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Version 14 Version 15
Rand Paul declares 'filibuster' in bid to derail Patriot Act extension – live Rand Paul declares 'filibuster' in bid to derail Patriot Act extension – live
(about 1 hour later)
11.38pm ET04:38
Ted Cruz is taking care to support Rand Paul’s push for amendments right now while still differentiating himself.
The Texas senator has talked extensively so far about the threat posed by terrorism. Cruz, who is also making a play for libertarian leaning voters who supported Ron Paul but are still skeptical of Rand, also went out of his way to praise Ron Paul at the beginning of his remarks.
11.29pm ET04:29
Ted Cruz is now on speaking on the floor.
He is the third Republican to participate and the first 2016 presidential candidate to speak today. The Texas senator is delivering a very gracious tribute both to Rand Paul as well as to Rand’s father, former congressman Ron Paul.
Cruz has been a co-sponsor of the USA Freedom Act and voted for it in 2014 when the Senate last considered NSA reform.
11.26pm ET04:26
It’s worth noting a number of members of the House of Representatives are watching Rand Paul on the floor.
These include longtime Paul ally Tom Massie of Kentucky as well as vehement conservative Ted Yoho of Florida.
11.22pm ET04:22
Although Ted Cruz had been presiding over the Senate, he’s now been replaced by fellow 2016 candidate Marco Rubio. Is this a sign that Cruz, after repeated trolling by Paul’s superPAC online, might participate?
10 hours of Rand Paul talking. And now, Marco Rubio is presiding over the Senate. http://t.co/JgyqvsQFo1
11.20pm ET04:20
Rand Paul is speaking again after Mike Lee’s half-hour long “question.”
However, the Kentucky Republican looks to be in far less robust shape than he has been in the past. Paul’s voice is getting hoarse and he’s holding on to both a chair and his desk for support as he speaks.
11.17pm ET04:17
Paul's filibuster now hits the ten hour mark
Despite the fact that the Kentucky senator hasn’t spoken for over a half-hour, his filibuster has now gone on for ten hours.
While Paul has continued to stay on the floor of the Senate, Utah Republican Mike Lee has delivered an extended speech on the Fourth Amendment and a Supreme Court case called Smith v. Maryland for the past 30 minutes.
Lee is one of two Republicans to participate in the filibuster and join Paul on the floor. The only other so far has been freshman Montana senator Steve Daines.
11.14pm ET04:14
Mike Lee is now suggesting that Smith v. Maryland, one of the most important Fourth Amendment cases on the books might not have been decided correctly.
However, he says even if it was decided correctly, it isn’t applicable precedent to section 215 of the Patriot Act. He said comparing the case, which said that police could use a pen register installed at central telephone exchange to monitor all the numbers dialed from a specific line to Section 215, was like comparing a pony ride to a trip to the Moon and back.
11.06pm ET04:06
Mike Lee’s question for Rand Paul so far has gone on for 20 minutes and shows no sign of stopping.
During Ted Cruz’s extended quasi-filibuster in 2013, Lee asked a “question,” which lasted for roughly 50 minutes in an attempt to spell the Texas senator.
10.44pm ET03:4410.44pm ET03:44
Mike Lee is back on the floor asking Paul a question.Mike Lee is back on the floor asking Paul a question.
The Utah Republican is the first member of his party to show up on the floor in several hours. Lee is advocating simply for the Senate to pass the USA Freedom Act as approved by the House as opposed to the tougher measures advocated by Paul.The Utah Republican is the first member of his party to show up on the floor in several hours. Lee is advocating simply for the Senate to pass the USA Freedom Act as approved by the House as opposed to the tougher measures advocated by Paul.
10.31pm ET03:3110.31pm ET03:31
While Rand Paul is going back and forth with Democratic colleagues on the Senate floor, his superPAC is trolling a Republican senator on Twitter.While Rand Paul is going back and forth with Democratic colleagues on the Senate floor, his superPAC is trolling a Republican senator on Twitter.
America’s Liberty PAC, an outside group backing Paul which he has endorsed and which is run by Jesse Benton, a longtime Paul aide who is married to a niece of the Kentucky senator, went after Lindsey Graham on Twitter tonight.America’s Liberty PAC, an outside group backing Paul which he has endorsed and which is run by Jesse Benton, a longtime Paul aide who is married to a niece of the Kentucky senator, went after Lindsey Graham on Twitter tonight.
Graham is one of the biggest hawks in the GOP and is running for President against Paul in the 2016 Republican primary.Graham is one of the biggest hawks in the GOP and is running for President against Paul in the 2016 Republican primary.
Hi. My name's @LindseyGrahamSC. I'm from South Carolina. And I'd like to read your emails. I don't #StandWithRand pic.twitter.com/fTkALs4TUzHi. My name's @LindseyGrahamSC. I'm from South Carolina. And I'd like to read your emails. I don't #StandWithRand pic.twitter.com/fTkALs4TUz
10.18pm ET03:1810.18pm ET03:18
Wyden: Paul's filibuster hitting "the home stretch"Wyden: Paul's filibuster hitting "the home stretch"
Oregon Democrat Ron Wyden has been a staunch ally of Rand Paul in the fight against NSA surveillance. He’s repeatedly been on the floor in the course of Paul’s filibuster and just referenced that the Kentucky senator is in “the home stretch” of his speech.Oregon Democrat Ron Wyden has been a staunch ally of Rand Paul in the fight against NSA surveillance. He’s repeatedly been on the floor in the course of Paul’s filibuster and just referenced that the Kentucky senator is in “the home stretch” of his speech.
Wyden seems to be hinting that Paul will leave the floor just after midnight. Paul’s office has long said that his goal is force at least another day of debate on potential renewal of the Patriot Act and he simply needs to speak past midnight to accomplish this goal. Although Paul can hold the floor until 1PM tomorrow under Senate rules, he simply needs to speak until 12:01AM to accomplish his goal.Wyden seems to be hinting that Paul will leave the floor just after midnight. Paul’s office has long said that his goal is force at least another day of debate on potential renewal of the Patriot Act and he simply needs to speak past midnight to accomplish this goal. Although Paul can hold the floor until 1PM tomorrow under Senate rules, he simply needs to speak until 12:01AM to accomplish his goal.
And, based on Wyden’s comments, that’s all the Kentucky senator seems likely to do for now.And, based on Wyden’s comments, that’s all the Kentucky senator seems likely to do for now.
10.15pm ET03:1510.15pm ET03:15
Rand Paul’s filibuster, which is just now hitting nine hours, was not the most anticipated television event of the night when the day started.Rand Paul’s filibuster, which is just now hitting nine hours, was not the most anticipated television event of the night when the day started.
Tonight is also the last episode of the Late Show with David Letterman. If Paul goes past 11:30, he’ll create a conflict between those trying to choose between his filibuster and Letterman’s last show.Tonight is also the last episode of the Late Show with David Letterman. If Paul goes past 11:30, he’ll create a conflict between those trying to choose between his filibuster and Letterman’s last show.
Does this mean Paul is a closet Leno fan? Or is it just a coincidence?Does this mean Paul is a closet Leno fan? Or is it just a coincidence?
Curious if the fact that Rand Paul doing his filibuster on the night of David Letterman's last show means he prefers LenoCurious if the fact that Rand Paul doing his filibuster on the night of David Letterman's last show means he prefers Leno
10.11pm ET03:1110.11pm ET03:11
If you’re wondering where Ted Cruz is tonight, the Texas senator is currently presiding over the Senate while Rand Paul continues his filibuster.If you’re wondering where Ted Cruz is tonight, the Texas senator is currently presiding over the Senate while Rand Paul continues his filibuster.
Cruz has also been a skeptic of NSA surveillance but is also running for President against Rand PaulCruz has also been a skeptic of NSA surveillance but is also running for President against Rand Paul
Bloomberg’s Dave Weigel notes that Cruz is now in the chamber.Bloomberg’s Dave Weigel notes that Cruz is now in the chamber.
Ted Cruz just came to the Senate floor to preside. So he'll be sitting behind Rand for all the #standing.Ted Cruz just came to the Senate floor to preside. So he'll be sitting behind Rand for all the #standing.
10.00pm ET03:0010.00pm ET03:00
On the floor just now, Senator Richard Blumenthal described the abuses of the Star Chamber as one of the reasons for the Fourth Amendment and the need for strong privacy protections.On the floor just now, Senator Richard Blumenthal described the abuses of the Star Chamber as one of the reasons for the Fourth Amendment and the need for strong privacy protections.
The Star Chamber is not a term out of science fiction, despite its name.The Star Chamber is not a term out of science fiction, despite its name.
Instead, it was an infamous British court during the 17th century which met in secret and was used by King Charles I as a bulwark of his arbitrary rule after dissolving Parliament in 1629.Instead, it was an infamous British court during the 17th century which met in secret and was used by King Charles I as a bulwark of his arbitrary rule after dissolving Parliament in 1629.
It was eventually abolished on the eve of the English Civil War but the term continues to be used as shorthand for an arbitrary court.It was eventually abolished on the eve of the English Civil War but the term continues to be used as shorthand for an arbitrary court.
And, if you’re wondering, the name Star Chamber comes from the room where the court met in the Palace of Westminster. Its ceiling was painted with images of golden stars on a blue background.And, if you’re wondering, the name Star Chamber comes from the room where the court met in the Palace of Westminster. Its ceiling was painted with images of golden stars on a blue background.
9.41pm ET02:419.41pm ET02:41
Connecticut’s Richard Blumenthal has become the seventh Democrat to come to the floor and speak in the course of Rand Paul’s filibuster.Connecticut’s Richard Blumenthal has become the seventh Democrat to come to the floor and speak in the course of Rand Paul’s filibuster.
In contrast, Utah’s Mike Lee and Montana’s Steve Daines are the only other Republicans to participate so far.In contrast, Utah’s Mike Lee and Montana’s Steve Daines are the only other Republicans to participate so far.
Updated at 9.47pm ETUpdated at 9.47pm ET
9.34pm ET02:349.34pm ET02:34
Unsurprisingly, Rand Paul’s family is supporting him.Unsurprisingly, Rand Paul’s family is supporting him.
The Campaign for Liberty, a non-profit run by former Congressman Ron Paul, tweeted a picture of the Kentucky senator’s parents showing their support of their son’s ongoing talkathon.The Campaign for Liberty, a non-profit run by former Congressman Ron Paul, tweeted a picture of the Kentucky senator’s parents showing their support of their son’s ongoing talkathon.
C4L Chairman @RonPaul and his wife Carol stand with their son Rand to end NSA spying. Do you? #StandWithRand pic.twitter.com/3Y8ag7iedVC4L Chairman @RonPaul and his wife Carol stand with their son Rand to end NSA spying. Do you? #StandWithRand pic.twitter.com/3Y8ag7iedV
9.32pm ET02:329.32pm ET02:32
With Paul’s filibuster attracting significant press attention, his campaign has announced that three Republican congressmen are available as surrogates to take questions. (Obviously, the Kentucky senator can’t leave the Senate chamber to talk to reporters).With Paul’s filibuster attracting significant press attention, his campaign has announced that three Republican congressmen are available as surrogates to take questions. (Obviously, the Kentucky senator can’t leave the Senate chamber to talk to reporters).
The three are Justin Amash of Michigan, Raul Labrador of Idaho and Thomas Massie of Kentucky. All three have backed Paul’s presidential campaigns and are stalwart members of libertarian leaning Freedom Caucus in the House.The three are Justin Amash of Michigan, Raul Labrador of Idaho and Thomas Massie of Kentucky. All three have backed Paul’s presidential campaigns and are stalwart members of libertarian leaning Freedom Caucus in the House.
9.21pm ET02:219.21pm ET02:21
Can Rand Paul live with the USA Freedom Act?Can Rand Paul live with the USA Freedom Act?
My Pulitzer Prize winning colleague Spencer Ackerman has some smart analysis on whether Rand Paul can accept the Patriot Act reforms that have already been passed by the House. The Kentucky senator voted against similar legislation in 2014 because he thought it did not go far enough to reign in government surveillance.My Pulitzer Prize winning colleague Spencer Ackerman has some smart analysis on whether Rand Paul can accept the Patriot Act reforms that have already been passed by the House. The Kentucky senator voted against similar legislation in 2014 because he thought it did not go far enough to reign in government surveillance.
An unsettled issue hanging over Rand Paul’s marathon opposition to bulk surveillance is whether he will ultimately be satisfied with the reform bill the House passed last week, the USA Freedom Act. The complicated, compromise bill would both divest the NSA of its domestic bulk phone metadata databases and retain the rest of Section 215 of the Patriot Act. Paul, who wants to junk Section 215 outright, has left his support (or, to put it differently, the strength of his opposition) ambiguous.An unsettled issue hanging over Rand Paul’s marathon opposition to bulk surveillance is whether he will ultimately be satisfied with the reform bill the House passed last week, the USA Freedom Act. The complicated, compromise bill would both divest the NSA of its domestic bulk phone metadata databases and retain the rest of Section 215 of the Patriot Act. Paul, who wants to junk Section 215 outright, has left his support (or, to put it differently, the strength of his opposition) ambiguous.
Even now, it’s a question of emphasis -- whether you stress Paul’s point or whether you stress his caveat. But he’s clearly not happy with the bill. Paul thinks its loose definitions of the persons, places and things permissible to collect will yield “bulky” collection: something perhaps not as vast as undifferentiated data gathering, but something closer to it than the flat prohibitions the USA Freedom Act’s proponents contend.Even now, it’s a question of emphasis -- whether you stress Paul’s point or whether you stress his caveat. But he’s clearly not happy with the bill. Paul thinks its loose definitions of the persons, places and things permissible to collect will yield “bulky” collection: something perhaps not as vast as undifferentiated data gathering, but something closer to it than the flat prohibitions the USA Freedom Act’s proponents contend.
Yet Paul, joined by his Democratic colleague Ron Wyden, is keeping the door to his support open. Strengthen the bill’s privacy and transparency provisions, tighten its definitions and generally make it look and act like it did before the late-spring/summer 2014 compromises with the intelligence agencies, and Paul and Wyden are on board. To get there, though, the Senate leadership -- that is, Mitch McConnell -- need to allow amendments to be submitted on the floor.Yet Paul, joined by his Democratic colleague Ron Wyden, is keeping the door to his support open. Strengthen the bill’s privacy and transparency provisions, tighten its definitions and generally make it look and act like it did before the late-spring/summer 2014 compromises with the intelligence agencies, and Paul and Wyden are on board. To get there, though, the Senate leadership -- that is, Mitch McConnell -- need to allow amendments to be submitted on the floor.
McConnell, however, wants to kill the USA Freedom Act. He’s clearly interested in keeping support for the Freedom Act as brittle as possible, so it doesn’t clear a 60-vote threshold. Why would he do something that would gain the bill votes?McConnell, however, wants to kill the USA Freedom Act. He’s clearly interested in keeping support for the Freedom Act as brittle as possible, so it doesn’t clear a 60-vote threshold. Why would he do something that would gain the bill votes?
If McConnell doesn’t play along, it remains (even more) unclear if Paul can back a bill he thinks NSA lawyers will gut after it passes. (NSA lawyers absolutely hate that expectation, as I explore in a forthcoming piece.)If McConnell doesn’t play along, it remains (even more) unclear if Paul can back a bill he thinks NSA lawyers will gut after it passes. (NSA lawyers absolutely hate that expectation, as I explore in a forthcoming piece.)
9.18pm ET02:189.18pm ET02:18
Paul passes the eight-hour markPaul passes the eight-hour mark
Rand Paul started speaking at 1:18 PM. This means the Kentucky senator has now spent eight hours on the Senate floor.Rand Paul started speaking at 1:18 PM. This means the Kentucky senator has now spent eight hours on the Senate floor.
However, despite being on the Senate floor for an entire shift at many workplaces, this still isn’t Paul’s longest filibuster. In March 2013, he spoke for 12 hours and 52 minutes.However, despite being on the Senate floor for an entire shift at many workplaces, this still isn’t Paul’s longest filibuster. In March 2013, he spoke for 12 hours and 52 minutes.
9.04pm ET02:049.04pm ET02:04
Not every Republican presidental hopeful is talking about the NSA.Not every Republican presidental hopeful is talking about the NSA.
While Rand Paul approaches his 8th hour on the Senate floor, Mike Huckabee is focusing on a very different issue.While Rand Paul approaches his 8th hour on the Senate floor, Mike Huckabee is focusing on a very different issue.
In an email blast to his list, Huckabee brags about shooting an AR-15 on a trip to Iowa yesterday while standing up for the Second Amendment.In an email blast to his list, Huckabee brags about shooting an AR-15 on a trip to Iowa yesterday while standing up for the Second Amendment.
9.00pm ET02:009.00pm ET02:00
Ron Wyden is back on the floor and repeatedly praising Rand Paul’s “stamina” in the course of his filibuster as they discuss a proposed amendment of theirs on NSA surveillance.Ron Wyden is back on the floor and repeatedly praising Rand Paul’s “stamina” in the course of his filibuster as they discuss a proposed amendment of theirs on NSA surveillance.
8.51pm ET01:518.51pm ET01:51
After two hours, yet another senator has joined Rand Paul on the floor.After two hours, yet another senator has joined Rand Paul on the floor.
Washington Democrat Maria Cantwell is now taking the floor to thank Paul for his work on Internet privacy.Washington Democrat Maria Cantwell is now taking the floor to thank Paul for his work on Internet privacy.
So far, eight senators have appeared on the floor during Paul’s filibuster and all, except Utah’s Mike Lee and Montana’s Steve Daines, have been Democrats.So far, eight senators have appeared on the floor during Paul’s filibuster and all, except Utah’s Mike Lee and Montana’s Steve Daines, have been Democrats.
Updated at 9.47pm ETUpdated at 9.47pm ET
8.25pm ET01:258.25pm ET01:25
Paul Aide: This is how we will restore the Bill of RightsPaul Aide: This is how we will restore the Bill of Rights
Doug Stafford, a top aide to Rand Paul, tells the Guardian that the Kentucky senator’s filibuster is an important moment in the debate over civil liberties.Doug Stafford, a top aide to Rand Paul, tells the Guardian that the Kentucky senator’s filibuster is an important moment in the debate over civil liberties.
“For the second time in two years Rand Paul is uniting left and right and putting civil liberties on the national stages,” said Stafford. “If we are ever going to restore the bill of rights this will be how.”“For the second time in two years Rand Paul is uniting left and right and putting civil liberties on the national stages,” said Stafford. “If we are ever going to restore the bill of rights this will be how.”
8.11pm ET01:118.11pm ET01:11
There has been a lot of discussion about whether Paul’s floor speech actually qualifies as a traditional filibuster that delays a vote.There has been a lot of discussion about whether Paul’s floor speech actually qualifies as a traditional filibuster that delays a vote.
The U.S. Senate defines a filibuster as an “effort to hold the Senate floor in order to prevent action on a bill.” The question is whether Paul’s action meets this criteria. He’s currently speaking in a debate technically on fast trade trade authority, not NSA surveillance, and it is unclear whether his efforts will cause any delay to the Senate’s calendar. (Paul has to speak until midnight to accomplish this).The U.S. Senate defines a filibuster as an “effort to hold the Senate floor in order to prevent action on a bill.” The question is whether Paul’s action meets this criteria. He’s currently speaking in a debate technically on fast trade trade authority, not NSA surveillance, and it is unclear whether his efforts will cause any delay to the Senate’s calendar. (Paul has to speak until midnight to accomplish this).
However, for those skeptical that this a real filibuster, the Kentucky senator’s campaign is sending out a Washington Post story that argues that his speech is a filibuster.However, for those skeptical that this a real filibuster, the Kentucky senator’s campaign is sending out a Washington Post story that argues that his speech is a filibuster.
8.00pm ET01:008.00pm ET01:00
The Senate has a long history of filibusters. The longest in history was Strom Thurmond speaking over 24 hours in 1957 in an attempt to block civil rights legislation.The Senate has a long history of filibusters. The longest in history was Strom Thurmond speaking over 24 hours in 1957 in an attempt to block civil rights legislation.
In 2013, NPR published a retrospective on how Thurmond stayed on his feet for that long.In 2013, NPR published a retrospective on how Thurmond stayed on his feet for that long.
Apparently, Thurmond prepared for his ordeal by taking a series of steam baths so that he would be so dehydrated that he wouldn’t need to use the bathroom.Apparently, Thurmond prepared for his ordeal by taking a series of steam baths so that he would be so dehydrated that he wouldn’t need to use the bathroom.
When nature finally called for Thurmond, his aides reportedly placed a bucket in the Senate cloakroom. The South Carolina senator could then keep one foot on the Senate floor while relieving himself. Needless to say, this took place decades before there were live television cameras in the Senate.When nature finally called for Thurmond, his aides reportedly placed a bucket in the Senate cloakroom. The South Carolina senator could then keep one foot on the Senate floor while relieving himself. Needless to say, this took place decades before there were live television cameras in the Senate.
7.41pm ET00:417.41pm ET00:41
Russ Choma of the Center for Responsive Politics and myself reported earlier today Rand Paul’s fundraising got a significant boost from his 2013 filibuster on domestic use of drones.Russ Choma of the Center for Responsive Politics and myself reported earlier today Rand Paul’s fundraising got a significant boost from his 2013 filibuster on domestic use of drones.
It seems Paul is already advertising online to take advantage of speech. Vincent Harris, a top digital strategist for Paul, tweeted that Kentucky senator is advertising on the Drudge Report.It seems Paul is already advertising online to take advantage of speech. Vincent Harris, a top digital strategist for Paul, tweeted that Kentucky senator is advertising on the Drudge Report.
Rand up with buy on DrudgeReport to anyone interested in NSA / his filibuster pic.twitter.com/W82W9XK8QpRand up with buy on DrudgeReport to anyone interested in NSA / his filibuster pic.twitter.com/W82W9XK8Qp
7.39pm ET00:397.39pm ET00:39
If you’re feeling nostalgic about past extended speeches on the Senate floor, The Daily Beast compiled this highlight reel of Ted Cruz’s greatest hits from the Texas senator’s faux filibuster in 2013.If you’re feeling nostalgic about past extended speeches on the Senate floor, The Daily Beast compiled this highlight reel of Ted Cruz’s greatest hits from the Texas senator’s faux filibuster in 2013.
Interestingly, while Cruz has been one of the most vocal Republican opponents of Section 215 of the Patriot Act, he hasn’t joined Paul on the floor for this filibuster. This may be connected that both are competing against each other for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination.Interestingly, while Cruz has been one of the most vocal Republican opponents of Section 215 of the Patriot Act, he hasn’t joined Paul on the floor for this filibuster. This may be connected that both are competing against each other for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination.
7.32pm ET00:327.32pm ET00:32
Rand Paul just cited various precedents for the inclusion of the 4th Amendment into the Constitution, one of whom was John Wilkes, a British Member of Parliament from the 1760s.Rand Paul just cited various precedents for the inclusion of the 4th Amendment into the Constitution, one of whom was John Wilkes, a British Member of Parliament from the 1760s.
Wilkes was famous for living a notoriously dissolute lifestyle which included writing pornographic poems and membership of a group called the Hellfire Club which allegedly engaged in orgies.Wilkes was famous for living a notoriously dissolute lifestyle which included writing pornographic poems and membership of a group called the Hellfire Club which allegedly engaged in orgies.
He was considered one of the most radical politicians of his era in the United Kingdom but eventually went mainstream and became Lord Mayor of London. However, his support for the American Revolution did lead to him receiving some honors in the United States. The town of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania is named after him and, less auspiciously, famed 19th century actor Junius Booth named one of his sons after the British politician.He was considered one of the most radical politicians of his era in the United Kingdom but eventually went mainstream and became Lord Mayor of London. However, his support for the American Revolution did lead to him receiving some honors in the United States. The town of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania is named after him and, less auspiciously, famed 19th century actor Junius Booth named one of his sons after the British politician.
7.08pm ET00:087.08pm ET00:08
Rand Paul may planning on speaking all night but not his fellow Republican senator from Kentucky isn’t sticking around the Capitol.Rand Paul may planning on speaking all night but not his fellow Republican senator from Kentucky isn’t sticking around the Capitol.
Spotted leaving the Capitol: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY)Spotted leaving the Capitol: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
6.51pm ET23:516.51pm ET23:51
Top Democrat joins Paul on floorTop Democrat joins Paul on floor
Jon Tester, who is responsible for organizing Democratic efforts to regain a majority in the U.S. Senate in the 2016 election, just joined Rand Paul on the floor.Jon Tester, who is responsible for organizing Democratic efforts to regain a majority in the U.S. Senate in the 2016 election, just joined Rand Paul on the floor.
Tester, a Montana rancher with seven fingers and a buzz cut, runs the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC). So far, Tester has the most prominent role in party leadership of any senator in both parties who has joined Paul so far.Tester, a Montana rancher with seven fingers and a buzz cut, runs the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC). So far, Tester has the most prominent role in party leadership of any senator in both parties who has joined Paul so far.
6.48pm ET23:486.48pm ET23:48
Yet again, in response to a question from Chris Coons, Paul describes his goal in his extended speech, which is to allow “amendments to come to the floor.”Yet again, in response to a question from Chris Coons, Paul describes his goal in his extended speech, which is to allow “amendments to come to the floor.”
Paul says he expects to hear from Senate Republican leadership about this soon.Paul says he expects to hear from Senate Republican leadership about this soon.
6.43pm ET23:436.43pm ET23:43
Delaware Senator Chris Coons appears on the floorDelaware Senator Chris Coons appears on the floor
Yet another Democrat has joined Rand Paul on the Senate floor.Yet another Democrat has joined Rand Paul on the Senate floor.
First-term senator Chris Coons of Delaware is now the fourth Democrat to take a turn querying Rand Paul during the course of his speech. Coons joins Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Martin Heinrich of New Mexico and Ron Wyden of Oregon as those who have added a bipartisan flair to the Kentucky senator’s push against the Patriot Act.First-term senator Chris Coons of Delaware is now the fourth Democrat to take a turn querying Rand Paul during the course of his speech. Coons joins Joe Manchin of West Virginia, Martin Heinrich of New Mexico and Ron Wyden of Oregon as those who have added a bipartisan flair to the Kentucky senator’s push against the Patriot Act.
6.22pm ET23:226.22pm ET23:22
Several House Republicans are in the chamber watching Paul speak including Rep. Justin Amash of Michigan and Rep. Tom Massie of Kentucky.Several House Republicans are in the chamber watching Paul speak including Rep. Justin Amash of Michigan and Rep. Tom Massie of Kentucky.
Both are members of the libertarian wing of the GOP and have been steadfast opponents of NSA surveillance. Massie, in particular, expressed skepticism about Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s strategy in calling for an clean extension of the Patriot Act.Both are members of the libertarian wing of the GOP and have been steadfast opponents of NSA surveillance. Massie, in particular, expressed skepticism about Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s strategy in calling for an clean extension of the Patriot Act.
Earlier today, Massie told reporters “I suspect the USA Freedom Act is the pre-negotiated end settlement that the intelligence community wants.” In the Kentucky Republican’s opinion, the calls for Patriot Act reauthorization is simply a negotiating tactic by supporters of Section 215 who want avoid tougher restrictions on the NSA than those contained in the USA Freedom Act.Earlier today, Massie told reporters “I suspect the USA Freedom Act is the pre-negotiated end settlement that the intelligence community wants.” In the Kentucky Republican’s opinion, the calls for Patriot Act reauthorization is simply a negotiating tactic by supporters of Section 215 who want avoid tougher restrictions on the NSA than those contained in the USA Freedom Act.
Updated at 6.25pm ETUpdated at 6.25pm ET
6.10pm ET23:106.10pm ET23:10
My colleague Dan Roberts is on the steps of the U.S. Capitol where a small group of protestors have gathered to show support for Rand Paul.My colleague Dan Roberts is on the steps of the U.S. Capitol where a small group of protestors have gathered to show support for Rand Paul.
This is a picture of one of the protesters with a cardboard cutout of the Kentucky Republican.This is a picture of one of the protesters with a cardboard cutout of the Kentucky Republican.
6.06pm ET23:066.06pm ET23:06
Rand Paul has held the Senate floor now for about 4.5 hours. He has not sat once nor strayed from the topic at hand.Rand Paul has held the Senate floor now for about 4.5 hours. He has not sat once nor strayed from the topic at hand.
But it appears he has burned clean through a whole Guardian blogging team blogger. Tom McCarthy in New York hereby deferring to my colleague in Washington Ben Jacobs.But it appears he has burned clean through a whole Guardian blogging team blogger. Tom McCarthy in New York hereby deferring to my colleague in Washington Ben Jacobs.
The floor is all yours. Hey look there’s Joe ManchinThe floor is all yours. Hey look there’s Joe Manchin
5.58pm ET22:585.58pm ET22:58
Big speech could mean big money for Paul campBig speech could mean big money for Paul camp
Based on Rand Paul’s last filibuster, the presidential candidate’s fundraising is likely to get a big boost from his ongoing speech about NSA surveillance on the Senate floor on Wednesday, report Ben Jacobs (@bencjacobs) and Russ Choma (@russchoma) of the Center for Responsive Politics:Based on Rand Paul’s last filibuster, the presidential candidate’s fundraising is likely to get a big boost from his ongoing speech about NSA surveillance on the Senate floor on Wednesday, report Ben Jacobs (@bencjacobs) and Russ Choma (@russchoma) of the Center for Responsive Politics:
In the aftermath of Paul’s previous filibuster in 2013 when he held up a vote on the nomination of John Brennan to be director of the CIA for over 12 hours, the Kentucky Republican increased his fundraising more than sixfold.In the aftermath of Paul’s previous filibuster in 2013 when he held up a vote on the nomination of John Brennan to be director of the CIA for over 12 hours, the Kentucky Republican increased his fundraising more than sixfold.
According to FEC data reviewed by the Guardian and the Center for Responsive Politics, the Kentucky senator raised $65,676 from high dollar donors (those who contributed more than $200 to the Kentucky senator) in the week of and following the filibuster.According to FEC data reviewed by the Guardian and the Center for Responsive Politics, the Kentucky senator raised $65,676 from high dollar donors (those who contributed more than $200 to the Kentucky senator) in the week of and following the filibuster.
This peaked when he raised $15,654 from those high dollar donors on March 7, the day after he took the Senate floor. This data does not include any donations from those who gave less than $200 cumulatively to Paul as those contributions are not individually reported to the FEC.This peaked when he raised $15,654 from those high dollar donors on March 7, the day after he took the Senate floor. This data does not include any donations from those who gave less than $200 cumulatively to Paul as those contributions are not individually reported to the FEC.
In contrast to this cash flow from high donor dollar donors, which averaged $9,382.28 in the week during and average his filibuster, Paul’s average daily take in 2013 was a mere $1548.63 for all donors---including low dollar contributors who are not individually tracked by the FEC.In contrast to this cash flow from high donor dollar donors, which averaged $9,382.28 in the week during and average his filibuster, Paul’s average daily take in 2013 was a mere $1548.63 for all donors---including low dollar contributors who are not individually tracked by the FEC.
With Paul already mounting a vigorous campaign for the 2016 Republican nomination, the publicity around his stand against NSA surveillance is likely to turbocharge his fundraising in the coming days. And, in a presidential field with more than a dozen competitive candidates, Paul is likely to need every dollar he can raise off Wednesday’s speech on the Senate floor.With Paul already mounting a vigorous campaign for the 2016 Republican nomination, the publicity around his stand against NSA surveillance is likely to turbocharge his fundraising in the coming days. And, in a presidential field with more than a dozen competitive candidates, Paul is likely to need every dollar he can raise off Wednesday’s speech on the Senate floor.
Updated at 6.01pm ETUpdated at 6.01pm ET
5.51pm ET22:515.51pm ET22:51
Paul’s presidential campaign has called a rally to the Capitol building tonight to support the senator. They’re just arriving it sounds like.Paul’s presidential campaign has called a rally to the Capitol building tonight to support the senator. They’re just arriving it sounds like.
Grassroots supporters of Rand Paul will be convening at the United States Capitol building to show their support for the Senator as he filibusters the Patriot Act.Grassroots supporters of Rand Paul will be convening at the United States Capitol building to show their support for the Senator as he filibusters the Patriot Act.
5.50pm ET22:505.50pm ET22:50
Senator Daines pops up too.Senator Daines pops up too.
Montana Republican Steve Daines has also now joined Rand Paul on the Senate floor for his anti-NSA marathon. The back-up acts are backing upMontana Republican Steve Daines has also now joined Rand Paul on the Senate floor for his anti-NSA marathon. The back-up acts are backing up
5.37pm ET22:375.37pm ET22:37
Patriot Act extensions used to run a lot more smoothly.Patriot Act extensions used to run a lot more smoothly.
Then came Edward Snowden, and this was one of the reasons why. https://t.co/ShTVpNyimtThen came Edward Snowden, and this was one of the reasons why. https://t.co/ShTVpNyimt
5.32pm ET22:325.32pm ET22:32
Guardian Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts spies Senator Christopher Coons, Democrat of Delaware, taking the Senate floor. He looks to become the fourth to support the big Paul speech.Guardian Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts spies Senator Christopher Coons, Democrat of Delaware, taking the Senate floor. He looks to become the fourth to support the big Paul speech.
Update: “Rep Raúl Labrador also just wandered into the Senate chamber to lend support to Paul’s ‘Ben Franklin caucus,’” or less kindly “wingnut coalition,” Dan writes.Update: “Rep Raúl Labrador also just wandered into the Senate chamber to lend support to Paul’s ‘Ben Franklin caucus,’” or less kindly “wingnut coalition,” Dan writes.
Updated at 5.34pm ETUpdated at 5.34pm ET
5.29pm ET22:295.29pm ET22:29
Paul is running through amendments he said he would propose to the Patriot Act. They include one to “end bulk collection and replace it with nothing” and one to create a permanent advocate on the Fisa court, which has the power to approve bulk collections in secret.Paul is running through amendments he said he would propose to the Patriot Act. They include one to “end bulk collection and replace it with nothing” and one to create a permanent advocate on the Fisa court, which has the power to approve bulk collections in secret.
5.27pm ET22:275.27pm ET22:27
Paul passes four-hour markPaul passes four-hour mark
Paul:Paul:
Some would ask, why am here today, what do I hope to get out of this, is there an end point when I will go home and be quiet and quit talking about the bill of rights?Some would ask, why am here today, what do I hope to get out of this, is there an end point when I will go home and be quiet and quit talking about the bill of rights?
I think there could be. I think if the leadership of both parties, and the Senate would agree to have a debate on the Patriot Act. If they would agree to have amendments and to have votes.I think there could be. I think if the leadership of both parties, and the Senate would agree to have a debate on the Patriot Act. If they would agree to have amendments and to have votes.
5.14pm ET22:145.14pm ET22:14
Seconding Paul’s call for a debate:Seconding Paul’s call for a debate:
Ran into @justinamash and @RepThomasMassie after they watched some of Rand's ongoing speech. They're hopeful he forces some amendment votesRan into @justinamash and @RepThomasMassie after they watched some of Rand's ongoing speech. They're hopeful he forces some amendment votes
How long will Paul go?How long will Paul go?
So: Rand Paul could speak until NOON Thurs, but no later. If he speaks past midnight tonight he would have an actual effect on the calendarSo: Rand Paul could speak until NOON Thurs, but no later. If he speaks past midnight tonight he would have an actual effect on the calendar
5.02pm ET22:025.02pm ET22:02
Now here’s Senator Martin Heinrich, Democrat fron New Mexico. Heinrich is a member of the intelligence committee. He has relieved Paul for the moment.Now here’s Senator Martin Heinrich, Democrat fron New Mexico. Heinrich is a member of the intelligence committee. He has relieved Paul for the moment.
5.01pm ET22:015.01pm ET22:01
Paul says he’s been working for a year on five or six amendments to the Patriot Act, and he wants time to introduce them and debate them.Paul says he’s been working for a year on five or six amendments to the Patriot Act, and he wants time to introduce them and debate them.
But this is still one of those occasions where we’re butting up against a deadline. And my fear is, that without extraordinary measures – which I’m hopefully trying to do today, that we may not get vote on amendments, and we may not get adequate time to debate this I think important issue.”But this is still one of those occasions where we’re butting up against a deadline. And my fear is, that without extraordinary measures – which I’m hopefully trying to do today, that we may not get vote on amendments, and we may not get adequate time to debate this I think important issue.”
4.48pm ET21:484.48pm ET21:48
Our latest news story on Senator Rand Paul’s stand-and-deliver has just been published. Here’s a key bit on how Paul’s speech could affect the Senate calendar:Our latest news story on Senator Rand Paul’s stand-and-deliver has just been published. Here’s a key bit on how Paul’s speech could affect the Senate calendar:
While it remained unlikely that Paul’s delaying tactics would succeed in blocking the Patriot Act, they raised pressure on McConnell given the limited time on the clock. Under a compressed schedule by a House that is slated to adjourn on Thursday until after Section 215 expires, McConnell has to not only bring surveillance legislation to the floor, but also a highway funding bill and trade promotion authority before Congress goes on recess until the beginning of June.While it remained unlikely that Paul’s delaying tactics would succeed in blocking the Patriot Act, they raised pressure on McConnell given the limited time on the clock. Under a compressed schedule by a House that is slated to adjourn on Thursday until after Section 215 expires, McConnell has to not only bring surveillance legislation to the floor, but also a highway funding bill and trade promotion authority before Congress goes on recess until the beginning of June.
South Dakota senator John Thune, the third-ranking Republican in the Senate, told reporters that at least after its first several hours, Paul’s talkathon would not affect leadership’s plans to advance trade legislation and resolve differences over the Patriot Act.South Dakota senator John Thune, the third-ranking Republican in the Senate, told reporters that at least after its first several hours, Paul’s talkathon would not affect leadership’s plans to advance trade legislation and resolve differences over the Patriot Act.
“It’s just a reality we have to deal with. We’ve got people who are in different places,” said Thune, who also suggested that the House version of the USA Freedom Act lacked the 60 votes required to clear the Senate.“It’s just a reality we have to deal with. We’ve got people who are in different places,” said Thune, who also suggested that the House version of the USA Freedom Act lacked the 60 votes required to clear the Senate.
Read the full piece here.Read the full piece here.
4.37pm ET21:374.37pm ET21:37
Paul can’t sit down. Literally. He can’t sit down or he loses the floor. Luckily he’s all laced up:Paul can’t sit down. Literally. He can’t sit down or he loses the floor. Luckily he’s all laced up:
what you can't see on CSPAN is Paul, who has to keep standing to hold the floor, is wearing a comfy pair of sneakers with bright neon laceswhat you can't see on CSPAN is Paul, who has to keep standing to hold the floor, is wearing a comfy pair of sneakers with bright neon laces
Update: you’ll recall Paul’s previous high-water-mark in jacket and tie. And shorts.Update: you’ll recall Paul’s previous high-water-mark in jacket and tie. And shorts.
Updated at 4.39pm ETUpdated at 4.39pm ET
4.35pm ET21:354.35pm ET21:35
Everybody get comfortable. Guardian Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts at the Senate:Everybody get comfortable. Guardian Washington bureau chief Dan Roberts at the Senate:
4.29pm ET21:294.29pm ET21:29
Utah Senator Lee joins Rand Paul on floorUtah Senator Lee joins Rand Paul on floor
Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah joins the conversation. He says he disagrees with Paul’s view on letting Section 215 retire, he agrees with the senator that “the American people deserve better than what they’re getting.”Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah joins the conversation. He says he disagrees with Paul’s view on letting Section 215 retire, he agrees with the senator that “the American people deserve better than what they’re getting.”
4.27pm ET21:274.27pm ET21:27
Three hours for Rand PaulThree hours for Rand Paul
In his 2013 filibuster of John Brennan’s nomination to head up the CIA, an anti-drone-warfare speech, Paul hit 13 hours.In his 2013 filibuster of John Brennan’s nomination to head up the CIA, an anti-drone-warfare speech, Paul hit 13 hours.
He’s currently reading from the January 2014 Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board report on the bulk phone records collection program.He’s currently reading from the January 2014 Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board report on the bulk phone records collection program.
4.23pm ET21:234.23pm ET21:23
Paul offers a paean to bipartisanship, taking back the mic from his Democratic colleague.Paul offers a paean to bipartisanship, taking back the mic from his Democratic colleague.
Then he says he’s not in it for the money:Then he says he’s not in it for the money:
I didn’t come to the floor today because I want to get, you know, some money for one individual project, for one person. I came because I want something for everybody. I want freedom for everybody, and I want protection against the government’s invasion into your privacy.I didn’t come to the floor today because I want to get, you know, some money for one individual project, for one person. I came because I want something for everybody. I want freedom for everybody, and I want protection against the government’s invasion into your privacy.
4.17pm ET21:174.17pm ET21:17
Wyden: I will block any move to extend Patriot ActWyden: I will block any move to extend Patriot Act
Wyden vows to “use every procedural tool’ to block any future attempt to extend provisions of the Patriot Act used – wrong-headedly and illegally, the 2nd circuit has ruled – to conduct bulk phone records collection.Wyden vows to “use every procedural tool’ to block any future attempt to extend provisions of the Patriot Act used – wrong-headedly and illegally, the 2nd circuit has ruled – to conduct bulk phone records collection.
“As long as the senator from Kentucky holds the floor, no one would be able to offer a motion to consider an extension of the USA Patriot Act,” Wyden says:“As long as the senator from Kentucky holds the floor, no one would be able to offer a motion to consider an extension of the USA Patriot Act,” Wyden says:
But at some point in the near future, whether it’s this weekend or next week or next month, my analysis is the proponents of bulk phone record collection are going to seek a vote in the senate to continue what I consider to be this invasion of privacy of millions and millions of law-abiding Americans.But at some point in the near future, whether it’s this weekend or next week or next month, my analysis is the proponents of bulk phone record collection are going to seek a vote in the senate to continue what I consider to be this invasion of privacy of millions and millions of law-abiding Americans.
When that happens, I intend to use every procedural tool available to me to block that extension. And if at least 41 senators stand together, we could block that extension and block it indefinitely.When that happens, I intend to use every procedural tool available to me to block that extension. And if at least 41 senators stand together, we could block that extension and block it indefinitely.
And finally after something like 8 years of working on this issue, we will be saying no on bulk phone record collection.And finally after something like 8 years of working on this issue, we will be saying no on bulk phone record collection.
4.12pm ET21:124.12pm ET21:12
Wyden is not sympathetic to last-minute defenders of the legal framework for surveillance.Wyden is not sympathetic to last-minute defenders of the legal framework for surveillance.
.@RonWyden: For 8 yrs, multiple reauths, we see same pattern. Those in favor of bulk collection wait until VERY LAST MINUTE..(1/2).@RonWyden: For 8 yrs, multiple reauths, we see same pattern. Those in favor of bulk collection wait until VERY LAST MINUTE..(1/2)
.@RonWyden:...and then they say "oh my goodness! it is a dangerous world! we've got to continue this program to protect us." (2/2).@RonWyden:...and then they say "oh my goodness! it is a dangerous world! we've got to continue this program to protect us." (2/2)
4.08pm ET21:084.08pm ET21:08
Will McConnell catch blame from surveillance hawks for botching the endgame of Patriot Act renewal? Will Sens Paul and Wyden share praise or blame for its failure? Or perhaps the majority leader will yet find a trick to pull?Will McConnell catch blame from surveillance hawks for botching the endgame of Patriot Act renewal? Will Sens Paul and Wyden share praise or blame for its failure? Or perhaps the majority leader will yet find a trick to pull?
For a Senate old-timer, McConnell's done a terrible job managing the endgame on 215 surveillance. Must be he's not used to legislating.For a Senate old-timer, McConnell's done a terrible job managing the endgame on 215 surveillance. Must be he's not used to legislating.
4.05pm ET21:054.05pm ET21:05
There’s a petition in the House to ask the Senate not to renew provisions of the Patriot Act. The author of the petition, Justin Amash, a libertarian-leaning Republican from Michigan, was one of 88 House members to vote against the USA Freedom Act last week.There’s a petition in the House to ask the Senate not to renew provisions of the Patriot Act. The author of the petition, Justin Amash, a libertarian-leaning Republican from Michigan, was one of 88 House members to vote against the USA Freedom Act last week.
Today, 59 representatives joined my bipartisan letter to the Senate opposing any reauthorization of the #PatriotAct. pic.twitter.com/kq5v2uAcQWToday, 59 representatives joined my bipartisan letter to the Senate opposing any reauthorization of the #PatriotAct. pic.twitter.com/kq5v2uAcQW
4.03pm ET21:034.03pm ET21:03
Wyden’s second question for Paul: “Is the senator from Kentucky troubled that a number of high-ranking intelligence officials have not been forthright in recent years on the topic of bulk collection?”Wyden’s second question for Paul: “Is the senator from Kentucky troubled that a number of high-ranking intelligence officials have not been forthright in recent years on the topic of bulk collection?”
Wyden on Clapper lies. Drink.Wyden on Clapper lies. Drink.
Updated at 4.06pm ETUpdated at 4.06pm ET
4.01pm ET21:014.01pm ET21:01
Wyden has suggested that he and Paul plan to extend their Senate floor chat indefinitely. That could amount to a promise to block McConnell whichever way he tries to move.Wyden has suggested that he and Paul plan to extend their Senate floor chat indefinitely. That could amount to a promise to block McConnell whichever way he tries to move.
3.56pm ET20:563.56pm ET20:56
Wyden hits Paul with a question: “Does the senator from Kentucky agree that dragnet surveillance now makes America no more safe?”Wyden hits Paul with a question: “Does the senator from Kentucky agree that dragnet surveillance now makes America no more safe?”
Paul takes the mic back, after about 10 minutes of standing downtime.Paul takes the mic back, after about 10 minutes of standing downtime.
3.50pm ET20:503.50pm ET20:50
Paul is not taking the opportunity of Wyden’s relief speech to sit down, our bureau chief reports:Paul is not taking the opportunity of Wyden’s relief speech to sit down, our bureau chief reports:
Rand Paul remains standing despite being relieved by Wyden's arrival. He is flicking through a binder containing clippings from @guardianRand Paul remains standing despite being relieved by Wyden's arrival. He is flicking through a binder containing clippings from @guardian
3.45pm ET20:453.45pm ET20:45
Wyden takes the mic from Paul, about 140 minutes in. Paul continues to hold the floor, however, retaining the integrity of his faux-libuster.Wyden takes the mic from Paul, about 140 minutes in. Paul continues to hold the floor, however, retaining the integrity of his faux-libuster.
Wyden is speaking against the FBI seeking to require tech companies from building surveillance “backdoors” into products.Wyden is speaking against the FBI seeking to require tech companies from building surveillance “backdoors” into products.
Updated at 3.46pm ETUpdated at 3.46pm ET
3.43pm ET20:433.43pm ET20:43
Senator Ron Wyden, the intelligence committee member and staunch opponent of surveillance overreach, has joined Rand Paul on the floor of the Senate.Senator Ron Wyden, the intelligence committee member and staunch opponent of surveillance overreach, has joined Rand Paul on the floor of the Senate.
3.41pm ET20:413.41pm ET20:41
Paul accuses President Barack Obama of allowing dragnet collection of phone records to continue despite an appeals court ruling that it is not legal under section 215 of the Patriot Act.Paul accuses President Barack Obama of allowing dragnet collection of phone records to continue despite an appeals court ruling that it is not legal under section 215 of the Patriot Act.
The second-highest court in the land says this is illegal, and the president does nothing.The second-highest court in the land says this is illegal, and the president does nothing.
“The authors of the Patriot Act had no idea this was going on. And the Patriot Act, according to the court, doesn’t even justify this.”“The authors of the Patriot Act had no idea this was going on. And the Patriot Act, according to the court, doesn’t even justify this.”
3.29pm ET20:293.29pm ET20:29
Paul hits 2-hour markPaul hits 2-hour mark
Paul crosses the two-hour line. He’s still on topic. Only one reading from a transcription. One Hitler reference. One instance of incorrectly referring to Edward Snowden as “Eric.”Paul crosses the two-hour line. He’s still on topic. Only one reading from a transcription. One Hitler reference. One instance of incorrectly referring to Edward Snowden as “Eric.”
3.26pm ET20:263.26pm ET20:26
Paul is reading a transcript of a Frontline interview with NSA whistleblower Bill Binney. He reads this bit:Paul is reading a transcript of a Frontline interview with NSA whistleblower Bill Binney. He reads this bit:
Q: But they say they’re computers, and in Utah they’re going to be able to take all this stored data, and they’re going to be able to go through all of it, and they’re going to be able to connect the dots. Connect the dots -- that’s what everybody wanted them to do after 9/11.Q: But they say they’re computers, and in Utah they’re going to be able to take all this stored data, and they’re going to be able to go through all of it, and they’re going to be able to connect the dots. Connect the dots -- that’s what everybody wanted them to do after 9/11.
A: See, that’s always been possible. Before 9/11 we were doing that. That was already happening. We already had that program. That wasn’t an issue at all. That’s why we should have picked this out from the beginning. We should have implemented it, the ThinThread, connect-the-dots program on everything in the world, but we didn’t. That’s why we failed. It wasn’t a matter of not having the program; it was a matter of not implementing the program we had.A: See, that’s always been possible. Before 9/11 we were doing that. That was already happening. We already had that program. That wasn’t an issue at all. That’s why we should have picked this out from the beginning. We should have implemented it, the ThinThread, connect-the-dots program on everything in the world, but we didn’t. That’s why we failed. It wasn’t a matter of not having the program; it was a matter of not implementing the program we had.
3.21pm ET20:213.21pm ET20:21
Paul: 'the bill of rights is for oddballs'Paul: 'the bill of rights is for oddballs'
Paul:Paul:
The bill of rights isn’t for the prom queen. The bill of rights isn’t for the high school quarterback. The bill of rights is for the least among us. The bill of rights is for minorities. The bill of rights is for those who have minority opinions. The bill of rights is for those who are oddballs. Those who aren’t accepted. Those who have unconventional thinking.The bill of rights isn’t for the prom queen. The bill of rights isn’t for the high school quarterback. The bill of rights is for the least among us. The bill of rights is for minorities. The bill of rights is for those who have minority opinions. The bill of rights is for those who are oddballs. Those who aren’t accepted. Those who have unconventional thinking.
3.18pm ET20:183.18pm ET20:18
On the theme of the right to a fair trial, Paul ties Richard Jewell, the security guard falsely accused of bombing the 1996 Atlanta Olympics complex, to a 1920s lynching victim.On the theme of the right to a fair trial, Paul ties Richard Jewell, the security guard falsely accused of bombing the 1996 Atlanta Olympics complex, to a 1920s lynching victim.
“About ten years ago [sic], Richard Jewell was thought to be the Olympic bomber... He fit the profile. He wore glasses. He had a backpack and was an introvert.“About ten years ago [sic], Richard Jewell was thought to be the Olympic bomber... He fit the profile. He wore glasses. He had a backpack and was an introvert.
“I think to myself, if he’d have been a black man in the south in 1920, what would’ve happened to him?...“I think to myself, if he’d have been a black man in the south in 1920, what would’ve happened to him?...
“Because the thing is that Richard Jewell was innocent...“Because the thing is that Richard Jewell was innocent...
“Think of what would’ve happened if Richard Jewell were a black man in the 1920s. He might not’ve lived the day. Think of what would have happened if Richard Jewell were a Japanese-American during World War II.”“Think of what would’ve happened if Richard Jewell were a black man in the 1920s. He might not’ve lived the day. Think of what would have happened if Richard Jewell were a Japanese-American during World War II.”
Then he riffs on Stanley Milgram’s 1960s experiments on obedience to authority figures or “shock experiments.” Then, for the first time, he mentions Hitler.Then he riffs on Stanley Milgram’s 1960s experiments on obedience to authority figures or “shock experiments.” Then, for the first time, he mentions Hitler.
Updated at 3.30pm ETUpdated at 3.30pm ET
3.06pm ET20:063.06pm ET20:06
Paul crosses 100-minute markPaul crosses 100-minute mark
Paul began speaking at around 1.26pm ET, 100 minutes ago. He’s still talking and has stayed exactly on topic. He’s currently talking about credit card records and how “it should worry us that the government has access to all our records, all the time.” He’s begun to pace a bit, walking in front of his chair. No calisthenics yet.Paul began speaking at around 1.26pm ET, 100 minutes ago. He’s still talking and has stayed exactly on topic. He’s currently talking about credit card records and how “it should worry us that the government has access to all our records, all the time.” He’s begun to pace a bit, walking in front of his chair. No calisthenics yet.
Senator Tim Scott, the freshman from South Carolina, is currently presiding in the chamber.Senator Tim Scott, the freshman from South Carolina, is currently presiding in the chamber.
Updated at 3.23pm ETUpdated at 3.23pm ET
3.03pm ET20:033.03pm ET20:03
Paul calls Edward Snowden “Eric Snowden.” He’s warning about great American companies being destroyed by “forcing surveillance into their products.”Paul calls Edward Snowden “Eric Snowden.” He’s warning about great American companies being destroyed by “forcing surveillance into their products.”
He says creating surveillance backdoors in products weakens products and companies to attacks of cybersecurity. “So there is a danger to letting the government in,” Paul says.He says creating surveillance backdoors in products weakens products and companies to attacks of cybersecurity. “So there is a danger to letting the government in,” Paul says.
2.59pm ET19:592.59pm ET19:59
The Guardian’s Spencer Ackerman (@attackerman) reports on a justice department memo laying out the “effect of a Patriot Act sunset,” should McConnell fail to procure an extension by 1 June.The Guardian’s Spencer Ackerman (@attackerman) reports on a justice department memo laying out the “effect of a Patriot Act sunset,” should McConnell fail to procure an extension by 1 June.
“As legislative shadowboxing continued ahead of this week’s Senate votes on surveillance, the Obama administration, which favors the USA Freedom Act, sent word to Capitol Hill that it has barely 24 hours to resolve the impasse before it begins mothballing its controversial domestic bulk phone data collection,” Spencer writes:“As legislative shadowboxing continued ahead of this week’s Senate votes on surveillance, the Obama administration, which favors the USA Freedom Act, sent word to Capitol Hill that it has barely 24 hours to resolve the impasse before it begins mothballing its controversial domestic bulk phone data collection,” Spencer writes:
A memo sent Wednesday by the administration warned that the National Security Agency could find itself in legal jeopardy if it continued surveillance on Americans’ phone data after Thursday – what the Justice Department described as a prudential matter ahead of the looming expiration of the base legal authority for the program.A memo sent Wednesday by the administration warned that the National Security Agency could find itself in legal jeopardy if it continued surveillance on Americans’ phone data after Thursday – what the Justice Department described as a prudential matter ahead of the looming expiration of the base legal authority for the program.
“After May 22, 2015, the National Security Agency will need to begin taking steps to wind down the bulk telephone metadata program in anticipation of a possible sunset in order to ensure that it does not engage in any unauthorized collection or use of the metadata,” states the memo, circulated on Capitol Hill on Wednesday and first reported by National Journal. The Guardian independently obtained a copy.“After May 22, 2015, the National Security Agency will need to begin taking steps to wind down the bulk telephone metadata program in anticipation of a possible sunset in order to ensure that it does not engage in any unauthorized collection or use of the metadata,” states the memo, circulated on Capitol Hill on Wednesday and first reported by National Journal. The Guardian independently obtained a copy.
While the claimed legal authority for the program, Section 215 of the Patriot Act, expires on 1 June, the memo notes that the next 90-day order from a secret surveillance court necessary to gather the bulk data must be filed by Friday – after the House of Representatives, which has already voted overwhelmingly to stop the program, is in recess.While the claimed legal authority for the program, Section 215 of the Patriot Act, expires on 1 June, the memo notes that the next 90-day order from a secret surveillance court necessary to gather the bulk data must be filed by Friday – after the House of Representatives, which has already voted overwhelmingly to stop the program, is in recess.
“For these reasons, after May 22, 2015, it will become increasingly difficult for the government to avoid a lapse in the current NSA program of at least some duration,” the memo states.“For these reasons, after May 22, 2015, it will become increasingly difficult for the government to avoid a lapse in the current NSA program of at least some duration,” the memo states.
2.51pm ET19:512.51pm ET19:51
Orthopedic shoes: $59.95Orthopedic shoes: $59.95
Male comfort catheter: $33.99Male comfort catheter: $33.99
Drudge headline: pricelessDrudge headline: priceless
pic.twitter.com/L1Enygi8yupic.twitter.com/L1Enygi8yu
2.41pm ET19:412.41pm ET19:41
“We should be in rebellion saying ‘enough’s enough, we’re not going to take it anymore,” Paul says on the Senate floor.“We should be in rebellion saying ‘enough’s enough, we’re not going to take it anymore,” Paul says on the Senate floor.
Do we want to live in a world where the government knows everything about us? ... The danger is too great to let government collect your information.Do we want to live in a world where the government knows everything about us? ... The danger is too great to let government collect your information.
2.38pm ET19:382.38pm ET19:38
Rand Paul has produced an exceptionally low-quality presidential campaign ad-slash-explanation for why he has taken the Senate floor this afternoon.Rand Paul has produced an exceptionally low-quality presidential campaign ad-slash-explanation for why he has taken the Senate floor this afternoon.
“I won’t stand for the Senate to shove us aside and not let us debate this important issue,” he says.“I won’t stand for the Senate to shove us aside and not let us debate this important issue,” he says.
Exclusive VIDEO from a couple of hours ago about the filibuster>>> https://t.co/LZ9OnHy14c #standwithrandExclusive VIDEO from a couple of hours ago about the filibuster>>> https://t.co/LZ9OnHy14c #standwithrand
2.33pm ET19:332.33pm ET19:33
Before Paul decided to take up an unknown proportion of the hours remaining for the Senate to do business before Memorial Day, majority leader Mitch McConnell’s strategy for extending the Patriot Act or otherwise preserving laws meant to support government surveillance was unclear.Before Paul decided to take up an unknown proportion of the hours remaining for the Senate to do business before Memorial Day, majority leader Mitch McConnell’s strategy for extending the Patriot Act or otherwise preserving laws meant to support government surveillance was unclear.
McConnell on Tuesday said he would hold a vote on the USA Freedom Act, which would eliminate a dragnet phone records database held by intelligence agencies, distributing the data among telecoms and tech companies. The Freedom Act passed the House of Representatives last week with a vote of 338-88.McConnell on Tuesday said he would hold a vote on the USA Freedom Act, which would eliminate a dragnet phone records database held by intelligence agencies, distributing the data among telecoms and tech companies. The Freedom Act passed the House of Representatives last week with a vote of 338-88.
In addition to running down the clock on a potential Patriot Act extension, Paul appears to be delaying vote on the USA Freedom Act, too, writes Trevor Timm (@trevortimm): “He voted against it last time, calling it a stealth reauthorization; he probably wants to delay a vote on either until [Patriot Act section] 215 officially expires.”In addition to running down the clock on a potential Patriot Act extension, Paul appears to be delaying vote on the USA Freedom Act, too, writes Trevor Timm (@trevortimm): “He voted against it last time, calling it a stealth reauthorization; he probably wants to delay a vote on either until [Patriot Act section] 215 officially expires.”
Updated at 2.43pm ETUpdated at 2.43pm ET
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Paul tweets links to his campaign web site, which is hosting a petition to “end NSA spying.”Paul tweets links to his campaign web site, which is hosting a petition to “end NSA spying.”
The current legislative showdown over government surveillance comes at a favorable time for Paul, who six weeks after declaring his presidential candidacy is looking for ways to distinguish himself from a crowded field of Republican hopefuls. On the question of government surveillance, Paul is an unmistakable standout, with potential opponents in recent weeks delivering full-throated defenses of NSA surveillance programs.The current legislative showdown over government surveillance comes at a favorable time for Paul, who six weeks after declaring his presidential candidacy is looking for ways to distinguish himself from a crowded field of Republican hopefuls. On the question of government surveillance, Paul is an unmistakable standout, with potential opponents in recent weeks delivering full-throated defenses of NSA surveillance programs.
“All these fears are exaggerated and ridiculous,” New Jersey governor Chris Christie said on Monday of concerns about privacy abuses. “There is not a single documented case of abuse of this program,” Florida Senator Marco Rubio wrote in USA Today last week. “The debate has gotten off track,” former Florida governor Jeb Bush said earlier this year.“All these fears are exaggerated and ridiculous,” New Jersey governor Chris Christie said on Monday of concerns about privacy abuses. “There is not a single documented case of abuse of this program,” Florida Senator Marco Rubio wrote in USA Today last week. “The debate has gotten off track,” former Florida governor Jeb Bush said earlier this year.
Paul has taken a polar opposite stance.Paul has taken a polar opposite stance.
#standwithrand at http://t.co/lpzLQCfz0F pic.twitter.com/QuHrLpGPo3#standwithrand at http://t.co/lpzLQCfz0F pic.twitter.com/QuHrLpGPo3
I see no reason why you can’t have security and the constitution at the same time. We cannot let our fear win.I see no reason why you can’t have security and the constitution at the same time. We cannot let our fear win.
2.17pm ET19:172.17pm ET19:17
“The collection of records that is going on is beyond your imagination. And we need to know about it. It’s time for a national debate.“The collection of records that is going on is beyond your imagination. And we need to know about it. It’s time for a national debate.
“The fact that the director of national intelligence would come to Congress and lie... this is a big problem.”“The fact that the director of national intelligence would come to Congress and lie... this is a big problem.”
Paul says that Congress is out of step with public opinion on the question of dragnet phone records surveillance.Paul says that Congress is out of step with public opinion on the question of dragnet phone records surveillance.
“I be that 20% of the people here would vote to stop this. Whereas 50-60% of the public would stop these things. It’s not representatives.“I be that 20% of the people here would vote to stop this. Whereas 50-60% of the public would stop these things. It’s not representatives.
“[Lawmakers] get up here, and we stay too long, and we get separated from the people. The people don’t want bulk collection. And we need to hear that.”“[Lawmakers] get up here, and we stay too long, and we get separated from the people. The people don’t want bulk collection. And we need to hear that.”
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A long and leisurely Memorial Day weekend lies just ahead. Or at least it did.A long and leisurely Memorial Day weekend lies just ahead. Or at least it did.
Paul tells donors that he’s ready to filibuster PATRIOT Act even if it ruins his colleagues’ weekend pic.twitter.com/ExTBuK4Y5jPaul tells donors that he’s ready to filibuster PATRIOT Act even if it ruins his colleagues’ weekend pic.twitter.com/ExTBuK4Y5j
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Rand Paul: 'clock management'Rand Paul: 'clock management'
The Guardian’s Spencer Ackerman (@attackerman) writes that “Rand Paul’s gambit on the Senate floor right now is familiar to anyone who’s been watching the NBA playoffs: clock management”:The Guardian’s Spencer Ackerman (@attackerman) writes that “Rand Paul’s gambit on the Senate floor right now is familiar to anyone who’s been watching the NBA playoffs: clock management”:
Paul, the privacy hawk and GOP presidential candidate, wants the wholesale expiration of Section 215 of the 2001 Patriot Act, the controversial surveillance provision that the NSA uses to justify the ongoing bulk collection of Americans’ phone records. (A federal appeals court earlier this month ruled that the provision does not in fact authorize the NSA program.) If absolutely nothing happens, the whole Patriot Act provision expires on 1 June 1.Paul, the privacy hawk and GOP presidential candidate, wants the wholesale expiration of Section 215 of the 2001 Patriot Act, the controversial surveillance provision that the NSA uses to justify the ongoing bulk collection of Americans’ phone records. (A federal appeals court earlier this month ruled that the provision does not in fact authorize the NSA program.) If absolutely nothing happens, the whole Patriot Act provision expires on 1 June 1.
Functionally, however, the clock is even more severe than that. After Thursday at mid-day, lawmakers in the House of Representatives – who last week voted overwhelmingly to junk the bulk phone metadata collection – leave for a vacation through 1 June.Functionally, however, the clock is even more severe than that. After Thursday at mid-day, lawmakers in the House of Representatives – who last week voted overwhelmingly to junk the bulk phone metadata collection – leave for a vacation through 1 June.
Paul’s opposite on the surveillance debate and fellow Kentucky Senator, GOP leader Mitch McConnell, is trying to pass a wholesale reauthorization of Section 215. He may or may not have the votes for it in the Senate, and he has to get it through the House. A coalition of surveillance reformers are trying to pass an end to the bulk phone records collection, called the USA Freedom Act, that would re-up Section 215 for four more years. They may or may not have the votes for it in the Senate.Paul’s opposite on the surveillance debate and fellow Kentucky Senator, GOP leader Mitch McConnell, is trying to pass a wholesale reauthorization of Section 215. He may or may not have the votes for it in the Senate, and he has to get it through the House. A coalition of surveillance reformers are trying to pass an end to the bulk phone records collection, called the USA Freedom Act, that would re-up Section 215 for four more years. They may or may not have the votes for it in the Senate.
But instead, here’s Rand Paul, on the court, dribbling the ball where he stands, as the game clock winds down. All Paul needs to do to win is keep talking, and perhaps to get some like-minded Senators to relieve him when he tires or needs to use the bathroom. He doesn’t even necessarily have to keep talking all through the next day. He just needs to talk for as long as he can, thereby snarling the rest of the Senate calendar and leaving that much less time for any surveillance measure to wind its way through the Senate – when, perhaps, an outright filibuster by Paul or others could begin as well.But instead, here’s Rand Paul, on the court, dribbling the ball where he stands, as the game clock winds down. All Paul needs to do to win is keep talking, and perhaps to get some like-minded Senators to relieve him when he tires or needs to use the bathroom. He doesn’t even necessarily have to keep talking all through the next day. He just needs to talk for as long as he can, thereby snarling the rest of the Senate calendar and leaving that much less time for any surveillance measure to wind its way through the Senate – when, perhaps, an outright filibuster by Paul or others could begin as well.
Paul has been here before: his 13-hour filibuster of John Brennan’s nomination to head the CIA became a reputation-making disquisition on the downsides of drone strikes and endless war. Then, however, Brennan’s confirmation was assured, since the votes to entrench him in Langley awaited once Paul sat down. This time, Paul is making the clock work for him.Paul has been here before: his 13-hour filibuster of John Brennan’s nomination to head the CIA became a reputation-making disquisition on the downsides of drone strikes and endless war. Then, however, Brennan’s confirmation was assured, since the votes to entrench him in Langley awaited once Paul sat down. This time, Paul is making the clock work for him.
2.07pm ET19:072.07pm ET19:07
The first rollback of US government surveillance in a generation may be looming, but Senator Rand Paul has taken the floor of the US Senate to, he says, “begin a filibuster of the Patriot Act renewal”. This could be epic – or at least set the tone for a final showdown over spy reform after the Edward Snowden disclosures that could satisfy the likes of Paul … or not so much.The first rollback of US government surveillance in a generation may be looming, but Senator Rand Paul has taken the floor of the US Senate to, he says, “begin a filibuster of the Patriot Act renewal”. This could be epic – or at least set the tone for a final showdown over spy reform after the Edward Snowden disclosures that could satisfy the likes of Paul … or not so much.
The Patriot Act renewal is not actually on the Senate floor at the moment; Paul – a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination and a longtime surveillance critic – is not technically filibustering the renewal of that law. But with key provisions of the Patriot Act set to expire on 1 June, this speech might be seen as a run-out-the-clock strategy to snarl the Senate and give majority leader Mitch McConnell a minimum of time to pass any surveillance-related bill.The Patriot Act renewal is not actually on the Senate floor at the moment; Paul – a candidate for the Republican presidential nomination and a longtime surveillance critic – is not technically filibustering the renewal of that law. But with key provisions of the Patriot Act set to expire on 1 June, this speech might be seen as a run-out-the-clock strategy to snarl the Senate and give majority leader Mitch McConnell a minimum of time to pass any surveillance-related bill.
Paul appears prepared to speak for quite some time. For days he has filled his speeches and Twitter feed with breathless language forecasting a showdown with “the surveillance state.” “I’ve thrown down my marker,” Paul tweeted Monday. “I’m prepared to fight tooth & nail to END NSA spying on Americans.”Paul appears prepared to speak for quite some time. For days he has filled his speeches and Twitter feed with breathless language forecasting a showdown with “the surveillance state.” “I’ve thrown down my marker,” Paul tweeted Monday. “I’m prepared to fight tooth & nail to END NSA spying on Americans.”
I've just taken the senate floor to begin a filibuster of the Patriot Act renewal. It's time to end the NSA spying!I've just taken the senate floor to begin a filibuster of the Patriot Act renewal. It's time to end the NSA spying!
“We shouldn’t be so fearful that we’re willing to relinquish our rights without having a debate,” Paul said at the start of his speech, criticizing the Senate leadership for trying to skip debate on the Patriot Act extension.“We shouldn’t be so fearful that we’re willing to relinquish our rights without having a debate,” Paul said at the start of his speech, criticizing the Senate leadership for trying to skip debate on the Patriot Act extension.
The Patriot Act, I’m not sure… that we’ll have any debate over it,” Paul said. “It’s been set to expire for three years. The question is, is there not enough time that we just don’t care enough?”The Patriot Act, I’m not sure… that we’ll have any debate over it,” Paul said. “It’s been set to expire for three years. The question is, is there not enough time that we just don’t care enough?”
Settle in, because it could be a long day of political theatrics. We’ll also have live updates on the state of the reform vote from inside the Congressional chamber and analysis from across the web.Settle in, because it could be a long day of political theatrics. We’ll also have live updates on the state of the reform vote from inside the Congressional chamber and analysis from across the web.
Updated at 2.13pm ETUpdated at 2.13pm ET