Trump and Senators Push to Cancel Senate Recess

Former President Donald Trump, along with Republican Senators Mike Lee, Rick Scott, and Ashley Moody, is urging Senate Majority Leader John Thune to halt the House of Representatives’ summer recess until the Protection of American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE) is approved.

The group believes that the Senate’s recess, lasting until mid-September, should not proceed until the election integrity bill is secured. Trump expressed his thoughts on Truth Social, suggesting that Thune should prevent the Senate from adjourning until the American Rescue Act is complete or, ideally, until the filibuster is abolished. He emphasized that such changes would enable Republicans to expedite their legislative wishes, remarking on the perceived advantages the Democrats have in the current leadership.

On Sunday, Lee stated he opposes any recess until the SAVE America Act is passed, calling for a roll call vote to make his position clear. He didn’t hold back and reminded Thune not to assume his agreement with any adjournment plans, indicating that he wants this bill dealt with first.

Scott and Moody echoed Lee’s sentiments, voicing their desire for the Senate to remain in session until the SAVE America Act is finalized. Scott remarked that the American public expects their representatives to ensure election security and that he would vote against any recess until the bill is passed.

Moody similarly emphasized her commitment to accomplishing necessary tasks for Americans, expressing frustration that the Senate might take a break before addressing the election integrity bill.

Earlier, Lee and Senator Tommy Tuberville had attempted to cancel a two-week recess in July, but without any objections, the Senate recessed early in June. Thune has continuously noted that there aren’t enough votes for the SAVE America Act to pass. Meanwhile, Trump’s earlier support for the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act was withdrawn as a reaction to the failure to advance the SAVE America Act.

Additionally, Republican Senator Thom Tillis mentioned concerns earlier in July that efforts to link the SAVE America Act to the third settlement package were futile. The bill has also created friction within the House, where several representatives recently voted against a rule that would allow it to be debated alongside the National Defense Authorization Act, leading to disruptions on the House floor. However, the House did manage to attach the SAVE America Act to a different appropriations act related to national security.