Key facts
- Seven Senate Republicans joined Democrats to block debate on FISA Section 702 reauthorization.
- Section 702 of FISA is set to expire on June 12.
- A procedural vote to begin debate on reauthorization failed 47-52.
- Only one Democrat, John Fetterman, voted in favor of beginning the debate.
- Democrats raised concerns about the appointment of Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence.
Seven Senate Republicans joined Democrats in blocking a procedural vote to begin debate on the reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). The program is scheduled to expire on June 12. The vote to proceed with debate failed 47-52, with only one Democrat, John Fetterman, voting in favor. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed concern that the program going dark would be a dangerous mistake for the country. Democrats have cited concerns regarding President Trump's appointment of Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence, despite his lack of national security experience. Thune acknowledged the timing of Pulte's appointment was not ideal but argued it should not derail the reauthorization of such an important measure. This setback is one of several instances where some Senate Republicans have opposed initiatives linked to President Trump. The article also references previous divisions over funding for a 'White House ballroom' and a '$1.776 billion fund' for political allies, as well as a mention of rising inflation partially attributed to the US war with Iran impacting oil movement. The White House stated that holding FISA hostage puts national security at risk and criticized Democrats for prioritizing partisan politics. Pulte, as head of a mortgage regulator, had accessed confidential data to pursue mortgage fraud probes against perceived foes, though no criminal charges were filed. Democrats worry Pulte might misuse his authority to target Trump's perceived enemies or continue efforts to prove Trump's debunked election fraud claims. Trump indicated he wants Pulte to release classified documents related to the 2020 election, suggesting Pulte's interim status would give him 'more power.'