Republican senators are warning that a key U.S. surveillance program, Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), may be allowed to lapse amid a political backlash over President Donald Trump's intelligence pick. The program, which allows warrantless surveillance of foreign targets, is set to expire on December 31, 2023, unless Congress reauthorizes it.
Senators from both parties have expressed concerns that the confirmation battle over Trump's nominee for Director of National Intelligence, John Ratcliffe, could derail efforts to renew the program. Ratcliffe, a former Texas congressman, has faced criticism from Democrats and some Republicans over his lack of intelligence experience and past controversial statements.
Section 702 has been a critical tool for U.S. intelligence agencies, but it has also drawn scrutiny over privacy violations involving Americans' communications incidentally collected. The program was last reauthorized in 2018 for six years, and lawmakers have been debating reforms to address civil liberties concerns.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has urged colleagues to prioritize reauthorization, warning that letting the program expire would harm national security. However, some conservative Republicans have aligned with Democrats in demanding stricter privacy protections before supporting renewal.
The standoff comes as the Trump administration pushes for expanded surveillance powers, while civil liberties groups and some lawmakers argue for more oversight. The outcome remains uncertain as the deadline approaches.
