Johnson Shifts Stance to Support Warrantless Surveillance as Speaker
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Johnson shifted from criticizing warrantless surveillance programs to championing them as Speaker, putting him at odds with former colleagues.
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Johnson says getting confidential briefings on the importance of the programs to national security changed his perspective.
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The issue highlights tough choices Johnson has had to make as Speaker trying to bridge divisions among Republicans.
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Johnson now supports renewing Section 702 of FISA, rejecting a warrant requirement that privacy advocates want.
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Johnson's new stance aligns with the Intelligence Committee but angers Judiciary Committee members who feel warrants are crucial to prevent abuses.