GOP Representative Uncovers Biden Administration’s Surveillance of Political Opponents

GOP Representative Uncovers Biden Administration’s Surveillance of Political Opponents

FIRST ON FOX: Representative Abe Hamadeh from Arizona recently disclosed to Fox News Digital that he is among three Republicans in Congress subjected to surveillance by the Biden administration’s controversial ‘Quiet Skies’ program, which has since been terminated due to allegations of government overreach.

In a recent hearing convened by Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Rand Paul, information emerged regarding the Biden administration’s misuse of the ‘Quiet Skies’ program. This program, which was terminated by the Department of Homeland Security in June, involved the surveillance of various individuals, including sitting members of Congress and political candidates.

Hamadeh revealed that he learned he was one of those members targeted by surveillance in December 2022 while he was engaged in his campaign for attorney general.

“It sadly doesn’t surprise me,” Hamadeh expressed. He continued, “If you recall, banks were shutting down accounts for those promoting conservative viewpoints, and there was pressure from the Biden administration on how social media companies were censoring political voices contrary to their agenda. It demonstrates the extent of influence the federal government has, not only within its own bureaucracy but also over private organizations.”

Hamadeh remarked on the peculiar timing of his surveillance, noting that it coincided with his contestation of the election results from 2022. His attorney general race was determined by a mere 280 votes out of 2.5 million.

“This was a legitimate challenge, something both political parties regularly engage in,” he added. “The environment during that time was exceptionally hostile, particularly under the Biden administration. We were often labeled as fascists or threats to democracy.”

Hamadeh pointed out another intriguing aspect of the situation: his background as a former U.S. Army Reserve intelligence officer with top secret clearance who has experience traveling both overseas and within the U.S.

The Department of Homeland Security announced in June that it would discontinue the ‘Quiet Skies’ program. The program had previously subjected some Americans to increased scrutiny at airport security checkpoints.

The department noted that the program had become overly politicized, benefitting or harming specific individuals without just cause. It operated with an annual budget of approximately $200 million and maintained both a watchlist and a list of exempt individuals. Importantly, DHS confirmed that the program did not prevent any terrorist incidents and would shift focus to other methods to ensure air travel safety.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem commented, stating, “The ‘Quiet Skies’ program served as a political tool for the Biden administration, weaponized against its opponents and used to favor allies. I am advocating for a Congressional investigation to reveal further corruption that compromises national security.”

This program, initiated in 2010, aimed to identify specific passengers for enhanced screening on domestic and outbound international flights.

Earlier this year, Paul received documentation confirming that federal air marshals had surveilled current National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard during domestic flights, reporting back on her appearance and devices in use.

Hamadeh expressed gratitude to Senator Paul for uncovering the truth regarding the program’s misuse and commended the Department of Homeland Security for its decision to end ‘Quiet Skies’.

He further noted, “It’s curious that only three Republican members of Congress were targeted. Many Democrats also engage in intriguing travel; one would assume there are situations that could draw scrutiny. This raises questions about the focus and intentions of the Biden administration regarding its surveillance practices.”

In a recent press release, Paul praised Noem for her decision to dismantle ‘Quiet Skies’ but emphasized that the fight isn’t over yet.

“We must ensure this program does not resurface under a different name,” Paul asserted. He insisted on the removal of any officials involved in overseeing the surveillance of Americans exercising their right to free speech. He stressed that transparency should become a priority, eliminating the need for prolonged investigations.

Paul concluded by stating, “We need a framework that respects the Constitution, prevents shadow bans on Americans, and guarantees that the government is focused on safeguarding its citizens rather than pursuing political vendettas.”

Fox News Digital reached out to the Biden administration for comment regarding these serious allegations.

Contributions to this report were made by Cameron Arcand of Fox News Digital.