It may be the status quo, but since these powers were intended to be temporary, it is arguably relevant that they may finally be expiring. Many users here care about issues around surveillance and privacy.

Re: Common Dreams, HN guidelines don't limit sources by their political slant, as long as the article in question is interesting or relevant. Frankly I find this to be refreshing, since many places are dominated by articles from sources with a center-right slant.