Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. SELF. Mr. Chair, it appears that the House of Representatives is experiencing a constitutional crisis of conscience. We are actually debating if a warrant should be required for government intelligence agencies to spy on Americans. Frankly, I am stunned this is even called into question, especially amongst my Republican colleagues.

The Constitution is absolutely clear. We, as Americans, have the right under the Fourth Amendment against unreasonable search and seizures, a right that the FBI has violated in over 278,000 improper searches of Americans and 3.4 million warrantless queries of Americans' private communications.

These facts are not up for debate. We know this. They have been caught. If we do not pass this warrant requirement, especially in light of these facts, the continued victimization of Americans by the FBI through FISA section 702 will be legitimized.

As an Army officer, as a county judge, and now as a Member of Congress, for 40 years I have been under oath to defend the Constitution against all enemies. I will do so today. On behalf of over 800,000 of my constituents in Texas District Three: Get a warrant.

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