U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) wrote in a March 11 op-ed for the New York Post that he supports changing Senate rules if necessary to pass the SAVE America Act and secure funding for homeland security, citing what he described as ongoing obstruction by Senate Democrats.
Cornyn argued that the filibuster, once a tool to protect against harmful policies, has become an obstacle due to recent actions and statements from Democratic senators. He said, “Today, Democrats are weaponizing the Senate’s rules to block the SAVE America Act, defund the Department of Homeland Security and hurt the American people — all to spite President Donald Trump.” Cornyn added that Democrats have already shown willingness to change or eliminate the filibuster when it suits their agenda.
The senator stated that Republican leaders must adapt to these changes and use their majority mandate. “We can let the Democrats keep obstructing today and then smash the rules the first chance they get, or we can act now and use the mandate the American people gave this president and this Congress to secure our elections, protect our homeland and bring back common sense,” Cornyn said. He also emphasized his support for reforms such as a “talking filibuster” or other measures that would allow Republicans to move forward with their legislative priorities.
Cornyn highlighted provisions of the SAVE America Act, which he cosponsored. The bill would require proof of citizenship and voter identification at polling places. He said these measures are popular with voters but face opposition from Democrats who previously attempted to ban voter ID requirements and decriminalize ballot harvesting.
The senator referenced his record of working with President Trump on issues including tax cuts, military funding, inflation control, judicial appointments, and border security. In Texas politics, Cornyn has maintained electoral success over several cycles: he defeated MJ Hegar in 2020 with 53.5% of votes according to the Texas Tribune; David Alameel in 2014 with 61.6% according to the Texas Tribune; Rick Noriega in 2008 with 54.8% according to the Texas Tribune; and Ron Kirk in 2002 with 55% according to the Texas Tribune.
Cornyn concluded by urging fellow Republicans who still support maintaining current Senate procedures to reconsider their stance: “I respectfully urge the remaining handful of my Republican colleagues still holding on to the old position that I used to share to reassess the new reality and update their thinking.”
