Intelligence director nominee faces Democratic opposition ahead of surveillance law deadline
Republicans acknowledge that the nominee may need to be replaced to secure enough votes for extending a key foreign intelligence authority. Democrats have stated they will not support the extension unless the appointment is withdrawn.
Washington ExaminerRepublicans have acknowledged that the nominee to lead the U.S. intelligence community may need to be replaced if Congress is to extend expiring foreign surveillance authorities. The extension requires Democratic support to overcome a filibuster and avoid a lapse in Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.
The nominee also serves as federal housing finance regulator. Democrats have said they will not vote for the extension while the nominee holds the acting intelligence post.
Senate statements Senate Majority Leader John Thune said the measure cannot pass without Democratic votes. Sen. John Cornyn stated he is still seeking evidence of the nominee's qualifications and that Democrats will not support the extension until the appointment is withdrawn.
House position House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said reversing the appointment is a starting point and called the appointment unacceptable. Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Tom Cotton has not defended the nominee's qualifications for the role. The current extension expires Friday. Administration officials have urged Congress to authorize an extension before that date.
