Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) on Sunday released the following statement on his vote to begin debate in the Senate on the House-passed USA Freedom Act:

"I voted tonight to consider the seriously flawed House bill because this is now the only realistic option to continue the PATRIOT Act. Hopefully, during this time of heightened threats from terrorists, the Senate will strengthen the legislation and provide greater protection to the American people."

Senator Bob Corker said, “Not only am I deeply concerned about the way the administration has limited the effectiveness of this critical national security program, but I am also extremely disappointed lawmakers allowed a lapse in our ability to hunt down terrorists plotting against Americans.

“Congress should restore these intelligence capabilities in a manner that can still be effective and robust to keep Americans safe while continuing to respect our cherished civil liberties.”

