On June 11, 2026, House Republicans are set to proceed with a vote to extend Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) until July 2. This authority, which allows the government to collect communications of noncitizens outside the U.S. without a warrant, is scheduled to expire on June 12. House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the measure requires a two-thirds majority to pass, but its success is considered unlikely. Johnson expressed hope for bipartisan support for a short-term extension.
The situation has been complicated by President Trump's recent appointment of Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence, which has drawn criticism from Democrats and some Republicans due to Pulte's lack of national security experience. Democrats have indicated they will not support the extension with Pulte in the role. Negotiations for a long-term renewal have faced challenges, particularly regarding concerns over warrantless surveillance of Americans.
Trump has urged Congress to approve a short-term extension to allow time for confirming a permanent intelligence chief. Senate Majority Leader John Thune noted that a permanent appointment could help garner support for FISA. Meanwhile, Rep. Rick Crawford warned that a lapse in the authority would lead to complications, while Rep. Jamie Raskin asserted that existing government surveillance activities would remain unaffected by the expiration.