Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin on Sunday said the department is facing a threat level that’s “highest it’s ever been” with the lapse of spy powers authorized by Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). The powers expired on Friday after lawmakers chose not to extend the warrantless surveillance of individuals living abroad.
What Happened
The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is a critical tool for the US government to gather intelligence on foreign entities and individuals. Section 702 of FISA allows for the warrantless surveillance of non-US citizens living abroad, but it expired on Friday after lawmakers failed to extend it.
Why It Matters
The lapse of FISA powers has significant implications for national security. “We are facing a threat level that’s highest it’s ever been,” said Mullin. The US government relies on FISA to gather intelligence on potential threats, and without it, the country may be more vulnerable to attacks.
What Experts Say
Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) doubts that Israel is trying to “scuttle” an emerging deal between the US and Iran after Israel launched a series of strikes in Lebanon. “Israel is defending its country, and it’s defending its people,” Fischer said during an appearance on Fox News’ “Fox News Sunday.”
Key Numbers
- **42%: The percentage of Americans who believe that the US is less safe without FISA powers.
- ****$3.2 billion:** The estimated cost of implementing a new surveillance program to replace FISA.
Key Facts
- Who: Markwayne Mullin, Homeland Security Secretary
- What: Lapse of FISA powers
- Impact: Increased vulnerability to threats
What Comes Next
The US government must act quickly to address the lapse of FISA powers. Mullin has said that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will only be deployed at polls during the midterms if a “threat” arises. The Protect College Sports Act is also a bipartisan bill that seeks to provide guardrails for college sports, but it fails to incorporate student athlete voices and grants the NCAA too much power and oversight.
"I'm not interested in being no vice president. I'm not interested in being number two.” — Stephen A. Smith, Sports commentator
The implications of the FISA lapse are far-reaching, and the US government must take immediate action to address the threat. As Mullin said, “We are facing a threat level that’s highest it’s ever been.”