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Senate Showdown Looms Over SAVE Act as Millions Face Voting Hurdles
The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act has officially cleared the U.S. House of Representatives with a narrow 220-208 vote. If the bill becomes law, it would require all Americans to present documented proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections.
With House approval now in the rearview mirror, all eyes are on the U.S. Senate. President Donald Trump has already signaled that he would sign the bill into law if it reaches his desk.
Can the SAVE Act Clear the Senate?
While Republicans currently control the Senate with a 53-44 majority, passing this legislation won’t be straightforward. To overcome a filibuster, any bill needs 60 votes—meaning Republicans would need at least seven additional senators to support the measure.
Three independents—Bernie Sanders, Angus King, and Kyrsten Sinema—usually vote with Democrats, who have stood firmly against the bill. With 47 votes, Democrats are expected to maintain a filibuster unless 13 of their members break ranks.
The bill failed to reach the Senate floor in 2024 when Democrats held the majority (51-49), and chances remain uncertain now.
What’s at Stake?
Supporters of the SAVE Act argue that it aims to strengthen election integrity. However, critics say the consequences could be severe, especially for marginalized communities.
According to data from the Brennan Center, around 146 million U.S. citizens lack a passport, and approximately 21 million don’t have easy access to citizenship documents. The Center for American Progress also reports that around 69 million married women might not be able to use birth certificates to verify citizenship under the bill’s provisions.
Critics Warn of Voter Suppression
Representative Joe Morelle, the top Democrat on the House Administration Committee, strongly criticized the legislation after the House vote. He called it “one of the most damaging voter suppression bills in modern history.”
“There’s no doubt that women, military members, and people of color will be disproportionately impacted,” Morelle stated. “The fight to stop this bill – to protect Americans’ sacred right to vote – is not over.”
What Happens Next?
The SAVE Act’s future rests with the Senate. For it to pass, every Republican vote must hold, and they’ll still need seven more to reach the 60-vote threshold. Without that, a Democratic-led filibuster could block the legislation from moving forward.
With over 21 million Americans potentially affected, the outcome of this bill could significantly shape the voting landscape in upcoming elections.
