Senate Blocks Section 702 Debate 52-46, Leaving Spy Law in Limbo Before June 12
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Jun 5
Senate Blocks Section 702 Debate 52-46, Leaving Spy Law in Limbo Before June 12
3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jun 5
Summary
A 52-46 Senate vote failed to open debate on extending Section 702, putting the surveillance authority at risk days before its June 12 deadline.
Democrats joined seven Republicans to block the motion, with John Fetterman the only Democrat voting yes and several GOP opponents pressing for warrant requirements before searches involving Americans.
Democrats had warned Bill Pulte, Trump's pick for director of national intelligence, could weaponize the intelligence community against perceived political enemies, adding a new obstacle to reauthorization.
John Thune said the Senate will try again next week and acknowledged Republicans will need Democratic votes if they want to salvage an extension or pass another short-term patch.