WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Senate Majority Leader John Thune over the stalled SAVE America Act. The president escalated pressure on July 24, 2026, by urging supporters to demand approval of the elections legislation before the August recess.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated during a Thursday briefing that President Trump's patience is running out regarding the legislation. "He wants to see as much of the SAVE America [Act] passed as possible by the August recess," Leavitt said.

The SAVE America Act includes provisions requiring proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, to register to vote in federal elections. It also includes provisions for removing noncitizens from federal voter registration rolls.

President Trump urged supporters at a rally in Marietta, Georgia, to contact Thune and demand approval of the legislation. "Everybody call John Thune at the Senate. And tell them to get this stuff approved. So we’re fighting so that all voters must show voter ID. We’re fighting so that all voters must provide proof of citizenship, OK? And also the no mail-in ballots, very important, Trump said."

Thune stated that the administration should focus on persuading Democrats, who are stopping the legislation on the Senate floor. Instead of, you know, pointing the finger at Republicans, they might think about going after the people who are stopping it on the floor, which is the Democrats. And if there are Republicans that they think are gettable, get on the phone. Let’s get them to ‘yes,’" Thune said."

He stated that overcoming Senate hurdles requires 60 votes or the elimination of the filibuster, which requires 50 votes. Thune and Trump held a heated closed-door meeting at the Capitol on June 24, 2026. Tensions between Trump and Senate Republicans escalated during that meeting, with Trump reportedly expressing frustration over the lack of support for the SAVE America Act. Trump stated on Friday that he would be willing to work to secure votes for the election legislation following Thune's suggestion.