House Republicans Block Vote to Renew Expiring Surveillance Law, Throwing Plans Into Disarray
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A group of House Republicans blocked a vote to renew warrantless surveillance powers under Section 702 of FISA, which expires next week. This threw plans to pass the renewal into disarray.
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The move came after Trump urged Republicans to "KILL FISA", further complicating matters. Republicans offered conflicting rationales for blocking the vote.
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The failed vote shows the long-running feud between House Intelligence and Judiciary members over FISA remains unresolved. Some members insist a warrant requirement amendment is needed.
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With the tanked vote, hopes for a warrant requirement amendment are now dashed. Republicans may have to work with Democrats to bypass standard procedures and renew FISA.
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The chaos weakens Republicans' negotiating hand with the Senate and White House to renew the important surveillance authorities before they expire, creating urgency to find a resolution.