House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., argued that federal voter identification laws are necessary, drawing comparisons to identification requirements at the restaurant chain Olive Garden and the Democratic National Convention.

Scalise stated that requirements like showing ID to purchase an "unlimited pasta" pass at Olive Garden, boarding a plane, or buying beer are common. He questioned why similar identification shouldn't be required for federal elections to ensure voters are who they claim to be and to prevent non-citizens from voting.

"How about the franchise of American democracy? Let's make sure you are who you say you are and illegals can't vote in American elections," Scalise said in an interview.

He pointed to the 2024 Democratic National Convention, where he noted attendees were required to show identification for entry. "Democrats are saying it somehow impedes people's ability to participate, yet Democrats themselves wouldn't even let you go to their convention without showing ID," Scalise said.

Republicans are advocating for the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act, which has advanced in the House but stalled in the Senate. This legislation proposes a federal photo ID requirement for voting in U.S. elections and mandates proof of citizenship during the voter registration process. Republicans cite polling data indicating broad public support for voter ID laws as a key argument against Democratic opposition.

Democrats have voiced concerns that the SAVE America Act constitutes voter suppression. They argue it could create additional burdens for married women who have changed their names and complicate absentee voting. Another provision in the bill that has drawn criticism from Democrats would grant the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) broad access to states' voter rolls.

House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil, R-Wis., also referenced the Olive Garden promotion during a debate on a separate voter ID measure. He highlighted that the restaurant chain implemented photo ID requirements to safeguard its "pasta program" for its "Never-ending pasta pass" promotion, while in some jurisdictions, individuals can cast ballots without providing identity confirmation on Election Day.

A measure requiring photo voter ID, even for mail-in ballots, recently passed the House with support from a small number of Democrats.