I have long defended the fundamental right to privacy that every American enjoys. As our world continues to transition essential services and everyday tasks online, this right to privacy does not change. I believe it is possible to keep our country safe, without infringing on the privacy of innocent Americans. Any government surveillance of Americans must be conducted with proper authority and oversight. This oversight role is reserved for Congress, and not a part of my public service that I take lightly.

Our government’s ability to collect data from American citizens is wide-ranging, extending into the everyday lives of American citizens. These powers require constant vetting and oversight. In my first term in Congress, I have joined bipartisan efforts to oppose mass collection of citizen data without warrants and voted to reform the FISA process.

While it is entirely appropriate for the federal government to surveil credible national security threats, recent efforts by some in Congress seek to expand the data collection powers of agencies like the Department of Education and Department of Health and Human Services for partisan means. These efforts include requiring DOE to collect information from families on “gun storage practices,” then tying this data to federal funds. I oppose these efforts and will keep your privacy rights at the forefront of any legislative discussion.