WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump authorized a temporary extension of a disputed intelligence surveillance program on Saturday, keeping the controversial powers active until April 30th in a move that ensures continued congressional battles ahead.
The Senate approved the temporary measure on Friday during frantic last-minute negotiations to keep the surveillance authority from lapsing within days. Trump and fellow Republican leaders have advocated for the program’s continuation, arguing it serves essential national security purposes, while opponents raise concerns about potential violations of civil rights.
The legislative fight centers around Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which allows intelligence agencies including the CIA, National Security Agency, and FBI to gather and examine extensive overseas communications without obtaining warrants. This process can inadvertently capture communications involving U.S. citizens who communicate with foreign surveillance targets.
Renewing this surveillance authority has repeatedly sparked intense congressional disputes.
Trump and Republican leadership had sought a straightforward 18-month extension, while House Republicans proposed a five-year renewal with modifications designed to satisfy program critics on Thursday. When both proposals failed to gain sufficient support, congressional leaders shifted to the temporary solution.
Program opponents are demanding reforms, particularly requiring warrants before intelligence officials can examine emails, phone conversations, or text messages involving American citizens.
Trump approved the legislation on Saturday without issuing public statements. The surveillance authority was scheduled to lapse on Monday.
