Marjorie Taylor Greene Critiques "New MAGA" Over FISA Support

Former Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene publicly criticized what she termed the “new MAGA” for its support of extending the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). In a video posted on X, Greene expressed her discontent with Republicans backing the FISA extension, particularly in light of President Donald Trump's recent call for a clean reauthorization of the act. FISA is a significant national security law that governs the government's ability to collect intelligence, and it has faced scrutiny from both sides of the political aisle regarding privacy issues.

Newsweek

President Donald Trump urged Republicans to "unify" in support of a clean extension of FISA ahead of an impending vote. This marks a notable shift from his previous stance, as he had opposed FISA reauthorization two years prior. Greene highlighted this inconsistency, stating, “I'm having a really hard time keeping up with what is the new MAGA now. Apparently, the new MAGA is for warrantless spying on Americans.” She emphasized that during her time in Congress, many conservative Republicans, including Trump, had consistently opposed warrantless surveillance.

Newsweek

Greene's remarks reflect a broader concern among some conservatives about the implications of FISA's reauthorization. She articulated her frustration with the current Republican leadership's stance, arguing that it contradicts the foundational principles that many in the party once championed. “But now that Donald Trump is president, he wants a clean reauthorization of FISA. Don't add anything about warrant requirements, nothing. Just pass it so that the federal government can do whatever they want and continue to spy on whoever they want,” Greene stated.

Newsweek

In her video, Greene's critique underscored a growing divide within the Republican Party regarding surveillance policies. While Trump has positioned himself in favor of extending FISA, Greene's opposition highlights a faction that remains wary of government overreach and the erosion of civil liberties. This internal conflict raises questions about the future direction of the Republican Party and its alignment with traditional conservative values.

Newsweek

There is a notable discrepancy in the Republican Party's stance on FISA, with some members supporting its extension while others, like Greene, vehemently oppose it. This division reflects broader tensions within the party regarding issues of privacy and government surveillance, which may impact future legislative decisions.

Newsweek

• “I'm having a really hard time keeping up with what is the new MAGA now. Apparently, the new MAGA is forwarrantless spying on Americans. This has always been an issue that President Trump and especially conservative Republicans, when I served in Congress, we all said there should never be warrantless spying on Americans,” — Marjorie Taylor Greene, Former Representative

Newsweek

• “But now that Donald Trump is president, he wants a clean reauthorization of FISA. Don't add anything about warrant requirements, nothing. Just pass it so that the federal government can do whatever they want and continue to spy on whoever they want,” — Marjorie Taylor Greene, Former Representative

Newsweek

As the debate over FISA continues, the implications for privacy rights and government surveillance remain a contentious issue within the Republican Party, highlighting the evolving dynamics of its ideological landscape.

Newsweek