House Majority Whip Tom Emmer has accused Democrats of hypocrisy regarding their stance on voter identification laws. This accusation follows the party’s nearly unanimous opposition to the SAVE America Act, which mandates photo identification for voting in federal elections. Emmer highlighted the contradiction of Democrats demanding photo IDs for events like the Democratic National Convention while opposing similar requirements at polling places.
During an interview with Fox News Digital, Emmer criticized Democratic lawmakers for their claims about voter suppression. He pointed out that many of them did not object to photo ID requirements for activities such as boarding a flight or checking out a book from a library. Emmer stated, “Why aren’t they screaming about photo IDs at the airport? Why aren’t they screaming about photo IDs when you check out a book at the library?”
The SAVE America Act received broad support from Republicans in the House, passing with only one Democratic vote from Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas. The law’s previous version, known simply as the SAVE Act, passed in April 2023 with backing from four House Democrats. The updated legislation not only requires photo ID for voting but also stipulates that the ID must serve as proof of citizenship.
Democratic leaders have harshly criticized the bill. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries labeled it as “voter suppression,” while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer dismissed it as “a modern-day Jim Crow” law. Jeffries specifically took issue with a provision allowing the Department of Homeland Security to initiate removal proceedings against illegal immigrants found on state voter rolls, suggesting it could lead to the misuse of personal information.
Public opinion appears to favor voter ID laws, with recent surveys indicating significant support. A Pew Research Center poll from August 2025 showed that 83% of respondents approved of government-issued photo ID requirements for voting. Similarly, an October 2024 Gallup poll indicated that 84% of the population supported photo ID mandates in federal elections.
Emmer also noted the contradiction in the Democrats’ stance, referencing the requirement for photo IDs to attend events such as the nomination of Kamala Harris for the presidency in Chicago last year. He remarked, “By the way, if they think it’s voter suppression, why do they require photo IDs at the Democratic National Convention to get in? I think Americans are so much smarter than these people can understand.”
As the debate over voter ID laws continues, the implications for both parties could be significant as they head into future elections. The SAVE America Act reflects a growing Republican emphasis on election integrity, while Democrats remain steadfast in their opposition, arguing it disproportionately affects marginalized communities.
