Jim Banks Calls for Passage of SAVE America Act to Require Proof of Citizenship to Vote

Sen. Jim Banks said that the integrity of U.S. elections is fundamental to the country’s future, arguing that without fair and secure voting systems, the nation itself is at risk. In a written statement, Banks aligned himself with Donald J. Trump, saying that although states are constitutionally responsible for running elections, Congress also has a duty to safeguard them and should move quickly to do so.

Banks pointed to the SAVE America Act as a key step. The bill would amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 to require individuals to provide proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote and to present photo identification at polling places. He described the proposal as both constitutionally sound and a matter of common sense, citing polling that shows broad public support for voter ID laws. Banks argued that just as identification is required for everyday activities such as purchasing alcohol or renting a car, it should also be required to cast a ballot.

The Indiana lawmaker has backed similar measures for years. He was an original cosponsor of the SAVE America Act and supported it both during his time in the Senate and previously while serving in the House of Representatives. In 2021, when he chaired the Republican Study Committee, Banks introduced the Save Our Democracy Act, which also sought to mandate proof of citizenship and photo identification for voting. Conservative advocacy group Heritage Action for America included support for that bill as part of its legislative scorecard for members of Congress.

The SAVE America Act faces procedural hurdles in the Senate, where 60 votes are typically required to overcome a filibuster and advance legislation. Banks indicated he would consider procedural changes, including a “standing filibuster,” which would require senators opposing a bill to continuously hold the floor to block it.

“I say let’s do whatever it takes,” Banks said, reiterating his call for colleagues to rally behind the legislation. He added that ensuring election security is a shared goal and expressed pride in supporting Trump while urging fellow lawmakers to move the bill forward.

Source: BREITBART