With Privacy Safeguards in Dispute, Trump Officials Press Congress to Renew Spying Law in Lame Duck Session

Officials seek quick renewal

The administration pressed senior lawmakers on Friday to renew Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act within a month. The request comes during the final weeks of a Republican-controlled Congress.

In a letter to congressional leaders, Attorney General Todd Blanche, Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton and C.I.A. Director John Ratcliffe said President Trump had urged them to pursue an extension now. They described the law as essential to national security.

The officials wrote that Section 702 helps intelligence agencies detect and disrupt terrorist plots, cyber intrusions and weapons proliferation. They also argued that no other authority could take its place.

Privacy safeguards remain disputed

Renewal could provoke a fresh dispute in Congress, whether lawmakers consider the measure on its own or attach it to a larger package such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act. Privacy and civil liberties advocates from both parties have sought additional restrictions. One proposal would require a judge’s permission before the government deliberately accesses messages belonging to Americans whose communications were collected under the program.

Wyden favors waiting

Senator Ron Wyden, an Oregon Democrat who supports tighter limits, said the issue should be postponed until the next Congress. Democrats will control that Congress. His position underscores the political challenge facing the administration’s request as lawmakers weigh extending surveillance powers against calls for stronger privacy protections.