Senate blocks extending key surveillance program following backlash over Trump pick to lead intel
Summary
The U.S. Senate blocked a plan to extend a key surveillance program used by intelligence agencies because of concerns about President Donald Trump’s choice, Bill Pulte, for director of national intelligence. The vote stopped the extension before the program’s June 12 expiration, with some Republicans joining Democrats in opposition due to Pulte’s appointment and worries over privacy.Key Facts
- The Senate voted 47-52 against a motion to set up a final vote on extending a surveillance program.
- The surveillance program is part of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, allowing agencies to collect foreign communications without a warrant.
- Some Republicans and most Democrats opposed the extension because of privacy concerns and President Trump’s appointment of Bill Pulte.
- Bill Pulte is nominated to be director of national intelligence but faced criticism for lack of experience and past controversies.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the Senate will try again next week to extend the program.
- Critics want stricter rules, including requiring warrants for accessing any incidental communication of Americans.
- Senator Mark Warner, a top Democrat on the Intelligence Committee, voted against the extension because of Pulte’s nomination.
- The surveillance program is important to U.S. intelligence agencies like the CIA, NSA, and FBI for national security work.
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