Senate Republicans are escalating pressure on Majority Leader John Thune to accelerate votes on President Donald Trump’s legislative priorities, including a contested voter ID bill, with fewer than 100 days until the midterm elections.
The push reflects growing frustration within the Republican conference over the pace of legislative action in the final weeks before Congress breaks for the campaign season. The Senate is scheduled to remain in session through August 7 before taking a five-week recess, returning in mid-September ahead of a September 30 government funding deadline.
Kennedy’s Public Call to Action
Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana publicly urged Thune to abandon a cautious approach during an appearance on CBS News’ Face the Nation. “I mean no disrespect. I love John Thune. He’s my leader. He’s got a big brain. He’s better looking than me, but I think he’s just being too cautious,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy argued that negotiations with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on government funding are unlikely to succeed. “I think he’s going to shut down government,” Kennedy predicted, pointing to the urgency of passing legislation before the recess.
Priority Bills Facing Obstacles
Kennedy identified several Trump-backed measures as essential, including the SAVE America Act, which would require documentary proof of citizenship for voter registration in federal elections. Republicans have repeatedly attempted floor votes on the measure, but Democrats have blocked those efforts.
Kennedy framed voting security as critical for election credibility. “In my opinion, for both sides to have credibility in our elections, we need to do two things and only two things,” Kennedy said, calling for proof of voter eligibility and timely election results.
Other priorities Kennedy listed include additional defense funding, agricultural assistance, cryptocurrency market regulation, and tougher sanctions on Russia and Iran.
White House Escalates Pressure
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated this week that President Trump’s “patience is running out” with Senate action. Trump has also publicly encouraged supporters to contact Thune, urging acceleration of his legislative agenda during a Georgia rally.
Despite the pressure, Thune has acknowledged the procedural barriers facing Republican bills. Most legislation requires 60 votes to overcome the Senate filibuster, meaning Republicans need Democratic support under standard rules.
Possible Path Forward
Thune recently suggested exploring whether portions of voting legislation could qualify for budget reconciliation, a process that allows certain fiscal measures to pass with a simple majority. He proposed potentially offering financial incentives to states that adopt voter ID requirements, though any approach must comply with Senate budget rules.
Republican leaders now face competing demands from the White House and conservative members as the chamber prepares for recess with the government funding deadline looming and the midterm campaign season approaching.
This story has been updated. CNN’s political team contributed to this report.