DATA & FIGURES
The SAVE America Act has been stalled in the Senate due to the Democrats' filibuster, despite being passed in the House in February. Trump has made it clear that he will not approve FISA Section 702 reauthorization without the act being passed. The act has tremendous bipartisan support, with polls showing majority support for its provisions.
THE SCENARIO
The standoff between Trump and Thune reflects a deeper power struggle within the Republican Party. Trump sees Thune as a roadblock to his agenda, and is preparing to remove him. The SAVE America Act has become a symbol of this struggle, with Trump using it as leverage to assert his influence over the party.
DIRECT QUOTE
"The president has his own mind, makes his own decisions. So do we." — John Thune, Senate Majority Leader
BBN INSIGHT
The power struggle between Trump and Thune reflects a broader trend within the Republican Party, where Trump's influence is being challenged by more traditional party leaders. The SAVE America Act has become a lightning rod for this struggle, with Trump using it to assert his dominance over the party.