Ted Cruz Blocks Bill to Extend Data Privacy Protections to All Americans
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) blocked a bill that would have extended data privacy protections for federal lawmakers and public officials to every American on Monday night, preventing the passage of the Protecting Americans from Doxing and Political Violence Act.
The legislation, sponsored by Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR), aimed to take bipartisan-passed provisions designed to protect government officials, lawmakers, and their families from having their personal information sold or traded by data brokers and extend them to every American and person living in the United States. According to Wyden, "Members of Congress should not receive special treatment. Our constituents deserve protection from violence, stalking, and other criminal threats."
Wyden's bill would have provided an additional layer of security for U.S. military and intelligence personnel, including undercover officers, by protecting everyone rather than just a select few. However, Cruz objected to the bill without evidence, claiming it could disrupt law enforcement efforts.
The Protecting Americans from Doxing and Political Violence Act was designed to address concerns over data brokers selling or trading personal information of government officials, which has led to instances of doxing and violence against them. Wyden's legislation aimed to prevent similar threats to everyday citizens by extending the same protections.
Cruz's objection to the bill highlights a long-standing debate in Congress about balancing individual rights with national security concerns. While some lawmakers argue that extended data privacy protections are necessary to safeguard citizens' personal information, others claim it could hinder law enforcement efforts.
The current status of the Protecting Americans from Doxing and Political Violence Act remains uncertain as Cruz's objection has effectively stalled its passage for now. Wyden has expressed his commitment to reintroducing the bill in the future, stating that he will continue to push for legislation that prioritizes the safety and security of all Americans.
In a statement, Cruz's office said that the senator "believes that law enforcement should have access to relevant information to keep communities safe." However, Wyden's office countered that the bill would not hinder law enforcement efforts but rather provide an additional layer of protection for citizens.
The debate over data privacy protections and national security concerns is likely to continue in Congress as lawmakers weigh the importance of safeguarding individual rights against the need to ensure public safety.
*Reporting by Techcrunch.*
