Trump backs Lindsey Graham as GOP election reform bill collapses in Senate

U.S. President Donald Trump has called for sweeping changes to U.S. voting laws while endorsing Senator Lindsey Graham ahead of a South Carolina vote, as a Republican-backed election overhaul failed to advance in the Senate.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump praised Graham for introducing what he called the “SAVE America Act,” describing it as a measure that would impose stricter voting requirements and broader policy changes, Caliber.Az reports. 

Among the provisions highlighted were mandatory photo identification for all voters, proof of U.S. citizenship for voter registration, and restrictions on mail-in voting except in cases of illness, disability, military service, or travel.

"This Tuesday, June 9th, all Republicans in South Carolina should vote for Lindsey Graham — HE HAS MY COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT, AND WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN!" Trump wrote. 

Trump also linked the proposed legislation to broader issues, including banning transgender participation in women’s sports and restricting gender-affirming medical procedures for minors, calling on Republicans in South Carolina to support Graham and stating that the senator has his “complete and total endorsement.”

The remarks come as the election-related legislation has failed to advance in the U.S. Senate. The measure, part of a broader Republican-backed voting reform package, was brought forward as an amendment during debate over an immigration funding bill but did not pass on June 4.

The proposal—previously passed by the Republican-controlled House of Representatives in a near party-line vote—has faced strong opposition from Democrats, who argue it would impose new barriers to voting and restrict access to elections. Critics have also pointed out that the bill included immediate implementation provisions, even during ongoing election cycles, including congressional primaries.

By Sabina Mammadli