Biden Administration Ends Quiet Skies Program After Targeting Three GOP Lawmakers

Rep. Abe Hamadeh, a Republican from Arizona, revealed that he was one of three GOP members of Congress surveilled by the Biden administration's now-terminated "Quiet Skies" program, which was originally designed for enhanced airport passenger screening but was criticized for political misuse. The Department of Homeland Security ended the $200 million annual program in June due to concerns over politicization, ineffective results, and its use against conservative figures. Hamadeh's surveillance, notably in December 2022, coincided with his challenge to the narrowly decided Arizona attorney general election, raising fears of targeted political repression. Senator Rand Paul has chaired hearings calling for accountability and congressional investigation into the program's abuse, emphasizing the importance of government transparency and protecting citizens' rights. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem condemned the program as a political tool undermining national security and penalizing dissenters. Hamadeh also highlighted broader pressures on conservatives, including bank account closures and social media censorship, contributing to an environment hostile to opposing political voices during the Biden administration.