A Republican-led effort in the Senate to attach election-related measures linked to the SAVE America Act to a Department of Homeland Security funding bill was rejected during a late-night vote, exposing divisions within the party.
The amendment failed in a 48–50 vote after several Republicans—including Thom Tillis, Lisa Murkowski, Susan Collins, and Mitch McConnell—joined Democrats in opposition. The proposal sought to incorporate provisions from the SAVE America Act, a measure strongly backed by Donald Trump.
The vote occurred during a “vote-a-rama,” a session where senators can propose multiple amendments, even if unrelated to the main legislation. Despite support from Senate Majority Leader John Thune and advocacy from Senator John Kennedy, the amendment did not secure enough backing within the GOP.
Kennedy’s proposal included requirements such as voter ID for federal elections, restricting voting to Election Day, and mandating that ballots be counted within 36 hours, along with a proposed $10 billion funding limit. However, procedural concerns and limited support contributed to its defeat.
While some Republicans support the broader goals of the SAVE America Act, they opposed this specific version. Meanwhile, Senate attention has shifted toward budget talks, surveillance issues, and international matters, including tensions involving Iran.
The outcome underscores continuing disagreements within the Republican Party and suggests that advancing the SAVE America Act in its current form will be difficult.
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