FISA Section 702 Lapses as DNI Office Faces Turmoil
The unprecedented lapse of FISA Section 702 — one of America's most powerful foreign surveillance tools — combined with the chaotic transition at the DNI office represents a significant national security disruption with bipartisan implications.
The Morning Brief · June 14, 2026 · Based on reporting by The Verge
Congress this week failed to renew FISA Section 702, allowing the warrantless foreign-surveillance authority to lapse Friday after the House voted 218-198 against a three-week extension. The lapse is the first time the authority has expired since its enactment. The law allows intelligence agencies to collect communications of foreign targets overseas. Analysts said existing collection infrastructure would not immediately go dark. But new targeting orders could not be issued.
The week also brought upheaval at the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Tulsi Gabbard's designated successor, Bill Pulte, called Gabbard on Tuesday and told her the day was her last -- an abrupt removal that drew criticism from both parties. Trump subsequently nominated Jay Clayton, the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York and former SEC chairman, as his permanent Director of National Intelligence.
Sources
The Verge — A warrantless wiretap law is about to expire — but surveillance networks aren't actually 'going dark'
The House voted 218-198 against a three-week extension of FISA Section 702, putting the warrantless foreign-surveillance authority on track to lapse Friday.
Axios — Scoop: Pulte sought Gabbard's early removal as intel czar
Tulsi Gabbard, the outgoing director of national intelligence, got an unexpected call Tuesday from her controversial successor, Bill Pulte: 'Today is your last day.'
Fox News Politics — Trump nominates Jay Clayton, former SEC chairman, as intelligence director
Trump tapped Jay Clayton, the US attorney for the Southern District of New York and former SEC chair, as his permanent Director of National Intelligence after the Bill Pulte controversy.
