Tensions Rise Over FISA Renewal and SAVE America Act

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) has stated that the renewal of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act’s (FISA) warrantless spying powers is unlikely to succeed unless it is coupled with the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act. In an interview, Luna emphasized, “I think FISA dies unless SAVE America is attached. Period.” The SAVE America Act, which has already passed in the House, mandates proof of citizenship for voter registration and requires identification for casting ballots in federal elections. However, Senate Democrats have indicated they will not support the bill, making its future uncertain.

The Hill

Luna's strategy aims to leverage the urgency surrounding the renewal of Section 702 of FISA, which permits the government to surveil foreign individuals without a warrant, to advance the SAVE America Act. This approach seeks to apply pressure on Senate Democrats to reconsider their stance. Former President Donald Trump and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) have advocated for a straightforward 18-month extension of Section 702, urging House Republicans to present a united front. Trump has called for party cohesion, stating, “I am asking Republicans to UNIFY, and vote together on the test vote to bring a clean Bill to the floor.”

The Hill

Despite the push for a clean extension of FISA, several House Republicans have expressed opposition to the measure. Rep. Eric Burlison (R-Mo.) criticized the idea of a clean vote on FISA, arguing that it overlooks the constitutional rights of citizens, which he believes are being compromised by the intelligence community. Similarly, Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) has voiced concerns regarding government surveillance of American citizens, indicating a significant divide within the party on the issue.

The Hill

Speaker Mike Johnson has reiterated the importance of a clean extension of FISA, warning that adding amendments could jeopardize its passage. He stated, “It’s going to be a clean extension, and if we put amendments on it, it jeopardizes its passage, and it’s far too important.” This sentiment reflects the urgency felt by some GOP leaders regarding the FISA renewal.

The Hill

The future of both the FISA renewal and the SAVE America Act remains uncertain, with conflicting opinions within the Republican Party. While some members advocate for a clean extension of FISA, others are staunchly opposed, citing concerns over civil liberties. The Senate's position on the SAVE America Act further complicates the legislative landscape, as Democratic opposition could hinder its progress.

The Hill

• “I think FISA dies unless SAVE America is attached. Period,” — Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, (R-Fla.)

The Hill

• “I am asking Republicans to UNIFY, and vote together on the test vote to bring a clean Bill to the floor.” — Former President Donald Trump

The Hill

• “It’s going to be a clean extension, and if we put amendments on it, it jeopardizes its passage, and it’s far too important.” — Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.)

The Hill

• “ignoring the fact that my constituents and their constitutional rights are being trampled on pretty much everyday by our intelligence community through FISA.” — Rep. Eric Burlison (R-Mo.)

The Hill