A powerful US surveillance law is set to expire – what happens now?

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) is set to expire as Congress has failed to reauthorize the controversial surveillance law. The law's broad reach has come under scrutiny, particularly in light of Donald Trump's efforts to appoint a new Director of National Intelligence (DNI). Privacy advocates argue that Section 702 warrants significant review and reform, irrespective of the individual nominated for the DNI position. The expiration of this law raises questions about the future of US surveillance capabilities and the balance between national security and individual privacy. The debate surrounding Section 702 involves concerns about its potential for misuse and the need for greater transparency and accountability in its application. Its reauthorization has become a point of contention, highlighting deep divisions on surveillance policy within the US government.