Congress Must Stop Federal Surveillance Of Lawful Political Speech

I am writing as a concerned American to urge you to speak out against recent Department of Justice and FBI initiatives that, according to press reporting, would expand federal intelligence gathering based on political ideology rather than criminal conduct. As described in the December 18, 2025 Washington Post article, these efforts risk placing lawful political beliefs, protest activity, and constitutionally protected speech under federal scrutiny. I respectfully ask you to oppose this approach, to hold oversight hearings examining its legality and scope, and to enact legislation that protects First Amendment rights and prevents federal overreach. Federal Actions Raise Serious Constitutional Concerns The Washington Post reported that the DOJ and FBI have been directed to coordinate intelligence activities related to so-called Antifa-linked conduct, potentially relying on broad ideological indicators rather than specific evidence of criminal behavior. Such an approach raises serious concerns about surveillance of Americans for their beliefs, associations, or viewpoints, and about the chilling effect this may have on lawful expression. Political Beliefs Must Not Become Grounds for Surveillance Legal scholars and civil liberties organizations emphasize that Antifa is not a formal organization but a loosely defined political ideology. Treating an ideology as a domestic threat collapses the distinction between lawful protest and criminal activity. When federal authorities investigate individuals based on beliefs or associations rather than actions, core First Amendment protections are endangered. Historical Lessons Demand Congressional Oversight American history shows that vague national security frameworks are often misused against unpopular or minority viewpoints. Without firm congressional oversight and clear statutory limits, expansive law enforcement authorities erode public trust and deter citizens from exercising their constitutional rights. Congressional Action Is Necessary I respectfully urge you to hold hearings to examine the legal and constitutional basis for current DOJ and FBI directives, including how targets are defined and what safeguards exist to protect lawful speech and association. I further urge you to advance legislation that restricts domestic surveillance and counterterrorism authorities to demonstrable criminal conduct, strengthens protections for lawful protest and advocacy, and reinforces congressional oversight of federal law enforcement. The Constitution does not permit the government to police ideas or beliefs. Congress has a duty to act as a check on executive power when fundamental rights are at risk. I urge you to act promptly to protect civil liberties and uphold the freedoms that define our nation.