Lubbock Times

Washington, D.C. – House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) made a strong statement today as he voted against extending FISA surveillance authority.

“The FBI has abused its authority and violated the trust of the American people time and time again. Unaccountable and politically motivated bureaucrats have used their surveillance powers to conduct over 500 warrantless searches per day on U.S. citizens in violation of the Fourth Amendment right against unreasonable searches and seizures,” Arrington expressed.

He further emphasized, “The Constitution is clear, ‘The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.’”

In a significant move, Chairman Arrington also voted in favor of an amendment proposed by Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05) to halt warrantless searches on American citizens under FISA surveillance authority.