Rep. Luna Advocates for Senate Action on SAVE America Act

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican member of the House from Florida, expressed optimism on Sunday regarding the potential passage of the SAVE America Act in the Senate despite strong opposition from Democrats. During her appearance on “Sunday Morning Futures” with Maria Bartiromo, Luna emphasized that Senate Majority Leader John Thune should prioritize bringing the legislation to the Senate floor without delay.

The SAVE America Act, which passed through the GOP-controlled House with only one Democratic vote, seeks to implement nationwide photo ID requirements to vote and mandates proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration. Luna believes that the GOP should not shy away from using a lesser-known tactic known as a “talking filibuster” to facilitate the bill’s passage. This method could allow the legislation to advance with a simple majority rather than the typical 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster.

“America has made their voices very clear. They want voter ID,” Luna stated, urging Thune to act swiftly. She praised Senator Susan Collins for being the 50th senator to support the bill, highlighting its significance as a monumental piece of legislation.

Luna further elaborated on the potential tactical maneuvers that could be employed. “Sen. Thune has every ability to bring the ‘standing filibuster’ to the floor,” she remarked, referring to the talking filibuster. This traditional method requires senators to speak continuously to maintain a filibuster, a stark contrast to the more common silent filibuster, where a bill simply fails to receive enough votes.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has pledged that the Democratic caucus will oppose the SAVE Act “tooth and nail,” characterizing it as akin to “Jim Crow 2.0.” Should Thune and Republican senators decide to use the talking filibuster strategy, Democrats would be obligated to deliver lengthy speeches to keep the debate alive, potentially extending the time needed to address other legislative priorities.

Several conservative senators, including Josh Hawley from Missouri and Mike Lee from Utah, have already indicated their support for this approach. Lee articulated a belief that if Republicans do not actively pursue this strategy, they risk alienating their voter base ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. “If we pass the SAVE America Act, our base will show up,” Lee asserted.

Luna emphasized the importance of restoring public confidence in the electoral process, stating that ensuring Americans have faith in voting is crucial for future generations. “If their senators work against their interests, they can vote them out at the ballot box, and that is exactly what this will do,” she argued.

Additionally, Luna speculated that Democratic Senator John Fetterman from Pennsylvania, known for occasionally diverging from party lines, might support the SAVE Act, despite his previous public opposition. Recent polling from the Pew Research Center indicates widespread support for voter ID requirements, with approximately 83 percent of Americans in favor, including 71 percent of Democrats.

In conclusion, Luna’s call to action reflects a broader Republican strategy aimed at galvanizing voter support as the midterms approach. The SAVE America Act remains a contentious point in the ongoing national debate over election integrity and voter access.