“Wyden Sparks Senate Showdown Over NSA Surveillance Secrets”

24 DAILY NEWS – Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., is once again at the center of controversy regarding potential abuses by the NSA, igniting a heated exchange on the Senate floor Thursday.

### Court Opinion on NSA Data Usage

Wyden emphasized the need for public awareness of a secret court opinion that criticized the Trump administration’s handling of data collected by the National Security Agency (NSA). In response, Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Tom Cotton, R-Ark., cautioned against “distorting highly classified material,” suggesting there could be repercussions for such actions.

This exchange unfolded during discussions about reauthorizing a contentious domestic spying program. The tension showcased Wyden’s growing influence, particularly among colleagues who support the NSA’s activities and wish for the program to be renewed without amendments.

### Congressional Action

Ultimately, Congress voted to extend the program by 45 days, allowing for further negotiations. Wyden had requested a shorter extension but achieved a concession when Cotton and Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va

Marcus Hale

War correspondent who has reported from frontlines across the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

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