Case Dixon Slams Opponent's Vote Advancing FISA 702 Reauthorization: "Blatantly Unconstitutional"

April 18, 2026 - HUEYTOWN, Ala. - Congressional candidate Case Dixon sharply criticized Rep. Gary Palmer after Palmer voted Thursday night in favor of H. Res. 1175, the procedural rule governing debate on H.R. 8035, legislation to reauthorize Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA).

Dixon argued that the vote signaled support for extending what he described as unconstitutional surveillance powers.

"Last night, my opponent voted for H. Res. 1175-the rule for considering H.R. 8035, FISA 702 reauthorization," Dixon said. "Had it passed, unconstitutional, warrantless surveillance of Americans would likely have been extended for five years. It's wrong on so many levels, and it's blatantly unconstitutional."

The rule ultimately failed after a bloc of Republican lawmakers broke with party leadership. Dixon highlighted that group as an example of members willing to challenge Washington's direction.

"Twenty Republicans chose the Constitution over their party. Palmer didn't," Dixon said. "That's the difference. When it mattered, he sided with Washington instead of the people he represents. He's compromised by power and leadership, choosing to maintain his position instead of standing for what he knows is right. When leadership says jump, he asks how high-regardless of whether it serves his constituents."

Section 702 has long been the subject of debate in Congress. While national security officials argue the authority is essential for foreign intelligence collection, critics across the political spectrum have raised concerns about incidental collection of Americans' communications and the potential for warrantless searches, citing Fourth Amendment implications.

Dixon said those concerns should have guided the vote.

"Alabama's 6th District needs a representative who will defend the Constitution, not ignore it," he said. "We don't need another rubber stamp in Congress."

Incumbent Congressman Gary Palmer is seeking a seventh consecutive term representing Alabama's Sixth Congressional District.

The Republican primary is on May 19.

Congressional candidate Case Dixon sharply criticized his opponent, Gary Palmer, for his vote last night in favor of H. Res. 1175, the rule for considering H.R. 8035, legislation to reauthorize FISA Section 702.

"Last night, my opponent voted for H. Res. 1175-the rule for considering H.R. 8035, FISA 702 reauthorization," Dixon said. "Had it passed, unconstitutional, warrantless surveillance of Americans would likely have been extended for five years. It's wrong on so many levels, and it's blatantly unconstitutional."

Dixon pointed to the group of Republicans who broke with party leadership to oppose the measure.

"Twenty Republicans chose the Constitution over their party. Palmer didn't," Dixon said. "That's the difference. When it mattered, he sided with Washington instead of the people he represents. He's compromised by power and leadership, choosing to maintain his position instead of standing for what he knows is right. When leadership says jump, he asks how high-regardless of whether it serves his constituents."

FISA Section 702 has drawn widespread criticism for allowing warrantless surveillance of Americans, raising serious Fourth Amendment concerns.

"Alabama's 6th District needs a representative who will defend the Constitution, not ignore it," Dixon added. "We don't need another rubber stamp in Congress."