House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) announced a plan to attach the SAVE America Act, a controversial voting bill, to the $1.15 trillion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The move aims to break a legislative gridlock but risks further division within the GOP.
Core Facts & Immediate Action
Johnson unveiled the plan Monday night, proposing a "MIRV" (Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle) strategy to merge the SAVE Act with the NDAA. This would allow both measures to advance to the Senate, though the Senate could strip out either provision. The SAVE Act, which requires proof of citizenship for voter registration and voter ID, has faced opposition from Democrats and some Republicans.
Deeper Dive & Context
GOP Infighting Over Legislative Strategy
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) has threatened to block the NDAA unless her voter ID amendment is included. She argues that 80% of Americans support such measures, but Johnson’s plan may not satisfy her demands. Luna previously vowed to oppose procedural votes until the Senate acts on the SAVE Act.
White House Involvement
Johnson met with President Trump at the White House, who later urged GOP lawmakers to stop "grandstanding" and unify. Trump had previously canceled a bill signing over frustration with the Senate’s inaction on the SAVE Act. Johnson suggested including the SAVE Act in a budget reconciliation bill later this year, which would bypass the Senate filibuster.
Legislative Implications
The House had already delayed votes on two spending bills and a veterans' benefits measure due to GOP divisions. Johnson hopes to regain momentum before the fall elections, but the strategy’s success remains uncertain. The NDAA, a must-pass bill, could be jeopardized if hardline Republicans continue to resist.
Opposing Perspectives
Johnson warned that blocking legislation over the SAVE Act is "self-defeating," arguing that progress on other priorities—like lowering costs—should not be halted. Meanwhile, Luna and other conservatives insist the voting bill is a top priority, framing it as a fulfillment of campaign promises.