STATEMENT: Gottheimer Statement on Passage of FISA 702

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, April 29, 2026, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) released the following statement:

“As a member of Congress and of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I took a solemn oath to protect Americans in New Jersey and beyond, and I take that obligation seriously. FISA Section 702 is critical to our fight against terrorists and others who seek to do us harm. It’s a critical intelligence tool against threats to our families and homeland, and was constructed with deep civil liberties protections. I’m deeply concerned that a vote against FISA Section 702 would put our national security and American lives at risk — plain and simple. 

This intelligence tool is especially important in the middle of the conflict with Iran, the world’s leading state sponsor of terror, a regime whose supporters chant ‘Death to America’ in the streets. Section 702 is how we collect intelligence on our enemies around the world. It is the life-saving tool that stops foreign threats before they reach American soil and ensures we have the intelligence we need to detect plots against us before it’s too late.

It has disrupted terrorist attacks, prevented Chinese fentanyl from reaching American streets, and thwarted Iranian and Russian cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. There is no substitute, and there is no excuse for letting it lapse.

I take privacy concerns seriously. That’s why I’ve supported reforms since 2018 to strengthen oversight and protect Americans’ constitutional rights.

But let’s be clear about what’s at stake: this crucial tool saves American lives. That is why I voted to reauthorize it.”

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