Trump presses Republicans for voting restrictions ahead of midterm elections

The restrictions would include a requirement for proof of citizenship for people registering to vote. Read more at straitstimes.com.

DORAL, Florida - US President Donald Trump, addressing Republican lawmakers directly on March 9, pressed them to enact sweeping new voting restrictions as a way to “guarantee” victory in November’s midterm elections, saying he would refuse to sign new Bills into law until they do.

The SAVE America Act would impose new voter restrictions including a requirement for proof of citizenship for people registering to vote. It first emerged two years ago in response to Mr Trump’s false claims that people in the country illegally were voting in US elections.

“It’ll guarantee the midterms. If you don’t get it, big trouble, my opinion,” Mr Trump told House Republicans gathered at his Doral golf club in Miami to discuss the president’s legislative agenda.

Mr Trump’s Republican Party is heading into the campaign season facing political headwinds, and analysts say it could struggle to keep its slim majority in the House of Representatives as Democrats seize on voter unhappiness over the economy.

“I’m not going to sign anything until this is approved,” Mr Trump said. “If it takes you six months, I’m for not approving anything.”

The legislation would require Americans to prove their citizenship while registering to vote and show a photo ID before casting ballots. It would also restrict the use of mail-in ballots.