From today’s CNN:
The Senate has kicked off extended debate on the “SAVE America Act” — one of President Donald Trump’s top legislative priorities.
Lawmakers voted to begin consideration of the bill that would require voters to show ID and proof of US citizenship in federal elections. While the legislation is not expected to pass, the debate could yield fierce rhetorical sparring on the floor, with each side believing they are on the right side of history on the issue.
Politically, lawmakers from each party want to demonstrate to their bases that they are going to the mat on the legislation.
Democrats have been preparing to speak at length – and possibly for days – in opposition to the bill. Republicans, meanwhile, are expected to try to add amendments to the legislation that would address asks from Trump, namely provisions that would end the widespread practice of no-excuse mail voting and target transgender policies.
As debate plays out in the Senate in the coming days, Democrats will seek to expose divisions within the Republican conference on the topics, which have at times proven effective culture war fights for the GOP yet are unrelated to the running of elections.
The bill is not expected to pass, as it does not have the 60 votes needed to eventually end debate, and Senate Republicans do not have the votes to change filibuster rules or maintain a lengthy so-called “talking filibuster” that would drag on indefinitely – and risk allowing Senate Democrats to stonewall business in the chamber.
Read the complete story here.