President Trump abruptly canceled a planned signing ceremony for bipartisan housing affordability legislation on Wednesday. He demanded that Congress first pass the SAVE America Act, his priority elections overhaul bill. The move heightened tensions with Senate Republicans already frustrated by his handling of the Iran War.
Trump visited Capitol Hill on June 25 and met with Republican senators. He scrapped the housing bill ceremony until the Senate approves the SAVE America Act, which requires proof of citizenship to register to vote and photo ID for ballots.
Senators including John Cornyn and Thom Tillis expressed frustration. Cornyn called the decision inexplicable, while Tillis said it made no sense to hold the housing bill hostage.
Trump also criticized European allies during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. He stressed that he wanted loyalty rather than money from them.
The housing bill would likely become law anyway if Trump does not veto it within 10 days. Democrats have pointed to the episode as evidence that Trump prioritizes election fights over affordability concerns.
