Wyden, Lofgren Criticize DOJ’s FISA Extension Request

It’s “utterly ridiculous” DOJ is attempting to circumvent Congress by reauthorizing its surveillance authorities through the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said Thursday. DOJ is reportedly seeking a yearlong extension of its surveillance powers under Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Section 702, which expires in April (see 2312140052). It’s “utterly ridiculous that the Biden Administration and the Justice Department would rather risk the long-term future of an important surveillance authority than support a single meaningful reform to protect Americans’ rights,” said Wyden. Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif., also denounced DOJ’s request: It’s “extraordinary that, despite broad support for substantial reform, the Department of Justice is discreetly attempting to bypass the legislative process to secure another surveillance reauthorization. This is unacceptable, and completely undermines the authority of the Congress.” Demand Progress Policy Director Sean Vitka called DOJ's request a "gross betrayal of the American people." DOJ didn’t comment.