Rep. Byron Donalds from Florida is strongly criticizing Senate Democrats for blocking the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act. This legislation aims to enforce proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections. Donalds emphasizes the need for this law and urges immediate action from the Senate.
1. SAVE Act Overview:
• The SAVE Act passed the House in April with 216 votes, primarily from Republicans and only a few Democrats.
• It requires individuals to provide proof of U. S. citizenship to register and vote, changing current laws where such proof isn't mandatory.
2. Provisions of the SAVE Act:
• Proof of Citizenship: Voter registration would need documentary proof such as a REAL ID, U. S. passport, or certified birth certificate with a government photo ID.
• Voter Roll Maintenance: States must remove noncitizens from voter rolls using federal databases.
• Compliance Timeline: States must set up verification processes within 30 days post-enactment.
• Federal Support: Agencies need to share citizenship data at no cost quickly.
• Penalties for Noncompliance: Officials who register noncitizens could face federal charges, and the Department of Homeland Security would investigate unlawful registrations.
3. Opposition from Senate Democrats:
• Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer opposes the SAVE Act, labeling it "voter suppression" and asserting it threatens Democratic interests.
• Schumer predicted that Democrats would unanimously reject the bill, deeming it against the principles of democracy.
4. Calls for Action:
• Donalds criticizes the Senate for inaction, urging them to pass the SAVE Act and claiming it guarantees only U. S. citizens can vote.
• He supports ending the Senate filibuster to facilitate the passage of the SAVE Act, stating that it’s essential for prioritizing American citizens in elections.
• Donalds echo sentiments from other Republicans, including Senator Mike Lee and former President Trump, calling for immediate legislative action.
5. Reactions:
• Donalds' statements gained traction on social media, with notable endorsements, including one from Elon Musk, emphasizing the importance of the bill.
Rep. Byron Donalds advocates for the SAVE Act to ensure that only U. S. citizens vote in federal elections. He criticizes Senate Democrats for blocking the bill and calls for urgent measures, including the potential elimination of the filibuster, to advance the legislation. Donalds and his supporters stress the necessity of this law in restoring confidence in the election process.
https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/12/rep-byron-donalds-blasts-senate-stonewalling-save-act/