Trump to End Spying Tool as House Casts Doubt on FISA Future

House Republicans block potential extension to FISA, sparking debate on national security vs privacy. Former President Trump urges against renewal.

A heated debate in Congress has erupted over the potential extension of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA), with House Republicans blocking the renewal as the deadline approaches. Supporters argue that FISA is essential for national security, while privacy advocates and former President Donald Trump are pushing against its renewal.

Former President Trump took to his Truth Social account to declare "KILL FISA," highlighting the contentious nature of the debate surrounding Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the need for passing a version of FISA with reforms in place to address concerns about abuses of power.

While Trump has claimed that FISA was misused to spy on his campaign, Section 702 is intended for collecting intelligence on foreigners overseas, but loopholes allow for the search of data for information on Americans. This has raised red flags for privacy advocates, who argue that billions of communications, including those of innocent Americans, are being collected.

Gun rights groups have also expressed concerns that Section 702 could be used to target gun owners, highlighting the broader implications of the debate. Bipartisan alliances have formed in Congress, with Republicans and progressive Democrats joining forces to call for reforms requiring warrants for the use of Section 702.

Speaker Johnson has sought to reassure his members and address concerns raised by the former President, emphasizing the importance of FISA for national security. He has pledged to work on passing reforms to prevent abuses of power and ensure the integrity of the program.

As the deadline for renewal approaches, the Speaker faces pressure to act, with the threat of potential ousting looming over his leadership. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has indicated that she may seek to remove Speaker Johnson, citing the FISA bill as a factor in her decision.

Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding FISA, the House may still have the opportunity to vote on reforms before the expiration of the program. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for national security, privacy rights, and the future of surveillance practices in the United States.