President Trump urged Senate Majority Leader John Thune to cancel the August recess until the Senate passes the SAVE America Act, escalating their dispute over the stalled voting legislation. Thune resisted the demand, saying supporters must show a realistic route to success before senators remain in Washington, highlighting a widening tactical divide within the Republican Party.

The bill would require documentary proof of US citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and photo identification at polling places. It has previously failed to secure the 60 votes normally needed to overcome a Senate filibuster; Trump has also called for the filibuster to be abolished, while Thune has rejected changing the rule. Senator Mike Lee backed delaying the recess and said he would object to the Senate leaving before the bill passes.