Edward Snowden May Find Allies in Trump’s New Administration

[Social Media]

 

Edward Snowden, the whistleblower who exposed a massive U.S. government surveillance program in 2013, could see renewed support in the evolving political landscape as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume office. Snowden, who has lived in Russia since fleeing the United States after his revelations about the National Security Agency (NSA), remains a polarizing figure. While celebrated by free speech advocates and civil libertarians, he has historically faced sharp criticism from Republican leaders.  

 

However, recent developments suggest a potential shift in his favor within Trump’s incoming administration. Insiders reveal that several of Trump’s key appointees are sympathetic to Snowden’s plight and could advocate for clemency. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, Trump’s pick for director of national intelligence, has been a vocal supporter of Snowden in the past. In September 2020, Gabbard co-sponsored a resolution urging the United States to drop all charges against him. A source close to Gabbard confirmed to *The Post* that Snowden’s case remains a priority for her and that she is likely to push for clemency in Trump’s second term. “I certainly think if asked, that is the direction she would push,” the insider shared.  

 

Another potential ally is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s presumptive nominee for secretary of health and human services. Kennedy has publicly expressed his admiration for Snowden, even promising during the Libertarian National Convention in May to pardon him and build a statue in his honor. These statements underscore Kennedy’s alignment with those who view Snowden’s actions as a courageous stand against government overreach.  

 

Snowden’s case also aligns with the views of prominent Trump ally Tucker Carlson, who has been vocal in his support. “Ed Snowden is a whistleblower who exposed the crimes of others, yet he’s the one who’s been punished while the criminals remain in power. It’s hard to think of a more grotesque injustice. Anyone who argues against his pardon is your enemy,” Carlson declared, emphasizing the moral imperative of clemency for Snowden.  

 

In the waning days of Trump’s first term, discussions about pardoning Snowden gained traction. In late 2020, Trump was reportedly “strongly considering” granting him a pardon. However, the effort faced opposition from high-ranking officials, including then-Attorney General Bill Barr and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who argued that Snowden’s actions endangered national security. Neither Barr nor Pompeo is expected to hold significant influence in Trump’s second administration, potentially clearing a path for renewed deliberations.  

 

Snowden himself, through his attorney Ben Wizner, has reiterated the importance of clemency. “This is exactly the kind of case that the pardon power was created for. He broke the law in the public interest, for love of country, and he’s paid a price. He does not belong in exile,” Wizner said.  

 

As Trump assembles his new administration, the possibility of clemency for Snowden could reemerge as a key issue, driven by the influence of those who view the whistleblower’s actions as a service to the American people. Whether this sentiment translates into tangible action remains to be seen.

 

Based on a report by the NYP 2024-12-03

 

 

 

[Real Name Hidden]

Snowden is a traitor to his country, not surprising he'd be welcomed in the Trump camp.