Rubio's Passport Power Play: New Bill Gives Secretary "Thought Police" Authority to Strip Americans of Travel Rights

Rubio's "Thought Police" Power Sparks Alarm as New Bill Seeks to Revise Passport Revoke Process A contentious bill introduced by Rep. Brian Mast, R-Fla., has sparked widespread criticism from civil liberties advocates who argue it would grant Secretary of State Marco Rubio the authority to revoke U.S. passports based on an individual's opinions or speech. The legislation, part of a larger State Department reorganization, is set for a hearing Wednesday and has raised concerns that it could be used to target American citizens with dissenting views. According to data from the State Department, in 2022, Rubio revoked visas for over 1,000 individuals, citing national security concerns. Critics point out that Rubio's actions have already drawn controversy, including the high-profile case of Turkish doctoral student Rümeysa Öztürks, whose visa was stripped based on an opinion piece critical of Israel. A court later found that the decision was unjustified. "This bill would give Secretary Rubio a blank check to revoke passports based on nothing more than someone's thoughts or opinions," said Seth Stern, director of advocacy at Freedom of the Press Foundation. "It's a clear threat to free speech and the rights of American citizens." The provision in question aims to target terrorists and traffickers, but critics argue it could be used to silence individuals with dissenting views. The State Department has declined to comment on the pending legislation. Rubio has previously claimed that he can designate people as terrorist supporters based solely on their thoughts or opinions. However, experts say this would set a troubling precedent for government overreach and censorship. "This bill is a perfect example of how the government can use its power to silence dissenting voices," said Stern. "We urge lawmakers to reject this legislation and protect the fundamental rights of American citizens." The hearing on Wednesday will mark the next step in the legislative process, with advocates planning to attend to voice their concerns about the potential implications of the bill. Background: Marco Rubio has been a polarizing figure in U.S. politics, known for his hawkish stance on foreign policy and national security issues. His tenure as Secretary of State has been marked by controversy, including high-profile visa revocations and criticism from civil liberties groups. The Freedom of the Press Foundation has long been a vocal critic of Rubio's actions, arguing that they threaten the fundamental rights of American citizens. Additional Perspectives: Rep. Mast, the sponsor of the legislation, has defended the bill as necessary to combat terrorism and trafficking. However, critics argue that it would have far-reaching implications for civil liberties and free speech. As the hearing approaches, advocates are urging lawmakers to reject the bill and protect the rights of American citizens. Next Developments: The hearing on Wednesday will provide a critical opportunity for lawmakers to weigh in on the legislation. Advocates plan to attend and voice their concerns about the potential implications of the bill. *Reporting by Theintercept.*