Senate Democrats block short-term extensions of FISA 702 spy powers
Source: The Hill
06/11/26 2:10 PM ET
Senate Democrats on Thursday blocked the GOP’s attempt to pass a short-term extension of the nation’s spy powers by unanimous consent. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) asked the chamber for unanimous consent to extend Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) until July 2, but Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) objected.
Wyden also objected to a subsequent proposal from Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) to extend the authority for one week. It marked the second time in one day that Congress has failed to secure renewal of Section 702 of FISA, adding to the risk that the spy powers will go dark when they expire Friday.
Section 702 allows the government to spy on foreigners located abroad, but critics want to add a warrant before the government can review any information collected on Americans whose information is swept up as they communicate with foreign targets. Democrats have refused to advance a short-term extension of Section 702 over objections to President Trump installing his controversial pick Bull Pulte to serve as director of national intelligence.
Wyden, longtime proponent of adding a warrant requirement to Section 702, however, argued repeated failures to pass FISA reflect broader dissatisfaction with the program.
Read more: https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5920406-fisa-702-senate-unanimous-consent/
RELATED - https://www.democraticunderground.com/10143677476