Receiving classified information and publishing it seems to be allowed under the first amendment.
But yes, most would consider it treasonous in spirit if not legally.
Receiving classified information and publishing it seems to be allowed under the first amendment.
But yes, most would consider it treasonous in spirit if not legally.
Meant somewhat tongue in cheek.
Constitional Defintion of treason:
This word imports a betraying, treachery, or breach of allegiance.
The Constitution of the United States, Art. III, defines treason against the United States to consist only in levying war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid or comfort. This offence is punished with death. By the same article of the Constitution, no person shall be convicted of treason, unless on the testimony of two witnesses to the same overt act, or on confession in open court.
Dictionary definition of treason:
1. the offense of acting to overthrow one's government or to harm or kill its sovereign.
2. a violation of allegiance to one's sovereign or to one's state.
3. the betrayal of a trust or confidence; breach of faith; treachery.
I think this will end up being just a violation of the Secrets law and not treasonous...unless the press is considered an enemy of the State. Big picture, what does that say about the press. :))