The Connecticut delegation split on Tuesday over reauthorization of several provisions in the Patriot Act, the post-Sept. 11 law that dramatically expanded FBI counterterrorism powers.
House Republicans failed to win the two-thirds majority necessary to pass the measure, a temporary extension that sought to buy time for hearings and debate over three provisions that are set to expire at the end of this month.
Two Connecticut lawmakers-Reps. Joe Courtney and Chris Murphy-joined Republicans in supporting the Patriot Act extensions. And the other three-Reps. John Larson, Rosa DeLauro, and Jim Himes-all voted no.
Republicans can bring the bill up again for another vote under normal rules, which would require only a simple majority. Then the real debate will get underway.