Republicans Urged to Force Democrats to Filibuster Election Security Bill

The SAVE America Act faces stiff opposition from Democrats in the Senate.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:58pm

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The Wall Street Journal editorial board has advised Republicans to abandon the SAVE America Act, a bill that would secure America's elections by requiring voter ID and proof of U.S. citizenship. However, the author argues that Republicans should force the Democrats to filibuster the bill, which has overwhelming public support, in order to expose their opposition to election integrity measures.

Why it matters

The SAVE America Act is seen as vital for restoring faith in fair elections, especially with millions of illegal aliens in the country due to the Biden administration's open border policies. Securing elections is a key issue for many Americans, and forcing the Democrats to publicly oppose a popular bill could hurt them politically.

The details

The SAVE America Act passed the House last month with bipartisan support, but is stalled in the Senate due to Democratic opposition. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has resisted bringing the bill to the floor for a 'talking filibuster' that would force the Democrats to actively block the bill. The author argues that this would show Republicans are 'finally serious about guaranteeing a citizen's right not to have his or her ballot canceled by a noncitizen or otherwise unqualified voter'.

  • The SAVE America Act passed the House in February 2026.
  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune plans to bring the bill to the Senate floor this week for a 'show' vote.

The players

John Thune

The Senate Majority Leader who has resisted bringing the SAVE America Act to the Senate floor for a 'talking filibuster'.

Cory Booker

A Democratic Senator from New Jersey who once gave a 25-hour speech, which the author cites as an example of how Democrats could engage in lengthy filibusters to block the SAVE America Act.

Kyrsten Sinema

A Democratic Senator from Arizona who, along with Joe Manchin, previously prevented Democrats from eliminating the filibuster in 2022.

Joe Manchin

A Democratic Senator from West Virginia who, along with Kyrsten Sinema, previously prevented Democrats from eliminating the filibuster in 2022.

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What they’re saying

“Bully for Mr. Booker, who persuaded no one about anything. And this is bad how, exactly?”

— Robert Knight, Author

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.