President Donald Trump has downplayed the significance of a bipartisan housing bill, which he recently placed in legislative limbo, by linking its potential passage to his proposed SAVE America Act. Trump characterized the housing legislation as a "yawn" when compared to his election reform proposal, which he stated is crucial for "saving America."
The SAVE America Act, as described by Trump, aims to significantly retool federal elections and includes new restrictions on voter registration and mail-in ballots. Democrats have opposed this act, arguing that it would disenfranchise voters who lack the necessary documentation.
The housing bill, designed to address the U.S. housing shortage by increasing supply and creating new avenues for homeownership, was initially scheduled for a signing ceremony. However, Trump unexpectedly halted the event, opting to use the bill as leverage for the passage of the SAVE America Act.
When asked about the housing bill on Monday, Trump indicated he had not yet received it and would make a decision upon its arrival. A source familiar with the matter confirmed that Speaker Mike Johnson officially sent the housing bill to Trump earlier that day.
Once received, Trump has 10 days to either sign the bill into law or veto it. If Congress adjourns within this 10-day period, the bill could be subject to a pocket veto. Although the housing bill passed with veto-proof majorities, the implications of Trump returning it to Congress remain unclear.
Trump expressed a desire to have the SAVE America Act appended to the housing bill but acknowledged this was unlikely due to a lack of support from certain Republican senators. "It's crazy," he remarked.