President Trump on Wednesday morning canceled a planned signing ceremony for a bipartisan housing package, stating that Republican lawmakers must first pass voter identification legislation. The president posted on Truth Social that the signing was postponed "until such time as we pass the desperately needed SAVE AMERICA ACT, which I consider to be a National Emergency."
Two hours before the ceremony was scheduled to begin, Trump also criticized the housing bill, calling it "of minor importance compared to lower interest rates, and even FISA." He specifically targeted Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), one of the bill's architects, in his social media posts. Trump urged Senate Republicans to "Terminate the Filibuster" to pass his legislative priorities, suggesting Democrats would do so readily if in power.
Warren responded to the cancellation, telling CNBC that Trump's decision demonstrated a "complete indifference to the cost squeeze on American families." She noted that the housing bill would still become law if Trump does not sign it within 10 days of its presentation.
Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.), who co-authored the housing legislation, expressed surprise at the president's stance, stating that Trump had previously indicated the bill was a top priority, yet "we've delivered on one of his top priorities."
The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act
The legislation, known as the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, aims to reduce housing prices by prohibiting institutional investors from purchasing certain single-family homes. It also includes provisions designed to enhance the role of smaller banks in the mortgage lending process and remove regulatory obstacles.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) informed reporters that his conference had passed the SAVE Act three times and intended to include it in a third reconciliation bill to encourage the Senate to reconsider it. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act has not yet been officially submitted for signature by Johnson or Senate president pro tempore Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), which could lead to further delays beyond the typical 10-day period.
Trump was scheduled to meet with Republican senators later Wednesday to discuss the election law, which mandates proof of citizenship for voter registration. Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) had invited the president to Capitol Hill for a lunch discussing the SAVE Act. However, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) has previously stated that there is no viable path for its passage, even with procedural changes like a talking filibuster.
Additionally, Trump has reportedly delayed the reauthorization of the government's foreign intelligence surveillance powers. This delay is linked to his demand for the confirmation of a nominee for Manhattan US Attorney before his preferred candidate for Director of National Intelligence is appointed. The interim appointment of Bill Pulte as acting DNI has also reportedly caused friction among some Republican and Democratic senators, contributing to the delay of FISA Section 702's reauthorization, which expired on June 12.