Story perspectives

Expired Surveillance Law Sparks Clash Over Pulte Director

6/14/2026

Center

Democrats Pressure Pulte

Democrats are leveraging the surveillance law’s expiration to pressure the White House over Bill Pulte’s intelligence director appointment.
The Intelligence Surveillance Act expired Saturday after Democrats blocked renewal, protesting President Donald Trump’s selection of Bill Pulte as director.
Republicans warn lapse endangers security as millions enter US for World Cup and 250th anniversary.
Leaders aim to confirm Jay Clayton as director before Bill Pulte assumes role on June 19.

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Senate Rejects Extension

Seven Republican senators also voted against the extension, joining Democrats over civil-liberties concerns and highlighting civil-liberties risks.
The House rejected a three-week Section 702 extension after President Donald Trump named real-estate developer Bill Pulte acting DNI.
Rep. Jim Himes warned Pulte would abuse authority, endangering national security.
Senate intelligence and judiciary chairs cautioned Secretary of State Marco Rubio about an intelligence-collection gap.

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Democrats Pressure Pulte

Democrats are leveraging the surveillance law’s expiration to pressure the White House over Bill Pulte’s intelligence director appointment.
The Intelligence Surveillance Act expired Saturday after Democrats blocked renewal, protesting President Donald Trump’s selection of Bill Pulte as director.
Republicans warn lapse endangers security as millions enter US for World Cup and 250th anniversary.
Leaders aim to confirm Jay Clayton as director before Bill Pulte assumes role on June 19.

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