Justice Department spokespeople didn't immediately respond to a request for comment about what changes the attorney general would like to enact.

Congress has until March 15 to reauthorize a handful of provisions under the USA Freedom Act.

Some House Republicans had eyed trying to attach the FISA fight to the broader surveillance discussions, a move that could have inserted a political lightning rod into an already controversial debate.

But that had gotten pushback from Senate Republicans, including members of the Intelligence Committee, who want the discussions to be separate.

"I think that's a good start, that doesn't mean we won't act legislatively," Graham said. Graham and Cramer both noted that Congress could still pass separate FISA reforms. Graham, as Judiciary Committee chairman, has pledged to investigate the process and the warrant application regarding Page."I think that's a good start, that doesn't mean we won't act legislatively," Graham said.