Trump labels mail-in voting as extremely corrupt during Irish Shamrock Bowl event

Trump Criticizes Mail-in Voting During Senate Debate

During a Senate discussion on the SAVE America Act, President Trump described mail-in voting as “totally corrupt.” His remarks came while he was participating in a Shamrock Bowl presentation alongside Irish Prime Minister Michael Martin.

Trump emphasized the importance of the SAVE America Act, which focuses on voter identification and proof of citizenship. He mentioned that the legislation aims to address what he termed “fraudulent” mail-in voting. “We’re the only country that does this. It’s completely corrupt,” he stated. Trump also noted additional measures in the act, saying, “One is to keep men out of women’s sports. Seems easy, right? I think it’s around 99% support. Also, no mutilation of transgender children. Polls show it’s about 98%.”

He added, “I really hope the Senate approves that. It’s just basic—who doesn’t have a voter card, who lacks proof of citizenship? The only people who don’t want it are those looking to cheat. It’s pretty straightforward.”

The SAVE America Act proposes requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to register for federal elections and mandates identification at polling stations—steps that Republicans believe are critical to ensuring election integrity.

As Senate Republicans aim to push the legislation forward, the goal is to compel Democrats to publicly share their stance on a bill backed by Trump.

Lawmakers voted 51-48 in favor of beginning consideration of the bill. Notably, Sen. Lisa Murkowski from Alaska was the sole Republican to oppose advancing it, while all Democrats voted against it. One Republican, Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina, did not participate in the vote.

This procedural approval opens the door for further debate. Republican leadership is expected to allow amendments or extended conversations in the days ahead.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune may eventually call for a end to the debate, setting the stage for a final vote, which would require a 60-vote threshold—meaning bipartisan support will be crucial for the bill to progress.

Democrats voiced opposition to the bill, claiming that current laws already prevent noncitizen voting, and warned that the proposed changes could make it harder for voters to exercise their rights.