Cruz Blocks Bill to Extend Privacy Protections Nationwide

WASHINGTON, Oct. 3, 2025 – Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, blocked an effort by Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., this week to extend data privacy protections designed for federal lawmakers to all individuals in the United States.

Wyden sought unanimous consent Monday night to pass the Protecting Americans from Doxing and Political Violence Act. The bill, S.2850, would have prevented data brokers from selling or trading the personal information of anyone in the U.S., broadening protections already approved in the Senate for members of Congress and their staffs.

“Members of Congress should not receive special treatment,” Wyden said, speaking on the Senate floor. “Our constituents deserve protection from violence, stalking, and other criminal threats.”