Congress Poised to Renew Surveillance Authority Abused by US Intel Agencies

December 10, 2023

WASHINGTON – In a controversial move, Congress is set to renew surveillance authority that has been widely criticized for being abused by US intelligence agencies. The decision has raised concerns among privacy advocates who argue that it infringes on civil liberties and undermines the Fourth Amendment rights of American citizens.

The surveillance authority in question is known as Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). It allows the National Security Agency (NSA) to collect and analyze communications of foreign individuals located outside the United States. However, it has been revealed that the NSA has used this authority to collect and store vast amounts of data on American citizens without obtaining a warrant.

Representative Thomas Massie, a vocal critic of government surveillance, took to Twitter to express his concerns about the renewal of Section 702. He warned the public to pay attention to this issue, highlighting the potential for abuse by US intelligence agencies.

The controversy surrounding Section 702 dates back several years. In 2013, whistleblower Edward Snowden leaked classified documents revealing the extent of the NSA’s surveillance programs. The revelations sparked a nationwide debate about the balance between national security and individual privacy.

Privacy advocates argue that Section 702 violates the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. They argue that the collection of data on American citizens without a warrant is a clear violation of their constitutional rights.

However, supporters of Section 702 argue that it is a vital tool in the fight against terrorism and other national security threats. They claim that the surveillance programs have helped to prevent numerous attacks and save countless lives.

Opponents of the renewal of Section 702 are calling for stricter oversight and accountability measures to prevent abuse. They argue that the current system lacks transparency and allows for unchecked surveillance.

Several bills have been introduced in Congress to reform Section 702 and address the concerns raised by privacy advocates. However, critics argue that these bills do not go far enough in protecting civil liberties and ensuring proper oversight.

The renewal of Section 702 is expected to be a contentious issue in Congress. Lawmakers will have to weigh the need for national security against the protection of individual privacy rights.

Public opinion on the issue is divided. Some argue that the surveillance programs are necessary to keep the country safe, while others believe that they infringe on basic rights and freedoms.

As the debate continues, it is important for citizens to stay informed and engaged in the discussion. The renewal of Section 702 will have far-reaching implications for privacy and civil liberties in the United States.

In conclusion, Congress is poised to renew surveillance authority that has been criticized for being abused by US intelligence agencies. The renewal of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act has raised concerns among privacy advocates who argue that it infringes on civil liberties and violates the Fourth Amendment rights of American citizens. The debate over the renewal of Section 702 will shape the future of surveillance and privacy in the United States.

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Please pay attention.
Breaking: Congress poised to renew surveillance authority abused by US Intel agencies@RepThomasMassie https://t.co/M3ps3PhurJ

— Sharyl Attkisson (@SharylAttkisson) December 10, 2023

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@SharylAttkisson said Please pay attention. Breaking: Congress poised to renew surveillance authority abused by US Intel agencies @RepThomasMassie podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/shary…

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