Republicans are scrambling to keep a key surveillance law from expiring this weekend, as President Trump’s selection of Bill Pulte as acting intelligence chief has deepened divisions within the party.
The FISA surveillance authority, set to lapse on Saturday, faces an uncertain future after Trump bypassed traditional GOP allies to nominate Pulte for the post.
Pulte, a real estate investor and Trump loyalist with no prior intelligence experience, has drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers on both sides. Several Republican senators have voiced concerns about his qualifications and the lack of consultation.
The law, known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, allows the government to collect communications from non-U.S. citizens abroad without a warrant. Intelligence officials argue it is critical for counterterrorism and cybersecurity efforts.
Opponents, including some conservative Republicans and civil liberties groups, have long pushed for stricter limits on the program. They say it poses a threat to Americans’ privacy rights.
With time running out, Senate leaders are exploring short-term extensions or stopgap measures to prevent a full lapse. But internal GOP disagreements have stalled any clear path forward.
Trump’s decision to elevate Pulte has further complicated negotiations. Some lawmakers view the move as a deliberate provocation aimed at reshaping intelligence priorities.
The situation remains fluid, with no final deal expected before the weekend deadline. The outcome could reshape how U.S. intelligence agencies operate going forward.
