Senate Debates SAVE Act: Voter ID, Mail-In Ballots

0:00It's March 17th. Here's your Durham News in two minutes. Senate Republicans are kicking off a marathon debate on the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAV Act, that could stretch a week or more. Pushed hard by President Trump, the bill would make Americans prove citizenship when registering to vote and show identification at the polls. Trump insists on passing it before signing other laws, but Senate Majority Leader John Thune says they lack the 60 votes needed in the one, 100 member chamber. Republicans hold 53 seats, while all 45 Democrats and the two independents who caucus with them opposed it. The House passed the measure earlier this year, but the Senate shelved it until now. Instead of a full filibuster, Republicans plan extended speeches to rally support and force Democrats to go on record against the changes. Some claims, without proof, that Democrats cheat to win elections and that the bill is key for Republicans in November's midterms. He even wants extras, like a ban on most mail-in ballots added.

1:02Critics, including civil rights groups, argue there's no widespread non-citizen voting problem and that new paperwork rules could block millions from. Voting, even eligible Republicans. Democrats say current laws already barred non-citizens from ballots and keep elections secure. They plan procedural moves to drag things out, possibly forcing all-night votes and keeping senators glued to the floor. The debate is set to end in a failed vote to advance the bill, but Thune hopes it shows maximum effort to satisfy Trump. Senator Mike Lee says staying aggressive on the floor is crucial, no matter the outcome. We'd like to thank our sponsor for making this episode possible. And you need a moment alone, just lay back and listen, S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com.