White House says Trump's patience wanes on SAVE America Act

A public rift has emerged between the White House and Senate Republican leadership over the stalled "SAVE America Act," with President Donald Trump's frustration directed at Senate Majority Leader John Thune. The conflict escalated on July 23, 2026, as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters the president's patience is running out with the Senate's inability to pass the legislation before the August recess.

Leavitt stated that Trump wants to see as much of the bill passed as possible and emphasized that the Republican-controlled House has already done its job by approving the measure. "The Senate needs to do its job, too," she said. The legislation, which would require voter ID at the polls and proof of citizenship for registration, has been a top priority for the administration.

Thune responded sharply to the criticism while speaking with reporters at the Capitol. He suggested the White House should focus its efforts on securing votes rather than blaming Republican leadership. "Maybe she or somebody else ought to get on the phone and get the votes, right?" Thune said. "Instead of pointing the finger at Republicans, they might think about going after the...