President Donald Trump’s decision to halt the confirmation hearing for his pick to be the next Director of National Intelligence, Jay Clayton, has thrown a wrench into the Senate’s efforts to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This key counterterrorism tool allows the U.S. government to collect intelligence on foreigners abroad who are using U.S. communication systems.

Impact on National Security

The program is critical to thwarting terror plots abroad and has been used by the FBI to foil domestic terror plots, including a recent plot to use bomb-laden drones and snipers at a UFC event. However, the program also sweeps up communications from Americans who are talking to foreign suspects, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties.

Lawmakers are now back at the starting line, with some arguing that Trump’s actions are undermining national security. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said, ‘Trump’s actions overnight make it clear he is undermining our national security.’ Others, like Sen. Thom Tillis, contend that Trump’s current position is to ‘up the ante’ and that he needs to recognize the potential consequences of his actions.

The reauthorization of Section 702 has long been a policy-based issue, but it has now morphed into a deeply political issue. Democrats have recoiled at Trump’s nominations, including his pick for interim DNI, Bill Pulte, and his demand that his SAVE America Act be attached to the unrelated bill.

Some Republicans believe that Democrats made the issue political and own the current situation. Sen. Eric Schmitt said, ‘They’re just looking for some other reason to pin the tail on the donkey here, but it’s sort of — the ball’s in their court, but a lot of important issues at stake for sure.’ Others, like Sen. Josh Hawley, see the delay as an opportunity to push for more reforms and get rid of ‘ridiculous provisions’ in the program.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.