Trump Seeks to Attach SAVE America Act to Key Legislation
President Donald Trump is seeking to attach his SAVE America Act, which includes provisions for voter ID and proof of citizenship requirements, to essential bipartisan legislation on housing and foreign intelligence surveillance currently before Congress. This strategy could jeopardize the passage of these bills, as bipartisan support is crucial, and many Democrats oppose Trump's voter suppression measures. Lawmakers face a June 12 deadline to reauthorize the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which has recently been temporarily extended.
Long Island Rail Road Workers Strike Halts Service
Employees of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) began a strike at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday after failing to reach a new contract agreement with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), halting service for the first time in over 30 years and affecting approximately 275,000 daily commuters. The five unions representing about half of the LIRR's 7,000 workers are demanding a total wage increase of 16% over four years, while the MTA claims it has met the unions' pay demands but seeks higher healthcare premiums for new hires. Limited shuttle bus services will be provided for essential workers, but the strike is expected to significantly disrupt travel into New York City.
Senate parliamentarian rejects Republican funding proposal
The Senate parliamentarian, Elizabeth MacDonough, rejected a Republican proposal to allocate $1 billion for Secret Service security enhancements, including funding for President Donald Trump's proposed White House ballroom, as part of an immigration enforcement bill. The ruling stated that the funding request was too broad to be included in the narrow budget bill, prompting Republicans to consider redrafting the language for resubmission. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the proposal, asserting that it improperly sought taxpayer funding for the ballroom project.
Letlow advances to Louisiana primary runoff with 45%
Rep. Julia Letlow, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, advanced to the runoff of Louisiana's Republican primary by securing 45% of the vote, defeating Senator Bill Cassidy, who garnered 25%. Letlow will face state Treasurer John Fleming, who received 28%, in the June 27 runoff, marking a significant victory for Trump as Cassidy's impeachment vote against him in 2021 contributed to his defeat.
