Rand Paul says Freedom Act Will ‘Ultimately Pass,’ But Vote May Be Delayed Until Tuesday

GOP presidential candidate Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) – a vocal opponent of the USA Patriot Act – said Sunday evening during Senate debates that the House’s USA Freedom Act, which slightly alters the original Patriot Act, will “ultimately pass” but that he hopes tonight ends the bulk collection process.

According to NPR, Paul said he worries Congress will replace one bulk collection program with another.

“It’s hard for me to have trust in the people who we are giving great power to,” Paul said, adding he plans to offer some amendments.

Around 7:00 pm Sunday evening, the Senate voted 77-17 to vote on the House’s USA Freedom Act, but first any senator can still debate the measure over the next 30 hours.

“That bill renews three of the Patriot Act provisions expiring at midnight and would overhaul the controversial bulk telephone collection program. Because of Senate procedural rules and possible votes on amendments it is likely there will not be a vote on final passage for several days,” CNN reported.

If the Senate makes any edits to the House’s USA Freedom Act, it would have to go back to the House for approval.

According to Roll Call, a vote on the USA Freedom Act could be delayed until as late as Tuesday morning.