US surveillance law set to lapse after Congress blocks Trump’s nominee for intelligence chief

Congress has refused to confirm President Trump's nominee to head the United States intelligence agencies. The rejection triggers the expiration of the current US surveillance law for the first time. The law governs the authority of agencies such as the NSA to conduct electronic surveillance. Lawmakers described the nominee as controversial and raised concerns about his suitability. The lapse could leave a temporary gap in the legal framework for intelligence operations. Congress may need to pass a short‑term measure or new legislation to address the gap. The development has drawn attention from both security experts and civil‑rights observers. The deadline approaches, and the situation will be closely monitored.