Conservative holdouts in the House of Representatives are showing signs of warming up to modifications proposed to the legislation reauthorizing the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). This shift comes after a procedural vote related to the bill failed, causing an embarrassing defeat for House Republican leadership.
The revised version of the bill now proposes a two-year reauthorization instead of the initially proposed five years. This change means that if former President Donald Trump were to win the upcoming presidential election, the legislation would be up for review during his potential second term, allowing him to potentially overhaul FISA laws.
Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida expressed support for the new version, stating that it gives President Trump an opportunity to address issues that affected him during his presidency. Gaetz pledged to back the rule vote on the floor, which could take place as soon as Friday.
Hardliners within the GOP view the two-year reauthorization as a significant win. Additionally, an agreement has been reached to hold a separate floor vote next week on data privacy legislation proposed by Republican Rep. Warren Davidson of Ohio.
While some lawmakers, like GOP Rep. Cory Mills of Florida, are still undecided on the rule, they are showing signs of warming up to the idea following concessions made by Republican leadership. Mills emphasized that his support for the underlying legislation hinges on the adoption of the Davidson amendment.
Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, who initially voted against the rule, expressed optimism about the progress being made. He highlighted ongoing conversations aimed at securing the necessary votes for the bill.
Republican Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida confirmed her support for the rule vote, indicating that negotiations have been fruitful. South Carolina GOP Rep. Ralph Norman also expressed satisfaction with the changes made to the bill.
House GOP leadership has been in communication with President Trump regarding the bill. Majority Leader Steve Scalise mentioned that discussions with Trump have taken place, with the president expressing support for the two-year sunset provision in the revised bill.
House Speaker Mike Johnson is scheduled to meet with Trump in Florida on Friday to further discuss the legislation.
