear that the votes aren't there.
Speaking at an event in Memphis, Tennessee, on Monday, Mr. Trump said the SAVE America Act's voter ID and proof of citizenship provisions should be "welded in" to DHS funding.
"I'm requesting that the Republican senators do that immediately," Mr. Trump said. "You don't have to take a fast vote, don't worry about Easter, going home. In fact, make this one for Jesus."
The Senate is scheduled to leave for a two-week recess at the end of the week. But Thune has suggested the chamber could stay in town until the shutdown is resolved.