Washington Senate rejects surveillance bill after appointment controversy
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The U.S. Senate narrowly blocked a procedural move to extend a key foreign surveillance authority early this morning, in a direct challenge to President Donald Trump. The measure to advance reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act failed 47–52, with seven Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. Lawmakers from both parties objected to Trump’s recent choice of Bill Pulte, a major political donor without intelligence experience, as acting director of national intelligence. Section 702 is scheduled to expire on June 12, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune has signaled the chamber may try another vote next week, though prospects appear uncertain.
More context
Timeline
- Recent days Trump appoints donor Pulte
- Recent days bipartisan concerns over intelligence experience
- Early this morning Senate holds procedural vote
- Early this morning extension effort fails 47-52
- Early this morning seven Republicans oppose reauthorization
- June 12 Section 702 authorities set expiration
- Next week Senate may attempt second vote
- After the vote Republican intra-party split intensifies
Why it matters
Section 702 lets the government collect foreign intelligence from U.S. soil. It affects your privacy. If it expires, the rules could change. Keep an eye on this.
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