The 21st Century Road to Housing Act, a major bipartisan housing bill, will become law at midnight on Saturday without President Donald Trump's signature. Trump refused to sign the legislation, citing Congress's failure to approve new voting restrictions nationwide.
Bill Details and Congressional Approval
The measure represents the most significant change to federal housing policy for buyers, renters, and homebuilders in decades. Congress approved it with large margins last month after lengthy negotiations between Democrats and Republicans.
Trump tied the housing bill to the Save America Act, which would impose new restrictions on voters and state election officials ahead of November's midterm elections. A version of the Save America Act passed the House in February but lacks Senate support to overcome the filibuster.
Trump's Stance and Reaction
Last month, Trump canceled a signing ceremony for the housing bill, denying Republican allies a chance to highlight efforts on housing affordability, a top voter concern. He later called the measure “a big yawn” and “so unimportant” compared to the Save America Act.
On June 29, House Speaker Mike Johnson sent the housing bill to Trump's desk, triggering a 10-day countdown after which it becomes law without his signature. In a Friday-morning post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “I will not sign the Housing Bill... in PROTEST over the fact that the United States Senate is not capable of passing THE SAVE AMERICA ACT.”
Trump gave no indication of a veto, and the White House declined further comment.
Democratic Criticism
Democrats criticized Trump's refusal to sign. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries wrote on X: “Republicans would rather make it harder to vote than easier to afford a home.” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said: “His priorities couldn’t be clearer: higher costs for families and more power for himself.”
Trump's focus on the Save America Act has compounded concerns about midterm preparations. On Thursday, he fired the last three commissioners on an independent federal body that assists election administration nationwide.
