Franklin Statement On FISA Section 702 Extension

Congressman Scott Franklin issued the following statement on the extension of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA):

"The threats facing our country aren't theoretical-they're active, evolving and increasingly complex. From China, Russia and Iran to terrorist networks, our adversaries are constantly working to coordinate attacks, target our servicemembers overseas, and probe for vulnerabilities here at home, whether that's cyberattacks, espionage or threats to critical infrastructure.

"As a veteran who has spent my career focused on national security, I've seen firsthand how critical timely, accurate intelligence is to staying ahead of those threats. Section 702 is a foreign intelligence tool used to track targets overseas, and it has helped identify terror plots, disrupt foreign surveillance efforts, and provide early warning of threats before they reach our shores.

"Just as important, Americans expect their privacy and constitutional rights to be protected, and that must remain a priority. Section 702 cannot be used to target American citizens, and any U.S. person information collected is incidental, meaning it arises when a foreign target is communicating with or about someone in the United States. That information is tightly controlled, access is limited, and its use is restricted to legitimate foreign intelligence purposes, not monitoring Americans.

"Congress has strengthened these guardrails with clearer standards, enhanced oversight by the Department of Justice, and regular audits to ensure this authority remains focused on foreign threats while protecting Americans' civil liberties. After weighing the national security risks alongside the safeguards in place, I believe maintaining this authority is necessary to keep Americans safe while upholding the privacy rights we value as a nation. That's why I supported this extension."

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