Wait, now it is ok that Chelsea Manning gave classified information to wikileaks, but when wikileaks publishes DNC emails, that is the high crime of "hacking the election?"
8
If Manning was not transgender would she have been pardoned? I would bet not. See: Snowden. Why not go out with another stab at identity politics? I'm ready for 8 years of Trump
9
The Corporal Klinger strategy finally paid off.
14
It it could be worse. Obama could pardon the terrorist, Oscar Lopez Rivera, who bombed and killed American citizens. Oh, wait...
8
That would be almost as ridiculous as murdering U.S. citizens without any due process. Oh, wait...
5
How soon before the book goes on sale? This is the only country I know of where you can commit treason, get pardoned, and move on to be rich and famous. Clearly, those that consider this an act of mercy have never lost a loved one in a war. In fact, we live in a time where wars are fought by volunteers from primarily lower income strata. As such, the people on this blog avoid war service, and therefore wouldn't have skin in the game ever. My disdain for them is limitless. At least conscription, or national service insures the risk is shared. If it were like that again, attitudes would change.
7
"... you can commit treason, get pardoned, and move on to be rich and famous."
You are wrong about Manning on the first two, and it is doubtful Manning will ever be "rich". You are right about one thing -- Manning is "famous".
Re your two mistakes: Manning was never charged with treason, and a commutation is not a pardon.
"... the people on this blog avoid war service, and therefore wouldn't have skin in the game ever"
I have read NY Times comments from combat veterans and from the parents of service members killed in combat.
"My disdain for them is limitless."
My disdain is limited to people who don't know what they are talking about.
You are wrong about Manning on the first two, and it is doubtful Manning will ever be "rich". You are right about one thing -- Manning is "famous".
Re your two mistakes: Manning was never charged with treason, and a commutation is not a pardon.
"... the people on this blog avoid war service, and therefore wouldn't have skin in the game ever"
I have read NY Times comments from combat veterans and from the parents of service members killed in combat.
"My disdain for them is limitless."
My disdain is limited to people who don't know what they are talking about.
7
Well this story was good for about a day's worth of news excitement for the rest of us, now Chelsea Manning only has the rest of her life to try and figure out her's. No small task, I'm sure.
3
Well, I'm surprised. The Obama Administration has been vindictive toward whistle blowers until now. I'll be more surprised, and gratified, if Obama drops charges against Snowden, who also revealed government perfidy. In large part, government secrecy is used to cloak its illegal or merely embarrassing actions.
Not much time left. The next four years won't be pretty.
Not much time left. The next four years won't be pretty.
4
Trump is critical of Manning's commutation, yet doesn't concede defeat, as hacking an election is politically correct?
4
Sometimes a crime must be committed to expose crime. Remember the Pentagon Papers anyone? I'm all for exposing how the government plays us all for suckers and tells lie after lie. And let's keep in mind that not one single person was killed because of the release of the information leaked by Chelsea. With all the straight-up murder that took place in Iraq by our own soldiers tell me how many served more time than Chelsea.
7
There are people still at large who not only endangered National Security but caused the death of thousands of our brave troops, and left ten thousands of them maimed for life. Let us use the same scale of Justice for these people also. But it looks this is not possible as I saw a photo of our First Lady being cozy with one of these people.
4
I was shocked to hear about Manning's sentence being commuted! Pollard was left to rot in prison, yes he did give info but to a friend of USA- who knows if any of the info that Manning gave caused someone's life to be taken? Manning is a very disturbed individual and should have mental health assistance.
3
Many commentators think President Obama should also pardon Edward Snowden. Manning stole about 750,000 classified documents, none of which provided evidence of war crimes. Snowden stole 1.5 million documents, only a small percent of which revealed the existence of controversial global surveillance programs. A report released in September by the House Committee on Intelligence states that “Snowden caused tremendous damage to national security, and the vast majority of the documents he stole have nothing to do with programs impacting individual privacy interests—they instead pertain to military, defense and intelligence programs of great interest to America’s adversaries.” The report also that “Snowden insists he has not shared the full cache of 1.5 million classified documents with anyone; however, in June 2016, the deputy chairman of the Russian parliament’s defense and security committee publicly conceded that Snowden ‘did share intelligence’ with his government.”
8
hmmm You obviously don't consider the Reuters murder in New Baghdad a warcrime
3
Did Ms. Manning commit a treasonous act? Yes.
Did she act with forethought and full consent of the will? Yes.
Was she considerate of the harm that could come to individuals and institutions? No.
Did she receive a sentence that was too harsh? Yes.
Was her sentence any more harsh than the thousands incarcerated under the draconian drug laws of the '80? No.
Did the American taxpayer deserve to foot the bill for her gender reassignment surgery? Absolutely No.
Once she's released and the Military is no longer responsible for her well being, will she be at all able to cope with life in the world? More than likely not.
Will we have to hear about her anymore after her release? I sincerely hope not.
Did she act with forethought and full consent of the will? Yes.
Was she considerate of the harm that could come to individuals and institutions? No.
Did she receive a sentence that was too harsh? Yes.
Was her sentence any more harsh than the thousands incarcerated under the draconian drug laws of the '80? No.
Did the American taxpayer deserve to foot the bill for her gender reassignment surgery? Absolutely No.
Once she's released and the Military is no longer responsible for her well being, will she be at all able to cope with life in the world? More than likely not.
Will we have to hear about her anymore after her release? I sincerely hope not.
9
I am so grateful to Ms. Manning and to President Obama.
5
What could you possible be grateful to Chelsea Manning for? Manning stole and gave 750,000 classified and sensitive military and diplomatic documents to WikiLeaks. These documents contained no evidence of war crimes or wrongdoing? They contained military operational secrets.
9
Is Chelsea Manning also free of civil liabilities? The people she harmed or their families if they're dead should seek redress in civil court if it's available to them.
8
The documents leaked by Manning are fairly benign. Not much harm done.
7
Correct Why can't commenters even be bothered to read the court transcript?
3
As usual, Obama does the right thing, showing compassion for a weak individual who has greatly suffered already. Picture Trump doing something like this; I bet you can't. Trump would have tweeted something evil and obnoxious in response to Manning's legal request. Now she can get help for her gender dysporia.
2
Will the blood be on 0bama's hands when Manning makes good on his attempts at suicide?
2
Chelsea Manning did us a big favor in making us look at ourselves even only for a very brief time. It's not a comfortable thing being exposed as we were and we did not like what we saw. There is no evidence that the leaks caused any harm beyond embarrassment.
5
Too little, too late. Whistleblowers are defenders of genuine democracy but no friends of the govt du jour.
Is Obama's spokesman really suggesting that Snowden and Assange should 'man up' to seven years of torture, like Manning, to possibly get an early release?!? Would you?!!!?
Obama has truly been 'presidential'. That means he's a slick talker and doesn't need to put roofies in your drink to get you to put out. But he's eviscerated the Constitution, enabled a surveillance police state based on impunity, expanded US nuclear weapons by a trillion dollars, bombed and killed in foreign countries for no apparent reason, and wants nothing to do with refugees created by those bombs who only want what we all want: a safe, secure life, a home, enough to eat, a job, education for one's children.
Trump, on the other hand, is Bozo the Clown. But if he draws down US support for NATO, the nuclear threat will be eased. Killary certainly couldn't wait to push the button! Maybe The Donald will drop funding for new US nukes and get onboard the UN nuclear disarmament initiative. Americans always want to be first so why not be the first to unilaterally disarm?
The US economy is predicated on war and arms sales. T is unlikely to end the endless wars but, who knows, maybe the billionaire boys' club will decide there's some strategic political or economic advantage to curtailing America's bloated military world police...
Is Obama's spokesman really suggesting that Snowden and Assange should 'man up' to seven years of torture, like Manning, to possibly get an early release?!? Would you?!!!?
Obama has truly been 'presidential'. That means he's a slick talker and doesn't need to put roofies in your drink to get you to put out. But he's eviscerated the Constitution, enabled a surveillance police state based on impunity, expanded US nuclear weapons by a trillion dollars, bombed and killed in foreign countries for no apparent reason, and wants nothing to do with refugees created by those bombs who only want what we all want: a safe, secure life, a home, enough to eat, a job, education for one's children.
Trump, on the other hand, is Bozo the Clown. But if he draws down US support for NATO, the nuclear threat will be eased. Killary certainly couldn't wait to push the button! Maybe The Donald will drop funding for new US nukes and get onboard the UN nuclear disarmament initiative. Americans always want to be first so why not be the first to unilaterally disarm?
The US economy is predicated on war and arms sales. T is unlikely to end the endless wars but, who knows, maybe the billionaire boys' club will decide there's some strategic political or economic advantage to curtailing America's bloated military world police...
2
why not pardon all traitors and criminals
13
This is good news! BUT, Mr Obama (who lived in my room at Oxy's Haines Hall, 2nd floor, but twenty years after I did, according to Oxy's video on Obama at Oxy) please let Manning out now. Given his daily experiencing of harassment, by guards and prisoners, and experiences of torture and isolation in the seven years Manning has been held, it's entirely possible s/he could be killed, a murder made to look like a suicide maybe. Could he go to a halfway house until his seven years is up (May, 2017) or be held with an ankle bracelet in the safe house of someone s/he knows? I'm afraid s/he will be driven to suicide or tortured before May 2017. Mr President, please intervene again to protect Chelsea Manning!
From a former longtime trauma and family psychotherapist.
From a former longtime trauma and family psychotherapist.
3
Maybe she should have thought of that before she committed treason? The only offense defined in the Constitution due to how serious it is?
6
We are a vindictive country, at least based on so many of these comments. One view is that Manning should be executed, even though this would not be consistent with the law. Once Trump is in office, I guess we will no longer be bothered by such petty annoyances as "legal standards". Does the clear and true fact that the punishment for this offense is typically much less than the time already served mater to any of you calling for further retribution?
7
Article 3, section III of the Constitution defines treason as aiding the enemy. Manning is clearly guilty. A federal statute allows execution for treason. Where is the illegality again?
3
When the military fills its quotas of cannon fodder by pretending that the most dysfunctional recruits are fit for any kind of duty, bad outcomes for everyone are guaranteed.
An examination of Bradley Manning*s pre-enlistment life makes pretty clear that he needed extensive, ongoing therapeutic care. Perhaps those responsible for approving his enlistment didn't want to touch the possibility of a discrimination lawsuit with a ten-foot pole.
But if we examine the issue of fitness to serve, then our overseas adventures will, of course, be severely curtailed.
An examination of Bradley Manning*s pre-enlistment life makes pretty clear that he needed extensive, ongoing therapeutic care. Perhaps those responsible for approving his enlistment didn't want to touch the possibility of a discrimination lawsuit with a ten-foot pole.
But if we examine the issue of fitness to serve, then our overseas adventures will, of course, be severely curtailed.
7
This is a travesty of justice. I would have doubled this person's sentence, NOT pardoned the despicable behavior. I cannot fathom why a pardon would be given.
10
By comparison, WikiLeaks’ exposé of John Podesta’s gossipy private e-mails seems pretty insignificant.
5
But Podesta's dribble it's a cause celeb.
This is a politically motivated act - period.
This is a politically motivated act - period.
3
"The quality of mercy is not strained." She has served more than twice the customary sentence meted out in such cases. She was reckless and has paid for it twice over by established precedent. President Obama has shown Christian mercy, wisdom, and courage - as usual. He should do the same for Snowden. All the people condemning him here I feel sure are fine about Trump's traitorous deal with Putin which skewed our elections. If anyone should be thrown in jail, it's him. But we live with these Republican moral and legal double standards. This is America!
1
You either forget or don't know that penalties and sentences according to the UCMJ, Uniform Code of Military Justice, are at times more harsh than its civilian counterpart. You can't judge the soldier's sentence by civilian standards of sentencing.
2
I take greater solace in the release of decidedly relevant documents as oppose to miscellany, which reflects instability everywhichway rather than good intentions.
Snowden's efforts were primarily driven by good intentions, and with commendable precision.
Snowden's efforts were primarily driven by good intentions, and with commendable precision.
1
Absolutely reprehensible
5
Amazing to see this benevolent action from our President Obama. This action one more confirmed that this president, more than any other is the defender of LGBTQ rights. Impressive to have witnessed this kind action towards Miss Manning.
It's about time.
2
Chelsea Manning served 7 years of an extremely long sentence. That seems sufficient punishment. Why not give her a second chance? She may surprise everyone. Today is always the beginning of the rest of one's life.
4
Military sentence is different from the sentences according to its civilian counterpart. UCMJ has different law standards than what you would understand as a civilian.
1
Mr. Obama has made such a fuss out of Russia's spying. How can he now commute the sentence of a spy. Think about the thirty years Jonathan Pollard served for a similar crime. And when Obama did commute his sentence he did it in a back handed way. He made Pollard continue to be under house arrest. I guess if Pollard had sexual identity issues he would have been treated fairly.
7
She was never accused of spying. Pollard acted for years before being caught. There was no evidence presented the info Manning leaked caused any harm contrary to the Republicans rantings.
3
Pollard was a prostitute who shopped his stolen documents to other nations before selling them to Israel.
Israel denied and disavowed him for years.
Pollard was no better than Ames, Hansen and the Walkers
Deserved to be shot.
Israel denied and disavowed him for years.
Pollard was no better than Ames, Hansen and the Walkers
Deserved to be shot.
I'm a decorated,combat vet, Republican, conservationist,stockbroker & philanthropist. I'm conflicted but net-net believe Pres Obama did the honorable thing @ the risk of his legacy. The sentence was egregious & inappropriate( 7 yrs enough & will allow her to pay here own elected medical bills.
1
Personally I thought that President was wrong in pardoning Manning, that a reduction of her sentence would have been more in order. I would have liked to see Manning prison term reduced to say 2025 and asked the Bureau of Prisons to move her to a women's federal institution.
2
Not pardoned. The sentence was commuted. Big difference.
2
I was hoping he would also pardon E. Snowden. Both are heroes
3
He/she had turned its imprisonment into an ongoing spectacle like a carnival freak show with endless demands for accommodation; this ends it. For those who seek stronger punishment for Manning this may do it; I expect he/she to self-destruct rather promptly in the real world.
6
So let me get this straight. When WikiLeaks release actual emails from a Presidential Candidate, the DNC, and the mainstream media that show collusion between the three in an attempt to rig the primary and then take sides in an election, that is bad. So bad in fact that there are many people, elected officials included, that are claiming the Presidential election (not the Primary that was rigged) is illegitimate.
However, when an individual breaks his oath, violates security clearances, and gives a vast hoard of sensitive intelligence to the same organization that endangers active duty military personnel and foreign individuals that are helping the United States a 35 year prison term is bad?
I wonder if those applauding the humanity of the President's decision would feel the same way if it was this individual who released the data about the DNC, Mrs Clinton, and the media's attempt to subvert the primary process and rig the election.
However, when an individual breaks his oath, violates security clearances, and gives a vast hoard of sensitive intelligence to the same organization that endangers active duty military personnel and foreign individuals that are helping the United States a 35 year prison term is bad?
I wonder if those applauding the humanity of the President's decision would feel the same way if it was this individual who released the data about the DNC, Mrs Clinton, and the media's attempt to subvert the primary process and rig the election.
9
This is what's wrong with partisanship in this country. People don't want the truth. They only point to evidence when it suits them. Pres. Obama most likely did this because of the Transgender aspect. Otherwise, he should also praise Russia, Snowden and Wikileaks for the last election results.
4
My question for Republican lawmakers who question President Obama's commutation -- do alleged actions of the Trump campaign in coordinating with the Russian government violate the Espionage Act?
Chelsea Manning stole nearly three-quarters of a million classified documents, none of which disclosed any war crimes. WikiLeaks created the false perception that Manning was a whistle-bower by releasing the infamous “Collateral Damage” video, which it had deceptively edited to make it look like an attack on unarmed civilians. The unedited video of the Apache helicopter attack—which aired on “60 Minutes”—showed that the group of men engaged were insurgents armed with AK-47s and a rocket-propelled grenade launcher. Julian Assange admitted to Mike Wallace that WikiLeaks had edited out portions of the video that showed the weapons. The unedited version of the video cleared the pilots of wrongdoing.
6
Wouldn't you bet that if Snowden were LGBTQ, one of those options, he would be pardoned immediately, along with Manning. Unfortunately, he is straight, so no mercy at all.
4
How much will Obama have to declare on his taxes for making this contribution to Trump's re-election campaign?
5
Great comment Tom. Bravo!!
3
Well, this is one of the reasons that people voted for Trump.
3
So its OK to commit high treason if you are a women ... or claiming some diverse sexual identity and apparently the democratic party thinks that this yet another patronage double-standard gift to voting block X is going to buy them how many votes? Manning committed high treason and should have been executed by firing squad. What's even worse is why after this should or can our military assign a woman or a gay to any position of responsibility or allow them near a gun in the military if they are not going to be held to the same standards of discipline as us angry white men? Now in addition to women and what ever sacred victim group of the week not having to have the same qualifications as a white male to get a government job the "diverse" don't have to obey the laws and regulations either. This is the biggest insult to disciplined and patriotic soldiers since Carter pardoned the spoiled rich kid deserters that ran off to Canada and losing many millions of votes from soldiers and their families lost him re-election. You would think that these 'genius' democrats with their Ivy League degrees and pretentions of God like intellectual ability would at least be good at math! Obama just totally killed his "legacy".
21
Which men have been executed by firing squad for what Manning did? Which men have served 35 years in prison for what Manning did?
Mr. Cater never attended an Ivy League school
1
she has served longer than any other person. and she revealed war crimes by the US and Iraqui troops. Enough is enough.
1
Question: Who in the military is responsible for placing a dysfunctional Bradley Manning in a position where he could do what he did. Manning did commit a crime but who placed such an inherently unreliable person in a position to have access to all the secret stuff? There is absolutely no reporting on this, as far as I know.
18
There are a whole lot of people screaming about Obama's commuting of Chelsea Manning's sentence after she has been imprisoned for 7 years.
It is instructive to review how the law defines appropriate punishment for treason:
Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.
(June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 807; Pub. L. 103–322, title XXXIII, § 330016(2)(J), Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 2148.)
".....or shall be imprisoned not less than five years."
She did 7. Anyone who thinks that she should be forced to serve out a 35 year term is just being vindictive.
It is instructive to review how the law defines appropriate punishment for treason:
Whoever, owing allegiance to the United States, levies war against them or adheres to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort within the United States or elsewhere, is guilty of treason and shall suffer death, or shall be imprisoned not less than five years and fined under this title but not less than $10,000; and shall be incapable of holding any office under the United States.
(June 25, 1948, ch. 645, 62 Stat. 807; Pub. L. 103–322, title XXXIII, § 330016(2)(J), Sept. 13, 1994, 108 Stat. 2148.)
".....or shall be imprisoned not less than five years."
She did 7. Anyone who thinks that she should be forced to serve out a 35 year term is just being vindictive.
15
Manning was never charged with treason, so the statute you quoted is irrelevant.
Manning was found guilty on "six counts of violating the Espionage Act, five of stealing government property, and one violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Each carries up to a 10-year sentence."
Manning Is Acquitted of Aiding the Enemy
By CHARLIE SAVAGE
JULY 30, 2013
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/31/us/bradley-manning-verdict.html
Manning was found guilty on "six counts of violating the Espionage Act, five of stealing government property, and one violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act. Each carries up to a 10-year sentence."
Manning Is Acquitted of Aiding the Enemy
By CHARLIE SAVAGE
JULY 30, 2013
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/31/us/bradley-manning-verdict.html
2
yes. now when will.we inprison Trump.for those 5 years?
1
UCMJ has different law standards that a soldier is tried and sentenced with. Civilian law isn't valid...
1
Any person who gives away the secrets of our nation to others, should be executed.
9
General David Petraeus included?
3
Including Trump? Reagan? Iran hostage deal ?
4
Manning recklessly dumped data, much of it she hadn't even read. Snowden, on the other hand was careful that the data files, that showed serious wrong doing on the part of our country, were properly screened and no information that could have threatened lives or identities was released. David Snowden is the Daniel Ellsberg of our time and that is how he will be remembered in due time.
10
In my perfect world, people like Donald Rumsfeld, Dick Cheney and Paul Wolfowitz would be locked up in Fort Leavenworth, and Chelsea Manning would be delivering paid speeches around the country. I'll settle for her release.
This article and coverage of her release will almost certainly fail to use the word 'whistleblower'. Ms. Manning uncovered human rights abuses, including the murder of a journalist. I will not living in a nation of trigger-happy, flag-waving idiots who disparage human rights, including the right to express one's gender freely!
This article and coverage of her release will almost certainly fail to use the word 'whistleblower'. Ms. Manning uncovered human rights abuses, including the murder of a journalist. I will not living in a nation of trigger-happy, flag-waving idiots who disparage human rights, including the right to express one's gender freely!
9
"Whistleblower"? On what facts is that conclusion based?
Read Copse's comments above: He before she was "an inherently unreliable person". Even in the guilty plea there was never a whistleblower defense advanced, only sorrow for the betrayal . If you want to challenge of the severity of the sentence , fine but not the challenge as to the violation.
Also how much of the support is based on the "one's gender" that you mention( no need for a ?)
Read Copse's comments above: He before she was "an inherently unreliable person". Even in the guilty plea there was never a whistleblower defense advanced, only sorrow for the betrayal . If you want to challenge of the severity of the sentence , fine but not the challenge as to the violation.
Also how much of the support is based on the "one's gender" that you mention( no need for a ?)
2
You people! SMH... Soldiers are held to different legal standards than a civilian. They are tried under the UCMJ by a panel of fellow soldiers. It was a fair trial but the sentence should have been longer. This is just another sensational news story to keep our attention to what is really happening.
1
I love Obama, but this is disappointing. Perhaps Obama thought that this was a trade for Assange, I don't know. If Assange is brought to justice, then perhaps this is a reasonable trade.
Manning knowingly committed treason - whatever his reasons. I believe that you must be sympathetic to his mental illness and gender identity issues. I also believe he can continue to pay the price for his crime.
I frankly don't believe Obama was just being empathetic. He could have been empathetic a long time ago. Maybe he is playing a political game with Trump - to see what he'll do with Assange if that event happens.
Manning knowingly committed treason - whatever his reasons. I believe that you must be sympathetic to his mental illness and gender identity issues. I also believe he can continue to pay the price for his crime.
I frankly don't believe Obama was just being empathetic. He could have been empathetic a long time ago. Maybe he is playing a political game with Trump - to see what he'll do with Assange if that event happens.
7
She has served 7 years, which is longer than anyone and the law. And she disclosed war crimes. Her disclosure harmed no one and likely saved many. Stop being flag waving vindictive.
1
Manning was never tried for treason. Providing Aid and Comfort and that was a stretch. Read "The Moderate Verdict" at Slate.com July 30 2013.
1
Weren't dozens of US Operatives/Infirmities hunted down and killed after Manning outed them? The net damage of Manning's crime stretched far beyond Treason
12
evidence for that assertion?
2
We have now set the bar for espionage as 7 years..... I'd ask my liberal friends about why this leak through Wikileaks is OK vs. DNC material. I'd ask by conservative friends the same question in reverse? Manning committed treason - he should be still in prison....
11
Before this no one served more than 3 years for similar crimes. Chelsea was not convicted of aiding the enemy.
2
Correction: In an earlier post I said that Edward Snowden had offered to giver himself up if President Obama pardoned Chelsea Manning. It was actually Julian Assange but, according to an article in today's The Hill he is worming his way out of the agreement. Anyone surprised?
http://thehill.com/policy/cybersecurity/314783-assange-lawyer-conditions...
http://thehill.com/policy/cybersecurity/314783-assange-lawyer-conditions...
4
"... worming his [Assange] way out of the agreement."
There was NO agreement, which is a contract between at least TWO parties. You are confusing an OFFER with an agreement.
There was NO agreement, which is a contract between at least TWO parties. You are confusing an OFFER with an agreement.
1
Who ever thought for five seconds that he'd give himself up? Is there any indication that Assange has ever cared for anyone other than himself?
3
Snowden's intentions were to support democracy and he took significant steps to expose only what was needed to make the American Public understand and believe the level of surveillance that was being enacted. His intention was to protect democracy, which is very much under threat. He did not give information to wiki-leaks, which would have been dangerous, he chose carefully people and entities that would safeguard the data and release only what was necessary to expose illegal surveillance of the American public. He did this at great sacrifice to his own health and happiness, because he thought it was important. He had no choice about where to go. I think what he did was heroic and necessary if we are to preserve our democracy. It's sad that we have become complacent about allowing free government access to our private information after this young man made a huge sacrifice to let us know what was going on.
10
Snowden stole 1.5 million documents. Only a small percent of these related to the existence of controversial global surveillance programs. . A report released in September by the House Committee on Intelligence states that “Snowden caused tremendous damage to national security, and the vast majority of the documents he stole have nothing to do with programs impacting individual privacy interests—they instead pertain to military, defense and intelligence programs of great interest to America’s adversaries.” The report also that “Snowden insists he has not shared the full cache of 1.5 million classified documents with anyone; however, in June 2016, the deputy chairman of the Russian parliament’s defense and security committee publicly conceded that Snowden ‘did share intelligence’ with his government.”
http://intelligence.house.gov/uploadedfiles/hpsci_snowden_review_-_uncla...
http://intelligence.house.gov/uploadedfiles/hpsci_snowden_review_-_uncla...
3
He was pardoned because he claimed to be transgendered. It was the easiest option for the Army. One wonders if he will continue to be transgendered or if it was a strategy,much like the early episodes of MASH and Klinger.
His sentence served as a deterrent for the next person. He didn't consider anyone but himself. He didn't think about any people who would innocently be harmed by the information release. He didn't care about his fellow soldiers. Is he not a terrorist, even though no buildings came down, and no one died.
His sentence served as a deterrent for the next person. He didn't consider anyone but himself. He didn't think about any people who would innocently be harmed by the information release. He didn't care about his fellow soldiers. Is he not a terrorist, even though no buildings came down, and no one died.
13
Obama still up to mischief, out the door please.
19
Would President Obama have commuted Manning's sentence if the transgender component wasn't identified? Likely not. Disgraceful showboating for identity politics by Obama on his way out the door.
28
May I hope for similar action for Snowden?
5
Praise to you President Obama!
4
There is an old Chinese proverb: "The enemy of my enemy is my friend".
I believe there is a parallel: "A friend to a traitor, is himself a traitor".
I believe there is a parallel: "A friend to a traitor, is himself a traitor".
20
Trump is throwing national security out the window, so this pardon is hardly a drop in the bucket on that front.
6
Yes, amazing Grace, from a man who, despite his many compassionate words and deeds in the course of an eight-year presidency, has been relentless in pursuing and prosecuting leakers of government activities he'd prefer to keep secret.
His motives were likely two: 1) insecurity as to the amount of damage the leaked information would do to his own political prospects, including re-election, and the ability to get things done in an era when the Congress was controlled by the Republicans. And 2) a determination to discourage other potential whistle-blowers from following the examples of Manning and Snowden, if they had seen these two escaping with light punishment, or none, for their illegal acts.
Given that leakers and whistle-blowers serve the cause of enlightening the public, even if the divulged information embarrasses the administration or risks lives, Obama's policy in this regard shows him thinking like a politician (probably under pressure from advisors) rather than a statesman or a humanitarian. So be it. He had to win his office, and retain it, in order to have any power to work his agenda, which was a far better one than that of his political opponents and enemies. It was calculated behavior on Obama's part, but perhaps necessary, nonetheless. The release of Manning shows he has some shred of human decency left.
His motives were likely two: 1) insecurity as to the amount of damage the leaked information would do to his own political prospects, including re-election, and the ability to get things done in an era when the Congress was controlled by the Republicans. And 2) a determination to discourage other potential whistle-blowers from following the examples of Manning and Snowden, if they had seen these two escaping with light punishment, or none, for their illegal acts.
Given that leakers and whistle-blowers serve the cause of enlightening the public, even if the divulged information embarrasses the administration or risks lives, Obama's policy in this regard shows him thinking like a politician (probably under pressure from advisors) rather than a statesman or a humanitarian. So be it. He had to win his office, and retain it, in order to have any power to work his agenda, which was a far better one than that of his political opponents and enemies. It was calculated behavior on Obama's part, but perhaps necessary, nonetheless. The release of Manning shows he has some shred of human decency left.
3
The vitriol against Manning fits the familiar pattern of the Republican playbook. Their enemies are those who dare to publish facts--about climate change, corporations, oil companies, water quality, air quality, the devastating results of financial and environmental deregulation, the crimes of Wall Street and the atrocities of the US military and CIA.
8
A rare display of Christian compassion in this country! I am elated!
6
Miss Manning will be far from alone when she is released. Many will rally to her side. She will be writing a book, no doubt with an able assistant to guide her. It will sell well. She will also have to be careful. Hatred lives in the hearts of many and forgiveness in the hearts of far fewer. She has known suffering and it teaches lessons that she needs to heed.
3
GREAT NEWS! God forbid governments are exposed at times by fearless men and women! Isn't it just too bad dirty secrets are made public.
Hooray for this victory.
Hooray for this victory.
6
Manning and Snowden are national heroes.
8
Massimo, was Benedict Arnold a hero? To the British he was? To the Americans, absolutely not. He had his reasons for turning on the American forces and supporting the King. He thought he was doing what was best for the colonies. But to this day, the American government and most of it's citizens view him as a traitor. I guess "hero" is in the eyes of the beholder. But just recognize that you are a small minority in this country. The majority of Americans don't see Manning and Snowden as heroes, they see them as criminals.
2
I trust the Commander-in-Chief will issue an Honorable Discharge to Spc. Manning, along with a Good Conduct Medal, an Army Commendation Medal, a Bronze Star, back pay while serving at Ft. Leavenworth, and fast tracking through the DOD-VA transition phase.
Were any other soldiers serving in the brig at Leavenworth worthy of clemency. Surely some of them are beginning to think that they have gender difficulties that impaired their ability to perform their duties.
Were any other soldiers serving in the brig at Leavenworth worthy of clemency. Surely some of them are beginning to think that they have gender difficulties that impaired their ability to perform their duties.
10
If any of them have been sentenced to 35 years for what others got 1 - 3 years for, then Godspeed to them.
6
Laura, cite for me another case where someone in the military was convicted of releasing 3/4 million classified documents, while serving in a war zone, to a foreign citizen to be released to unknown other foreign entities that only got 1-3 years. A single one.
3
Your have zero evidence of that.
Here's my question, when you read about Bradley Manning's life, full of all of his "issues", and his very checkered military career with numerous mental health and disciplinary actions including at least one attempt to discharge him... how in the heck did he get and keep a job in military intelligence and a security clearance to have access to classified material. Were these decision influenced by the political correct dogma being imposed on our military and a need to accommodating his sexual orientation and physical limitations.
13
"Were these decisions influenced by the political correct dogma being imposed on our military and a need to accommodating his sexual orientation and physical limitations[?]"
Good guess, REPNAH...
Good guess, REPNAH...
3
no they were the result of a desperate illegal, immoral military war, that had no moral compass, and could not fill its troops quota with the poor aline, so the military Did change eligibility requirements took on the mentally unstable and criminals. THIS is what Chelsea Manning exposed, the War Crimes of a run amuk.administration. And it is about to get worse.
1
So... Russia hacks the DNC and embarrasses HRC and the MSM, and this is portrayed as an existential threat to our existence. Manning releases secret information that put LIVES AT RISK and the readership of the NY Times rejoices.
What a world!
What a world!
19
Do you even know of what she released, for instance, the ten people including small children shot in the head, in Iraq, and then our soldiers who did the shooting, none of whom were punished, called in an air-strike to hide the evidence. This is what she released. She perhaps should be given a medal.
7
Manning did NOT pur lives at risk.
2
Here is a good example for the reason classified material should not be released. Every Tom, Dick and rexl gets to interpret the information in whatever way they see fit to support their personal political agenda.
1
Now is the time for the president to pardon Leonard Peltier.
5
The fact that she was being housed in a facility contrary to her gender was cruel and unusual. Had she been moved to a woman's facility to serve out her sentence I would have been okay with that because I do believe she committed a serious crime. In not recognizing her gender identity the courts are the ones who created the problem. I'm glad Mr. Obama found some justice for Ms. Manning.
5
Weird idea. What are all of the other women in the women’s facility supposed to do, when say, showering, which isn’t a nice clean and private place as at home? Manning will be blatantly male at those times. You are expecting that entire community to disrupt their point of view for Manning’s well being. While I think it would be wonderful if the world was so capable, it isn’t. And I am not sure it’s fair to ask so many to be uncomfortable for the sake of one.
5
This is fake news. Was Manning tested to determine if his gender really was in doubt? Certainly we are not determining matters of law based on a person's "feelings" are we? What an Idiocracy world we live in.
2
I'm confused by many of the comments here regarding Edward Snowden. My understanding is that he has been charged with a crime but I'm not aware of a conviction. How can he be pardoned if he has not been convicted?
2
Nixon was pardoned without having ever been convicted.
2
to sep: "How can he be pardoned if he has not been convicted?"
See President Gerald Ford's pardon of Richard Nixon, immediately after taking office.
Presidential pardons are often given in the attempt to heal national rifts, and can happen even without any criminal charges being brought.
A full pardon of Edward Snowden makes perfect sense, in this light.
See President Gerald Ford's pardon of Richard Nixon, immediately after taking office.
Presidential pardons are often given in the attempt to heal national rifts, and can happen even without any criminal charges being brought.
A full pardon of Edward Snowden makes perfect sense, in this light.
1
I'm not sure he's actually been charged with anything, but, regardless, the President can pardon someone even in tge absensce of a conviction or a charge. Ford pardoned Nixon without any charges pending.
Guess what happens if you are aware of murder and say nothing? You go to prison as an accessory. That's what should happen to every GI and military leader who kept their mouth shut instead of reporting attocities. Manning is a hero.
8
Chelsea Manning is a traitor to our country.
It's really that simple, that black and white.
Allow her to serve the rest of her sentence in a facility appropriate for her current gender. But allowing her to go free when she has committed a crime like this is just wrong.
We can all pretend that the world is populated with nice sweet people who wish nothing but good for all. But that simply isn't true. And being naïve about it is unfortunately what has gotten us to the current state of international affairs.
I voted for Barack Obama twice. I am ashamed that one of the final acts of his presidency was to set aside the rest of Ms. Manning's punishment for her crimes.
It's really that simple, that black and white.
Allow her to serve the rest of her sentence in a facility appropriate for her current gender. But allowing her to go free when she has committed a crime like this is just wrong.
We can all pretend that the world is populated with nice sweet people who wish nothing but good for all. But that simply isn't true. And being naïve about it is unfortunately what has gotten us to the current state of international affairs.
I voted for Barack Obama twice. I am ashamed that one of the final acts of his presidency was to set aside the rest of Ms. Manning's punishment for her crimes.
16
Edward Snowden said he would turn himself in if President Obama pardoned Chelsea Manning. Where is he? Still hiding out in Russia. The Con Don will probably make him the ambassador to Russia or pardon him and give him a place of honor in his administration.
IF WE LET HIM!
IF WE LET HIM!
3
It is amazing that most Americans freely give access to their innermost thoughts to Microsoft, to their telephone and cable carriers, to Amazon, to Google, and the like, but are outraged when they find out their own government may get access to the same. Do they trust these other entities more than their government, or have they simply not given it a thought?
I expect my government to be hacking and counter-hacking in a world full of spy and counter-spy activities. I want my government to know at least as much as other countries' governments know. I don't want the likes of Snowden to tell others how we do it. Do you not think that Snowden, e.g., is over in Russia helping with the Russian hack effort? The information game on military tactics, cyber security, nuclear capabilities and the like is absolutely necessary to safeguard our country. It is naive and hypocritical to say that revelations of secret activities is beneficial for the sake of itself, or that it is a violation of what folks believe is their "privacy". Sympathizers ignore the fact that such revelations will be used to diminish and short circuit US security. The old WWII mantra of "loose lips sink ships" applies. All countries practice information collection (spying). I hope that the US continues hacking and counter-hacking to short circuit, just for example, nuclear activities of other countries. Has our liberal bent led us to shoot ourselves in the proverbial foot? Are we really made us that naive?
I expect my government to be hacking and counter-hacking in a world full of spy and counter-spy activities. I want my government to know at least as much as other countries' governments know. I don't want the likes of Snowden to tell others how we do it. Do you not think that Snowden, e.g., is over in Russia helping with the Russian hack effort? The information game on military tactics, cyber security, nuclear capabilities and the like is absolutely necessary to safeguard our country. It is naive and hypocritical to say that revelations of secret activities is beneficial for the sake of itself, or that it is a violation of what folks believe is their "privacy". Sympathizers ignore the fact that such revelations will be used to diminish and short circuit US security. The old WWII mantra of "loose lips sink ships" applies. All countries practice information collection (spying). I hope that the US continues hacking and counter-hacking to short circuit, just for example, nuclear activities of other countries. Has our liberal bent led us to shoot ourselves in the proverbial foot? Are we really made us that naive?
7
Difference being those companies don't hold power over you the way the government does and they tell you they are gathering that data
1
This was a commutation of a disproportionately long sentence, not a pardon! The indictment remains on the records.
12
Today, Daniel Ellsberg is almost universally revered for his whistle blowing. All the same garbage being spouted against Manning was said at the time against Ellsberg. It took decades before the US could deal with losing the Vietnam War. It will take decades more for many Americans to realize that as Ellsberg stood on the right side of justice during Vietnam, Manning has done so in the case of America's equally idiotic and disastrous aggression against Iraq, which has left hundreds of thousands dead, a country demolished and ISIS in charge.
Manning is a hero. End of story.
Manning is a hero. End of story.
6
No he is not a hero, he is a trader
4
Patrick: the word is "traitor". And you're wrong.
5
Manning IS a traitor pure and simple!
Good for President Obama. 7 years for a confused soldier who thought he (now she) was exposing corruption is enough -- especially after Manning admitted he was wrong and apologized in court. I see a lot of hypocrisy with those Members of Congress who go along with President-Elect Trump's "love affair" with Vladimir Putin, a former KGB leader and known murderer who attacked the foundation of our American democracy, but decry the clemency for Manning.
7
This article is the NYTimes Breitbart moment... you're pushing the cultural aspect of the issue so far that you've turned the truth on its head. Now your comments section is filled with uninformed nonsense because of slanted reporting.
Manning is not a suffering, sympathetic figure. Manning is a traitor.
Manning is not a suffering, sympathetic figure. Manning is a traitor.
15
The one good bit of news here - taxpayers won't be held responsible for his sex change op. :)
8
Snowden was more responsible with classified info than Manning. Yet Snowden isn't pardoned. A feeble attempt by Obama to try and claim moral high ground. I'll be convinced when Snowden is pardoned.
3
Manning has served a reasonable sentence. This was an act of mercy and compassion.
Sex reassignment surgery is now generally referred to as Gender Affirming Surgery.
Sex reassignment surgery is now generally referred to as Gender Affirming Surgery.
4
And Trump will pardon Snowden.
1
It's only Wednesday. You don't know what Obama might do tonight or tomorrow!
1
I'm confused, honestly. Manning's Wikileaks activity is forgiven but Russia's suspected manipulation of Wikileaks data is said to have influenced the election and continues to delegitimize the upcoming Trump presidency. There's something deeply contradictory and troubling about all this.
15
Manning didn't have anything to do with Wikileaks, and did not work for a foreign antagonistic government. Not much of a contradiction in reality.
6
Or as some would say "hypocritical," Larry.
3
As one who believes that there is a hyperactive obsession with stamping even the most harmless of info as "secret" and info which the American people should absolutely know as "top secret," I, obviously, approve of Obama's action.
What's sad, though, is that focus of his act will be on whether Manning is "evil" or "dangerous" or whatever rather than on where it should be focused --- on the lust that the powerful have for keeping information secret. Remember, information is just another form of power.
I believe that a whole lot worse occurs as a result of all these secrets than occurs as a result of revealing them. As but one tiny (but consequentially huge) example, what if every secret the Bush administration hid in the lead up to the war in Iraq had been revealed? Maybe a few or even a score of "bad" things (including, possibly, even deaths) might have occurred. But how much pain, sadness, destruction and idiocy would have been avoided?
Stop with these secrets and start trusting the American people ... oh wait, forget that. Yep, too bad, but the American people obviously lust as much for power for THEIR tribe and their master. Hence, sensible choices where we might make some SACRIFICES and take some RISKS is verboten in this world filled with fear and wants.
What's sad, though, is that focus of his act will be on whether Manning is "evil" or "dangerous" or whatever rather than on where it should be focused --- on the lust that the powerful have for keeping information secret. Remember, information is just another form of power.
I believe that a whole lot worse occurs as a result of all these secrets than occurs as a result of revealing them. As but one tiny (but consequentially huge) example, what if every secret the Bush administration hid in the lead up to the war in Iraq had been revealed? Maybe a few or even a score of "bad" things (including, possibly, even deaths) might have occurred. But how much pain, sadness, destruction and idiocy would have been avoided?
Stop with these secrets and start trusting the American people ... oh wait, forget that. Yep, too bad, but the American people obviously lust as much for power for THEIR tribe and their master. Hence, sensible choices where we might make some SACRIFICES and take some RISKS is verboten in this world filled with fear and wants.
5
I support Obama and believe he will be well-treated by historians, but this decision is a mistake. Penalties for stealing information in a military setting are harsh because it puts our people at risk, and you can't run a military operation if people feel free to decide which rules they want to follow. The data that was released didn't do much damage, but Manning didn't even consider what was in it. It could have been very dangerous. This is a bad precedent.
11
I fear for Ms. Manning's safety.
3
I don't understand why the president has become reckless at the end of his term. This is reprehensible. Manning is a traitor who risked the lives of many operatives and set back numerous diplomatic efforts by releasing the cables to Wikileaks.
13
Commuting Manning's sentence does nothing to pardon the crime he committed, or resurrect any soldiers who may have died because of it Compare the president's action with the hundreds of traitors and criminals that Presidednt Abraham Lincoln pardoned and protected from prosecution in the first place. We honor Pres. Lincoln for his compassion; we don't condemn him for it in the way many are condemning Pres. Obama.
8
Big difference here as the civil war was a brother vs brother and we needed the pardons to heal the nation, this was some dumb kid with access to top secret info that he made public.
3
Nice try, doesn't work. President Lincoln was healing the wounds of a Civil War.
2
The terms traitor and whistle blower are being used interchangeably throughout many of the comments below. Please note that these terms are NOT the same.
Traitor | Definition of Traitor by Merriam-Webster
A person who is not loyal or true to a friend, duty, cause, or belief or is false to a personal duty; a person who betrays his or her country.
Whistle–blower | Definition of Whistle–blower by Merriam-Webster
A person who tells police, reporters, etc., about something (such as a crime) that has been kept.
The decision and actions Chelsea Manning made are treasonous. The compassion President Obama shown should have been towards the families of the individuals whose deaths were caused by the actions of Manning. Labeling Manning a whistle blower glamourizes her actions.
15
Were ANY deaths caused by her actions? Does anyone know?
5
Marge, you are simply mistaken. No deaths are known to have been caused by Manning's actions. The definition of "whistleblower" that you provide fits Manning's actions exactly. He/she revealed, among other things, war crimes committed by our military that the world needed to know about. It's interesting that you and others revile Manning, but have not the mildest criticism to make of the criminals who committed the acts that he/she revealed.
3
I’ve been thinking about the transgender piece being such a big part of this. Why should it be? Do we accept deep family/identity conflicts as “excuses” for other prisoners? Most times, we don’t. We take the behavior for what it was and punish accordingly. About that punishment, crimes come with sentencing guidelines, and there is a high and low end to it. A judge can modify and in many cases decides how many years so it can be very inconsistent. That said, I know of people in jail for far less than Manning’s actions, and doing more time. It looks like the lgbt community has done some serious lobbying.
For everyone gasping about solitary, please. Prisons use it every day. Please extend your new public awareness to the plight of all who are exposed to this treatment. Again, used every single day in prisons across America. Add that to the data on the mentally ill in prison and what you’ve got is an insane asylum treatment, not a correctional facility. And add in the young guys or girls who did something stupid, then are put into violent settings, get in the fights that absolutely will happen, and what do you get? A new damaged person. Sorry, but Manning’s problems are no greater or worse than others. Prison evokes suffering for all.
For everyone gasping about solitary, please. Prisons use it every day. Please extend your new public awareness to the plight of all who are exposed to this treatment. Again, used every single day in prisons across America. Add that to the data on the mentally ill in prison and what you’ve got is an insane asylum treatment, not a correctional facility. And add in the young guys or girls who did something stupid, then are put into violent settings, get in the fights that absolutely will happen, and what do you get? A new damaged person. Sorry, but Manning’s problems are no greater or worse than others. Prison evokes suffering for all.
6
I am stunned by this.....
Manning should have been hanged for what he did.
People did die over what he did. The prosecution did not bring it up to avoid more deaths...
If there is a better example of why the President should not have the power of pardon (other than a potential pardon for Clinton or Bergdahl) I am unaware of it.
What a disgrace and slap in to face to every serving and retired American soldier....
Manning should have been hanged for what he did.
People did die over what he did. The prosecution did not bring it up to avoid more deaths...
If there is a better example of why the President should not have the power of pardon (other than a potential pardon for Clinton or Bergdahl) I am unaware of it.
What a disgrace and slap in to face to every serving and retired American soldier....
9
People die all over the world because the US has been dropping bombs all over the world since 1898. The US has a military base in almost every country , not to protect freedoms, but to protect business interests.
1
My opinion of Obama's presidency has been generally positive, however his commutation of Manning's sentence is a mistake and sends the wrong message. Manning is not a whistle-blower, he's a traitor. Traitors deserve no mercy. Traitors deserve death.
6
Private Manning will violate military rules after 1/20/17 and the military can charge Private Manning for new violations despite the pardon for past crimes.
Private Manning will stay in military prisons for many years.
Private Manning will stay in military prisons for many years.
2
Is it possible that our brutal war president and pal of Wall St. Barack Obama, did one sane thing in his term of office? This shows what he might have been if he had not succumbed to money and power.
3
The harm that Trump and his greedy henchmen do to the average American family - including the children - over the next few years will be a crime far more consequential and damaging than anything Manning did.
I predict there will be no mercy once the reality of their crimes sinks in.
It's gonna be ugly when the public completely turns on these con artists. It's already started. Check the latest polls.
This Manning stuff is a side show.
The main event is coming up.
I predict there will be no mercy once the reality of their crimes sinks in.
It's gonna be ugly when the public completely turns on these con artists. It's already started. Check the latest polls.
This Manning stuff is a side show.
The main event is coming up.
5
You mean the "polls" that cnn and their ilk have cooked up? In case you forget, cnn and their cronies just came out with egg all over their face this last election cycle, proving who and what they REALLY are. So why should I believe them? They cooked some "polls" during the election cycle, too, that proved to be untrue, so why should I or anyone else believe that they're not doing the same now? Up to their usual tricks!
4
Republicans and others of their stripe have no problem with the Russian hacking so why should have any issues with a fellow American giving away information?
5
This entire story about Manning is atypical of where our society is at this moment in time. A traitor releases info implicating American activity that most realize would harm this country. The traitor turns out to have severe psychosis to the point that a favored political class of the moment is pursued at the tax payers expense. The president, uses unusual methods and commutes the legally arrived at sentence, further weakening the rule of law in the US so as to curry additional favor with socially leftist leaning partisans. All this will further cement the rift between red and blue state voters.
Some legacy Obama. #badjudgement
Some legacy Obama. #badjudgement
9
Unusual methods?
Discuss, please.
Discuss, please.
@John - by definition, the use of this Presidential power is an unusual method in our legal process. Divide the number of people Obama has commuted over the past 8 years by the number of people sentenced. It's a fraction. Thus, unusual.
FG
I'll grant you that.
Your use of the term, and the context in which you place it, combined with juxtaposition to the phrase "legally arrived at sentence" seems to carry an inference of illegitimacy and even nefariousness on the part of the President. Neither of which is even faintly true.
In the only context in which your concept "unusualness" can be meaningful here, actions of past Presidents of The United States, even a generous understanding of unusualness does not seem really to apply.
I'll grant you that.
Your use of the term, and the context in which you place it, combined with juxtaposition to the phrase "legally arrived at sentence" seems to carry an inference of illegitimacy and even nefariousness on the part of the President. Neither of which is even faintly true.
In the only context in which your concept "unusualness" can be meaningful here, actions of past Presidents of The United States, even a generous understanding of unusualness does not seem really to apply.
Thank God!
3
Good work, Obama! You have only a few more hours in which to use your presidential power. How much more of this can you fit in? Go ahead, splurge!
3
Pardoned? He/she should have been shot. He/she put us all in more danger.
12
Convicting whistle blowers who serve the public good is a threat to our democracy, Commuting the sentence sends a strange message; conservative principles combined with a lack of conviction?
2
Yes, Obama. Now Edward Snowden-bring him home.
7
Where is Julian Assange? Bring him home and no punishment. For telling the truth about crimes against US citizens.
2
Home? Assange is Australian.
2
Let's be very clear, this was not a pardon, but a commutation of an overly harsh and long sentence (35 years) of which now Ms. Manning has served seven years under the most difficult circumstances. It was an act of compassion and grace consistent with the best in human nature and with President Obama's moving heartfelt speech at the Mother Emanuel church in Charleston. There's a valuable lesson here. It's called "Amazing Grace."
11
This is going to be interesting for a variety of reasons.
1. Will Assange keep his word and agree to be extradited?
2. If that's the case, what will Trump do with Assange? One the one hand Assange is directly responsible for a major national security breach. On the other, Assange's Wikileaks released the DNC emails which may have indirectly handed Trump the election. Trump also acknowledges he trusts Assange (and Putin) more than the United States' intelligence apparatus.
It's Trump's move...
1. Will Assange keep his word and agree to be extradited?
2. If that's the case, what will Trump do with Assange? One the one hand Assange is directly responsible for a major national security breach. On the other, Assange's Wikileaks released the DNC emails which may have indirectly handed Trump the election. Trump also acknowledges he trusts Assange (and Putin) more than the United States' intelligence apparatus.
It's Trump's move...
4
There is no question that what Manning did was wrong, but it's also wrong to make an example out of such a powerless, weak character with such a harsh sentence. She was in a prison for men and if President Obama didn't pardon her, I'm sure she would have been successful at suicide in the future. As usual, President Obama did the correct thing.
8
"He" was in a prison for men. You can't escape from prison by saying "I'm free!". Nor can you escape your gender.
1
To sentence someone to 35 years for sharing files that were not well-secured in the first place is absurd. No person should be sentenced for 35 years for any crime, even the worst ones. The maximum sentence should be 20 years to life with intensive rehabilitation and with release contingent upon the criminal's personal growth and development. Thank you President Obama.
5
That information definitely got people wearing our uniform killed. But does that matter here, today?
7
I like this president a lot. I don't agree with everything he does, but I believe him to be smart, thoughtful and honest. And when he does something, my first instinct is to trust that he's used good judgment in arriving at his decision. That said, my reaction to this decision was, "What?!!!" I don't get it. I don't like the idea he pardoned a general who lied to the FBI either. Presidents should get out of the pardon business. I think almost every pardon makes the public suspicious of the President regardless of who they are and why they did it. And that can't be good. (As an aside, how many days will pass before Trump pardons Jared Kushner's dad? You know it's going to happen.)
6
I applaud President Obama's courageous decision to commute Chelsea Manning's sentence. Too many members of our armed forces have been given excess punishment for things that occurred during our difficult conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. On behalf of the Combat Clemency Project at the University of Chicago Law School I urge the President to grant some form of clemency to our seven clients: Robert Bales, Corey Claggett, Franlin Dunn, Calvin Gibbs,Clint Lorance, Derrick Miller and Michael Williams. Too many of our soldiers served their country bravely and came to experience PTSD and traumatic brain injuries during their service. The President should consider their service and their wounds and reduce the punishment we have inflicted on them
5
She was sentenced to 35 years.
So, message sent to anyone doing a similar crime.
Seven years served and a very rare commutation.
Message sent.
The punishment is established.
And her time if extended doesn't make her any more rehabilitated.
She confessed and stepped willingly into prison.
Justice served.
Any more time doesn't accomplish a thing of value to anyone.
Is your life affected by whether she stays in prison?
Mine sure isn't.
So, message sent to anyone doing a similar crime.
Seven years served and a very rare commutation.
Message sent.
The punishment is established.
And her time if extended doesn't make her any more rehabilitated.
She confessed and stepped willingly into prison.
Justice served.
Any more time doesn't accomplish a thing of value to anyone.
Is your life affected by whether she stays in prison?
Mine sure isn't.
8
That's the attitude nowadays isn't it? "Welp, doesn't hurt me so whatever." If that's the rule then people can get away with all sorts of things just because you aren't inconvenienced.
He should still be in prison.
He should still be in prison.
6
Yes, my life IS affected "by whether she stays in prison". I loathe and despise the people who put her there as well as those who are attacking her in these posts and I rejoice in her liberation.
1
This is misplaced clemency. Let's not forget (s)he Manning was recklessly releasing government secrets compromising sensitive diplomatic communications and many lives. If 35 years was too much then 20 years would do and if (s)he had safety issues in prison then an isolated cell could be provided. Leniency like this only fosters more such reckless actions by trusted individuals and we have enough of them starting from the top.
8
As Obama approached the presidency, the Republicans began thwarting him. Now that he is about to leave, they continue their assault on him and other Democrats. I have heard some are physically ill because of the ascendancy of Trump. Now I begin to feel the same as they. Must the Republicans take over every facet of our being? I ask you, what happened to of, by, and for the people? And working together?
It seems to me we are becoming a nation of hate and only those who carry the moniker of Republican dare say a word of their opinions. One person high on the hill said he would never work with Trump; now they are the best of friends. Perhaps money does talk, as those in a governmental office collect their salaries until death.
Perhaps we should try an exercise of writing on one 8 1/2 x 11 page every hateful word, feeling, thought. Do this for one week and analyze your feelings. Do you feel good, better, or worse? Would you like to continue, or would you prefer to begin anew with kind, helping words and thoughts?
In my opinion, if we do not give up our ugly ways, we will begin to denounce our Constitution and all other ways of advancing.
It seems to me we are becoming a nation of hate and only those who carry the moniker of Republican dare say a word of their opinions. One person high on the hill said he would never work with Trump; now they are the best of friends. Perhaps money does talk, as those in a governmental office collect their salaries until death.
Perhaps we should try an exercise of writing on one 8 1/2 x 11 page every hateful word, feeling, thought. Do this for one week and analyze your feelings. Do you feel good, better, or worse? Would you like to continue, or would you prefer to begin anew with kind, helping words and thoughts?
In my opinion, if we do not give up our ugly ways, we will begin to denounce our Constitution and all other ways of advancing.
2
FYI, Republicans couldn't stop anything since Dems had all 3 branches majority when he started out with a Democrat house and Congress for 2 yes prior.
Manning was not a whistle-blower. She transferred hundreds of thousands of classified documents (making it impossible she read even a majority of them during the time she had access).
Moreover, those documents were the data dump by wikileaks that directly lead to the protests in Tunisia and the start of the Arab Spring. Thanks for sparking the chain of events that lead to Benghazi and Syria, Manning. What a hero.
Moreover, those documents were the data dump by wikileaks that directly lead to the protests in Tunisia and the start of the Arab Spring. Thanks for sparking the chain of events that lead to Benghazi and Syria, Manning. What a hero.
9
You are wrong. She WAS a whistle blower. And as for the Tunisian uprising that set off the Arab Spring, it was a damn good thing and Tunisians are better off for it.
It's interesting that, for you, the lives of a tiny handful of Americans in Benghazi are of greater importance than the wellbeing of an entire nation.
It's interesting that, for you, the lives of a tiny handful of Americans in Benghazi are of greater importance than the wellbeing of an entire nation.
2
She should have been executed for treason.
8
When information gathered at taxpayer expense by taxpayer-paid officials on matters relating to national policy gets released to, God forbid, the taxpayers so they can make intelligent decisions about those policies, it's incredible nerve for politicians to call it "espionage." If anyone should be prosecuted, it should be those who tried to keep things like Abu Ghraib hidden from the citizens, and whistleblowers should be considered the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Other than the nuclear codes, governments don't deserve to keep secrets from the citizens in a democracy. And the rest of us DO get to keep the secrets of our everyday lives from the government, as long as we're not plotting a mass murder.
5
We are a REPUBLIC!
This is probably the last nice and compassionate gesture that an American President will do for the next little while.
As for the Republican Senators who are smearing the decision, I would recommend that they improve their Russian and that they stop attacking the last independent American President's decision... Comrade Trump does not like people who show a little bit of dissent...
As for the Republican Senators who are smearing the decision, I would recommend that they improve their Russian and that they stop attacking the last independent American President's decision... Comrade Trump does not like people who show a little bit of dissent...
7
The Republicans are not likely to show "comrade" Trump much dissent. More likely they will be goose stepping in the streets like good right wing authoritarians.
4
Manning should serve her full sentence. She committed the crime and betrayed her oaths and her country.
7
What about Leonard Peltier? Given the demonstrably fabricated evidence that led to his conviction and imprisonment nearly 4 decades ago, if anybody is worthy of clemency he is. Time is running out, President Obama.
10
It is treason. HE should have gotten the rope.
7
Bravo, President Obama.
6
He/She should have ben executed. He put many lives in danger; not only our own troops but also the lives of our allies.
6
So, he steals confidential information and is sentenced to prison. The President lets him go because he feels he's been punished enough? Or he should have never been punished? Or because the President believes he wouldn't survive prison following his medical transformation into a woman? I'm sure there was someone far more deserving of being released. Ridiculous!
8
As a prosecutor, one of the factors considered when recommending a sentence, is the sentence recommended/received for similar crimes. On that basis alone, Manning's sentence was extreme and the commutation appropriate. We are still a Nation of fairness, I hope and Pres. Obama has acted fairly where others have not. Many believe Ms. Manning's personal issues should not enter into the decision to commute her sentence, but as an added bonus, the commutation does take a significant burden off the government and Ms. Meaning can now address her issues as she will without military involvement.
8
Nearly all commutation cases are complicated. But what we are witnessing here is one of those rare moments in life when a person of great authority makes a gesture of such deep humanity that one is left feeling a kind of awe. I could not even bring myself to continue reading the news accounts of Manning's confinement and of his tortured soul. Thank you, Mr. President.
8
Next to be pardoned: Edward Snowden. Then I'll be next to publish everything I know, everything I sneaked, everything I stole.
2
I wish at least half as much attention would be paid to how Manning and Snowden got to be in the security positions they were in to be able to access such data. They vetting process for security personnel is a bigger problem, I think, and maybe the release of Manning is a signal to the intelligence community to tighten up their standards of hiring. Manning and Snowden should never have been in such positions.
2
Whistleblowers often provide illumination into governmental or corporate ills, but in this case also put others at risk. A pardon would have been forthcoming at some point anyway and this one just appears opportunistic based on politics as she was prosecuted under the Obama Administration military system. With continual fingers pointed at Snowden and Assange, this reeks of selective politically correct narcissism to appease the powers behind the façade.
1
Manning has been in prison long enough, and has paid for her crime. As Obama leaves the presidency he has the right to pardon anyone he chooses. Choosing Manning is an act of mercy. That we can be sure we'll not see anything equivalent from the incoming president makes Obama's choice all the more poignant.
7
This was a mistake on President Obama's part to pardon Chelsea Manning as we really do not know the full damage as to the wiki leaks she participated in. He/she was a traitor and should still be behind bars. We may not realize this extent until years later and then it will be too late. Our enemies are thanking us right now as are our bleeding heart liberals.
7
Good luck James
1
As someone who voted for Obama twice I'm deeply disappointed in this decision.
Manning knowingly and with total disregard to the consequences or lives he was potentially putting at risk chose to betray his country at a time of war. Those are the hard facts. As such, he should be punished to the fullest extent of the law, period, no exceptions.
The fact that Manning is remorseful is not relevant. Nearly every prisoner is remorseful after the fact, the only thing missing from this equation is if she had found Jesus and was born again as that would complete the circle.
No apologies for taking the hard line. Some crimes don't warrant a free pass.
Manning knowingly and with total disregard to the consequences or lives he was potentially putting at risk chose to betray his country at a time of war. Those are the hard facts. As such, he should be punished to the fullest extent of the law, period, no exceptions.
The fact that Manning is remorseful is not relevant. Nearly every prisoner is remorseful after the fact, the only thing missing from this equation is if she had found Jesus and was born again as that would complete the circle.
No apologies for taking the hard line. Some crimes don't warrant a free pass.
14
I am just grateful for evidence of humanity. Thank you, Mr. President.
10
I was on the train yesterday when the words "Chelsea Manning" flashed on my phone along with a sentence I was unable to read before it disappeared. Literally shaking, I unlocked my phone and looked for the article.
I have never met Chelsea Manning but I was shaking thinking she had finally been successful at killing herself. I audibly sighed with relief when I read the reason for the headline.
I might have started out with disdain for her, but after reading what she has endured, her status and harsh sentence has haunted me for some time. As an American, I felt dirty and complicit in her treatment. I am relieved that she has been released. It is the only sign I see lately that our country has any compassion left.......
......and if you are wondering about that--if we still have compassion--don't read the comments section here or elsewhere. As a country, we have demonstrably lost our ability to feel empathy for anyone we deem as "other".
I have never met Chelsea Manning but I was shaking thinking she had finally been successful at killing herself. I audibly sighed with relief when I read the reason for the headline.
I might have started out with disdain for her, but after reading what she has endured, her status and harsh sentence has haunted me for some time. As an American, I felt dirty and complicit in her treatment. I am relieved that she has been released. It is the only sign I see lately that our country has any compassion left.......
......and if you are wondering about that--if we still have compassion--don't read the comments section here or elsewhere. As a country, we have demonstrably lost our ability to feel empathy for anyone we deem as "other".
10
I wonder how much of this is concern how she would fare in military prison under a Trump regime. Sad we need to think that way.
5
blatant pandering to the LGBT community. thank god obama will be gone forever in 2 days, but lets hope he plays golf until then rather than more destructive actions like this
6
Manning made a terrible decision to take it upon herself to release this confidential information. But nothing justifies the torture she received in prison. It was right out of Abu Ghraib. This is why Obama had to commute her sentence.
3
Corporal Klinger approves this pardon
4
Clemency and leniency are exceptional qualities exhibited by President Obama. However, I am troubled with the reasoning....! Was it a matter of time served for an offense of espionage and the leaks were not that serious; or was the reason, Manning could not handle prison life? A more specific concern, the quality of recruits in the armed services. Clearly Manning should not have been admitted into the Army because of his mental state. I believe the more democratic the Army is the better; diversity is good but quality of recruits should be the guiding principle. Political correctness should not be the determining factor of admitting recruits into the military. In a world that grows more uncertain and as America sees challenges from China, Russia and Iran, America needs recruits whose mental and physical aptitude can adopt to the stringencies of military life!
2
Manning was handed data by the Globalists that damaged Bush, our military & Nat'l Defense, resulting in several deaths... that gave Obama an excuse to continue the destruction of our defenses.
Snowden released data that showed Obama's gov't. was snooping on Americans.
Assange released info that damaged the DNC & HRC, by releasing truthful, accurate emails, showing their nefarious actions.
Time for the Globalist NWO War Mongering Oligarchy to accept the fact "You Lost" & exit the world stage gracefully.
Snowden released data that showed Obama's gov't. was snooping on Americans.
Assange released info that damaged the DNC & HRC, by releasing truthful, accurate emails, showing their nefarious actions.
Time for the Globalist NWO War Mongering Oligarchy to accept the fact "You Lost" & exit the world stage gracefully.
3
This "suffering soul" that so many of you are so compassionate for put our soldiers in danger and may have caused the death of many people in Afghanistan that aided the U.S. Is there no justice these days for releasing classified and top secret, military secrets? Oh, yes. I forgot. Barack Obama punished the Russian Government (or some o their flunkies) for hacking the e-mails of John Podesta the chairman of Hillary Clinton's campaign (and a private not government organization).
I am disgusted with this turn of events but am not surprised. Barack Obama's priorities are not in line with many of the American people. This was a "political decision" not in the best interest of the country.
For shame President Obama!
I am disgusted with this turn of events but am not surprised. Barack Obama's priorities are not in line with many of the American people. This was a "political decision" not in the best interest of the country.
For shame President Obama!
4
While Paul Ryan is talking about setting "dangerous precedent," someone should remind him who his party just put in the White House. Or GOP gerrymandering. Or the power grab by the North Carolina GOP. Paul Ryan is a bad joke and America is the punchline.
7
Neither Ryan nor the draft dodger ever had anything to do with the military (and high school does NOT count!). Manning was "borderline tortured" during the first years of confinement. For letting us know the truth, and EVERYTHING in government is "classified", time served is way more than adequate punishment. There were no "sensitive secrets" released, and "military secrets" are the most fleeting of all.
2
Manning, Assange, Snowden, these people are heroes.
Meanwhile the CEOs of WallStreet, BigPharma, environment-destroying oil companies, who shoul dbe in jail for life, they walk free with gigamillions of dollars in their pockets.
This rule about not letting her grow her hair is just petty meanness.
Meanwhile the CEOs of WallStreet, BigPharma, environment-destroying oil companies, who shoul dbe in jail for life, they walk free with gigamillions of dollars in their pockets.
This rule about not letting her grow her hair is just petty meanness.
8
I can't believe taxpayers had to pay for his sex change operations - seriously?
8
Let's see: Trump swindled thousands out of their life savings, groped or overwhelmed hundreds of women (by his own gleeful admission), stiffs contractors, and supports an authoritarian dictator who has had journalists and dissidents murdered while plundering his nation's fragile economy, and we're okay with that. But Chelsea Manning! Let her rot in jail under an unprecedented and draconian sentence.
No wonder our nation is divided.
No wonder our nation is divided.
7
Utterly offensive!
4
Not!
1
Ridiculous. This individual broke the law and betrayed the US. Commuting the sentence sends the wrong message to other individuals within the intelligence community in similar position to Manning. Please keep in mind, that while as a society, we can be sympathetic to the individual, we have to respect law and protect our national security.
This decision is the essence of the problem with Obama. He is letting social agenda guide actions rather than rule of law and facts. In a vacuum, ignoring the transgender (side piece), would this individual be pardoned? I don't beleve so.
This decision is the essence of the problem with Obama. He is letting social agenda guide actions rather than rule of law and facts. In a vacuum, ignoring the transgender (side piece), would this individual be pardoned? I don't beleve so.
8
I beg to differ. What's "beyond the pale" is who less than 100,000 post-intelligent heartland voters shoved down our throats to be the next president.
7
A blunder. but not a catastrophe for the nation.
A blunder not only for the pardon, but for wiping
from today's headlines the impact of dismantling the ACA
on the nation, a REAL catastrophe.
A blunder not only for the pardon, but for wiping
from today's headlines the impact of dismantling the ACA
on the nation, a REAL catastrophe.
4
I'm so happy for you, Chelsea. Seven years is long enough!
4
pathetic what obama has done...here is a person that clearly leaked thousands of classified documents that contained us military informants about activity on the ground-- which some were discovered when bin laden was killed and he/she is being released? REALLY-- I dont care if male/female/transgender!! its a freaking crime and americans died as a result-- Total irresponsible last minute obama caving to the left agenda!!
Wow cant wait for 2 more days till exit!!!
Wow cant wait for 2 more days till exit!!!
4
Exactly WHO died?
5
Exactly, Lola5: Not a single person was killed: "The disclosures set off a frantic scramble as Obama administration officials sought to minimize any potential harm, including getting to safety some foreigners in dangerous countries who were identified as having helped American troops or diplomats. Prosecutors, however, presented no evidence that anyone was killed because of the leaks."
4
I was hoping for a psrdon for John Kiriakou, who blew the whistle on CIA torture. The government tried and finally fiund a charge that stuck to punish him. John did 2 years in the federal oen and has since won several awards for his whistleblowing, including one from PEN.
5
I am willing to forgive this President on a great many things, but this is just too much. Lets be clear, her sentence had nothing to do with her gender dysphoria, and Manning is not a whistle-blower. There are legal and established paths to address her ethical, moral or legal concerns--if that has her motivation. No, Manning acted out of self-interest, because she was "dealing with a lot of issues," as this article points out. Simply put, she broke the law.
Were there leadership failures up and down her chain of command? No doubt. Should have the Army recognized she was not soldier material and allowed her to curtail her enlistment? Certainly. Regardless, she found herself where she did, and her issues in no way excuse violating the faith and trust placed upon her.
This is a slap in the face to all who make the collection, analysis and dissemination and protection of intelligence their chosen profession. She violated the law and caused incalculable damage to U.S. prestige and interests around the world, not to mention placing the lives of a great many at risk.
Yes, I'm sure jail is difficult. But are we to show mercy because paying for the consequences of one's actions is hard? Is this the message we are to send to others who are thinking of betraying their country's trust? No. I reject this action as folly. It weakens us a as nation, not because we do not show mercy, but because we are unwilling to live with the consequences of our actions.
Were there leadership failures up and down her chain of command? No doubt. Should have the Army recognized she was not soldier material and allowed her to curtail her enlistment? Certainly. Regardless, she found herself where she did, and her issues in no way excuse violating the faith and trust placed upon her.
This is a slap in the face to all who make the collection, analysis and dissemination and protection of intelligence their chosen profession. She violated the law and caused incalculable damage to U.S. prestige and interests around the world, not to mention placing the lives of a great many at risk.
Yes, I'm sure jail is difficult. But are we to show mercy because paying for the consequences of one's actions is hard? Is this the message we are to send to others who are thinking of betraying their country's trust? No. I reject this action as folly. It weakens us a as nation, not because we do not show mercy, but because we are unwilling to live with the consequences of our actions.
16
My Mother and Father are actively involved in veterans' causes. They visit military hospitals weekly. They are apolitical. According to them, veterans groups are unbelieving and aghast at what President Obama has done in the Chelsea Manning case.
11
I am puzzled.
Many of the same people who exonerate Russia and say what matters is what was their hacking revealed and that it doesn't matter who or how extralegal the leaks were as long as the information was released hurt their opponents now seem to feel that it does matter. Manning is guilty of exposing secrets and the time to be served should match the crime. Whether Trump is guilty of aiding the enemy is still an open question to many. Though he has exhibited that he is “dealing with a lot of issues”, albeit different ones, as well.
One of the justifications for not providing corrective surgery is that it is money that can be used for other things. The problem with this is that the same logic could be used to withhold any treatment for any condition from all prisoners. Is that what is actually being advocated, or just in this case? It would be congruous with the repeal of the ACA.
I am puzzled by those who think such surgery is some kind of reward. I am squeamish with a needle and terrified of a dentist. I can't imagine wanting to undergo such treatment. One would have to be driven I imagine. Would any of those claiming its some kind of reward volunteer the undergo such a rewarding experience themselves to reap its "benefits" I wonder?
Many of the same people who exonerate Russia and say what matters is what was their hacking revealed and that it doesn't matter who or how extralegal the leaks were as long as the information was released hurt their opponents now seem to feel that it does matter. Manning is guilty of exposing secrets and the time to be served should match the crime. Whether Trump is guilty of aiding the enemy is still an open question to many. Though he has exhibited that he is “dealing with a lot of issues”, albeit different ones, as well.
One of the justifications for not providing corrective surgery is that it is money that can be used for other things. The problem with this is that the same logic could be used to withhold any treatment for any condition from all prisoners. Is that what is actually being advocated, or just in this case? It would be congruous with the repeal of the ACA.
I am puzzled by those who think such surgery is some kind of reward. I am squeamish with a needle and terrified of a dentist. I can't imagine wanting to undergo such treatment. One would have to be driven I imagine. Would any of those claiming its some kind of reward volunteer the undergo such a rewarding experience themselves to reap its "benefits" I wonder?
2
Barack Obama persecuted Chelsea Manning, declared him guilty before the trial, had him tortured and imprisoned, tried to destroy him psychologically, and now attempts to atone for this atrocity and soften his own image as he leaves behind eight deplorable years and a tragic legacy called Donald Trump.
Chelsea Manning is a US hero, a truth-teller who revealed US war crimes, someone we should all be proud of.
Chelsea Manning is a US hero, a truth-teller who revealed US war crimes, someone we should all be proud of.
5
He/she is a traitor, one for whom a pardon is unconscionable.
10
Obama should also pardon Jeffrey Sterling former CIA employee who was imprisoned for merely being in contact with NY Times reporter James Risen. No evidence was ever produced that Sterling game classified information to Risen.
3
Mercy.
3
President Obama has a generous heart, an embracing soul, and an attentive conscience. He made the right, moral, just, informed and merciful decision - the likes of which we will surely not see again in the next four years.
4
I'm shocked that so many care so deeply about this story but not how polarizing it is. At least half of the comments I read say Manning should be eternally jailed or put to death. The other half say Manning should have been freed long ago. Its also a good example of how "fake" news existed 7 years ago. Manning was not convicted of treason or of being a traitor. Manning's actions did not lead to anyone being killed, but did expose actions of ours that contradict the values we claim to uphold. The right answer for imprisonment likely is in the middle, which is where we are today. Bear in mind, this article leaves out that the UN found Manning's conditions in jail to be that of torture and Manning was in solitary for 11 months. Is 7 years with just about 1 in solitary the perfect punishment? I don't know, but if Obama didn't commute the sentence, the chance that Manning would ever leave jail becomes very slim.
6
Most of the posts compare Chelsea Manning to Edward Snowden, for the obvious reason that Snowden also had filed a petition.
I think it is useful also to compare her case to David Patreus. True, the level and intent of the leaks is completely different but it does point to the imbalance in responding to, and punishing, people in the military who knowingly give journalists information that is classified.
As we all know, Mr. Petreus got a very light sentence and has gone on to a lucrative career in the private sector and reportedly even being considered for a position in the Trump administration.
Putting aside gender, this is a striking example of how powerful, high-ranking people in this country are treated differently by the justice system -- military and civilian -- than the rest. It is difficult to imagine that this sort of treatment would have been meted out to a general or other high ranking official and I can think of no other case where that has happened.
In my view, the Wiki Leaks angle is what terrified the government the most. It was new and frightening. However I sincerely believe that the reaction would have been different had Mr. Manning not been a low-ranked enlisted soldier.
I think it is useful also to compare her case to David Patreus. True, the level and intent of the leaks is completely different but it does point to the imbalance in responding to, and punishing, people in the military who knowingly give journalists information that is classified.
As we all know, Mr. Petreus got a very light sentence and has gone on to a lucrative career in the private sector and reportedly even being considered for a position in the Trump administration.
Putting aside gender, this is a striking example of how powerful, high-ranking people in this country are treated differently by the justice system -- military and civilian -- than the rest. It is difficult to imagine that this sort of treatment would have been meted out to a general or other high ranking official and I can think of no other case where that has happened.
In my view, the Wiki Leaks angle is what terrified the government the most. It was new and frightening. However I sincerely believe that the reaction would have been different had Mr. Manning not been a low-ranked enlisted soldier.
5
It begs the question - if Manning weren't transgender, would commutation even be on the table? Seems to me that the only reason most people think she deserves reprieve is because of the trauma of transition. Also, commutation relieves the country (and your tax dollars) from having to pay for transgender maintenance.
4
I have no problem with this. Once again, President Obama demonstrates his compassion for people. Donald Trump - take note.
5
So Manning and then Lopez. The people of Puerto Rico have voted again and again not to break away from the US and become a separate country, yet the terrorist Lopez, the leader of FALN, whose bombing campaign killed 6 people is pardoned and somehow lauded as a hero. I speak Spanish and spend a lot of time in PR, and the ordinary folks I know and deal with couldn't care a rodent's posterior about Lopez.
4
A question asked in the 1950’s has again been answered, this time by soon to be retiring President Barack Obama.
“Have you no sense of decency, sir? At long last, have you left no sense of decency?”
His answer is a resounding yes I have no sense of decency and by the way no honor, integrity or patriotism!
“Have you no sense of decency, sir? At long last, have you left no sense of decency?”
His answer is a resounding yes I have no sense of decency and by the way no honor, integrity or patriotism!
6
Despicable. This sums up the Obama years. This...person...put American lives at risk...NOT like Petraeus. This is neither fair nor just...it was treason. The only thing it does is create more excuses for really bad decision making, and it further de-legitimizes the laws of our Democracy. Between Holder and Obama, THAT is what this presidency has been all about. Self-righteous democrats are still scratching their heads and wringing their hands at the results of the election. Maybe all the pardonees will move to a town near you real soon.
6
Julian Assange's bluff has been called. Whatever he decides to do, it's a lose-lose proposition.
2
Why is anybody cheering Assange's "bluff" being called? Did he reveal anything that was untrue, or did he simply let citizens know what their governments were up to? He's doing the job the press should be doing, and in fact congratulated itself for doing in the Watergate and Pentagon Papers era.
2
Good news. Our justice system is badly warped when such a harsh sentence was given to Manning while the major war criminals who engineered the invasion of Iraq and institutionalized torture at Abu Ghraib and Guantanomo have skated free to continue to profit from war.
4
Perfectly said. Sad but true. A grave injustice system.
2
Paul Ryan: "“President Obama now leaves in place a dangerous precedent that those who compromise our national security won’t be held accountable for their crimes,”
Donald Trump must feel relieved.
Donald Trump must feel relieved.
4
I've read most of these comments on how this sentence was unjust. No matter how you justify it, it was still treason and he should live the rest of his natural life behind bars. He is a disgrace.
7
Even the NYT headline reads poorly for the President, "Obama to Free Manning, Jailed for a Vast Leak of U.S. Secrets". Rewarding tattletale treason is like today's new math - confusing and nothing adds up. Extremely sad and disappointing to read that the policy of freeing traitors is made up of 50 shades of gray.
Obama to Free Manning, Jailed for a Vast Leak of U.S. Secrets
6
Thank you Chelsea Manning, for showing the American people what W, Cheney, and Rummy and other greedy evil men were having the army do over in Iraq. It is really those cretins who should have been put in jail for their war crimes not Manning. Only in America do people like Manning go to jail for doing what is right, and Ws cabinet gets exonerated for lying about WMDs and driving us into a war that cost thousands of servicemen their lives, hundreds of thousands of Iraqis their lives, gave rise to Isis, and drained away what goodwill the world had left for us. Obama failed in his duty to go after those really guilty of war crimes. No more letting the guilty go for some vague promise of "bipartisanship" that the GOP abused and walked all over like the rich spoiled selfish children they are. Next time, jail for the evildoers.
5
When someone steals information harmful to the Democratic party (See Edward Snowden), they call him a traitor and come after him. When someone acts like a traitor, causes the death of other Americans, but does no direct harm to the Democratic party (See Bo Bergdahl or Bradley Manning), they are humane, compassionate, and merciful.
Amusing.
Amusing.
13
A tragic figure with no parallel.
2
The highest level of messages Manning released were confidential. During my tour in the US Navy, I had a top secret Crypto clearance and I had to regularly decode messages of secret and top secret levels. Confidential level information never went through the crypto system but was sent through the USPS to operating locations. We had to periodically clear out these confidential messages and that consisted of loading these paper messages into large burn bags and watching them burn and signing a lot indicating the burn was done. These confidential messages were totally bland and contained nothing of value.
On occasion in the middle of the night we would get an OBOE or operational immediate top secret message and those consisted of information that was very critical to keep secret. One of those message types was BROKEN ARROW and this involved nuclear weapons accidents where the weapon was lost. A mid air collision between a B-52 and a refueling tanker was one such incident and our ship happened to be near the incident. This incident has long been public.
Why Manning got a 35 year sentence sounds to me like someone was tying to punish her for her decision to change genders. If that was the case, at a minimum this person(s) should get a dreaded letter in their personnel file which means they will never get another promotion.
On occasion in the middle of the night we would get an OBOE or operational immediate top secret message and those consisted of information that was very critical to keep secret. One of those message types was BROKEN ARROW and this involved nuclear weapons accidents where the weapon was lost. A mid air collision between a B-52 and a refueling tanker was one such incident and our ship happened to be near the incident. This incident has long been public.
Why Manning got a 35 year sentence sounds to me like someone was tying to punish her for her decision to change genders. If that was the case, at a minimum this person(s) should get a dreaded letter in their personnel file which means they will never get another promotion.
4
Manning decided to change genders AFTER HE was in prison.
2
People here don't seem to understand what Chelsea Manning did. Her leaks put in danger or subjected to actual harm religious dissidents, human rights crusaders, ethnic minorities, and, yes, LGBTI people all over the world. If she has been subject to abuse in prison, that should be investigated, but she needs to do 10 years minimum.
9
No, YOU don't seem to understand what she did. She did NONE of the things that you claim. Read up on it -- and I don't mean on Breitbart.
1
It is truly bizarre to read, day after day, the NYTimes act as apologist-in-chief for the president and his party. Perhaps Manning deserved a harsh sentence perhaps he didn't. If it was a republican commenting the sentence the article would be full of qualifiers as to why this was rank hypocrisy. But the media are infatuated with Mr Word Salad, the outgoing president, and the so the action is defended by them in the context of the "news" article itself.
9
Can you believe this? The Left is going apoplectic of Russian intelligence hacking while the president pardons one of the most egregious breaches in intelligence security; a tried and convicted intelligence traitor who's actions almost certainly caused the deaths of our military personnel.
You can't have it both ways, you're either serious about security, or you're not. This president apparently thinks security is a blunt weapon to be used to service his political ends. Two days can't come soon enough.
You can't have it both ways, you're either serious about security, or you're not. This president apparently thinks security is a blunt weapon to be used to service his political ends. Two days can't come soon enough.
8
NO deaths of our "military personnel" have been linked to Manning's actions. 7 years is enough.
3
Just as the problems with Obama, seem to have been frequently about his race rather than his policies, our ire with Manning is post with her sexuality rather than her actions.
1
Another destructive chapter in the Obama legacy. Obama was the manchurian candidate.
6
Why?
3
Maybe not such a good idea.
5
Look, we're still here. This country is still thriving. Russia is the one bogging down in war. We are only in the Middle East as support for Mosul, the Afghan forces and some operations in Raqqa. The causality count during the Bush years is a horrible calculus from the past.
Manning did her crime and did her time.
The President; the only one I acknowledge at this time, President Obama did the correct and humane thing.
Haters hate and Greeders are greedy- it's what they do. The are the destructive forces that cause wars and send others, not themselves to war. And they never change things for the good unless their actions go too far and get the good off there easy chairs.
Obama will be hated for this by people who hate and by people who have a funny sense of patriotism; a sense of patriotism that is so 'for our country' and so against what our country really means.
Thank you Mr. President. You are a good man.
And Chelsea Manning - you'd better earn this commutation. Do good in your life now.
Manning did her crime and did her time.
The President; the only one I acknowledge at this time, President Obama did the correct and humane thing.
Haters hate and Greeders are greedy- it's what they do. The are the destructive forces that cause wars and send others, not themselves to war. And they never change things for the good unless their actions go too far and get the good off there easy chairs.
Obama will be hated for this by people who hate and by people who have a funny sense of patriotism; a sense of patriotism that is so 'for our country' and so against what our country really means.
Thank you Mr. President. You are a good man.
And Chelsea Manning - you'd better earn this commutation. Do good in your life now.
7
Compassion people, compassion! One of the POTUS' many wonderful traits. I applaud this decision and feel Ms. Manning has paid the price for her deeds. Has Petraeus or any other person in high places? The high and mighty got a slap on the wrist.
3
Manning is a traitor. A traitor who committed treachery while wearing the uniform of the US Army. Manning should have been treated like other traitors. I never believed Obama was not born in the US. I never believed he was secretly a Muslim. But this is beyond the pale. The man is a disgrace to the office. And I now believe he does not have this countries best interests at heart. There were at least 5 million other people who deserved commutation more than Manning. A disgrace, plain and simple.
14
Well said and written. Bravo. And thank you NYT for picking the opinion of Michael F. It helps balance the playfield of varying opinions.
3
Manning leaked secret documents because he (at the time he was a he) was suffering from "gender dysphoria" and wanted to wear women's cloths? Are we now going to allow gender confusion to be an excuse for treason? Seriously?
11
Why not? Hillary made it popular to use the No Intent Defense. Actually, it was the FBI, per Holders DOJ who created that one.
1
It would be amusing, were it not so tragic, to compare the two distinct kinds of self adoration that motivate our outgoing and incoming Presidents. Trump's bombast and reflexive reactions make his narcissism hard to miss, a continuous parade of unfiltered thoughts that serve as a mirror of his inner self. Obama's self-absorption is more understated, though just as much a driver of his every move. Since the day he took office with basically no work experience, much less executive or leadership experience, he has had his eye on his Legacy, his Place in History, the Obama Library, as if simply getting elected was the end of the "mission", not the beginning. Pardoning a traitor is thus seen as an act of Enlightenment, a testament to his sense of grace, instead of the wrongheaded insult to America and its military that it is. Obama's feckless leadership (thank you, Hillary) has reduced the stature of our country across the globe, and has polarized the country to an extent not seen since the 1970s. Sadly, his dismal record will doubtless be subject to the revisionist history that surely awaits in the covens of academia.
6
I think the main problem with keeping Manning behind bars is, other than house arrest, there is almost no way of keeping Manning confined without it constituting unconstitutional Cruel and Unusual punishment.
This country has a confused policy on whistle blowing. Is it good, or is it bad? I guess it all depends on whose ox is being gored, and by whom.
This country has a confused policy on whistle blowing. Is it good, or is it bad? I guess it all depends on whose ox is being gored, and by whom.
4
Mr. Manning should have been required to serve every day of his sentence.
9
Nope. "Mr." Manning should never have been convicted in the first place. He/she should have been given a commendation for revealing the despicable actions of military criminals who need to be sent to The Hague.
1
Many Americans mistakenly believe that Chelsea Manning was a whistle-blower who revealed evidence of war crimes, but the nearly three-quarters of a million classified or unclassified but sensitive military and diplomatic documents he stole and gave to WikiLeaks contained no evidence of war crimes. Julian Assange admitted on “60 Minutes” that WikiLeaks had edited the “Baghdad Collateral Damage” video to make it appear that Apache helicopters had attacked an unarmed group of men, which included a Reuters reporter and photographer. However, the unedited video showed that the men were insurgents armed with AK-47s and a rocket-propelled grenade launcher. The news media pored over the leaked documents and found no evidence of war crimes.
3
I expected this pardon by Obama; it's ridiculous to expect the Army to provide sex reassignment surgery for an incarcerated individual. Instead, a fund raising drive, like Go Fund Me, should provide ample donations for Ms. Manning's continued sex reassignment and accompanying mental health therapy.
1
Disgraceful move by Obama.
A monumental affront to every individual that has served honorably and faithfully in the Armed Forces of these United States.
So now gender issues are a Get Out of Jail Card for those who wantonly commit treason.
A monumental affront to every individual that has served honorably and faithfully in the Armed Forces of these United States.
So now gender issues are a Get Out of Jail Card for those who wantonly commit treason.
6
If the issue is that she is incarcerated in a male prison, then move her to a female facility. She still was convicted treasonous acts and should serve out her sentence in prison.
1
Has anyone alerted Maxine Waters of this? I'd like to hear what she has to say.
1
If the incoming President of the United States can beg a foreign power to hack into the United States, and possibly have received help from a foreign power to become President, it's not so shocking that the current President would show clemency in commuting Ms. Manning's sentence.
3
Doesn't undo the years of torture inflicted upon Manning under the Obama administration. Only reason why she's being pardoned and Snowden isn't? Manning got caught, and the message that sends to whistleblowers is clear: expose our corruption and we'll make you wish you were dead for the next 7 years.
This is no victory for human rights or government transparency. Just an attempt by Obama to salvage his legacy. You don't thank a dead beat father for being involved in their child's life. You don't thank a president from freeing the unjustly imprisoned.
This is no victory for human rights or government transparency. Just an attempt by Obama to salvage his legacy. You don't thank a dead beat father for being involved in their child's life. You don't thank a president from freeing the unjustly imprisoned.
4
The arrogance of Obama boggles the mind. Between executive orders and the list of executive clemency orders, he has set a record for flaunting the law. He is a narcissistic person who gets his kicks circumventing the system to achieve his goals. He cannot fade away soon enough.
8
Paul, our Constitution IS the law and it gives the President the absolute right to hand out pardons and commutations of sentences at his discretion. Read Article II. You don't like what he's done, fine, you don't have to like it; but, he is assuredly NOT flaunting the law.
1
Obama's last slap in the face to the military establishment he so derided and disenfranchised. Only two more days! Time has never gone so slowly.
10
" The quality of mercy is not strained"
Ack to the Bard
Ack to the Bard
2
This is entirely appropriate. After all, if the incoming president can commit treason and be rewarded with the presidency for doing so, surely this brave whistle-blower, who sought only to serve the interests of the American people and of democracy for no personal gain whatsoever, is deserving of commutation of her sentence.
1
One can sure that if Presidenet Trump reverses Ms. Manning's commutations, hers will be a true death sentence.
What she did was treason.
Seems to me her sentence was exactly what she deserved.
Seems to me her sentence was exactly what she deserved.
2
There are two days left- can Obama do anything else to cement his position as one of the worst presidents?
2
I'm sure he is working on it.
1
President Obama was actually the 14th best president, all things considered. Wait and see what the worst president of all turns out to be like, when we get the lying traitor Trump.
3
Should we punish whistleblowers if the information exposed enlightens us to illegal activity, government lies, corruption, etc.? So does intent matter? Obama and the democrats are hysterical because Wikileaks exposed the DNC and Podesta as arrogantly working to elect Clinton over Sanders in the primary and later colluding with CNN to harm Trump. So far nobody is suggesting the leaked information is fake. Heads have already rolled. So what was exposed was true. Wikileaks never denied the target was Clinton as that was where the corruption was. Democrats will now believe the leaked information swayed the election. Manning used Wikileaks and now is going to be released because she served enough time? She has mental issues and needs to get out of prison as if others in prison don't have mental issues. Wikileaks exposed both times information that citizens needed to know and then make a judgement. Assange did not actually do the hacking nor stealing, but just gathered the information. So should Wikileaks be punished for being the conduit? Obama commuted Manning's sentence because Assange will now give himself up. Obama knows republicans and many democrats see Assange as a traitor which will please Obama. Meanwhile Obama can look so compassionate especially in the transgender community which is a political victory. Obama is playing us all as a member of the deep state. I am glad Manning is getting out because for me the bigger threat is the deep state.
Whistleblowers will be the people in the future who will inform "Joe Average" when government/corporations actions could be harmful to the public. Ms. Manning could as well been sharing corporation secrets about flaunting labor or environmental laws. Again hypocrisy is rife amid the Republican Party. Little condemnation of hacking and the release of Democratic emails. Trump has made his admiration of Julian Assange and Wikileaks widely known. Yet the response from the GOP regarding Mr. Trump and his willingness to publically allude to his preference of Mr. Assange's opinion of cyber theft rather than taxpayer funded security/intelligence departments, well, their collective silence was deafening. However, Ms. Manning's revelations no doubt included intelligence gathered while the GOP were in charge. It really should not be surprising that those who clearly have not a shred of human dignity left and have collectively hailed their new leader would be calling Obama's commuting of Ms. Manning sentence "outrageous". Hopefully in the not distant future unshackled by Presidential restraints that under the Opinions section will be a few authored by Mr. Obama.
1
Manning was convicted under the Espionage Act, which is the same act that Hillary Clinton is alleged by some to have violated by being reckless with national secrets out of a greater concern for keeping her own secrets. The ironic thing is that Manning didn't reveal his trove out of personal concern, but for his view (if warped) of the public good. I think Manning was wrong, but at least Manning was trying to do the "right" thing. Clinton has no case for trying to do the "right" thing with her server, which was plainly an attempt to cover her secretive dealings. Maybe Manning's commutation was wrong, but pardoning Clinton would be far worse. Don't do that, Mr. Obama.
What? No mention of Snowden? Oh wait! Snowden is the poster-boy for the traditional, patriotic, heroic, red-blooded, heterosexual, American male. Manning? Well he may be patriotic, heroic,and red-blooded but ... but ... well it's easy to see why Obama would choose Manning over Snowden. Manning represents the destruction of what used to be considered high values in one area of his/her life. Something Obama, in my opinion seemed intent on destroying for all of his last eight years.
1
My only question is why now? Why not do the same thing last year and end the sentence at the same time? This case has been on the Presidents desk for years. Did he just get around to it?
Wikileaks has caused nothing but trouble for our country and Manning was a significant player. All we have heard about the last 6 months are leaks, leaks leaks...now Obama lets Manning go?
Wikileaks has caused nothing but trouble for our country and Manning was a significant player. All we have heard about the last 6 months are leaks, leaks leaks...now Obama lets Manning go?
2
While thousands of free speech and government accountability activists applaud Mr. Obama's decision to release Ms. Manning, one could only wish the President could 'commute' the death sentences of all those killed extrajudicially by drones, or were 'collateral damage' in a war that protects no one except the elites who own defense and oil stocks.
Radical Islam is not a threat to the USA unless it is homegrown. No Taliban or ISIS fighter can swim the 10,000 miles to our shores, and the money we spend on bombs and victim compensation would better used to secure our borders. We have helped eviscerate the Middle East at the behest of Israel, sowing ill will and distrust with every America boot on foreign soil. It is time to evaluate who we are as a nation, and examine what have we done in the name of 'freedom' as our children go hungry, our roads and bridges go to seed, and our national character becomes cold, mercenary and profit driven. We have the means and intelligence to architect better methods of defending ourselves, thanks to global cyber eavesdropping, alliances and the Trillion dollar military/intelligence budget. The question is: do we have the heart and soul necessary to retake our position of moral leadership in this world?
Radical Islam is not a threat to the USA unless it is homegrown. No Taliban or ISIS fighter can swim the 10,000 miles to our shores, and the money we spend on bombs and victim compensation would better used to secure our borders. We have helped eviscerate the Middle East at the behest of Israel, sowing ill will and distrust with every America boot on foreign soil. It is time to evaluate who we are as a nation, and examine what have we done in the name of 'freedom' as our children go hungry, our roads and bridges go to seed, and our national character becomes cold, mercenary and profit driven. We have the means and intelligence to architect better methods of defending ourselves, thanks to global cyber eavesdropping, alliances and the Trillion dollar military/intelligence budget. The question is: do we have the heart and soul necessary to retake our position of moral leadership in this world?
I see both sides on this decision. Obama was being merciful, which is good. But it is selective mercy. Surely there are tens of thousands of other inmates locked up for absurdly long sentences who are not having a good time in prison, and who similarly committed their crimes for rash or stupid reasons. I'd feel better if President Obama would let all similarly situated inmates out as well. Only keep the really dangerous people in prison, parole the rest after a short sentence.
2
In effect Chelsea Manning was sentenced to 35 years in solitary confinement for whistle blowing which seems incredibly excessive. President Obama proves once again that he possesses the human quality of empathy; something his predecessor sorely lacks and probably can't even spell.
3
But what if Manning was a Putin spy?
1
If it means we can stop seeing that same picture and hearing about this person's "transition" then I'm all for commuting the sentence, which did seem harsh. And now, as a private citizen again, Manning can pay for "their" own transition.
2
Obama's act of clemency for Chelsea Manning inspires the WikiLeaks founder, Julian Assange to agree to an extradition to the US. He has been holed up at the Ecuadorian embassy in London since claiming asylum there in 2012. No doubt he has enough of this existence crammed into two small rooms, or he feels he overstays his welcome. Now he hopes to come to the US.
In recent weeks Trump praised Assange for denying Russian involvement in the hacking scandal. During the campagin he was delighted over emails stolen from the DNC and Hillary Clinton’s entourage. Perhaps Assange sees a chance that Trump would let him get away with impunity.
In recent weeks Trump praised Assange for denying Russian involvement in the hacking scandal. During the campagin he was delighted over emails stolen from the DNC and Hillary Clinton’s entourage. Perhaps Assange sees a chance that Trump would let him get away with impunity.
1
Why doesn't he just empty ALL of the prisons? He has released or pardoned drug dealers who have distributed death and addiction to our kids. He has released terrorists, who would do more harm to American citizens and soil if given the opportunity. He has released murderers, who have sent loved ones to their early graves.
Who is he leaving IN prison - jaywalkers? Shoplifters? Repeat parking ticket offenders??
Who is he leaving IN prison - jaywalkers? Shoplifters? Repeat parking ticket offenders??
2
Ridiculous two faced move by Obama, after riding the wave about fake news and Russian hacking of this or that and anything he and his appointees can think of. A completely hypocritical maneuver that displays a disrespect for the intelligence community and the purpose of laws.
5
A disastrous decision. If he was a he, and not this she nonsense this would not be happening. But hey, no one will ever accuse President Obama of taking national security seriously. Anyone out there thinking of passing along military secrets...no worries...a few years in jail and you become a hero.
4
This person is a traitor and in no way deserves anything less than what was adjudicated. In his pardon Obama has cemented a negative legacy.
3
The problem is that the US has so many dirty secrets that just can't be kept. Clean hands we have not, And do we howl when they are told. If you don't want to read about it in the paper, don't do it.
3
While I applaud this move by President Obama, we should not forget that his administration will go down, to date, as one that systematically punished whistle-blowers at an alarming level. Please don't let these last minute "pardons" change your perceptions.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/mar/16/whistleblowers-double-st...
http://fair.org/extra/obamas-doj-targets-whistleblowers/
https://www.thenation.com/article/obamas-crackdown-whistleblowers/
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/mar/16/whistleblowers-double-st...
http://fair.org/extra/obamas-doj-targets-whistleblowers/
https://www.thenation.com/article/obamas-crackdown-whistleblowers/
1
I am a supporter of this President. But I think he made a huge mistake with this puzzling and terrible decision. It betrays a complete lack of any principles, scruples, or even self-respect on his part.
Aside from the damage done to our national security, Manning enabled the very thing, Wikileaks, that created a monster in the form of Assange, that helped bring down Clinton, and in turn, Obama's own legacy.
She should have been moved to woman's prison. Perhaps the sentence could have been shortened a bit. Not this.
Aside from the damage done to our national security, Manning enabled the very thing, Wikileaks, that created a monster in the form of Assange, that helped bring down Clinton, and in turn, Obama's own legacy.
She should have been moved to woman's prison. Perhaps the sentence could have been shortened a bit. Not this.
1
Now lock up General Betrayus who leaked classified info to his girlfriend in exchange for sex. He's a worse criminal. Oh wait, trump is going to give him a cushy job.
3
I've generally supported Obama, but this is a bridge too far. Maybe a 35 year sentence did not fit the crime, but this person betrayed his country and put fellow colleagues in jeopardy. The transgender slant is just another gambit for mercy in the progressive bizarro world.
6
Lets see: Two traitors who leaked classified information and lied about it. A terrorist who murdered many. They all get a get-out-of jail-card . Wonderful.
5
I'm sure the staff at the US Disciplinary Barracks is breathing a great sigh of relief.
1
There can be no greater insult to the American people than to excuse traitors or enemies of our countries. One wonders who the traitors really are.
5
Oh yes there can.
We could elect one to the presidency. One who excuses our enemies and makes clear he's excusing them.
We could elect one to the presidency. One who excuses our enemies and makes clear he's excusing them.
4
Seven years in prison, and the first years in solitary confinement, is NOT "excusing". Punishment enough.
We are about to see a real traitor (and draft dodger) inaugurated as president. What's the excuse for that?
We are about to see a real traitor (and draft dodger) inaugurated as president. What's the excuse for that?
Thankfully we have military courts to decide sentences of traitors, not the general, or liberal, public.
1
A terrible decision as it signals to law breakers, potential or otherwise, that you can steal secrets and not have to be held accountable for your actions. Manning should have received the death sentence. Is there no shame.
3
Commutation was only a good idea if it gets Snowden and Assange back as a deal.
1
Releasing a trader like Manning is a disgraceful act by a President we mercifully will have to suffer through for only a few days longer. Let's see what Obama can do in the next few days to top Manning and Oscar Lopez Rivera.
3
There is no small irony is endorsing the release of classified information in a domestic hack that is sent to Wikileaks and the (justifiable) outrage at Russians who hacked DNC servers and released factual information through wikileaks. In neither case was information falsified and in the manning case, no editing was done and the damage significant. This is a boneheaded move. Will President Obama now commute the Russians sanctions?
4
I have very mixed feelings concerning this case and can see valid arguments on both sides of the equation. In this day of cyber terrorism, it is important to issue punishments that deter followers. However, was the sentencing of a person with obvious mental issues just. In civil court would the person have been sentenced to just prison or imprisonment/psychiatric treatment. As is the case in most things in life, situations and answers are not black and white but mostly shades of gray. IMO Obama is a very intelligent and compassionate individual with more information at his disposal then we have been allotted so I will go with his judgement. However, I can't disparage people with the opposite opinion.
1
Civil courts DO NOT sentence people to prison.
3
I want him/her to fully enjoy the VA benefits you get from a Dishonorable discharge, will we be hearing about this too??
1
The controversy over Manning is one of the most bizarre issues I have witnessed. He was a deeply troubled soldier who violated the law nonetheless and should have served the sentence. It was just a completely random act of harm directed at the military in violation of orders and his oath. It just shows that Obama does not understand how an army works at all. Everyone out there who says he has suffered - well, then he should not have given 750,000 documents to Wikileaks. And just because George W. Bush wrongly pardoned some people, does not make Obama correct in this case. It is the same logic, to reverse the issue, that Trump supporters used when complaining about Hilary's "lies" when confronted with Trump's abominable behavior. It hardly is an excuse for Trump and Bush's pardons are hardly an excuse for Obama's poor judgment here.
9
Thank you President Obama for consistently being a fair and just President (and man), and thank you for being such a beautiful role model and ambassador for our future youth. You are surly among the ranks of the greatest and most wonderful of people. Moreover, the pardon was fair; something consistent with all of your previous actions. I'm lucky and honored to have had you as a President; you're a good man Sir! Be well and thank you.
6
Well, now we know what Trump will be doing in his first week in office---no it will not be replacing Obamacare, or cutting taxes, or fighting ISIS...no, he will be using the FBI and Justice Department to track down and place Manning back in prison.
3
He couldn't LEGALLY do it. The Constitution gives an absolute right to the sitting President to grant pardons and commutations of sentences. These CANNOT be undone by the next President.
1
Two words for those who are outraged by Bradley/Chelsea Manning's reprieve:
David Petraeus
Q.E.D.
David Petraeus
Q.E.D.
5
Didn't Manning commit treason? How many documents were stolen?
6
The bigger question is how many people have died as a result of this individual's actions and how many more Americans are at risk because of it?
2
Yes. Numbers do not matter.
Thousands upon thousands. They Got People Killed.
Presidents Washington through Eisenhower would have seen such a person shot by firing squad after having been found guilty.
But that was all before Awesome Coolness came to government.
Presidents Washington through Eisenhower would have seen such a person shot by firing squad after having been found guilty.
But that was all before Awesome Coolness came to government.
2
Chelsea Manning sentence commutation a good thing - fair and just, but so wish Leonard Peltier could be pardoned by President Obama or sentence also commuted or Leonard could just be freed somehow, Deference to what FBI says happened completely unnecessary. FBI = Comey FBI = J Edgar Hoover Free Leonard Peltier, please Mr. Obama before you turn out the lights, close the door and leave the White House.
2
I'm very happy for Ms Manning... Edward Snowdon and Leonard Peltier should also receive pardons!
2
Snowdon will undoubtedly be dealt with at a future date by the Trump Administration. He will be a useful tool in the propaganda game.
1
Manning, other National Security offenders, abstaining in the UNSC.
You've 'lost' it, Mr. Obama.
Or else - we did, over past 8 years.
You've 'lost' it, Mr. Obama.
Or else - we did, over past 8 years.
9
good job Barack
3
Where have you printed all of the right-wing criticism of the fact that Gen. Patraeus was let off with a slap on the hand for giving his secrets to a writer who was doing a book on him? Guess I missed that one.
3
That general did one-hundred-thousandth of what Hillary did - and her exposure of secrets was easily foreseen. Plus he ended up a hundred thousand dollars lighter.
This probably won't register with most readers here, but Petraeus is known to love his country (when he isn't falling for the wrong woman) and that actually counts with the political Right.
The disclosed document: a daily meeting schedule, as I understand. That was it.
This probably won't register with most readers here, but Petraeus is known to love his country (when he isn't falling for the wrong woman) and that actually counts with the political Right.
The disclosed document: a daily meeting schedule, as I understand. That was it.
1
David Patreus pled guilty to a misdemeanor (I repeat a misdemeanor) charge of mishandling classified documents for giving to classified documents detailing some of the military actions he was involved in to his official biographer and mistress who was an american citizen. For that he was sentenced to 2 years probation and fined $100,000. And there has never been an assertion that his illegal leak of material in any way posed a threat to the security of Americans or our allies. Bradley Manning was convicted of passing over 3/4 million documents about many aspects of our war strategies in Iraq and Afghanistan... from the war zone... to a foreign citizen. He hadn't read those 3/4 million documents. He didn't know what all was in them nor the extent of harm that could come to american soldiers or our allies if they were released. And he didn't know who all would gain access to them from their release. And even President Obama has said his actions jeopardized both our security, the security of our soldiers and especially the security of our allies in Iraq and Afghanistan. For that he plead guilty to 10 different crimes and convicted on another 17 most of which were felonies (I repeat felonies). In light of all of these facts Dwight I think the 2 original sentences were pretty appropriate and proportional.
2
Please. I'm begging you. Keep it up Lefties. Your self destructive ideology has taken you out of power in America, and is on its way to taking you out of power in Europe.
If Obama was to Nuke the Vatican, you NYT Liberals would find a way to justify it. Funny that pretty much every Liberal politician is running away from this one as fast as they can.
See: America is hearing you. You have exposed yourselves for who you really are, and across American you are being booted out of State Houses. Sure, California and NY will remain radical Left. But reasonable Democrats are pulling away from you because of your self destructive anti-America, anti-Israel, anti-White, anti-God ideology.
If Obama was to Nuke the Vatican, you NYT Liberals would find a way to justify it. Funny that pretty much every Liberal politician is running away from this one as fast as they can.
See: America is hearing you. You have exposed yourselves for who you really are, and across American you are being booted out of State Houses. Sure, California and NY will remain radical Left. But reasonable Democrats are pulling away from you because of your self destructive anti-America, anti-Israel, anti-White, anti-God ideology.
10
Thing is Rocky, there are more of us than there are of you. Your boy got almost 3 million fewer votes than HRC. Sure, you won in the electoral college and we'll have to find a way around that. But the bottom line is that Trump supporters represent the least educated, least intelligent, least economically productive sector of the population. Time to cut it loose.
1
Obama should also commute Jeffrey Sterling's sentence before he leaves office this week. The Obama Justice Department sends the transgender Army service person and and the African American CIA officer to jail, but General Petraeus gets to walk with a slap on the wrist for his mishandling of classified information. He didn't know whether his biographer was a spy. American justice shouldn't simply mean "just us." If David Petraeus and Chelsea Manning get to walk, so should Jeffrey Sterling. Ask James Risen.
3
And what about Jonathan Pollard? Finally freed after serving 30 years in prison for spying for a US ally, he's still not permitted to leave the US and relocate in Israel. Can anyone say with a straight face that after 30 years in prison he still has valuable "secrets" he would provide to Israel if allowed to live there? It's purely vindictive on the part of the US government at this point. If Obama can free Manning, he an allow Pollard to leave the US and move to Israel.
2
Just heard Senator McCain this AM- Because of what Manning did, our contacts and friends who helped the US, some of been killed. This is not a good commutation of a traitor.
4
Obama is a traitor to our Country and should have been impeached a long time ago. What message does this give to others who may be thinking about doing things which harm our Country! SICK!
5
It's a good thing...consider the sex scandal of the 4 star general Petraius, he was allow to resign...no consequences..And Snowden sequestered in Russia...Manning "faced the music" expressed regrets and extremely penalized.... Thanks Obama for your compassion .
5
No mention of Leonard Peltier in pardons so far. Convicted with a weak case, his prosecutor recommended a pardon 25 years ago. So why is he not on the list.
Manning as a transgender in federal prison is cruel and painful punishment. Being that he has already served longer than others convicted of similar crimes a commuted sentence makes sense.
Manning as a transgender in federal prison is cruel and painful punishment. Being that he has already served longer than others convicted of similar crimes a commuted sentence makes sense.
4
Mary, Bradley Manning released 3/4 million classified documents about our Iraq and Afghanistan war strategies to a foreign citizen, and he did so while serving in one of the war theaters. He hadn't read all the documents, he didn't know what all was in them or how harmful they could be, and he didn't know who all would obtain them after he released them in the manner he did. He plead guilty to 10 criminal charges and was convicted on 17 others. Cite for me a similar case where the convicted offender served less than 4 years for his crime. A single one.
3
The Chelsea Manning commutation, perhaps followed by a Hillary pardon, is the perfect exclamation point to America's run-on sentence of betrayal & endangerment known as the Obama presidency.
A president's only charge is to protect & defend this great country. The Obama years, perversely, are about concocting & protecting & defending his noxious legacy.
These are dangerous times. The magnitude & frequency of Obama's acts of irreversible damage to America vary inversely & exponentially with his time left in office.
A despot can do a lot of damage in 2 days & a deluded one blinded by his own imagined brilliance will.
A president's only charge is to protect & defend this great country. The Obama years, perversely, are about concocting & protecting & defending his noxious legacy.
These are dangerous times. The magnitude & frequency of Obama's acts of irreversible damage to America vary inversely & exponentially with his time left in office.
A despot can do a lot of damage in 2 days & a deluded one blinded by his own imagined brilliance will.
8
Hilary Clinton? She was not charged. She is not guilty of anything. You can't pardon an innocent person who was never charged with a crime. You do remember that the FBI cleared her. Right?
2
Now Julian Assange should honour his promise and hand himself over to authorities!
1
By "authorities" I assume you mean the Swedish authorities, who will then hand him over to the US.
2
"If Obama grants Manning clemency Assange will agree to US extradition despite clear unconstitutionality of DoJ case" - tweet from Wikileaks
Better almost too late than never, Mr. President. Thank you! This 1st step leaves you with 56 hours to transmit some humanity from the White House.
3
And now she'll do the talk shows, write books, have a movie made about her life, and for course become the NEW media Darling of the Liberal Leftists. Manning will also have a Go Fund Me site, thus all in all, make MILLIONS of dollars all for nothing more than being a selfish, temper tantrum throwing TRAITOR to the nation and giving US Service Personnel a slap across the face who served with honor and valor! Two things that Mr. Obama also knows nothing about, I might add...
3
Gender dysphoria remains a delicate subject to discuss. I can easily imagine that it is even more difficult for the senior military leadership. Recall how much trouble they had when 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell,' was converted to Let Them Serve. I expect that the prez-elect will have trouble Mr. Obama's commutation for Ms. Manning, but I'm not sure that he will have the authority to reverse M. Obama's action. If Trump had any brains (questionable at best) he'd leave it alone and focus his early efforts on learning how to be president and to play nicely with others. He has a LOT to learn!
Gee...I thought all Democrats were so disappointed and up in arms at the leaks of private emails of their favored folks like John Podesta or even the ones that revealed the corrupt Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, unethically, not to mention illegally, favoring Hillary and denying Sanders a fair and honest opportunity in a “free” election. Now the President pardons the most prolific leaker in the history of leaks. Manning was a volunteer soldier bound by a set of rules he swore to under oath. Many have died adhering to that oath. I wonder how the Democrats feel about that very lonely, or very dead, Afghan who worked for us in the war in his country, whose name became an open secret around the world? This is political hypocrisy and worse. It is political pandering at the highest level. This is Chicago ward politics writ large.
5
Next up, Edward Snowden!
Show us what you're made of, Obama. Snowden is as patriotic and selfless as it gets and should serve as a positive lesson and role model for all of us, especially considering who's about to be sworn in on Friday.
Massive government surveillance with little to no oversight should terrify us all.
Those who speak up and out in the face of evil and at great personal risk deserve our gratitude, not exile or a prison sentence.
Let's please re-define what it means to be an American and champion those who are willing to put their money where their mouths are.
Show us what you're made of, Obama. Snowden is as patriotic and selfless as it gets and should serve as a positive lesson and role model for all of us, especially considering who's about to be sworn in on Friday.
Massive government surveillance with little to no oversight should terrify us all.
Those who speak up and out in the face of evil and at great personal risk deserve our gratitude, not exile or a prison sentence.
Let's please re-define what it means to be an American and champion those who are willing to put their money where their mouths are.
4
What about the 11 million undocumented immigrants who are hard-working laborers and who contributed positively to the fabric of American society? This pardon seems to be misplaced.
Ok Obama,
You did a decent and humane thing in the end - rescuing somewhat the terribly tarnished image of America - which had become vengeful and spiteful - far removed from the ideals of freedom.
The treatment of manning was terrible and a blot on your history.
Well done...
You did a decent and humane thing in the end - rescuing somewhat the terribly tarnished image of America - which had become vengeful and spiteful - far removed from the ideals of freedom.
The treatment of manning was terrible and a blot on your history.
Well done...
5
It seems the treatment of Manning was just what Manning wanted. HRT is a luxury that many civilian transgender sometimes can't afford and have to prostitute or turn to selling drugs in order to pay for their HRT, so I don't believe Manning was treated unfairly, in fact, it actually worked in Mannings favor
1
Charlie, it's a news that brings fresh air to our rotten world of politics.
Chelsea Manning, Julian Assange and Edward Snowden are real heroes of of our corrupted and convoluted world.
I know lot of my fellow Democrats will not like paying respect to Assange for publishing those damaging emails about Hillary and her campaign chief, the ones he received directly from Putin to make Hillary lose and Trump win.
But I'll still give him credit for exposing all the details Bush's illegal war on Iraq and it's terrible aftermath.
In that context we've to salute Bradley Manning or Chelsea Manning now for providing hundreds or thousands of pages of the infamous dossiers which Assange used to inform the whole world about what terrible atrocities Bush committed in Iraq and elsewhere only to grab their oil.
So I applaud President Obama for commuting the 35 year's sentence Ms. Manning so that in only 5 months time she'll be released.
But what I'll request our current president is to use his pardoning power to release all the prisoners,mainly Blacks and other minorities, who had been incarcerated for years and years just for selling a small amount of crack-cocaine or for just failing to pay for traffic tickets which ballooned to hundreds and thousands dollars after their failed fee payments were compounded.
So go ahead Mr. President, in your last 2 days, free as many prisoners as possible, including the prisoners in Guantanamo Bay,as they'll be tortured by our racist President Trump.
Chelsea Manning, Julian Assange and Edward Snowden are real heroes of of our corrupted and convoluted world.
I know lot of my fellow Democrats will not like paying respect to Assange for publishing those damaging emails about Hillary and her campaign chief, the ones he received directly from Putin to make Hillary lose and Trump win.
But I'll still give him credit for exposing all the details Bush's illegal war on Iraq and it's terrible aftermath.
In that context we've to salute Bradley Manning or Chelsea Manning now for providing hundreds or thousands of pages of the infamous dossiers which Assange used to inform the whole world about what terrible atrocities Bush committed in Iraq and elsewhere only to grab their oil.
So I applaud President Obama for commuting the 35 year's sentence Ms. Manning so that in only 5 months time she'll be released.
But what I'll request our current president is to use his pardoning power to release all the prisoners,mainly Blacks and other minorities, who had been incarcerated for years and years just for selling a small amount of crack-cocaine or for just failing to pay for traffic tickets which ballooned to hundreds and thousands dollars after their failed fee payments were compounded.
So go ahead Mr. President, in your last 2 days, free as many prisoners as possible, including the prisoners in Guantanamo Bay,as they'll be tortured by our racist President Trump.
3
Pardon Snowden, a true American hero, while there's still time, President Obama!
3
Unless. of course, you were an uncover agent who worked to keep Mr. Reee safe but had his cover blown
Snowden should be pardoned immediately. Consider secret powers in the hands of someone as dangerous as Donald Trump. Snowden shined a light on those powers in a patriotic effort to inform his fellow citizens. Obama's decision to pardon Snowden or not is the choice between upholding the principles upon which this country was founded, or exercising power for the sake of protecting power.
The argument that we are a nation of laws, therefore Snowden needs to be punished, is nonsense. Laws can be just or unjust. Our history is filled with examples. Our history is also filled with people courageous enough to the violate the law for the greater good. This is one of the ways we evolve. We
all benefit from the action of these heroic people. Snowden is just such a
case.
Time is running out. A would be dictator is about to move into the White
House. Obama needs to answer the question: Does he stand with The
People's right to life and liberty over the accumulation of secret tyrannical
powers of our government? Pardoning Snowden will answer the question.
Refusal to pardon will answer it as well.
needs to send a message, loud and clear, that real patriotism of the sort that Snowden displayed at the risk of his entire life for the sake of the nation's people as a whole
The argument that we are a nation of laws, therefore Snowden needs to be punished, is nonsense. Laws can be just or unjust. Our history is filled with examples. Our history is also filled with people courageous enough to the violate the law for the greater good. This is one of the ways we evolve. We
all benefit from the action of these heroic people. Snowden is just such a
case.
Time is running out. A would be dictator is about to move into the White
House. Obama needs to answer the question: Does he stand with The
People's right to life and liberty over the accumulation of secret tyrannical
powers of our government? Pardoning Snowden will answer the question.
Refusal to pardon will answer it as well.
needs to send a message, loud and clear, that real patriotism of the sort that Snowden displayed at the risk of his entire life for the sake of the nation's people as a whole
4
I think Manning has paid a high enough price for her crimes and am glad President Obama has offered clemency. She admitted to and apologised for her actions. I believe she did not intend to put anyone in harm's way, and that her obvious mental crisis caused her to use terrible judgment. Good for President Obama for releasing her from her ridiculously long sentence.
19
Every day, 24/7, the President's advisers leak top secret, classified information of the highest sensitivity to reporters.
Republican and Democratic White Houses act exactly the same way.
Every day, the purpose of leaking by the President's men and women is to make the President look smart, the great Leader of the Free World. Here is a President -- George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and soon-to-be President Donald Trump -- who can be trusted, who is in control of the "situation" in the "Situation Room," who merits our admiration as the Great Hero, the Great Father, the great Leader.
And the press, always desperately looking for a handout, co-conspires with every White House, and will do so joyfully, even though many are liberal and loathe Trump, with the next one.
Republican and Democratic White Houses act exactly the same way.
Every day, the purpose of leaking by the President's men and women is to make the President look smart, the great Leader of the Free World. Here is a President -- George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and soon-to-be President Donald Trump -- who can be trusted, who is in control of the "situation" in the "Situation Room," who merits our admiration as the Great Hero, the Great Father, the great Leader.
And the press, always desperately looking for a handout, co-conspires with every White House, and will do so joyfully, even though many are liberal and loathe Trump, with the next one.
4
So much for the outrage of Dems over leaked documents to Wikileaks
In this case, people were murdered by the Taliban. In the other the documents leaked showed what Dems REALLY thought about the voters, what their candidate really stood on the issues, their Chairman feeding questions to Hillary prior to a Town Hall, and how worried Hillary's staff was over "Bill Clinton Inc."
I guess it is much easier to play Wheel of Excuses rather then express outrage over this traitor walking away free as a bird
In this case, people were murdered by the Taliban. In the other the documents leaked showed what Dems REALLY thought about the voters, what their candidate really stood on the issues, their Chairman feeding questions to Hillary prior to a Town Hall, and how worried Hillary's staff was over "Bill Clinton Inc."
I guess it is much easier to play Wheel of Excuses rather then express outrage over this traitor walking away free as a bird
7
Just like the Johnathan Pollard case, the Chelsea (ne Bradley) Manning case is driven more by special interest politics than what is in the best interest of the nation. To quote DJT: Sad!
6
"Mr. Earnest also noted that while the documents Ms. Manning provided to WikiLeaks were “damaging to national security,” the ones Mr. Snowden disclosed were “far more serious and far more dangerous.”"
More lies from our government, which just keeps lying and lying.
I have followed this issue somewhat closely and no one has ever been able to articulate or show how exactly Manning's or Snowden's disclosures "damaged national security". They can't explain this, because it isn't true and they know it.
And of course no one talks about the fact that James Clapper, Director of National Intelligence, directly lied to Congress about the existence of the massive domestic surveillance program. Apparently, that's just fine.
Snowden has already explained his reasons for seeking refuge in Russia. He has already said he would be happy to come back to the US if he could receive a fair trial.
But the absurd Espionage Act, under which he would be tried, makes it impossible for him to explain why he did what he did.
If this is true, then I would agree with him that he cannot get a fair trial here in the US.
More lies from our government, which just keeps lying and lying.
I have followed this issue somewhat closely and no one has ever been able to articulate or show how exactly Manning's or Snowden's disclosures "damaged national security". They can't explain this, because it isn't true and they know it.
And of course no one talks about the fact that James Clapper, Director of National Intelligence, directly lied to Congress about the existence of the massive domestic surveillance program. Apparently, that's just fine.
Snowden has already explained his reasons for seeking refuge in Russia. He has already said he would be happy to come back to the US if he could receive a fair trial.
But the absurd Espionage Act, under which he would be tried, makes it impossible for him to explain why he did what he did.
If this is true, then I would agree with him that he cannot get a fair trial here in the US.
4
Charges should be dropped or legal process halted against Mr. Snowden. He released data more carefully and responsibly in order properly to inform citizens. He is in Russia because it is the only place he could find, given his route. Snowden is a true patriot and whistleblower. Let Obama drop hypocrisy and release him also.
3
@Bill — Comparing Snowden and Manning is like comparing apples and oranges. Manning pleaded guilty, stood trial and was convicted of a lesser crime and then served time in prison. Meanwhile, Snowden never stood trial, never admitted wrong doing and fled to an adversarial foreign nation for refuge. Snowden cannot be forgiven because he never admitted what he did was wrong. He never stood trial. He never served any time for his crime. He finds comfort with our enemies.
1
Snowden stole 1.5 million documents. Only a small percent of these related to the existence of controversial global surveillance programs. . A report released in September by the House Committee on Intelligence states that “Snowden caused tremendous damage to national security, and the vast majority of the documents he stole have nothing to do with programs impacting individual privacy interests—they instead pertain to military, defense and intelligence programs of great interest to America’s adversaries.” The report also that “Snowden insists he has not shared the full cache of 1.5 million classified documents with anyone; however, in June 2016, the deputy chairman of the Russian parliament’s defense and security committee publicly conceded that Snowden ‘did share intelligence’ with his government.”
http://intelligence.house.gov/uploadedfiles/hpsci_snowden_review_-_uncla...
http://intelligence.house.gov/uploadedfiles/hpsci_snowden_review_-_uncla...
2
Any foreigner who agrees to spy for the US must have his head read. Manning disclosed the identity of many foreign agents of the U.S., and President Obama’s act can only encourage other US employees with emotional problems to engage in similar, reckless conduct. President Obama has again confirmed that Washington politicians do not take seriously the US’s sacred duty of secrecy and loyalty to foreign agents when it is politically expedient for them to do so. This we already learned decades ago when the safety of Washington supported Contras in Nicaragua were shamelessly betrayed by Democrats who were going after President Reagan.
3
Not sure if I can go along with the President on this one -- damage, however, seems to be minimal -- he will live with his decision out of jail -- time to move on I guess.
Chelsea Manning has served more than enough time in prison for being a whistleblower. Commuting her draconian, barbaric sentence was the right thing to do.
A previous comment here suggested that Obama would make a great Supreme Court justice. I have to agree. In fact, I think his analytical, careful, even-handed approach to such issues as this makes him far better suited to the Supreme Court than he was to the "hope and change" presidency his campaign touted.
A previous comment here suggested that Obama would make a great Supreme Court justice. I have to agree. In fact, I think his analytical, careful, even-handed approach to such issues as this makes him far better suited to the Supreme Court than he was to the "hope and change" presidency his campaign touted.
5
Manning isn't a whistleblower. He did not reveal any evidence of war crimes or illegal activity.
1
Manning wasn't a whistle blower. He didn't reveal any war crimes or illegal activities.
1
Compared to Trump, Manning is an innocent angel......................
3
I am truly happy for Chelsea and hope she goes on to live a happy life as the person she is. And I am truly heartbroken that Leonard Peltier will quite possibly, and even probably, die in prison.
5
Chelsea Manning only attracts sympathy because of his gender identity problem and because the Iraq War was controversial. He didn’t disclosed any war crimes. He stole three-quarters of a million military and diplomatic secrets and gave them to WikiLeaks. He would have been executed for this in World War II.
1
A surprise, but a conclusion based on logic and justice. I wager Trump, who has no empathy whatsoever, may not pardon a single person or commute a single sentence.
We have an incoming POTUS that asks Russia to spy for him in the general election and he praises WikiLeaks Julian Assange and Edward Snowden for tipping the scale with their thumbs and hacking the DNC and Clinton's subordinates. What purpose did it serve crucifying Chelsea Manning anymore?
This is about the only good news, I've heard from the White House in a long time. Thank-you, President Obama for reminding us what humanity truly is.
Now we have to look forward a prohibition of any good news from the White House. Hopefully, we can repeal (like the 21st Amendment on booze) and replace Trump before he renames the White House. Maybe he'll really screw -up and we can dump him like Tricky Dick Nixon and Spiro Agnew! The Preamble to the Constitution that says, 'In Order to form a more perfect Union' is now a oxymoron with the incoming low brow (and IQ) anti-Mensa
POTUS, which includes his tweets and his partners in crime and prodigy off-springs!
It reminds me (strangely) of a quote from McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. McMurphy: Look at the faces on ya! Look at it ya'll! [laughing]
McMurphy: The thieves brigade, ya ding a lings. The mental defective league, in formation. AKA, the new entourage heading for the White House!
This is about the only good news, I've heard from the White House in a long time. Thank-you, President Obama for reminding us what humanity truly is.
Now we have to look forward a prohibition of any good news from the White House. Hopefully, we can repeal (like the 21st Amendment on booze) and replace Trump before he renames the White House. Maybe he'll really screw -up and we can dump him like Tricky Dick Nixon and Spiro Agnew! The Preamble to the Constitution that says, 'In Order to form a more perfect Union' is now a oxymoron with the incoming low brow (and IQ) anti-Mensa
POTUS, which includes his tweets and his partners in crime and prodigy off-springs!
It reminds me (strangely) of a quote from McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. McMurphy: Look at the faces on ya! Look at it ya'll! [laughing]
McMurphy: The thieves brigade, ya ding a lings. The mental defective league, in formation. AKA, the new entourage heading for the White House!
Actually, Trump asked WikiLeaks to release any files it might have from Hillary Clintons private server it might have. He did not ask anyone to spy.
2
I was figuratively speaking. I was also a analyst until I retired and he was giving Russia the green light to as you say 'release any files' but also dig into any other dirt they might scrape up. The DNC breach and many on Clinton's election staff did not use 'Hillary Clinton's private server' nor was there any real news reports or leaks by James Comey indicating her 'private' server was ever hacked. Just another piece of false news reporting and like her being at fault for Benghazi, another tempest in a teapot.
1
So, slapping our intelligence community in the face.
People died for some of this information this traitor gave away.
People died for some of this information this traitor gave away.
8
Name one person who died over this.
2
Some nameless, faceless Iraqis. But do they not matter because they were not Americans?
2
This is insane! On the heels of Clinton's fiasco, Gen. Petraeus' slap on the wrist and the inanity of many Democrats' concern about the Russian's compromising Trump even as the same people think of Snowden, harbored by Putin, is some kind of hero!
Wikileaks dumps Manning Iraq material, and both s/he and Wikileaks became heroes to the left! Oh boy, but what a difference three years make!
Wikileaks dumps Manning Iraq material, and both s/he and Wikileaks became heroes to the left! Oh boy, but what a difference three years make!
2
Given the ease with which data can now be stolen and illegally shared, this move sets a bad precedent. One would think Obama, of all people, would recognize this given his outsized concern over Russia's involvement in our election.
3
Russia was not involved with the election, and the dems know it. Just an excuse to explain their loss, instead of admitting they chose the wrong horse for their race. Next time people demand change, LISTEN!!!!
2
Mike—You may choose not to believe it that Russia was involved in our election. But to think otherwise is to ignore the obvious.
2
Manning purposely disclosed information, admitted it and was found guilty. She should be in prison for life, however, I am sure the fact that she is transgender has weighed heavily in this pardon. Think about it, "Pete Rose can't get into the Hall of Fame, but Chelsea Manning can get out of prison."
1
I can only think about the fact that you compare the two.
1
Why does the NYT keep repeating the fiction that Snowden "fled" to Russia? He was in transit to somewhere else when the State dept. cancelled his passport and stranded him there. Not a very bright move considering there is no extradition treaty with Russia and there Snowden remains and is now a pawn in the Russia baiting of the Washington consensus. This man is an American hero and should not only be pardoned but given a parade on his return.
2
By the way, can't media get a better picture?
2
No. He/she is just plain ugly, AND phony.
The accounts that I have read here in Canada on the treatment of Manning during her incarceration were shocking and made me feel that I was reading about some prisoner that the Chinese or Iraqis had in a secret dark hole somewhere. Are Americans aware of this? The UN formally accused the US government of cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment towards her back in 2012 and so little was done that I read she was sentenced to solitary confinement again for a 2nd suicide attempt just last October. What civilized country sends a suicidal person back to solitary confinement? Forget the question of guilt or innocence, there is a MINIMAL level that countries are held to in their treatment of prisoners. And you criticize Edward Snowden for not coming back to “face the music” in a similar way?
I for one, am relieved that Manning is getting out. Today the White House said that the same “deal” was not in the cards for Snowden because he fled to an enemy country rather than facing trial for espionage. Do they really believe that in 2016, they can spin the story in this way? Snowden is in Russia because the U.S. wanted him there. They revoked his passport en route and the whole world knows this old story by now.
I am happy that Manning or what is left of her, will be getting out soon, but dismayed that Obama is still trying to paint Snowden in this way. He should pardon him as well. America will need more brave whistleblowers like him when Trump comes to power.
I for one, am relieved that Manning is getting out. Today the White House said that the same “deal” was not in the cards for Snowden because he fled to an enemy country rather than facing trial for espionage. Do they really believe that in 2016, they can spin the story in this way? Snowden is in Russia because the U.S. wanted him there. They revoked his passport en route and the whole world knows this old story by now.
I am happy that Manning or what is left of her, will be getting out soon, but dismayed that Obama is still trying to paint Snowden in this way. He should pardon him as well. America will need more brave whistleblowers like him when Trump comes to power.
64
Maybe Trump can convince Putin to turn Snowden over to us and we can them try him.
1
We can send them all to Canada................
Tell that to the families of military members that died, because this traitor decided to leak classified government secrets to our enemies. He/She deserves to be put to death via firing squad, as does ANY American traitor.
1
This action will leave an indelible stain on President Obama's legacy. Bradley Manning, a Sergeant in the Army, was having psychological problems and, instead of seeking treatment, decided to become a traitor by stealing military documents. He was tried, convicted and sent to a military prison. Bradley then declared he wanted to transition to a woman and expected the taxpayers to pay for it. Somehow, he believes this elective treatment and subsequent surgery should be on us while veterans with severe PSTD and other injuries, who served honorably, have to wait for months for treatment. Some die while waiting.
The NYT has been pandering to the Democratic Party "identity politics' groups for over a year and somehow lets this story overshadow the vets. Private Manning's story is all about "civil rights" and the "transgender movement" when the real story is about a convicted traitor. There are other soldiers serving sentences for lesser crimes who don't get the attention of the President or the NYT. Now that is something worth writing about, but this is not within Mr. Bosquet's focus. I assume he is saving Hillary's pardon for Friday morning. Shame on you.
The NYT has been pandering to the Democratic Party "identity politics' groups for over a year and somehow lets this story overshadow the vets. Private Manning's story is all about "civil rights" and the "transgender movement" when the real story is about a convicted traitor. There are other soldiers serving sentences for lesser crimes who don't get the attention of the President or the NYT. Now that is something worth writing about, but this is not within Mr. Bosquet's focus. I assume he is saving Hillary's pardon for Friday morning. Shame on you.
9
America has become the new gulag archipelago and hundreds of thousands need to be released from the slavery of privatized prisons.
1
Those who express distaste for Obama's pardon of Chelsea Manning forget that mercy is shown, after all, to those who have committed wrong, have suffered or going to suffer long sentence; and, in the end, are remorseful of what they did.
President Obama has given clemency to those who deserve it. Chelsea Manning's transgender status or her mental issues are secondary.
Secondly, in the larger canvas of history, the whistle-blowers and their actions will be judged in the greater interest of the humanity.
Wikileaks or the hacksters are vilified today for interfering with the American election; but, seen from the other angle, they dumped tons of helpful information that revealed the inner workings of the Democratic National Party, how Bernie Sanders was treated and so on.
Similarly, Snowden's actions may be considered unpatriotic or in violation of the law; however, his revelation was also helpful in educating or alerting the great mass of people and their representatives who were expected to take corrective measures.
In the end, the truth is sacrosanct. However uncomfortable or dangerous, people have a fundamental right to know the truth. Only after confronting the truth, one can come to a conclusion.
I'm sure, while granting pardon, president Obama or his advisers must have seen through the truth.
In fact, in an over-incarcerated America, more of such cases should regularly be given a chance to bring about a turn in their life.
They must not wait for a presidential pardon.
President Obama has given clemency to those who deserve it. Chelsea Manning's transgender status or her mental issues are secondary.
Secondly, in the larger canvas of history, the whistle-blowers and their actions will be judged in the greater interest of the humanity.
Wikileaks or the hacksters are vilified today for interfering with the American election; but, seen from the other angle, they dumped tons of helpful information that revealed the inner workings of the Democratic National Party, how Bernie Sanders was treated and so on.
Similarly, Snowden's actions may be considered unpatriotic or in violation of the law; however, his revelation was also helpful in educating or alerting the great mass of people and their representatives who were expected to take corrective measures.
In the end, the truth is sacrosanct. However uncomfortable or dangerous, people have a fundamental right to know the truth. Only after confronting the truth, one can come to a conclusion.
I'm sure, while granting pardon, president Obama or his advisers must have seen through the truth.
In fact, in an over-incarcerated America, more of such cases should regularly be given a chance to bring about a turn in their life.
They must not wait for a presidential pardon.
3
How could a PFC be responsible for anything in the US Army?
Who were the managers? Where are the managers?
This happened due to lax security, just like the Snowden leak.
No one puts entry level employees in the position to collect 100s and
1000s of sensitive documents.
Who were the managers? Where are the managers?
This happened due to lax security, just like the Snowden leak.
No one puts entry level employees in the position to collect 100s and
1000s of sensitive documents.
4
Managers? Obviously you little about the military or access to classified material.
1
You don't have to be too crazy to consider the facts here.
We had a very lowly (in rank and experience) kid sitting on this vast trove of classified information and it turns out that there are a few personal problems.
If we're going to get serious about classified information, without regard to its validity, we've got to have better procedures and management. And no, we should not assume the watchers are watching or just as bad.
Manning was a scapegoat for the ineffective. By the way, just being colorful does justify top secret. The wedding feast with the sheets eye was delicious.
We had a very lowly (in rank and experience) kid sitting on this vast trove of classified information and it turns out that there are a few personal problems.
If we're going to get serious about classified information, without regard to its validity, we've got to have better procedures and management. And no, we should not assume the watchers are watching or just as bad.
Manning was a scapegoat for the ineffective. By the way, just being colorful does justify top secret. The wedding feast with the sheets eye was delicious.
Pure and simply, without pundit review, this absolutely was the right decision.
The real news here (missed by the TImes but The Guardian) is that Julian Assange has said that he would agree to extradition if the Manning was released.
1
Disgrace. A traitor gets a pardon. Bergdahl next. Stay tuned.
7
The Republicans will criticize President Obama, no matter what. Dammed if you do, dammed if you don't... The Republicans mantra.
4
Enough already...Please leave with dignity, grace and class!
2
Mr Earnest at the White House needs to get his facts straight.
He claimed “Mr. Snowden fled into the arms of an adversary and has sought refuge in a country that most recently made a concerted effort to undermine confidence in our democracy.”
Wrong, Mr Earnest. Mr Snowden did not flee "into the arms of an adversary". The US government forced Mr Snowden to remain in Russia or come back and be prosecuted. Mr Snowden was on his way to South America when the US cancelled his passport and made it impossible for him to leave Russia.
He claimed “Mr. Snowden fled into the arms of an adversary and has sought refuge in a country that most recently made a concerted effort to undermine confidence in our democracy.”
Wrong, Mr Earnest. Mr Snowden did not flee "into the arms of an adversary". The US government forced Mr Snowden to remain in Russia or come back and be prosecuted. Mr Snowden was on his way to South America when the US cancelled his passport and made it impossible for him to leave Russia.
7
Aardvark
You mean like Cuba was forced into the arms of the Soviet Union by America (or, rather, corporate America)? I haven't seen your kind willing to be in any way forgiving in that case.
You mean like Cuba was forced into the arms of the Soviet Union by America (or, rather, corporate America)? I haven't seen your kind willing to be in any way forgiving in that case.
"The US government forced Mr Snowden to remain in Russia or come back and be prosecuted."
That is pretty accurately described as fleeing.
That is pretty accurately described as fleeing.
2
No, he was on his way to somewhere else and was on a layover in Russia when the US revoked his passport, making it impossible for him to leave. He didn't "flee into the arms of the enemy", he was forced to stay there. And if he wishes to continue on there, I wish him a happy life there.
1
NYT is a sad example of a news narrative. Once a beacon of truth is merely a puppet of a bank. Manning saw an injustice and risked everything to keep her integrity as a human being. That is never wrong. She was unduly punished.
Now, let's bring the focus to true injustice: https://youtu.be/_PuIT804kYk
Now, let's bring the focus to true injustice: https://youtu.be/_PuIT804kYk
4
Scooter Libby's 2.5 year sentence was commuted by then-President GWB and was reinstated to the DC bar two months ago. Less than three years.
Chelsea Manning was sentenced to 35. President Obama's actions were absolutely warranted, if not overdue. The only thing "outrageous" was the 35-year sentence in the first place. Paul Ryan needs to get his priorities in check.
And what can we say has been done with the information learned? Could it be that the sentence levied was intended to avoid confronting the truths shared? I worry we have lost our humanity and traded politics for good government years ago.
Chelsea Manning was sentenced to 35. President Obama's actions were absolutely warranted, if not overdue. The only thing "outrageous" was the 35-year sentence in the first place. Paul Ryan needs to get his priorities in check.
And what can we say has been done with the information learned? Could it be that the sentence levied was intended to avoid confronting the truths shared? I worry we have lost our humanity and traded politics for good government years ago.
6
It's a commutation of the sentence. Manning hasn't been pardoned.
6
A distinction without a difference. Guy should have been shot.
1
This is so wrong in so many respect. The gist here is "espionage" as indicated by his Excellency, Sen John McCain. In allowing Manning's sentence to be commuted only seeks justification for more reckless and delinquent intel analyst who will stop at nothing to destroy America. I do hope Trump will eventually tighten this loophole and expunge all delinquents.
7
It is important to note that despite any nationalistic, or patriotic codes, each person must ultimately live by a conscious unique to his own being; for there is no authority in the Universe higher than truth!
"Wherever the people are well informed, they can be trusted with their own government." -Thomas Jefferson (1789)
"We the people" are the government! But politicians find it convenient to forget this to our peril; for democracy is of ideology but of science.
"Wherever the people are well informed, they can be trusted with their own government." -Thomas Jefferson (1789)
"We the people" are the government! But politicians find it convenient to forget this to our peril; for democracy is of ideology but of science.
1
Can Trump cancel this commutation?
33
Trump can cancel it by acknowledging Wikileaks is not a trusted friend, conveyor of true and accurate information, and not a friend of the US Government. Does this mean that Trump acknowledges everything he has said about wikileaks to peroetuate falsehood and lies in the campaign was in fact wrong, that he was elected on the basis of his lying, delivered at the hands of the Russians? Probably! Mr. Trump connects nothing of what he said yesterday, and the convenience of lies, with the what he says today, and the convenience of lies.
1
No. Executive clemency can't be reversed. Trump could go even farther, so he could for example convert the clemency into an actual full pardon, but he could not back it out.
1
No.
Manning was given an "exemplary" sentence about ten times higher than previous cases. There is something vindictive and unfair in this kind of sentencing because it makes the individual pay for the cumulative errors of others. Moreover, seven years in prison is double the average meted out to other individuals and it should be enough of a punishment. The old title for the Ministry of Justice in Italy was
Ministry of Grace (grazia=pardon) and Justice. Significantly, pardon comes before justice.
Ministry of Grace (grazia=pardon) and Justice. Significantly, pardon comes before justice.
7
simply, i think the "presidential pardon" should be discarded. if you believe in the justice system, then believe in the justice system. allowing 1 individual the power to overturn system judgements strikes me as an abuse of checks and balances and only ends in slippery slopes.
47
Well said. It is precisely why there are courts of appeal and a supreme court, to check legislative and executive over-reaching.
Or, as is the practice for some, just don't arrest them in the first place.
The reason for it is an acknowledgement that our justice system is not perfect. And of course, it isn't perfect, hard to conceive of a perfect system. So presidential and governmental pardons are in place in order to fix occasional glitches in the system.
Obama "rescued" Manning, NYT? He pronounced her guilty in the media before her trial started, he allowed her to be arrested and abused, and was happy justice was served when she was convicted. Now, he has tried to salvage his precious legacy and you reward him by saying he rescued her? Unbelievable.
23
Trump's people should be thanking Obama for interrupting the continuous bad news about their efforts to establish a kleptocratic unscientific idiocracy.
Certainly a bold move, and in my personal opinion, the right one. I'm guessing Obama is sick and tired of eight years of provocation!
Certainly a bold move, and in my personal opinion, the right one. I'm guessing Obama is sick and tired of eight years of provocation!
34
Susan---Understood what you meant...but...Could not resist checking to see if Kleptocratic was listed in a dictionary. Found it. The root word is kleptocracy. According to Merriam Webster Online Dictionary is "government by those who seek chiefly status and personal gain at the expense of the governed".
Admire you sentence...Will probably use it in the future and in spite of my advanced age will attempt to remember to give you credit for it.
Admire you sentence...Will probably use it in the future and in spite of my advanced age will attempt to remember to give you credit for it.
Seven years is plenty. Now, Trump, release your tax returns so we don't have to ask Chelsea for them....
65
1. The bigger crime is a govt carrying out atrocities unchecked. Bravo to brave men and women who risk everything to right these wrongs.
2. Obama needs to slither quietly into the night
3. Move on to reestablishing our sovereignty as a nation, re asserting our constitution as the rule of law upheld by ALL officers of the court regardless of political beliefs and not duly influenced by monetary gain
4. Establish commerce relations with all foreign governments, alliance with none.
2. Obama needs to slither quietly into the night
3. Move on to reestablishing our sovereignty as a nation, re asserting our constitution as the rule of law upheld by ALL officers of the court regardless of political beliefs and not duly influenced by monetary gain
4. Establish commerce relations with all foreign governments, alliance with none.
2
Wish you liberals would see Trump is the only thing standing between the masses and the Koch Brothers destroying the system.
1
The video of the Apache attack helicopter killing innocent civilians and American journalists made us look really bad. The American public needs to think we are the good guys. Manning put a big black eye on our military.
16
No, the military put a black eye on itself and Manning shone a light on it. The public doesn't need to believe lies, they need the truth.
5
The helicopter gunners who pulled the trigger on the journalists DESPITE THE FACT that they had no weapons made the army "look bad". The generals who order a wedding party bombed in order to kill one 'high value' target make the military look bad. The Let's give credit where it is due. Is your contention there is no crime if it goes unreported?
4
Didn't the military give itself a black eye?
2
Anyone familiar with the responsibilities of supervision military or not knows that when an employee or subordinate exhibits lack of self control and exhibits irrational behavior that steps must be taken to remove that person from the workplace environment. That is except for Bradley Manning's superior officers who provided him with Top Secret clearance and little supervision but made sure to remove the firing pin from his rifle...just in case.
18
That applies to the incoming Commander-in-chief?
So this is what today's liberals (as opposed to those with honor like Scoop Jackson, Pat Moynihan, George McGovern, Dan Inouye, and Bill Proxmire) have come to: rewarding a traitor with time served and paying for his sex-change operation, which is the ultimate in elective surgery under most plans and wouldn't have been possible a generation ago. Now watch the Democratic leadership in Washington poo-poo the reaction from patriots or equivocate. Obama has been making a mockery of the pardoning option for presidents. It is a national disgrace. And yet today's liberals still cant' figure out why there has been such a tremendous backlash against this lame commander-in-chief. I'm glad my father, a combat veteran of three wars, didn't live long enough to experience this slap in the face.
41
The republicans rewarded Trump, the sexual assaulter, fraud, draft dodger, and Putin stooge with the presidency instead of jail time. Now that's what I call a mockery and disgrace, and a slap in the face to real patriots.
7
He exposed war criminals in our ranks. This will always be a good thing.
3
Ah, "patriotism." As ever, it remains the last refuge of the scoundrel. Manning alerted the public to war crimes being committed by the US military, a fact conveniently ignored by her detractors. The anti-"liberal" hates government but the government-run military can do no wrong. It seems that integrity is less important to these than ideology.
3
We stand for freedom and we stand for right of every human. We are the THE UNITED STATES of AMERICA. We want to do good for all.
If he exposed the darkside of us, it is We who needs to be punished not him.
My faith in the system is ever more strong.
May God Bless United States of America
If he exposed the darkside of us, it is We who needs to be punished not him.
My faith in the system is ever more strong.
May God Bless United States of America
12
It's very good news that Obama chose to support Chelsea Manning's commutation, but it's very disappointing that he refuses to pardon Edward Snowden. In comparison with Trump, Obama has been a great president, but by my expectations, he has been fair to good, but not great. Over and over again, he stops short of fully championing the causes that matter most. If he had, Gitmo would certainly be closed by now, and Edward Snowden never would have had to hide in Russia to begin with.
12
Edward Snowden is not in prison so he cannot be pardoned. A pardon is not for the crime, but for the punishment of the crime.
Compassion wins. No one should undergo the extreme solitary confinement Chelsea Manning endured.
21
Good Gawd, why are we commuting a sentence for someone who ratted out military and diplomatic secret... oh right, he/she is transgendered, so they get a pass? Stupid and outrageous!
51
What I find interesting about those who disagree with this COMMUTED sentence is that many are trump supporters who argued (in regard to Clinton emails and Snowden leaks) that (1)Russia has nothing to do with Wikileaks, (2)Snowden is a hero for exposing "Obama's criminal administration" or other such vague drivel, and (3) That Snowden (who exposed spies, diplomats and cooperating witnesses, and who Destroyed trust by our allies) should be pardoned! This is in contrast to Manning's case, where so many say that by turning documents over to Wikileaks she aided our enemy who opposed our actions in Afghanistan and Iraq. So Russia is our enemy when the "traitor" is transgendered, Wikileaks cannot be trusted when the information came from a transgendered person, leaked classified government documents and emails are GOOD unless they come from a transgendered person!
This confirms what has been clear since Trump garnered a fan base: they are illogical, have no particular value of loyalty to their country, believe the ends justify the means so long as their party is aided, are inconsistent hypocrites (will abandon even their religious values), and are FLAMING DISGUSTING BIGOTS.
This case, and the contrast in rhetoric surrounding it by Republicans - particularly Trump supporters- is more than illuminating. It exposes what horrible citizens they are.
This confirms what has been clear since Trump garnered a fan base: they are illogical, have no particular value of loyalty to their country, believe the ends justify the means so long as their party is aided, are inconsistent hypocrites (will abandon even their religious values), and are FLAMING DISGUSTING BIGOTS.
This case, and the contrast in rhetoric surrounding it by Republicans - particularly Trump supporters- is more than illuminating. It exposes what horrible citizens they are.
1
There is no "military secret" for war crimes. The perpetrators should be exposed and prosecuted, which we're still waiting for if I'm not mistaken.
Some innocents have been exposed, it's true, but as far as we know none were hurt.
Some innocents have been exposed, it's true, but as far as we know none were hurt.
1
Or, alternatively "...oh Right, because he is Julian Assange, so he gets a pass? How can the Republicans and their willfilly ignortant voters be so stupid and outrageous!".
Much better. And it demonstrates a higher order of integrity, particularly compared to the great Fudd.
Much better. And it demonstrates a higher order of integrity, particularly compared to the great Fudd.
I am not sure who is more scary, a young person who thinks he is gay, and joins the military, they decides he has a gender issue; or a military that grants such an unsettled person a security clearance. Still Manning isn't stupid and she gave intelligence to what amount to well meaning dupes of a foreign power. Whoever approved manning for a security related job should be fired.
24
It's the right thing. It's not a pardon - which would effectively be an exoneration of guilt - there is a huge difference here. It will be controversial to be sure. But focus, not extrapolate, the circumstances. Manning broke the law, faced the music, was tried, was sentenced, albeit a harsh one under the arguably arcane Espionage Act Law (need rewriting), served time under undue circumstances. All of this weighs in as it should. The implications of Wikileaks as a legitimate NEWS source as opposed to either a LEAK or TRUSTWORTHY source, notwithstanding, the FACT remains that in this INDIVIDUAL CASE (upon which our Justice system should rely, mitigating circumstances and all) Manning has faced music courageously enough (can Assange or Snowden lay claim similarly? No they can't under either their respective charges), has served a HUGE amount of time under arduous, often discriminatory circumstances. One of the bedrocks of criminal justice system in these USA is whether the Punishment Meets The Crime. In this case it has - Manning has been tried, convicted, and served time. Manning is NOT a violent criminal. Manning deserves her (once his) commutation.
14
I'm astonished. Usually pardons are used to restore justice when the system fails. It is for innocent people who are falsely accused and convicted of crimes they did not commit for instance.
If nothing else Manning deserves what she gets for stealing state secrets and helping to create that narassitic monster Julian Assange who hides behind diplomatic immunity in London. In my opinion Chelsea Manning is not worthy of a pardon. I'm sorry Obama didn't go out in a blaze of glory instead of the shame associated with Manning.
If nothing else Manning deserves what she gets for stealing state secrets and helping to create that narassitic monster Julian Assange who hides behind diplomatic immunity in London. In my opinion Chelsea Manning is not worthy of a pardon. I'm sorry Obama didn't go out in a blaze of glory instead of the shame associated with Manning.
40
A commutation is not a parfon.
2
"Usually pardons are used to restore justice when the system fails. It is for innocent people who are falsely accused and convicted of crimes they did not commit for instance."
Like Nixon......?
Like Nixon......?
Pardoning Nixon was a disgrace. So is this.
1
Sorry. I have no sympathy for Manning -- Male. Female. Or, whatever.
And while I find solitary confinement to be dehumanizng and inhumane -- I have no compassion otherwise for someone that I construe to be a traitor.
In granting this Pardon, President Obama has proven to be a better man than I am.
One can only hope Manning lives up to it.
And while I find solitary confinement to be dehumanizng and inhumane -- I have no compassion otherwise for someone that I construe to be a traitor.
In granting this Pardon, President Obama has proven to be a better man than I am.
One can only hope Manning lives up to it.
20
I wonder if those Afghani's who were killed as a result of his actions think he is a civil rights hero or deserves to have his sentence commuted? The fact remains that he still has months to go in a military prison where although convicted felons, the inmates once served in the military. And felons or not, there is a code among prisoners, much like what happens to pedophiles in civilian prisons. Mr. Manning will be lucky to get out unscathed.
20
Is that a threatening suggestion to the inmates?
1
There is no justice in this commutation. Manning was fully aware that her actions would put the lives of Americans at risk, and they did. But she decided at the time that it was more important to make a point about her own beliefs. She decided she didn't like what was going on, and so she was going to betray the secrets of the United States. Now contrast that with the so called commutations handed out by Obama on other cases. You got a life sentence for dealing cocaine? Well, instead you should just serve thirty years. Twenty years. The list of commutations is long and most of the commutations leave prisoners doing significant portions of their lives in prison for dealing drugs. And Manning, who took and oath to defend this country, betrayed it for personal reasons and she gets to go home. I like you Obama, but you got this one wrong and let a guilty person walk. And just wait, by the way, because Chelsea Manning is heading to TV. You can bet on that. We can thank you Barack, when Manning is sitting next to Rosie ODonnell and crying about how she was treated
52
Why won't he pardon Sgt Bergdahl?
4
I still hope he will.
7
Ms. Manning leaked information to Wikileaks - the same Wikileaks that interfered in the American election on behalf of Russia and whose founder is sitting in the Ecuadorian embassy because he is accused of rape. What is the point of commuting her sentence? Unless, of course, it is to force Assange to turn himself in, in which case I'd like to see him put away forever. But it is funny to see the deplorables in the comment section getting hot and bothered about Manning's gender. What difference does it make? Treason is treason, whether you a man or a woman.
6
Well, apparently it DOES matter...to HIM. He's the one who blamed his treasonous acts on his mental problem: gender dysphoria.
1
If President Obama can order the killing of an American citizen without a trial, surely he can pardon Snowden without a trial.
12
This is not going to go over well in red state America.
15
Or with the military community ..
2
I guess since Trump and Kellyanne, as well as Julian Asauge, have informed us that Wikileaks only leaks information that is true and accurate, and we have also learned that all Wikileaks sources are credible, there really is no reason anyone who leaked to Wikileaks should be in prison. If the incoming administration is consistent with the proclamations of the past seven months, nobody who leaks to wikileaks should ever be called into question.
5
Real American Presidents get upset about disclosure of American government secrets. So, we have an Espionage Act.
But shifty urban political hacks preaching radical progressivism get upset about disclosures of their party's presidential candidate running a bribery and access program on two-bit computer systems.
So an Obama will always be ready to pardon a Manning but will insult his Secretary of State by ordering him to plead with Ecuador to deny Assange computer access. First things first, folks!
But shifty urban political hacks preaching radical progressivism get upset about disclosures of their party's presidential candidate running a bribery and access program on two-bit computer systems.
So an Obama will always be ready to pardon a Manning but will insult his Secretary of State by ordering him to plead with Ecuador to deny Assange computer access. First things first, folks!
15
When you take a job that involves state secrets, they are pretty clear about the consequences of violating that secrecy.
You don't want the responsibility, don't take the job.
The harsh laws against treason and sedition have been around since the American Revolution. There's no excuse.
You don't want the responsibility, don't take the job.
The harsh laws against treason and sedition have been around since the American Revolution. There's no excuse.
28
Manning was neither convicted of treason nor sedition. Facts are a stubborn thing, but you can get used to them if you try.
1
I've got no issue with Manning's sentence being commuted. My concern is with Manning constantly being referred as "her". As I understand it, Manning is still packing equipment, which makes her a his.
15
,o historical precedent.” There have been only a handful of leak cases, and most sentence are one to three years.
2
I believe standard journalistic practice is to refer to subjects according to the gender with which they identify, regardless of biology. Not all transgendered people have had gender reassignment surgery; that doesn't mean they're not transgendered.
@ Jon
That's because the NYT is so uber PC, they bend over backwards to refer to anyone by what they believe they should be called. I've decided I'm meant to be a unicorn; my horn is on order.
That's because the NYT is so uber PC, they bend over backwards to refer to anyone by what they believe they should be called. I've decided I'm meant to be a unicorn; my horn is on order.
1
Obama is working hard on giving the Republicans control of Congress and potentially Trump the Presidency for 2016. As the aliens said in Hitchhiker's Guide to the Guide to the Galaxy, Goodbye and thanks for the for all the fish!
5
I made a comment half an hour ago, that does not seem to be posted.
I was concerned that this article did not mention that Julian Assange had made offer that probably triggered this event. Are we getting the whole story?
I was concerned that this article did not mention that Julian Assange had made offer that probably triggered this event. Are we getting the whole story?
7
Ms. Manning's sentence was overly harsh, strikingly so. She admitted her fault and has served a sufficient period of incarceration. President Obama has shown he understands the scales of justice and I for one applaud him. What a great Supreme Court justice he'd be.
14
The blame for all of this lies at the doorstep of the Department of Defense. The DOD should have conducted regular psychological evaluations on personnel working around sensative resources in a combat zone. Lots of people blame Manning for treason but very few people have experienced unbelievable stress and anxiety in a combat zone, and don't know another person's breaking point. This would also explain why there are so many suicides in the military. Had the DOD done its job they could've removed Manning from her position before the document leak happened.
12
Hard to think of what to say... this is one EXTREMELY mixed up individual who seems bent on self-destruction - just hope no innocent people suffer.
6
Why didn't the article mention that Pvt. Manning was eligable for parole in a year? No, she probably wouldn't have gotten parole on her first application, but she could have gone through the system like everyone else and gotten out much earlier than her 35 year sentence. President Obama's legacy displays a disturbing disreguard the military justice system. This was a mistake.
19
"A disturbing disregard....". I personally do not see any disregard, only due diligence given the fact that the private disclosed sensitive information without permission.
4
Now it is time to move on to the lowest of the low--Dylan Roof. Commuting his sentence to life in prison would be the single greatest formal act of pure mercy the US has ever seen. I am biased in that I see the death penalty as a relic of times gone by. That does not change the fact that mercy has nothing to do with guilt, process, economics, or revenge. The justifications for mercy are complex, but the ability to demonstrate mercy lies with the most meek, and in this case the most powerful, among us.
4
Brilliant chess move from the President. Julian Assange said that he would surrender to United States authorities if Manning was released.
It now appears as if Assange might indeed turn himself in. If he does, President Obama will have bagged two big fish: Bin Laden and Assange.
Next move is Trump's.
It now appears as if Assange might indeed turn himself in. If he does, President Obama will have bagged two big fish: Bin Laden and Assange.
Next move is Trump's.
13
A measure of Obama's extraordinary courage is that media is yet to report a single Democrat leader hailing his clemency for Chelsea Manning. It took a whole lot to do this amid the intensely anti-Wikileaks/anti-Russian hostility linked to Hillary Clinton's defeat. Its a masterful stroke as well, it will disarm quite a few critics who saw Obama as being far too accommodating of his centrist/celebritist supporters.
5
Manning and Snowden are stark reminders of how vulnerable countries have become in the Information Age. Even top secret is no longer really top secret, because people and nations are constantly finding new ways to get around cyber security, and once confidential information somehow finds its ways into the hands of organizations like WikiLeaks and onto the Internet, all confidentiality becomes null. Put in Erving Goffman's terms, everything back stage can suddenly become front stage; private matters can suddenly become public through the click of a button.
Today, information is power. Whoever owns access to information holds authority and power over other people. Whistleblowers like Manning and Snowden do pose a great threat to the American government, since classified information can give other countries a strategic and political advantage. At the same time, whistleblowers are important to show the injustices of the government that would otherwise be left unseen. So what can be done to ensure both the safety of the government and the privacy and safety of the people, when the Internet seems to have made them at odds with each other? The Information Age debate continues...
Today, information is power. Whoever owns access to information holds authority and power over other people. Whistleblowers like Manning and Snowden do pose a great threat to the American government, since classified information can give other countries a strategic and political advantage. At the same time, whistleblowers are important to show the injustices of the government that would otherwise be left unseen. So what can be done to ensure both the safety of the government and the privacy and safety of the people, when the Internet seems to have made them at odds with each other? The Information Age debate continues...
3
Ok, Julian! You said you'd turn yourself in...ball is in your court.
6
When did he say that? As I recall, he only said he would turn himself in to Swedish authorities IF they promised not to extradite him to America, which they did not do. Not that I'm an Assange fan anymore. Instead of dumping the stories Assange had, he deliberately slowly trickled them out in a way to hurt Clinton. He may have created Wikileaks, but he just destroyed it from being a neutral watchdog.
2
Assange would be crazy to turn himself in on a bogus sexual misconduct charge issued as a pretext for our national security crazies to extradite and railroad him. I can't believe I'm saying that about the United States of America, which used to be the good guys.
1
This pardon is a disgrace and a slap in the face. It's Obama slamming the door behind him. Its underlines how very far off course this president is. It also rather well exemplifies the way this whole country has been steered off course to see that people are now socially obligated to refer to Manning by the female pronoun. Up is down, back is forth - good job Mr. Obama.
26
Wait wait wait, don't tell me, and left is right and right is left? Oh, this must be so confusing for you now. I just can't imagine
7
Putin's hacking of Hillary and DNC emails hyped as a national existential crisis. Sgt. Manning reveals and gives away thousands of classified military documents, perhaps endangering American and allied personnel, and it's downplayed as a ho hum. Thank goodness the community organizer is returning to the community.
17
When did a seven years in jail become ho-hum?
9
7 years in jail, 11 months in solitary suffering what the UN deemed to be torture. Yeah. Ho Hum.
2
Bradley Manning is a traitor and people are dead because of his actions. His status as a transsexual has nothing to do with his treacherous behavior.
18
While Manning's behavior was abysmal there is no evidence that anyone died as a result. Facts please.
14
Bradley Manning was never found guilty of being a traitor, nor was he convicted of treason. Ergo, neither is Chelsea Manning a traitor. Those terms are very carefully defined in the Constitution of the United States.
10
There have been actually no deaths attributed to the Leaks...
You can find that out in the courts transcripts
You can find that out in the courts transcripts
11
Now that Manning's been given clemency, Assange should be turning himself in as promised. Hopefully, if he does, he's got some tax returns with him.
7
American soldiers have faced the firing squad for doing less to harm the country than Manning. Eddie Slovik comes to mind.
Thank God we aren't the barbarians we used to be. Manning is mentally ill and needs treatment that a military prison can't provide. Whether she gets it beyond the iron bars is now up to her.
Thank God we aren't the barbarians we used to be. Manning is mentally ill and needs treatment that a military prison can't provide. Whether she gets it beyond the iron bars is now up to her.
6
Reminder: You and I can't pardon people, only presidents can do that.
America strives on honesty and verity, and, while I am old enough to remember the Watergate episode which forced Nixon out of power (an extraordinary and exemplary display of how democracy actually works), at the end of any Administration, we struggle to understand why some did, and some did not, receive a presidential pardon.
Knowing that the next (democratically elected) administration is about to take over, it is important for a departing Chief Executive to right possible wrongs before their way out, and it is enlightening that they can do that..
Bravo on the last minute Guantanamo moves, kudos on converting small offenders' unreasonable sentences, but please consider another whistle blower: Snowden, who - just as Deep Throat did 50 years ago - helped us make a better America for disclosing what is probably still considered as injustice.
If President Obama is consistent with his decision to pardon Chelsea Manning, I believe he should take another look at pardoning Edward Snowden.
America strives on honesty and verity, and, while I am old enough to remember the Watergate episode which forced Nixon out of power (an extraordinary and exemplary display of how democracy actually works), at the end of any Administration, we struggle to understand why some did, and some did not, receive a presidential pardon.
Knowing that the next (democratically elected) administration is about to take over, it is important for a departing Chief Executive to right possible wrongs before their way out, and it is enlightening that they can do that..
Bravo on the last minute Guantanamo moves, kudos on converting small offenders' unreasonable sentences, but please consider another whistle blower: Snowden, who - just as Deep Throat did 50 years ago - helped us make a better America for disclosing what is probably still considered as injustice.
If President Obama is consistent with his decision to pardon Chelsea Manning, I believe he should take another look at pardoning Edward Snowden.
6
Injustice? Try crime.
6
Let ms Manning be. The military had to be insane to let her in and keep her.
Let her be a hero in California and let the kind and gentile folk there pay the cost of her surgery. Not to worry,her go fund me page will soar.
Let her be a hero in California and let the kind and gentile folk there pay the cost of her surgery. Not to worry,her go fund me page will soar.
5
Heck, Why doesn't the President just give Hillary, Snowden and Manning the Medal of Honor. They are so deserving as the President himself. China and Russia have won without firing a shot. It is so rewarding to be a traitor to this country. They can all get movie contracts and even become president? How much lower can this country go? We can't be far from the bottom now!
11
The helicopter gunships blasting groups of indigenous Iraqis, living in their own country, was pretty low too, don't you think?
11
Pvt. Manning betrayed her oath, betrayed the soldiers she was there to support and she put lives at risk. Documents that she released contained information identifying people who fought against terrorists and insurgents in secret -- not for the U.S., but for their own countries. Some were found later without their heads. All for what? Nothing Pvt. Manning released showed evidence of a crime by U.S. forces. She didn't affect policy and she didn't right any wrongs. She just did it for her own ego.
Pvt. Manning was young. She was going through a tough time. Fine. So was I, when I deployed. A lot of soldiers I knew were, including one with gender dysphoria. Somehow, we all managed to get through it without betraying our country. She was a soldier, not a civilian. She doesn't get to put her own issues before her duty.
The army should have been better at handling her gender dysphoria but that's a reason to change army policy not commute her sentence.
Pvt. Manning was young. She was going through a tough time. Fine. So was I, when I deployed. A lot of soldiers I knew were, including one with gender dysphoria. Somehow, we all managed to get through it without betraying our country. She was a soldier, not a civilian. She doesn't get to put her own issues before her duty.
The army should have been better at handling her gender dysphoria but that's a reason to change army policy not commute her sentence.
22
I support President Obama but this was not a good decision. Were her intentions good? Probably. Was the way they were shared dangerous? Definitely. She took enormous quantities of classified information--quantities far too large to have been reviewed--and turned them over to a third party who had vague ambitions. We have since seen how Mr. Assange has revealed himself to be a danger to anything (e.g. democracy, the country, etc) that he deems irrelevant to his expansive goal of wreaking general havoc. What's to stop someone else from dumping an ocean full of information out to the world for any other outfit to use to their liking? Maybe there are blueprints to secure facilities, maybe there are schedules that would help someone plan a hit...maybe maybe maybe. We don't know. Neither did she. She took a huge gamble with national security. Most likely for good reason (i.e. shed light on illegal and otherwise horrendous practices), but the reality would still seem to be we simply do not know if or how much damage this information can/will cause in the wrong hands. Too much faith in the virtuousness of virtual actors and communities is among the most dangerous things we face at this time.
11
I have been struck by the number of readers commenting here who seem to be under the impression that Chelsea Manning was convicted of treason. She was not. She was convicted under the Espionage Act of 1917 -- a particularly heinous law designed to quash dissent over American involvement in WWI. The law effectively strips any possible defense from anyone charged under it.
As for treason, that crime is defined for all purposes under U.S. law by Article III, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution, which states, in pertinent part:
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
Whatever crimes Chelsea Manning may be guilty of, treason isn't one of them.
As for treason, that crime is defined for all purposes under U.S. law by Article III, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution, which states, in pertinent part:
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
Whatever crimes Chelsea Manning may be guilty of, treason isn't one of them.
22
Bradley Manning plead down to this charge, to save his skin. If he'd have gone to trail, he'd have been convicted of treason. He deserves no leiniency.
19
Bottom line: he was not convicted of the crime of Treason.
7
Manning was offered a plea deal, which he declined. The "deal" (if one can call it that) called for a longer sentence than the 35 years he actually received.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/21/bradley-manning-plea-deal_n_379...
So, no, he didn't "plea down" to anything.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/21/bradley-manning-plea-deal_n_379...
So, no, he didn't "plea down" to anything.
6
And of course, leave it to the Republicans to pretend that seven years in a military prison is a slap on the wrist, or pretend that Manning was "pardoned" instead of a sentence commuted, and pretend that they weren't offering Julian Assange a medal when he interfered with the last election.
15
I'm not a Republican. Not a Democrat either. I'm leftist though.
I still think Manning, Assange, and Snowden should be locked up in the basement of some CIA facility forever. I consider myself a true nationalist and patriot and don't countenance those who work against us.
I still think Manning, Assange, and Snowden should be locked up in the basement of some CIA facility forever. I consider myself a true nationalist and patriot and don't countenance those who work against us.
2
She broke the law and put lives at risk. Stick with the basics and do not get lost in the weeds.
11
Julian Assange is declaring victory. What a way to end his presidency!
2
The only harm Manning did was to the self-image of the war criminals and hypocrites she exposed. She should have been honored, not prosecuted. This action was long overdue, but thank you anyway, President Obama.
7
In general it's rather disturbing that nearly all those crimes are related to violations of the Controlled Substances Act.
I'd rather see, that all capital punishments in the U.S. would have been converted to life sentences.
This would have been a true milestone! A presidential message guiding us away from a medieval-like interpretation of vengeance and retaliation towards a modern and civilized dispensation of justice in the 21st century.
I'd rather see, that all capital punishments in the U.S. would have been converted to life sentences.
This would have been a true milestone! A presidential message guiding us away from a medieval-like interpretation of vengeance and retaliation towards a modern and civilized dispensation of justice in the 21st century.
4
Now, who are the one's being hypocritical?
If Trump pardoned Manning his first day in office, Democrats would freak out. But that Obama did it, it's a great idea. This is similar to Republicans that are suddenly in agreement with Trump playing nice with Putin.
Caveat: I think Obama is great, and Trump is terrible.
If Trump pardoned Manning his first day in office, Democrats would freak out. But that Obama did it, it's a great idea. This is similar to Republicans that are suddenly in agreement with Trump playing nice with Putin.
Caveat: I think Obama is great, and Trump is terrible.
6
Pardon Robert Bales. He did three tours in Iraq -- a war we should never have fought -- where he received traumatic brain injury, and then was sent to Afghanistan where he fell apart.
He fell apart fighting for us. Concern about our country's relations with Afghanistan is the primary reason he is still in prison and not in some mental hospital receiving treatment.
He fell apart fighting for us. Concern about our country's relations with Afghanistan is the primary reason he is still in prison and not in some mental hospital receiving treatment.
4
People who wonder how Trump won should read these columns. You guys are outta touch with the common man. and yes the common man (and woman) has as much as sense as you and more.
12
President Obama has one day left to pardon, exonerate from prosecution, or whatever the legal term would be, Edward Snowdon.
If Ms. Manning's sentence has been commuted, after she dumped information that she didn't fully understand, and wasn't able to redact for harm, then Edward Snowdon deserves as much.
He has been an asset to your country, and I can only think that he will continue to be so.
If Ms. Manning's sentence has been commuted, after she dumped information that she didn't fully understand, and wasn't able to redact for harm, then Edward Snowdon deserves as much.
He has been an asset to your country, and I can only think that he will continue to be so.
5
Snowden should be pardoned. But Obama won't do it. His objective is to leave office with the label of a civil rights activist, hence commuting a transgender woman. Obama will call a police officer stupid (2009), play golf with the philandering Tiger (just like Trump), talk too much of Hillary Clinton's high heels, and wince when he hears Snowden's name. Snowden revealed Obama's hypocrisy: Obama knew the NSA was reading all Americans' texts and e-mails, but he liked it that way, free or unfree.
4
Manning apologized for her acts, did not try to flee the country, and served seven years in prison. Snowden has not apologized, is living in Russia, and has served no prison time.
2
W.A. Spitzer, I have been reading your comments with interest for several years now, and have agreed with some of them.
I am interested, what do you think E. Snowden should apologize for? He blew a whistle on the egregious collection of private data by your government.
"His disclosures revealed numerous global surveillance programs, many run by the NSA and the Five Eyes Intelligence Alliance, with the cooperation of telecommunication companies and European governments.. His disclosures have fueled debates over mass surveillance, government secrecy, and the balance between national security and information privacy.." Wiki.
Do you agree that private telecommunication companies should collude with governments in wide ranging, poorly overseen data collection of private citizens and have that shared with many different governments? I understand the problems now with radical groups using the internet for recruitment and terror. But that was not what Edward Snowden exposed. He exposed the collection of data by your secret agencies that had little to do with foreign threats. He took care to vet the information he leaked.
He is only in Russia because your government threatens to lock him up for the rest of his life. I think he would prefer to come home and continue to work for the good of all Americans.
dt* will not uphold the access to the press that has been your tradition. Who do you think will work in the long term best interests of all Americans, dt* or Edward Snowden?
I am interested, what do you think E. Snowden should apologize for? He blew a whistle on the egregious collection of private data by your government.
"His disclosures revealed numerous global surveillance programs, many run by the NSA and the Five Eyes Intelligence Alliance, with the cooperation of telecommunication companies and European governments.. His disclosures have fueled debates over mass surveillance, government secrecy, and the balance between national security and information privacy.." Wiki.
Do you agree that private telecommunication companies should collude with governments in wide ranging, poorly overseen data collection of private citizens and have that shared with many different governments? I understand the problems now with radical groups using the internet for recruitment and terror. But that was not what Edward Snowden exposed. He exposed the collection of data by your secret agencies that had little to do with foreign threats. He took care to vet the information he leaked.
He is only in Russia because your government threatens to lock him up for the rest of his life. I think he would prefer to come home and continue to work for the good of all Americans.
dt* will not uphold the access to the press that has been your tradition. Who do you think will work in the long term best interests of all Americans, dt* or Edward Snowden?
3
President has failed to remember that Manning was on active duty in the U.S. Military and committed an act of treason. Manning is a traitor and deserves the sentence given to him! This will forever be a stain on President Obama's record and it will not be forgotten.
7
Manning was not convicted of treason. There is but one definition of treason under U.S. law, and it is articulated in Article III, Section 3 of the Constitution, which states:
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
Note the word, "only."
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying War against them, or in adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort."
Note the word, "only."
5
Brilliant.
What could go wrong?
What could go wrong?
4
Nothing. Ms. Manning is never going to be in a position to divulge state secrets again, guaranteed. And she has never done anything particularly violent towards others.
well, given the description of Manning many personal maladies, including gestation by an alcohol mother, the "blame" for this situation rests squarely with the geniuses in the US Military who admitted Manning and then, assigned Manning to such a sensitive and central position ... should have been able to predict this train wreck miles before the events ... but, warm bodies were needed to fill quotas.
3
I remember those halcyon days when Republicans hated Wikileaks.
Now that Wikileaks published Russia's hacking handiwork to help their guy, they love Wikileaks.
Talk about people of principle. Very impressive.
Now that Wikileaks published Russia's hacking handiwork to help their guy, they love Wikileaks.
Talk about people of principle. Very impressive.
15
Funny, right?
I remember how liberals lauded Wikileaks for exposing the truth of domestic spying. But now they hate Wikileaks because they exposed Hillary's emails. Principles indeed.
I remember how liberals lauded Wikileaks for exposing the truth of domestic spying. But now they hate Wikileaks because they exposed Hillary's emails. Principles indeed.
14
I don't hate Wikileaks for publishing the Democratic emails. I am very concerned that Russia stole the emails to try and influence our election.
Though I question the Wikileaks model and motives, Obama has performed a justified act of mercy in commuting Manning.
We pay lip service to the idea that soldiers must resist unethical orders, that Nazi troops were guilty for following rules. But we don't consider the ambiguity involved. If a soldier believes his superiors commit crimes, that he's a cog in an evil machine, where do we draw the line? Manning committed an act of insurrection that exposed what she believed criminal, as well as much else. That's all she could do.
Many condemn this act. They claim she exposed secrets that hurt U.S. interests, even some lives. That may be so, but the war on terror has also spawned American strategy that doesn't bear the light of day. We've hurt and killed many without cause. Carrying out orders that subjected some who were innocent to American harm, Manning stopped being the good soldier, the very thing we've demand of others.
She's probably troubled, with a perspective that's unique. But after seven years in the brig, Obama has sent an important signal. Military disobediance, to oppose what a soldier believes is immoral, is a last-case option. There may be severe consequences, but they must be abridged. We want soldiers to act on their conscience.
We pay lip service to the idea that soldiers must resist unethical orders, that Nazi troops were guilty for following rules. But we don't consider the ambiguity involved. If a soldier believes his superiors commit crimes, that he's a cog in an evil machine, where do we draw the line? Manning committed an act of insurrection that exposed what she believed criminal, as well as much else. That's all she could do.
Many condemn this act. They claim she exposed secrets that hurt U.S. interests, even some lives. That may be so, but the war on terror has also spawned American strategy that doesn't bear the light of day. We've hurt and killed many without cause. Carrying out orders that subjected some who were innocent to American harm, Manning stopped being the good soldier, the very thing we've demand of others.
She's probably troubled, with a perspective that's unique. But after seven years in the brig, Obama has sent an important signal. Military disobediance, to oppose what a soldier believes is immoral, is a last-case option. There may be severe consequences, but they must be abridged. We want soldiers to act on their conscience.
15
Her perspective wasn't unique. There have been plenty of service members with doubts. But most soldiers realize that going to war means unintentionally killing innocent people -- and our own service members or allies -- because we thought they were enemy forces. It's not a crime and it's not even a secret. And it's certainly not an excuse to turn over gigs of sensitive data to a foreign agent with an anti-U.S. agenda.
She wasn't a whistleblower because she didn't expose government wrongdoing, just ugly truths. She wasn't acting on her conscience. She was looking for something to make herself feel important and righteous. Honestly, it's exactly the same grandiose, deluded thinking that convinces people its okay to commit warcrimes.
A soldier has a duty to disobey illegal or immoral orders and report possible crimes, but it's not a soldier's job to decide whether a war is moral or not.
She wasn't a whistleblower because she didn't expose government wrongdoing, just ugly truths. She wasn't acting on her conscience. She was looking for something to make herself feel important and righteous. Honestly, it's exactly the same grandiose, deluded thinking that convinces people its okay to commit warcrimes.
A soldier has a duty to disobey illegal or immoral orders and report possible crimes, but it's not a soldier's job to decide whether a war is moral or not.
6
Lauren
And the cowardly blasting of civilians from the relative safety of a helicopter doesn't rise to "crimes" in your august opinion?
"Just ugly truths", indeed.
And the cowardly blasting of civilians from the relative safety of a helicopter doesn't rise to "crimes" in your august opinion?
"Just ugly truths", indeed.
I literally cried when I heard this. Thanks, Obama.
9
Doesn't anyone get it ??
This government of the people, by the people, and for the people, only exists as a kind of motivational call to gullible Americans, who have yet to accept that our government, our corporate owned government, and all of its agencies, now rules the people; democracy is an illusion maintained by the corrupt government "we" now serve.
The pardoning of Manning, is just another inconsequential act which will be seen by some as an act of compassion by a lackluster administration, when in fact it's a sop to the unwitting.
America had its first chance to salvage its dying democracy, when Bernie Sanders presented himself for consideration, but a highly skilled perception management team, along with the corporate candidate, Hillary, sabotaged his chances.
As has always been the case, only two parties may vie for control, and it makes not one smidgen of difference to the Owners of America, which of the two prevails, as their interests are always protected.
These Masters of Mankind are engaged in keeping the people in a state of fear, fomenting division every way possible, especially focused on religious, cultural, and ethnic differences.
We the people are viewed as a resource, a self-renewing resource, a commodity that consumes voraciously, creating and maintaining demand for anything and everything, 24/7/365.
This government of the people, by the people, and for the people, only exists as a kind of motivational call to gullible Americans, who have yet to accept that our government, our corporate owned government, and all of its agencies, now rules the people; democracy is an illusion maintained by the corrupt government "we" now serve.
The pardoning of Manning, is just another inconsequential act which will be seen by some as an act of compassion by a lackluster administration, when in fact it's a sop to the unwitting.
America had its first chance to salvage its dying democracy, when Bernie Sanders presented himself for consideration, but a highly skilled perception management team, along with the corporate candidate, Hillary, sabotaged his chances.
As has always been the case, only two parties may vie for control, and it makes not one smidgen of difference to the Owners of America, which of the two prevails, as their interests are always protected.
These Masters of Mankind are engaged in keeping the people in a state of fear, fomenting division every way possible, especially focused on religious, cultural, and ethnic differences.
We the people are viewed as a resource, a self-renewing resource, a commodity that consumes voraciously, creating and maintaining demand for anything and everything, 24/7/365.
9
Oh, Touché Assange .....time to come on from the cold.
4
I disagree with the commuting of this sentence. Treason is treason and we should not condone the leaking of military secrets if we want to maintain national security. I question the motives behind this. I feel like it gives the right wing grounds to question whether the pardon is based on a misguided sense of social justice.
It's weird to feel that way, because if this was another issue, a genuinely harmless crime, I certainly would not. But this is the kind of thing which can cause untold damage to our country.
It's weird to feel that way, because if this was another issue, a genuinely harmless crime, I certainly would not. But this is the kind of thing which can cause untold damage to our country.
7
Cleverly done... cannot be reversed.
8
I hope he gives the same consideration to John Walker Lindh, the "American Taliban".
2
John Walker Lindh is already scheduled to be released in 2 years.
1
I fully am in agreement with this decision by Obama. Snowden should be brought back under some sort of a plea agreement too.
8
And we can consider commuting Snowden's sentence after he apologizes and serves seven years in prison.
1
You mean along with the helicopter crew that was shown gunning down innocent civilians? Along with "Mad Dog" for his war crimes? Oh, wait, they were never brought up on charges, never mind.
2
As a Democrat in a red state, it is really demoralizing when President Obama does something this sick - really, pardon a traitor??? How many more governorships, congressional and national elections can we afford to lose? Good luck building the base!
17
Democrats won't be building the base, unless Trump completely blows it. Certainly that's a possibility but if Trump does halfway decent look for Republican domination to expand.
6
For over a century, the Democratic Party was the working class and the working class was the Democratic Party.
The Democrats have completely abandoned the working class to become the Party of PC.
The Democrats have completely abandoned the working class to become the Party of PC.
7
Lemme guess... You voted for Hillary in the primaries? Like you say "Good luck building that base".
- a "progressive" in a red state
- a "progressive" in a red state
2
The video that Manning helped release exposed all the criminal brutality of a war in which some soldiers from a distance could pick up false targets and kill civilians with a display of pleasure, as if they were figurines in a video game. It was a powerful disclosure that is condemned as treason only by those that are willing to call "patriotism" this kind state sponsored terrorism. Not to mention that it is precisely these acts in an unjustified war that have caused the rise of ISIS, another form of terrorism. Manning deserve praise for her action on behalf of human sanity.
16
Manning mostly exposed Bush's war, but Snowden exposed Obama's ramped up and unconstitutional surveillance state. I wonder if that's the difference.
19
"I wonder if that's the difference."...... Manning apologized for the leaks, never tried to flee the United States, and spent seven years in prison. Snowden did not apologize for the leaks, is presently living in Russia, and has served no prison time. Instead of wondering about why things are, exam the facts.
13
Notwithstanding, I still wonder if that's the difference, especially considering the responsible way that Snowden blew the whistle (or "leaked" as you prefer) as compared to Manning's far less thoughtful disclosures.
4
So, the fact is if you say "I sowwy!" you get off easy with your crime?
2
"Mr. Obama?" He's still the president!
4
And he will still be called President after he leaves office. This is proper form in an article after at least once referring to the President with his title.
7
It's called treason, pure and simple. It's amazing how sexual identity has become more important to many people than national security. I've been reading many marvelous books about WWII lately, and one is struck by how well we kept secrets, maybe the most amazing of which was that we had broken the German codes at Bletchley Park, and that that was kept secret for so long. I suppose that
Manning's apologists would not ever understand that secrets are as important today, and that the rules are set by Congress, not rogue 18-year old soldiers. I fear for my children and my grandchild.
Manning's apologists would not ever understand that secrets are as important today, and that the rules are set by Congress, not rogue 18-year old soldiers. I fear for my children and my grandchild.
22
Given that Manning was obviously a badly disturbed person, doesn't the Army bear some responsibility for granting him/her a security clearance?
9
You mean those "rules" as illustrated in the the video tape showing American soldiers gunning down about a dozen "terrorist". They seemed to be enjoying it, didn't follow proper procedure, killed two journalists and a bunch of other innocents, and paid no price for it.
Those rules?
Those rules?
1
No, Amelia, it is not so simple. There is ONE definition of treason for all purposes under U.S. law, set forth in Article III, Section 3 of the U.S. Constitution, which states:
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort."
Note the word, 'only.' Treason is the only crime specifically defined in the Constitution. That is because the founders, having been witness to the ways in which the charge of treason had been abused by the British crown, wanted to take particular care to ensure it would not be similarly abused in the new country they were founding. Manning was neither charged with, nor convicted of, treason. And you don't get to rewrite the definition of treason to suit your fancy.
"Treason against the United States, shall consist only in levying war against them, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort."
Note the word, 'only.' Treason is the only crime specifically defined in the Constitution. That is because the founders, having been witness to the ways in which the charge of treason had been abused by the British crown, wanted to take particular care to ensure it would not be similarly abused in the new country they were founding. Manning was neither charged with, nor convicted of, treason. And you don't get to rewrite the definition of treason to suit your fancy.
Does anyone honestly believe that Pvt Bradley Manning would have received the same pardon?
15
Maybe not. But the evidence does suggested that Manning was a badly disturbed individual who never should have been given security clearance, for which the Army should take some responsibility.
9
Now if we can jet Obama to give Snowden one of those snazzy Presidential Medals of Freedom, then we'd be approaching a little justice.
6
He's a heterosexual white male. Won't happen.
16
Biden isn't ?
1
I am so sick of compassion and rationalization for some and none for others. The same mental defect that would make this person leak classified documents is the same defect that makes them a transgender. As a military veteran with a secret clearance, I have encountered people in the military who did not have the mental stability for the job. This instability manifests itself in many different ways... Alcoholism, drugs, and abusive or destructive behavior. These defects do not in any way pardon any illegal action. This pardon is a slap in the face to everyone who does the right thing. I give Manning one year of freedom before the cycle of bad choices rears it's head again in some shape or form and this pardon will be all for naught.
18
I agree 100%
7
Manning was not pardoned but had his sentence commutated to time served. She will still have a dishonorable discharge and felony record. A U.S. general shared highly classified information and got a slap on the wrist. He certainly didn't get 35 years in prison.
11
Is it not at least in part the military's fault for putting these individuals in this position in the first place? Why are folks abusing alcohol and drugs permitted to have security clearances? Obviously no system is perfect, but you make ti soudn as if its rampant. That itself is an issue that needs to be addressed.
3
Leonard Peltier is America's longest serving political prisoner. It is time for Obama to free him. He is a sick old man who deserves to spend his remaining years with his family. This is an opportunity for Obama to do a truly heroic act.
16
This is great news, sensible and humane.
13
Hardly any mention in these comments about the helicopter gunship episode that Manning revealed--why aren't we discussing the flagrant murders of civilians by our troops? How did that get so obscured by Manning's situation?
23
“Ms. Manning is the longest serving whistleblower in the history of the United States,” they said. “Her 35-year sentence for disclosing information that served the public interest and never caused harm to the United States was always excessive..." -lawyers
The world and the rest of our country was affected by such a big dump. As for the severity of the punishment; he was kept alive and allowed hormone treatments for gender change. Ask any other criminal what they think about his/her treatment.
Also in the severity of the punishment let's look at quantity. Perhaps it would look worse if he printed out the documents and had stolen reels of film. Maybe in physical form the quantity of leaks would've taken 1000 horses to carry. Because these leaks could fit on a thumb drive it didn't have a tinier impact.
Wikipedia:
"The material included videos of the July 12, 2007 Baghdad airstrike, and the 2009 Granai airstrike in Afghanistan; 251,287 U.S. diplomatic cables;[9] and 482,832 Army reports that came to be known as the Iraq War Logs[10] and Afghan War Diary."
The world and the rest of our country was affected by such a big dump. As for the severity of the punishment; he was kept alive and allowed hormone treatments for gender change. Ask any other criminal what they think about his/her treatment.
Also in the severity of the punishment let's look at quantity. Perhaps it would look worse if he printed out the documents and had stolen reels of film. Maybe in physical form the quantity of leaks would've taken 1000 horses to carry. Because these leaks could fit on a thumb drive it didn't have a tinier impact.
Wikipedia:
"The material included videos of the July 12, 2007 Baghdad airstrike, and the 2009 Granai airstrike in Afghanistan; 251,287 U.S. diplomatic cables;[9] and 482,832 Army reports that came to be known as the Iraq War Logs[10] and Afghan War Diary."
2
Cheers!
Treason is treason plain and simple. I think it would happen less if we gave more people the Rosenberg treatment!
Treason is treason plain and simple. I think it would happen less if we gave more people the Rosenberg treatment!
3
This is an excellent choice for a release date for Chelsea Manning.
May 17th, of course, is both the Canadian and International day [IDAHO] designated to recognize opposition to homophobia and transphobia.
Surprisingly, despite Canada's more tolerant attitudes towards sexuality and gender, Canada has no current system for granting complete pardons or clemency to convicted felons.
Actually, in fact, Canada has no system of formal 'pardons' at all. They were abolished by a previous, much more punitive government. So currently in the areas of forgiveness and rehabilitation Canadians must concede that America leads. --It seems that in the case of convicted criminals, northerners have forgotten that compassion does not mean weakness, that it opens the door for powerful and valuable social reform.
Meanwhile, an awful lot can happen to a prisoner in a period of 4 months... I hope the authorities at Ms Manning's institution redouble their efforts to protect her during the remaining days of her short-time.
She is destined to become a Rosa Parks of America's trans community, and she is only 30 years old.
We will be hearing much more from her and about her in coming years.
May 17th, of course, is both the Canadian and International day [IDAHO] designated to recognize opposition to homophobia and transphobia.
Surprisingly, despite Canada's more tolerant attitudes towards sexuality and gender, Canada has no current system for granting complete pardons or clemency to convicted felons.
Actually, in fact, Canada has no system of formal 'pardons' at all. They were abolished by a previous, much more punitive government. So currently in the areas of forgiveness and rehabilitation Canadians must concede that America leads. --It seems that in the case of convicted criminals, northerners have forgotten that compassion does not mean weakness, that it opens the door for powerful and valuable social reform.
Meanwhile, an awful lot can happen to a prisoner in a period of 4 months... I hope the authorities at Ms Manning's institution redouble their efforts to protect her during the remaining days of her short-time.
She is destined to become a Rosa Parks of America's trans community, and she is only 30 years old.
We will be hearing much more from her and about her in coming years.
7
Dear Mr. President
I adamantly protest the commutation of PFC Manning
While I am a big believer in transparency and in equality, I am a bigger believer in both our National security and in my oath to abide by the Uniform code of military justice.
As a soldier, I knew upon enlistment that I would be privy to much information that, you the public were not aware of. Some, of it compelling, Much of it boring and all of it classified.
That goes deeper than just our oath to the constitution it is an oath to our brothers and sisters as well. It tells them “I got you” “You can count on me.” It does not pertain to specifics of mission but rather to the specifics of our character.
This sends the wrong message to troops and to our enemies who will use it to recruit other disgruntled or malcontents. And it simultaneously insults those of us who surrendered our rights to protect yours with honor.
A major disconnect between civs and soldiers is understanding that we need UCMJ to protect your constitution.
Private Manning had ample channels to appeal via military redress which was his/her Proper Avenue of grievance.
Anyone who knows me, knows I am a stickler for our constitution because it and only it have kept us whole..
I believe in PFC Manning’s right to be whoever he/she pleases but only after her discharge from the military.
My oath that did not come with an expiration date and neither did Manning’s.
Sincerely.
Sean O’Reilly
7th ID (L) US Army, (ret)
I adamantly protest the commutation of PFC Manning
While I am a big believer in transparency and in equality, I am a bigger believer in both our National security and in my oath to abide by the Uniform code of military justice.
As a soldier, I knew upon enlistment that I would be privy to much information that, you the public were not aware of. Some, of it compelling, Much of it boring and all of it classified.
That goes deeper than just our oath to the constitution it is an oath to our brothers and sisters as well. It tells them “I got you” “You can count on me.” It does not pertain to specifics of mission but rather to the specifics of our character.
This sends the wrong message to troops and to our enemies who will use it to recruit other disgruntled or malcontents. And it simultaneously insults those of us who surrendered our rights to protect yours with honor.
A major disconnect between civs and soldiers is understanding that we need UCMJ to protect your constitution.
Private Manning had ample channels to appeal via military redress which was his/her Proper Avenue of grievance.
Anyone who knows me, knows I am a stickler for our constitution because it and only it have kept us whole..
I believe in PFC Manning’s right to be whoever he/she pleases but only after her discharge from the military.
My oath that did not come with an expiration date and neither did Manning’s.
Sincerely.
Sean O’Reilly
7th ID (L) US Army, (ret)
32
"This sends the wrong message to troops and to our enemies who will use it to recruit other disgruntled or malcontents. »
You have already succeeded in electing a Grifter and a Liar. You supported a man who has insulted,namely, the military and intelligence. If America was served by military like you and continues to be, America needs help.
You have already succeeded in electing a Grifter and a Liar. You supported a man who has insulted,namely, the military and intelligence. If America was served by military like you and continues to be, America needs help.
The terminology used should be "whistle blowing" not "leaking".
And a whistleblower should be protected by the law, not treated as a criminal.
The New York Times should stand in solidarity with whistleblowers, for they are agents of resistance and endeavor to make our government more accountable to their actions. Such an accountability, which implies consequences for actions, would prompt foreign planners to think twice engaging in questionable foreign policy (see US track record of unjust conflicts, from the bombing of sovereign states to the backing of fascist terrorist groups).
And a whistleblower should be protected by the law, not treated as a criminal.
The New York Times should stand in solidarity with whistleblowers, for they are agents of resistance and endeavor to make our government more accountable to their actions. Such an accountability, which implies consequences for actions, would prompt foreign planners to think twice engaging in questionable foreign policy (see US track record of unjust conflicts, from the bombing of sovereign states to the backing of fascist terrorist groups).
9
Obama just might redeem himself in his final days after all. If he pardons Edward Snowden as the A.C.L.U., Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have been actively campaigning for him to do, it would go a long way to correct his disgraceful record against a free press. NYT's James Risen has called Obama the greatest threat to press freedom in a generation, and NYT's Jill Abramson called Obama's White House the most secretive she had ever dealt with, which is saying a lot after Bush/Cheney. Obama expanded the surveillance state, prosecuted more whistleblowers under the espionage act than all other administrations combined, even if it did not come close to meeting the requirements for such a serious charge. What he apparently wished to do by such actions was to try to severely hamper or end investigative journalism, and he almost succeeded in doing. What is terrifying now is how important whistleblowers and a investigative journalism will be under the Trump reign. Please President Obama, thank you for releasing Manning and my last plea to you sir, Pardon Edward Snowden too.
11
Jonathan Pollard was convicted after pleading guilty to a charge of conspiracy although the underlying crime was espionage for Israel. He served 19 years and still cannot move to Israel and wears a monitoring device. He was released on parole. Chelsea Manning did not plead guilty, was convicted after a court martial of espionage and was granted clemency today by President Obama after serving 3 years of a 35 year sentence. Nice.
5
Pollard did it for money. Manning did for patriotism.
13
She has served almost 7 years
7
We should be thanking Manning, Snowden and Assange for the revelation of criminal activity and unconstitutional spying on all Americans by our government. Obama has a few days left - start with Manning, then Snowden and then get off Assange's back with Wikileaks. This would be a legacy to be proud of.
8
Manning didn't reveal any illegal activity. Snowden reveal the existence of global surveillance programs that are arguably unconstitutional, but he also stole tens of thousands of national security secrets that had nothing to do with surveillance programs.
5
Doesn't anybody, beside me, find it strange that Julian Assange has traded himself for Chelsea Manning 2 days before Trump is inaugurated?
So the troops that Obama just deployed in Eastern Europe will be withdrawn. All US investigation into Russia will be halted. AND, the fate of Julian Assange will be left to Trump?
So the troops that Obama just deployed in Eastern Europe will be withdrawn. All US investigation into Russia will be halted. AND, the fate of Julian Assange will be left to Trump?
4
Outrageous! President Obama again places his 'boutique' progressive agenda and his 'legacy' (bowing toward his ultra liberal coastal elite constituents) over national security. I voted for Obama and I thoroughly regret doing so. Time and again he proved that his background as a 'community organiser' was of little use in being Commander in Chief. Thank God, beginning three days from now our military will no longer have to suffer President Obama's misguided leadership. President Obama never served in uniform and fundamentally does not understand national security -- to him 'climate change is the biggest threat'. This act (very apparently done out of favouritism for the convict's fluid gender identity) undermines discipline, morale and esprit de corps. Obama's ongoing 'social engineering' agenda has harmed our military. He has done tremendous damage to the United States Armed Forces.
18
This action means so much more than at first it may seem...
...and does so much more than commute a prisoner's sentence.
It helps elevate America just when some would say it is most needed and sends a positive message to so many who hoped and who remain hoping...
...for better outcomes and a better world we all want and wish to have.
...and does so much more than commute a prisoner's sentence.
It helps elevate America just when some would say it is most needed and sends a positive message to so many who hoped and who remain hoping...
...for better outcomes and a better world we all want and wish to have.
18
Chelsea Manning has been punished for almost seven years. Any outrage is simply outrage based on some peoples belief that she hasnt been punished enough. She is unlikely to repeat her crime, she isnt a danger to the community, and she is suffering. The commutation was the right thing to do.
16
Good points, also it's completely impossible for her to repeat her crime. Surely she won't get security clearance again.
4
Appalling. As a military family member who has a son serving, this is akin to Obama trading 5 terrorists for one traitor, Bergdahl. Obama has NO sincere respect for those that serve and he proved it over and over again. He did this solely because he can again pander to his loyalists. Manning was a traitor to his country and the men and women in uniform serving in harms way.
15
If Bergdah had been beheaded Obama would have gotten the same flak and be accused of not being on the side of the troops.
And why Manning alone and not General Petraeus who got a 'pass jail collect more power', or other military people who were given a pass for the same or few years only and some who have gotten pardons as well.
This has nothing to do with pandering, would it were that simple to resolve complicated issues. It's not!
And why Manning alone and not General Petraeus who got a 'pass jail collect more power', or other military people who were given a pass for the same or few years only and some who have gotten pardons as well.
This has nothing to do with pandering, would it were that simple to resolve complicated issues. It's not!
2
Manning plead guilty to lesser charges without having any deal in place on the sentence. She has already served more than double the sentence for others convicted of similar crimes. No one is excusing anything.
9
Good for President Obama. I applaud the president highly!
16
Wow!! So further endangering the lives of our military men and women is not a big deal anymore... and then people wonder how trump became our president... if you have some common sense is very easy to tell..
14
How did Manning endager lives?
12
I don't quite know how I feel about this particular action by President Obama (I commend his mercy, but wonder about fairness when many others who are no more of a threat to society remain incarcerated). But it focuses my profound sadness at the departure of an intelligent, compassionate, and moral man from our nation's highest office and the thought of his polar opposite following him into it.
13
No matter who or how many he pardons there will be more who deserve pardons.
If Obama had wanted Manning freed, this should have happened earlier or with more immediacy. This seems that this is one of those set ups where the incoming President will be pressured to reverse a decision that the previous President didn't really believe in to begin with.
4
It was the humane thing to do.
15
So...Paul Ryan wants to end Obamacare and Medicare, but he wants the government to pay for Chelsea Manning's housing and health care for 30+ more years. Not sure I get it. She's expressed repentance and served a good bit of time, and what she exposed was primarily wrongdoing.
17
I'm just spit-balling here, but...Obama should consider the idea of pardoning every single man and woman in the country convicted of a non-violent offense. It would certainly reverse the recent gains privately-run prisons have made on the stock market since Trump's election in anticipation of privatization and expansion of the prison system. Just a thought.
9
You do realize I hope that the President's pardon power only applies to federal crimes. He has no authority for such action in cases involving state or coal crimes.
Thank you, President Obama. This was absolutely the right thing to do. And I hope Ms. Channing can get on with her life now.
6
how? with out reconstructive surgery?
4
Bradley Manning committed treason. Chelsea Manning gets a pass. Is this some kind of new feminism? Forgive me , I have sexual identity problems? Poor Julius Rosenberg , I guess the standards have changed.
18
Manning exposed war crimes. Kudos to her.
7
If you want to get pardoned, claim you're transgender. Seems to be the new get out of jail free card
8
Really? Who else?
1
My very low opinion of government gets reinforced yet again. First, the military gives a very junior and inexperienced "intelligence analyst" (a fancy job description for a high school graduate with the rank of corporal) almost unlimited access to military intelligence. Second, this "intelligence analyst" decides that the public interest would be served by releasing every secret he could get his hands on. Third, President Obama shows that he thinks this is all no big deal by commuting the sentence. Amazing, and another reason I will not be sorry to see President Obama's term end.
17
I am confused. This guy released classified documents that got many people killed, according to our government. He released this information to Wikileaks, who are the same people who just supposidely just influence our elections with Russia. And now, we commute his sentence.
This is starting to smell really bad at this point.
This is starting to smell really bad at this point.
12
Article says no one died.
17
Where are you getting information that Manning got people killed? That's an unfounded claim.
14
It took some guts to do this and it will harm President Obama's reputation. (e.g. the rending of garments in Congress and newscasts.) It will complicate the efforts of Democrats to blunt President Donald Trump's most outrageous
By my lights, Manning was overcharged and over sentenced. Espionage? For whom? Is Assange a country? Recently, he has appeared to be working for Russia but seven years ago? Compare the sentence with other whistleblowers or General Petraeus, who leaked more sensitive info. Consider the arguably inhumane treatment Manning received while in military prison.
The hypocrisy of Republicans in commending Julian Assange for Wikileaking damaging information about Hillary Clinton and raging, as Paul Ryan just did, about commuting Manning is mind-boggling.
No one responsible for giving this troubled young person access to so much classified information has even been shamed. Nor has anyone been disciplined at either the State or the Defense Department for transferring to a less than secure network, which Russia may well have penetrated before Manning came on the scene. These officials enabled Manning.
By my lights, Manning was overcharged and over sentenced. Espionage? For whom? Is Assange a country? Recently, he has appeared to be working for Russia but seven years ago? Compare the sentence with other whistleblowers or General Petraeus, who leaked more sensitive info. Consider the arguably inhumane treatment Manning received while in military prison.
The hypocrisy of Republicans in commending Julian Assange for Wikileaking damaging information about Hillary Clinton and raging, as Paul Ryan just did, about commuting Manning is mind-boggling.
No one responsible for giving this troubled young person access to so much classified information has even been shamed. Nor has anyone been disciplined at either the State or the Defense Department for transferring to a less than secure network, which Russia may well have penetrated before Manning came on the scene. These officials enabled Manning.
18
Nothing stupid here. Manning violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice. A firing squad would have been nice. You folks don't get it. Countries that can't protect their secrets, methods & plans come up as the losers. We beat Germany & Japan in large part with better (secret) intelligence. Manning was fully aware of his responsibilities and the penalties. He released thousands & thousands of classified documents. That is the outrage.
14
Oh, we "folks" get it Joe; we just disagree with you. But as for your idea about a firing squad, I'm totally with you -- for George W. Bush, Dick Cheney, Paul Wolfowitz .... and Donald J. Trump (traitor extraordinaire).
14
Ron Paul wanted this to happen, so it must be good.
2
Absolute outrage. Obama is aiding and abetting an enemy of the State. That is treason - A worse treason than what was committed by the man he is freeing.
20
If aiding and abetting an enemy of the state is treasonable than Donald ("hack her e-mails, Russia!") Trump should face a firing squad.
29
So what sentence should Petraeus have gotten?
4
This is a disgraceful and treasonous decision. Manning is a traitor to the United States of America. Manning released highly classified defense and intelligence information to the public, who were not authorized, who had not been cleared by the USG, who had not been investigated thoroughly, to know it. This put the nation in grave harm, especially when the nation was at war. When the nation is at war, it is in defense of freedoms that this nation has fought for since the Revolution! Who knows what Manning will do next!
14
Actually it wasn't highly classified. Designated "secret". Nobody has said anyone died.
12
@LR: Manning, as all federal employees and military personnel especially, with security clearances, sign a nondisclosure agreement, agreeing that they will not disclose classified information to unauthorized people. Manning violated that agreement and therefor must suffer the consequences of that decision regardless of the effects on his/her well-being. Thank you.
6
What consequences? Is 7 years in jail enough?
How many years did Petraeus serve? Answer: none.
How many years did Petraeus serve? Answer: none.
6
The penalties for treasonous acts serve not only to punish the wrongdoer, but also to present a formidable deterrent to future would-be spies. Manning's commuted sentence is sure to encourage more attempts at espionage.
8
A "spy" spies FOR someone: Nazi Germany, the USSR ... whomever. Chelsea Manning released the documents that she did on her own hook because she (or he, if you insist) thought that it was the right thing to do. I applaud him/her for it.
7
How about a full Pardon for whistle-blower- former CIA agent Jeffrey Sterling; a Black man Persecuted under President Obama? Unlike Manning- Mr Sterling's is a tale and tragedy that every American should become acquainted. Now, out of prison. a full pardon is quite appropriate.
8
How about Jonathon Pollard? A pardon for the 30 years he spent for espionage? He was just another intelligence analyst like Manning.
So now giving stuff to WikiLeaks is no big deal?
OK--so can we all stop carrying on about a hacked election and all?
OK--so can we all stop carrying on about a hacked election and all?
20
Seven years in jail sounds like a big deal to me.
How much time did Petraeus serve? Answer: none.
How much time did Petraeus serve? Answer: none.
4
As a woman I am insulted that Chelsea is referred to as a women. He is not a woman, nor a female. He is a man who has had plastic surgery and who has taken drugs to make certain areas of his anatomy larger or smaller. As far as being released early, everything I have read say that HE got a much harsher sentence than others that have done similar. So perhaps Obama is right to release him early.
8
Reply to Terri:
Being born with female anatomy doesn't give you the right to decide who is and isn't a woman. Nor does anatomy alone a woman make. (Like you, I am a person born with female anatomy who identifies as a woman.)
Being born with female anatomy doesn't give you the right to decide who is and isn't a woman. Nor does anatomy alone a woman make. (Like you, I am a person born with female anatomy who identifies as a woman.)
14
I find the idea that gender requires your permission and affirmation and the assumption that it is owned by the heteronormative and cisgendered majority both oppressive and offensive.
12
Why exactly are you insulted Terri? I'm sure you are a great person and a tremendous woman. How do the actions of Manning impact you at all? Just be confident enough in who you are and let Manning live her life the best she can. I'm sure she is not trying to harm you or impinge on who you are as a person. Why not give her the same shot? If the idea of someone changing their gender freaks you out, then don't do it.
4
Now Snowden.
With Trump taking office, the man who showed us the true extent of unconstitutional government privacy intrusion in this country may have given the most important gift of all.
With Trump taking office, the man who showed us the true extent of unconstitutional government privacy intrusion in this country may have given the most important gift of all.
6
Obama did not commute her sentence because she is transgender he commuted her sentence because it was barbaric and petty and unjust.
She has already served more than double what similar cases received. One person even got off with no sentence for sharing classified material - but he was a General and head of the CIA. Power talks - and walks.
Good for Obama that Justice is getting a look in before the door slams shut.
She has already served more than double what similar cases received. One person even got off with no sentence for sharing classified material - but he was a General and head of the CIA. Power talks - and walks.
Good for Obama that Justice is getting a look in before the door slams shut.
234
You're aware of "similar" cases of 750,000 pages of secret communications being indiscriminately given away? Really? Please make us all aware of those cases.
4
And I believe you'll find the American taxpayers had to pay Petraeus' $250,000 fine, unless they docked him one year's General pay, which is highly unlikely.
1
Now that is an argument I can accept. No talk of Manning's special unique suffering as a transgender person.
1
I'm SOOOO glad to hear this. THANK YOU Obama. My respect for you has increased a bit. Fingers crossed Edward Snowden gets a pardon. Honestly don't think so but I'll try and hope so.
6
Snowden cant be pardoned until there is a conviction to pardon him from. Since it doesn't appear he will return to the USA to face trial it follows that he cant be pardoned. Its a catch 22.
2
Obama can pardon Snowden even without a conviction. Ford pardoned Nixon, who was neither charged nor convicted of any criminal offense.
I wholeheartedly agree with President Obama. He took a lot of Manning's personal struggles seriously. I sure am glad he did this before the clown starts his show. It probably would have never happened otherwise. Trump doesn't seem to care about leaks anyway so all the more reason.
10
Tough call, but the right one in my opinion.
13
And David Petraeus got how long in prison?
36
Trump didn't hire him, so none.
How marvelously, yet unsurprisingly, inept of the Repuboicans to forget that they don't have a mandate, and that President Obama was re-elected in 2012 in large part because most of the country liked the ACA.
I suspect Republicans expected Clinton to win, as most of us did, and, as such, didn't put much energy into a replacement plan. Again, inept.
How tragic for all of us. How fitting that the Republican Party prostitutes the rest of us to their wealthy donors.
I suspect Republicans expected Clinton to win, as most of us did, and, as such, didn't put much energy into a replacement plan. Again, inept.
How tragic for all of us. How fitting that the Republican Party prostitutes the rest of us to their wealthy donors.
4
how is Chelsea going to pay for her surgery now? no chance of ever being hired again, no insurance that would even consider that type of coverage, ...
2
The gesture to Chelsea Manning is wonderful on several levels. First, it corrects a grave injustice and is long overdue. Second, it shows our departing president is truly a class act; he is merciful, whereas his replacement is merciless. Third, it recognizes the public service Manning performed, just like Daniel Ellsberg. Fourth, but perhaps not least, it's a poke in the eye at the incoming president.
One last item on President Obama’s to-do list: a pardon for Edward Snowden. That would be one for the history books.
One last item on President Obama’s to-do list: a pardon for Edward Snowden. That would be one for the history books.
11
Manning intentionally leaked Top Secret materials which directly resulted in the execution of individuals helping the US intelligence community protect innocent Americans from future terrorist attacks.
10
Reading the vitriolic hatred for a whistle-blower in the comments is so depressing. Meanwhile, criminals who took the nation to wars based on lies and fabricated intelligence reports roam free.
To the people who wax lyrical about the cost of Manning's gender reassignment surgery, do you have any idea how much the US plantation-state spends on its offensive military? Do you have any idea how many taxpayer-funded trillions the US has burned in Iraq and Afghanistan, for no gain (to anyone but the military-industrial complex)?
To the people who wax lyrical about the cost of Manning's gender reassignment surgery, do you have any idea how much the US plantation-state spends on its offensive military? Do you have any idea how many taxpayer-funded trillions the US has burned in Iraq and Afghanistan, for no gain (to anyone but the military-industrial complex)?
36
They don't (know or care). Nor are most of them seemingly aware that Manning hasn't even had the surgery.
Yes depressing.
Yes depressing.
8
Yep, Henry Kissinger is regarded as a war criminal outside the USA and has to be careful about his international travel. Not only does he remain free - even in light of the latest information confirming his role in scuttling the Vietnam war peace talks - but he has actively been involved in advising the trump campaign. Was it ever different?
9
The real question is whether transgender prisoners are getting their cosmetic surgery paid for, while other prisoners with truly serious health issues (cancer, diabetes, and so on) languish without proper medical care.
2
Bravo. Compassion is our way forward America.
9
Citizen,
Do you have compassion for the 2 soldiers who were killed because Bergdahl deserted his Band of Brothers in a combat zone.
Do you have compassion for the 2 soldiers who were killed because Bergdahl deserted his Band of Brothers in a combat zone.
8
Yes of course.
3
The Army's attempt to severely punish, mistreat, and discredit the enlisted soldiers — Sgt. Pfc. Chelsea Manning and Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl — is shameful.
Pfc. Manning has been pardoned by the President Obama, and Sgt. Bergdahl should be honorably discharged and released.
Officers are indeed treated differently from the enlisted "swine". At least a portion of these Manning and Bergdahl matters has now been rectified by President Obama.
Pfc. Manning has been pardoned by the President Obama, and Sgt. Bergdahl should be honorably discharged and released.
Officers are indeed treated differently from the enlisted "swine". At least a portion of these Manning and Bergdahl matters has now been rectified by President Obama.
6
so you support both traitors?
7
The military was covering up war crimes. Do you support that?
2
I'm OK with releasing Sgt. Bergdahl. But an honorable discharge is not appropriate. His service was not honorable.
I'm very glad. All the solitary confinement was inhumane. i am so happy for Chelsea
11
So by releasing Chelsea before her $100,000 tax payer funded sex surgery, isn't that cruel and unusual punishment on the part of Obama?
6
Not an exactly brilliant observation Pat.
Manning broke the law. 35 years is to much, especially for someone suffering mental health issues (and no, by that I do not mean gender identity). She has admitted guilt, paid a significant sentence, and now needs help, not maximum security military incarceration to age 61.
6
He will never be a "her'. Biology cannot be changed. He is a deeply troubled and confused man. Referring to him as a her is ridiculous.
12
More meanness and shocking ignorance of nature/biology.
8
It's not really up to you. Try again.
3
Imagine YOU have a child who just feels wrong in their body and tells you they think they are really a woman. They don't know why, but that's what they feel like. They struggle with it for years. Don't you show them compassion and understanding? Come on. It's your own child. Stop shouting at people and just admit we are all happier and better off when we show compassion and understanding to each other. Nobody is asking you to change gender or alter who you are.
Many are outraged by this action and many have expressed great hostility in this section towards anyone who agrees with President Obama's pardon. I bears remembering that the President's right to pardon is a fundamental and long cherished part of the power of the executive. I suspect that much of the hostility expressed here has more to do with feelings about the man doing the pardoning than with Chelsea Manning.
9
Actually, it's a longstanding power of the monarch, carried into our system by the framers. The power of life and death over one's citizens is truly awesome and awe-inspiring, and it is one of the vestiges of the idea of monarch-as-god. With the 2016 election, the ease with which the privileges of the presidency might be exercised in support of demagoguery and perhaps used to erode democracy make me wonder if American might be better served by a parliamentary system. It might dampen the cult of celebrity that has infected politics. It's bad enough when politicians are interested only in personal gain as opposed to public service; but when it reaches the point when a bored public is so in need of constant entertainment via their various advertisement-delivery devices that they treat the presidential election as an audition for a new reality show, then the situation has taken a new and very bad turn. The best government is boring.
Liberals need to make up their minds on this. Manning is either:
1) Mentally ill and until for prison and therefore defined as a Man with emotional problems who thinks he's a woman or...
2) A Woman who finally broke the chains of our repressive society and courageously struck back against an oppressive government and moral societal norms. A true American hero. And, as such, completely in her right mind, healthy as a proverbial horse and completely qualified to serve out her sentence.
Well, which is it? Because it can't be both.
1) Mentally ill and until for prison and therefore defined as a Man with emotional problems who thinks he's a woman or...
2) A Woman who finally broke the chains of our repressive society and courageously struck back against an oppressive government and moral societal norms. A true American hero. And, as such, completely in her right mind, healthy as a proverbial horse and completely qualified to serve out her sentence.
Well, which is it? Because it can't be both.
4
actually it can be both or neither
2
Wrong in so many ways- context, meaning and understanding of the human condition. Mean and wrong.
5
Are you a medical doctor, Stu? If you aren't, I'm inclined to think you don't know what you are talking about.
8
Pardon Snowden too. Mr Obama said at his inauguration that he would have an open government. He has not had one and Mr. Snowden is exhibit one. Finish your business Mr. Obama and pardon mr Snowden.
8
Can we please defund the NSA, the CIA and the FBI, the biggest violators of every American's Fourth Amendment protections?
8
Great news. Unless of course you're a mean spirited, hateful person who believes in the harshest punishment possible with no Christian mercy...
16
I don't believe in mercy for Manning, for one very simple reason. I do not, nor will I ever, consider Manning's brave acts to be a crime. A pardon is not good enough. He should be granted an apology for what was done to him.
That's real cute Gene but no. Just because someone disagrees with president Obama's decision, does not prove that person is a mean spirited, hateful person.
4
So, those who disagree with you are "mean spirited and hateful"? I think you have just descried yourself.
5
The Republicans are betting the farm on this one. If their plan fails, the Democrats will likely win the next Presidential election and a single payer plan will be in the future.
2
What kind of country is America ? Participating in such degenerate fantasy. Bradley Manning is a man. However ill and depraved. If Trump declares himself Jesus Christ then by this logic he must be.
7
It is a very confused, degenerate place. A place where men putting on women's clothes now think they're on parity those fighting for Civil Rights in the 1960s.
8
It doesn't quite work like that but what the heck, just continue along with your misunderstanding of how the human brain works...
5
I don't care. The guy suffered enough. He's sick in the head. Leave him alone.
Plus, now if he decides to mutilate himself to further his masquerade as a woman it will be on his dime.
Plus, now if he decides to mutilate himself to further his masquerade as a woman it will be on his dime.
5
I grew up hearing mean things like this in the 60/70's- seems that there is a distillation of all that into a tiny angry vituperative clique that just can't scream loud enough.
6
Manning stuck around, faced the music, and paid her pound of flesh. Manning was young and committed the crimes out of idealistic motivations. Considering how light the punishment was for Petreus passing classified material to his mistress, Manning has paid the price.
Also, considering how many people screaming for Manning's blood were delighted by Wikileak's Clinton emails and Russian hacking, I smell a certain degree of hypocrisy among those howling with outrage.
Also, considering how many people screaming for Manning's blood were delighted by Wikileak's Clinton emails and Russian hacking, I smell a certain degree of hypocrisy among those howling with outrage.
26
From some of the comments, it doesn't seem like forgiveness and reconciliation are much in vogue amongst the people in general. It is hard to imagine how much more torture some people are prepared to mete out. Is it just indifference or lack of empathy? Thankfully, President Obama could take the proper measure of how much punishment is required in this case.
9
The time served for this case is probably enough. At least the taxpayers won't be stuck paying the bill for his sex-change surgery.
3
Pragmatically this is the right move to relieve the US taxpayer of the exorbitant medical expenses he has incurred. Assuming there is no military pension or VA benefits to continue the lifestyle
1
Exorbitant medical expenses? Are you under the mistaken impression like many of your other uninformed brethren that Miss Manning has already had surgery?
4
Some love for Obama! Mercy. Jesus approves. God Bless Barrack.
6
Chelsea Manning was a whistle blower, exposing criminal behavior and human rights violations.
We need more people of her courage to stand up to those dark forces that would pull the United States back into torture and human rights violations.
President Obama took another courageous and wise stand today.
Any person who violates human rights and is guilty of torture will be held accountable in this life or the next.
We need more people of her courage to stand up to those dark forces that would pull the United States back into torture and human rights violations.
President Obama took another courageous and wise stand today.
Any person who violates human rights and is guilty of torture will be held accountable in this life or the next.
14
It's unfortunate in the extreme that Ms. Manning's gender expression became such a big part of this story, but the comments published here show exactly how much work needs to be done in the coming years to rid many Americans of their ridiculous gender binary beliefs and stereotypes.
13
*Mr.
2
It took eons of evolution to get us here and the way we are, and you think we can turn our minds on a dime with this one? How many positive thinking seminars have you been to? All those comments are just part of the adjustment process, the last thing you want to do is discourage them, unless you really don't want things to change.
2
Perhaps extra terrestrials are not as advanced as we thought. Stuck in some sort of traditional time warp, perhaps?
4
In the US you go to prison for exposing war crimes but not for committing them. John Kiriakou, the man who make public the fact that the US was torturing prisoners was imprisoned but the torturers where not. Nor where those who gave them illegal orders to torture. Manning exposed at least one war crime but also exposed a lot of information that was classified for valid reasons. Some prison time was justified but it is also justified for people who ordered or committed war crimes.
18
that kind of staff is why we have a man like Trump being our president...
2
This is great news today. BUT if Manning has to stay in prison for several more months, given her bad treatment by guards and inmates up to now; and given Republicans' irresponsible, extreme cries of public outrage today, isn't she vulnerable to getting tortured or killed? The outsiders (Ryan, Trump) are not only enraged that Manning morally showed the documents and videos to the world, thus embarassing the military for laughing and shooting and killing from a helicopter some civilian men who'd stopped to help others who'd already been shot, but they want him dead because he wants to be a woman (I don't recommend it to him but he has a right). Over two dozen transgendered men have been murdered. Some people can't allow people to live when they don't follow traditional rules.
President Obama, wouldn't caution be the better part of valor to let him go now?
President Obama, wouldn't caution be the better part of valor to let him go now?
7
Manning needs to be moved to an psychiatric care unit not a commutation.
4
This creep should be kept in jail for betraying our nation's top secrets. If he didn't go TG, would Manning get a pardon? This move by Obama gives a signal to other traitors that if you do the crime you won't serve a lot of time. Was this a gesture to further endear Obama to the LGBT community? Aren't there other convicts more deserving of such "mercy".
5
Trump was awarded the presidency of the US for kissing up to Putin, instead of the prison time he deserves. Guess who's going to know our nation's top secrets as soon as he's informed about them from the POTUS himself after Jan 21st?
5
Where do you stand on people who ask hostile foreign governments to intercede in us elections by hacking their opponents and making the illegally obtained information public? Traitor or not?
I dont expect you to reply. You're probably Russian anyway.
I dont expect you to reply. You're probably Russian anyway.
6
Justice and mercy, the hallmarks of an advanced civilization.
Julian Assange said he would surrender himself to US justice if President Obama released Ms. Manning. Now I wonder if he'll keep his word.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4115754/WikiLeaks-founder-Julian...
Julian Assange said he would surrender himself to US justice if President Obama released Ms. Manning. Now I wonder if he'll keep his word.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4115754/WikiLeaks-founder-Julian...
10
So if I betray the security clearance given to me and hand secret material to a shady organization of non-journalists (who now seem to be tied to Russia)--- can I get a free pass if I make a couple of suicide attempts?
Because everyone seems to be saying that Chelsea Manning's two failed suicide attempts have earned her a full reprieve. Anyone should be able to make a few failed suicide attempts and be let free, then. Betray your military's trust, hand sensitive material over to completely unknown people and then tie your bedsheets together and claim you tried to hang yourself.
Because everyone seems to be saying that Chelsea Manning's two failed suicide attempts have earned her a full reprieve. Anyone should be able to make a few failed suicide attempts and be let free, then. Betray your military's trust, hand sensitive material over to completely unknown people and then tie your bedsheets together and claim you tried to hang yourself.
3
No she deserves a full pardon, not a commutation, because she did the right thing in spilling the beans as she did, not because of her suicide attempts.
4
"... everyone seems to be saying..."
Funny, I have seen a single person saying that and I'm 800 comments in.
Funny, I have seen a single person saying that and I'm 800 comments in.
1
Seven years was excessive in the first place for Manning's conviction. Clemency was warranted in this case, given that her crime, if it may be regarded as such, was not very grave.
8
Manning's offenses do not remotely come close to the lies and manipulations of Bush-Cheney-Rumsfeld-Wolfowitz-etc that resulted in the death of thousands of Americans in Iraq, far more than died in 9-11. They should never be pardoned.
19
President George W. Bush outs a CIA operative and lies about WMD, leading to untold thousands of deaths, Iraqi and American, yet President Obama declines to even consider prosecution. By comparison, what Chelsea Manning did is minuscule. Those entrusted with the highest office and greatest honor our country bestows should be held to the highest accountability -- not the least.
14
Good deal - now do Snowden another American hero
11
For all those appalled at this pardon, you might turn to look at who is not prosecuted in this country. Manning did a lot of time for this and this is a reasonable pardon. Just wait to see what kinds of things get the presidential pardon treatment in at the end of the Trump administration.
8
Who will hire Miss Manning? Wikileaks? Sounds like Miss Manning is giving up a safe zone with shelter, food, privacy, and medical care. What will she do in her old age? Will she be writing books and appearing on TV? I am very interested to hear how President Obama will explain this commutation.
3
she will be on welfare of course, like 40% of Americans
5
Mr. President, I worked for you twice and voted for you twice. This is a huge mistake. Why?
4
But it also begs a broader question . . . Would he have done this if she was a man?
5
He is still a man, and will always be so.
3
The only way this makes sense is that Obama wants to help Trump.
3
Reading all the anger being spewed is absolutely amazing. This seems much like what kept the Chinese, the Soviets, the Germans and on
and on from speaking up. By being angry at those who expose the wrongs bring committed by their governments, allows those governments to commit treasonable acts without worrying about being held accountable. Pretty scary.
and on from speaking up. By being angry at those who expose the wrongs bring committed by their governments, allows those governments to commit treasonable acts without worrying about being held accountable. Pretty scary.
9
Republicans who are flipping out about this should reacquaint themselves with the Valerie Plame case, in which members of George W. Bush's administration deliberately revealed the identity of a career CIA agent, as an act of revenge against her husband. At the very least, that compromised countless people who were working on behalf of the United States overseas, and destroyed the career of a highly trained and dedicated professional. It may have killed people. No one served a day in prison for it.
47
Manning and Snowden and others of their ilk are traitors who do irreparable harm to America and to citizens - often / probably death to those patriots in allegiance and working for America. Unlike the Nixon saga / debacle (and similar circumstances), where the U.S. Constitution was protected by "whistle blowers", the Manning / Snowden et al traitors should be prosecuted and not pardoned by Obama for short-sighted / dangerous rationale.
6
It probably doesn't hurt to be a really high profile and sensational case that's constantly in the news, to get the President's attention. It kind of makes me feel bad for all the less publicized cases that might have had more merit. Why does everything political always seem so political?
56
Obama has commuted prison sentences for over 1,000 people. Manning's commuted sentence is highly publicized, as was everything else about her. Many other commuted sentences were not highly publicized because their initial cases weren't. It's not only the well-known that receive the President's attention.
I reviled Manning and Snowden until learning that Hillary Clinton, as secretary of State (!), kept a private server in her basement on which she conducted State business.
3
So if someone wants a transgender surgery, s/he needs to join the military and they will take care of it for free? Wow, what a great use of tax dollars.
3
Chelsea Manning has not had surgery. Read before commenting
7
Most likely he will get a general discharge from active duty and will not be eligible for government paid surgery.
1
"Speaker Paul D. Ryan called it “outrageous.” “President Obama now leaves in place a dangerous precedent that those who compromise our national security won’t be held accountable for their crimes,” he said in a statement."
Ummm, how about concentrating on our President Elect?
Where is that independent, bipartisan commission to investigate Russian hacking and Donald Trump's possible participation?
Ummm, how about concentrating on our President Elect?
Where is that independent, bipartisan commission to investigate Russian hacking and Donald Trump's possible participation?
12
We live in an age when no secrets are safe and deeds of people and nations are being outed to wikileaks etc and these leaks are being considered to be welcome by those who benefit. In this context, 35 yrs for Ms Manning made no sense.
2
Oh the Obama Legacy ....
"After her sentencing, Ms. Manning announced that she was transgender and changed her name to Chelsea."
... and there you have the noble criteria for which a convict guilty of industrial espionage gets go free to mingle with the citizens for which HE put in harms way.
"After her sentencing, Ms. Manning announced that she was transgender and changed her name to Chelsea."
... and there you have the noble criteria for which a convict guilty of industrial espionage gets go free to mingle with the citizens for which HE put in harms way.
6
Stealing massive amounts of highly classified national security information and dumping out on the internet for all to see is not a "leak", it is just espionage done out in the open. Instead of handing microfilm to a courier, you can now damage your enemy by dumping out massive volumes of data through political organizations such as Wikileaks. Political operatives with anti-social and anti-democratic agendas, have only labeled themselves "leakers" and "journalists" as a cover. The true agenda of the Assange's of the world is anarchy, this should be very obvious by now. They are political terrorists trying to destabilize western society itself. Assange himself has basically said as much. He recent actions add to the mountain of evidence against his innocence. True journalists need to re-examine the definition of the word "leak" in this new 21st century context. These people aren't just trying to expose a specific set of facts to expose a wrong or uncover a truth. Information security saboteurs are trying to bring down western democracy itself by destabilizing it's political, military and economic systems. There is a huge difference between truth tellers and cyber terrorists. Assange, Snowden and Manning are all clear examples of the later.
5
Editorial Board:
If a sentence is commuted by the President can it be reversed by the next President and on what grounds? Same for pardon.
Some countries reverse with regularity when a new person takes office. Just wondering whether anything has been codified into law or if this is more nebulous territory like ethics.
If a sentence is commuted by the President can it be reversed by the next President and on what grounds? Same for pardon.
Some countries reverse with regularity when a new person takes office. Just wondering whether anything has been codified into law or if this is more nebulous territory like ethics.
1
Angel:
Article 2 of the US Constitution answers your question:
"... and he shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offenses against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment."
In other words, the power of the pardon is essentially unlimited for federal crimes and is not reversible by the Congress or a change of administration.
Article 2 of the US Constitution answers your question:
"... and he shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offenses against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment."
In other words, the power of the pardon is essentially unlimited for federal crimes and is not reversible by the Congress or a change of administration.
4
Thank you John Patrick Ryan, appreciate your response.
This is unexpected good news.
4
There I were, reading about how Obama had pardoned General Cartwright, and I thought, 'In that case why the heck can't Obama ...'.
And I glanced across the page, and there it was.
And I glanced across the page, and there it was.
4
The author and most of the commenters seemingly miss the huge, glaring difference between "leaks" and the wholesale collection and dumping of sensitive government documents to the world, the difference between a sworn member of the armed services, and an independent contractor. Manning dumped untold numbers of military reports and documents, concerning an active military action, onto foreign agents. He (at the time) admitted to not actually knowing the contents of the dump in more than a general way, so had no way of knowing whether the information would result in lost life or not. The excuse that "I was going through a lot", only argues against making enlistment requirements more stringent again, screening out anyone who is in a high risk category for mental breakdown. It certainly does not argue for clemency.
When a soldier gets mad at their country, and does something intended to hurt that country, that's generally referred to as treason. Military punishments are not about the punishment anyway, they're about showing the rest of the servicemen what happens if you're stupid enough to pull a stunt like that...
When a soldier gets mad at their country, and does something intended to hurt that country, that's generally referred to as treason. Military punishments are not about the punishment anyway, they're about showing the rest of the servicemen what happens if you're stupid enough to pull a stunt like that...
4
Manning's actions were so far across the line that there is no decent alternative but to keep her in prison for the lenght of the sentence. While there are those who celebrate this dishonorable criminal, either for his (at the time) cooperation with wikkileaks, or for his/her gender dysphoria. She does not deserve to be released.
3
He she it should not be in jail if Hillary is able to walk. BTW this Manning person is whatever sex he was born, there is no changing, you can have freakish surgery but you can not change your sex, you cant fool God, He knows what he is
1
If Dick Cheney doesn't have to go to prison, then neither should Manning.
14
Cheney SHOULD go to prison, and take Manning, too.
There's no ethics, or redeeming quality, in either of them.
There's no ethics, or redeeming quality, in either of them.
2
Lots of trans hatred on this comments section. Heed this: ten years or so from now, when people see this kind of thing for the bigotry that it is, you'll be pretending like you never said or though such things, as people do now about anti-Black bigotry and now anti-gay bigotry. But you'll be lying, and implicitly acknowledging that your past views were despicable and that you once lacked the moral courage to see them for what they were.
11
Reply to Pierce Randall:
I hope you're right that 10 years from now, people will be ashamed of having been bigots today. But the election of Donald Trump has shown me that there are plenty of people--led by Mr. Trump himself--who itch for a reason to wear their bigotry proudly in the name of resisting "political correctness." (Maybe there will be a new term in 10 years that offers hateful people a convenient fig leaf for embracing and venting offensive language and ideas about fellow human beings.)
I hope you're right that 10 years from now, people will be ashamed of having been bigots today. But the election of Donald Trump has shown me that there are plenty of people--led by Mr. Trump himself--who itch for a reason to wear their bigotry proudly in the name of resisting "political correctness." (Maybe there will be a new term in 10 years that offers hateful people a convenient fig leaf for embracing and venting offensive language and ideas about fellow human beings.)
4
The huge difference between Manning's sentence for exposure of actual crimes and the trivial treatment of David Petraeus for his revealing "Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information," which he moved to his home, stored in an unsecured drawer, and had deliberately and intentionally lied to Federal investigators about, after providing his lover access to it, indicates the corruption of the US government & the Obama administration.
10
The former general provided classified info to his mistress who had a clearance. Yes, that was wrong. Period Who did Manning provide the info to? that is the 64 question.
It was the right thing to do. Obama is showing grace and compassion in his last days as President. Let's hope that he can find a way to shut Gitmo and end that miscarriage of justice too.
6
It restores that part of me that was bothered by President Obama's security reach and his aggressive prosecution of whistleblowers. There was a lot right with Ms. Manning's release of information. I hope Ms. Manning can find peace in the New World he will enter.
5
Manning put at risk American lives with his actions. This is not disputable. He/she (not sure if the "conversation" process is completed yet) should never see the light of day again.
The same for Snowden.
Why do people have such empathy for these turncoat scoundrels. Thankfully this insanity all ends on January 20.
The same for Snowden.
Why do people have such empathy for these turncoat scoundrels. Thankfully this insanity all ends on January 20.
4
Begins.
5
The government is not -- I repeat, not -- your friend. Imagining that the government is "your" government is akin to a black slave imagining that the Master of a slave plantation is "his" Massa.
Anyone willing to stand up to their masters should be heralded as a hero, but mindless slaves like you are just itching to go over the top for King, God and Country when the next -- inevitable -- plantation war is declared.
Anyone willing to stand up to their masters should be heralded as a hero, but mindless slaves like you are just itching to go over the top for King, God and Country when the next -- inevitable -- plantation war is declared.
5
Actually according to court documents there were no lives lost and it was a medium level security breach and he has already served twice as much time as anyone else for a similar offence
1
But he still hopunds Ed SNowden. . .
I always knew there was a reason why I was always suspicious of Mr Obama as a politician. He is a naive and superficial guy whose identity reacts well to the strongest wind that happens to blow near him at any time.
o many promises either foiled and forgotten or fultilled as if the GOP were in power--ACA was an imitation of a GOP plan put into place in Massachusets.
He promissd a withdrawal from the disasters in Iraq only to secre our footing there. Basically, aside from his differences in internal political matters, the change from Bush was not as radical as he promised. That he did nothing for the nation as the Russinas were trying to intervene in our election and only announced action onths after and just before he leaves, seems to be a reflection of his character-conservative, always too late and with too little.
He never even supported Mrs Clinton-perhaps he only wanted to be reminded of his personal "triumphs". I hope the Democrats do not attempt to play identity Presidential politics again for at least another 100 years, and stick with nominating plain old "average" white men like Truman, FDR or Teddy Roosevelt. Being the party that has to try and elect the candidates always dancing on the edge of social acceptability , is too trying.
I always knew there was a reason why I was always suspicious of Mr Obama as a politician. He is a naive and superficial guy whose identity reacts well to the strongest wind that happens to blow near him at any time.
o many promises either foiled and forgotten or fultilled as if the GOP were in power--ACA was an imitation of a GOP plan put into place in Massachusets.
He promissd a withdrawal from the disasters in Iraq only to secre our footing there. Basically, aside from his differences in internal political matters, the change from Bush was not as radical as he promised. That he did nothing for the nation as the Russinas were trying to intervene in our election and only announced action onths after and just before he leaves, seems to be a reflection of his character-conservative, always too late and with too little.
He never even supported Mrs Clinton-perhaps he only wanted to be reminded of his personal "triumphs". I hope the Democrats do not attempt to play identity Presidential politics again for at least another 100 years, and stick with nominating plain old "average" white men like Truman, FDR or Teddy Roosevelt. Being the party that has to try and elect the candidates always dancing on the edge of social acceptability , is too trying.
The heartstring tugging transgenderism ploy seems to have worked.
6
Really interesting that this comes at the same time the President allows an eleventh hour change in the laws that govern the treasure trove of NSA data vacuumed up daily.
I am glad Manning is going free, I think enough suffering has been inflicted for that act of moral courage but I am also very disappointed that the President would open the cookie jar for the DEA, FBI, and DHS to look even further into our lives with the same pen he now uses to free.
And what of Edward Snowden? The "leaker" who worked with journalists to filter the information in his hands to ensure it didn't do unneeded damage. Intereseting that he is still persona non grata.
I am glad Manning is going free, I think enough suffering has been inflicted for that act of moral courage but I am also very disappointed that the President would open the cookie jar for the DEA, FBI, and DHS to look even further into our lives with the same pen he now uses to free.
And what of Edward Snowden? The "leaker" who worked with journalists to filter the information in his hands to ensure it didn't do unneeded damage. Intereseting that he is still persona non grata.
4
This has nothing to do with ethics or whistleblowers. This is 100% about legacy, and is shameful. Regardless of your opinion about Manning, Cartwright most certainly does not deserve clemency.
1
Chelsea Manning is a trans woman. Irrespective of one's take on her commutation, she - not "he" - deserves, at the very least, to be called by pronouns indicative of her gender.
And for all the angry, transphobic haters who just began to roll their eyes - this is basic respect for a human being. Even if one disagrees with her reduced sentence, one could still afford her that dignity.
And for all the angry, transphobic haters who just began to roll their eyes - this is basic respect for a human being. Even if one disagrees with her reduced sentence, one could still afford her that dignity.
7
Shocking that Obama would commute Manning. Shocking!
2
I have a lot of sympathy for her on the TG part. But not for the traitor and breach of contract part. What I would have done is offer her gender reassignment and then serve out the rest of her sentence. I think releasing her early is an insult to TG people everywhere: it puts her on the same level as law abiding, contract upholding and non-traitorous TG citizens. She should complete her sentence.
2
President Obama's choice is an act of mercy. Ms. Manning is a young person, who suffered a great deal. She, unlike Snowden and Assange, said she was sorry for any risks she incured for American Intellegence workers. This is the right decsion. Trump can bellow all he wants. Obama has saved Ms. Manning from many more years of suffering and torture.
5
For the record, I want a Snowden pardon. I feel that he informed me, as a citizen, of my rights being violated by my own government. I also feel that the administration that is about to descend upon us will be, without doubt, a danger to us all. Pardon Snowden and more citizens might be encouraged to be as watchful -- and in the end, as dutiful. It was too bad for NSA that Snowden chose duty to the people instead of the agencies. Too bad for them but very good for us.
12
Thank you, Mr. President.
9
It's interesting that so many comments place Chelsea Manning in a subordinate role, and therefore not the main "criminal". Many believe that Edward Snowden and Chelsea Manning are whistleblowers, who revealed that the NSA was lying when it denied the massive surveillance that was being enacted against citizens, in violation of our right to privacy. In fact, the NSA was forced to change its tactics thanks to the leak, and protect the Constitutional rights of citizens. Unfortunately, Obama prosecuted more whistleblowers under the Espionage Act than any previous president. Giving Manning clemency is a step in the right direction.
6
Good on the President. If a low-ranking GI had access to a classified network,
one can surmise that all our adversaries had already found a way through what must have been a flimsy security wall. So all Manning did was to reveal the information to her fellow Americans. Good on her also.
one can surmise that all our adversaries had already found a way through what must have been a flimsy security wall. So all Manning did was to reveal the information to her fellow Americans. Good on her also.
6
The majority of commenters who are criticizing this commutation are ignoring the fact that Manning already served 7 years for leaks that typically receive a sentence of 1 - 3 years! Obama is correcting an injustice.
11
His crime wasn't just leaking information. It rose to the level of treason. He's lucky he wasn't executed. He should do life in prison.
2
I am pleased to hear of the release of Chelsea Manning.
I am deeply saddened by the President's failure to pardon Edward Snowden.
According the the article, White House Spokesman Josh Earnest said, "Mr. Snowden fled into the arms of an adversary and has sought refuge in a country that most recently made a concerted effort to undermine confidence in our democracy.” There are two lies in this statement (1) anyone who has seen any of the multiple movies about Snowden should be aware that Snowden did not CHOOSE to end up in the Moscow airport. (2) Russia might be trying to undermine American democracy, but to tie Snowden to this effort simply because he is stuck there, is an obvious distortion of the truth.
[Mr. Earnest] so noted that while the documents Ms. Manning provided to WikiLeaks were “damaging to national security,” the ones Mr. Snowden disclosed were “far more serious and far more dangerous.” What Mr. Earnest neglects to say is that the Snowden papers were also more important for the American people to know. Because of Edward Snowden, I now know the extent to which NSA violates my rights in its vast data gathering overreach, an act of surveillance that China or Russia would be proud of. Edward Snowden is a hero for having the courage to come forward with this evidence. Now he is a man without a country. Please Mr. Obama, YOU can right this injustice. Time is getting short.
I am deeply saddened by the President's failure to pardon Edward Snowden.
According the the article, White House Spokesman Josh Earnest said, "Mr. Snowden fled into the arms of an adversary and has sought refuge in a country that most recently made a concerted effort to undermine confidence in our democracy.” There are two lies in this statement (1) anyone who has seen any of the multiple movies about Snowden should be aware that Snowden did not CHOOSE to end up in the Moscow airport. (2) Russia might be trying to undermine American democracy, but to tie Snowden to this effort simply because he is stuck there, is an obvious distortion of the truth.
[Mr. Earnest] so noted that while the documents Ms. Manning provided to WikiLeaks were “damaging to national security,” the ones Mr. Snowden disclosed were “far more serious and far more dangerous.” What Mr. Earnest neglects to say is that the Snowden papers were also more important for the American people to know. Because of Edward Snowden, I now know the extent to which NSA violates my rights in its vast data gathering overreach, an act of surveillance that China or Russia would be proud of. Edward Snowden is a hero for having the courage to come forward with this evidence. Now he is a man without a country. Please Mr. Obama, YOU can right this injustice. Time is getting short.
9
Snowden is an international superstar, living with his sexy girlfriend in Russia. There is no reason for him to return to this disgrace of a country. Why would he? Hopefully, he will inspire many others who will emulate his acts of courage and drag the rotten government and military into the cold light of day.
2
Just to answer your question, I believe that Mr. Snowden has said that he wants to return to the US. He hasn't returned because he (1) doesn't think he would be given a fair trial and (2) the consequences of being found guilty of violating the espionage act are extreme. President Obama should recognize that Snowden acted out of conscience and a responsibility to the American people. He should be pardoned.
7
This is rubbish.
I DON'T care if Pvt. Manning wants to become a transgender "woman". That's his business. What I do care about is his release of 100's of thousands of pages of classified documents, and 250 THOUSAND diplomatic cables. (And, he/she said that releasing this huge amount of files was "not intended to put anyone at risk"). What ?? A theft of this size and depth not risking American lives ? THAT action is flat out treason, terribly endangering National Security, and Manning should be put before a firing squad for letting our enemies have that information.
While I voted for President Obama, twice, I haven't always agreed with him. This time, on his exit, Stage Left, I strongly disagree.
If the President wants to Pardon somebody, let's start with Leonard Peltier. He has spent decades behind prison bars for a shooting that he did not commit.
I think President Obama's action here is window dressing, and sets a very bad precedent for future crooks to steal Classified information. While I am more than unhappy with the incoming Administration, I feel that President Obama is way off base on this one.
I DON'T care if Pvt. Manning wants to become a transgender "woman". That's his business. What I do care about is his release of 100's of thousands of pages of classified documents, and 250 THOUSAND diplomatic cables. (And, he/she said that releasing this huge amount of files was "not intended to put anyone at risk"). What ?? A theft of this size and depth not risking American lives ? THAT action is flat out treason, terribly endangering National Security, and Manning should be put before a firing squad for letting our enemies have that information.
While I voted for President Obama, twice, I haven't always agreed with him. This time, on his exit, Stage Left, I strongly disagree.
If the President wants to Pardon somebody, let's start with Leonard Peltier. He has spent decades behind prison bars for a shooting that he did not commit.
I think President Obama's action here is window dressing, and sets a very bad precedent for future crooks to steal Classified information. While I am more than unhappy with the incoming Administration, I feel that President Obama is way off base on this one.
4
Manning went about it wrongly, but I believe he thought he was doing the right thing. He didn't sell the information or try to personally benefit. Very misguided. He's paid a price already, having been tortured in prison. Meanwhile, the bankster criminals who attacked our county's economy on par with terrorists or a foreign enemy are walking around free. That's who should be in prison.
6
Obama is OK with intelligence treason that damages America, but goes nuts over Fake News leaked by his own top spies if it damages Donald Trump. Just so we are clear about the most evil being ever to inhabit the White House.
5
This traitor didn't just "leak" information. He committed treason against his fellow service men and women and endangered their lives and the lives of foreign interpreters working with our military and CIA. The taliban killed numerous people based on vague descriptions in documents this traitor stole. He, like Bergdahl, should have been executed for treason. As a Vietnam era vet, any of us that did that would have been. Commuting his sentence was just another proof that Obama was an enemy of our country, just as him releasing extreme terrorists from Gitmo to kill more people shows. I believe Obama's twisted morals and love of deviant sexual practices also played a part. Obama leaving will finally allow our country regain its moral footing and reputation in the world.
3
It's interesting that so many people speak about Manning being ill and therefore, in need of mercy. Are they willing to show the same kind of mercy to the estimated 50%+ of the prison population who are allegedly mentally ill?
http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/04/more-than-half-of-pris...
http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/04/more-than-half-of-pris...
4
Hey really cool. All you have to do is have a sex change operation (in prison) and you get out. Aldridge Ames, think about it! Snowden, maybe if you do that they won't bother you if you come back. Now Julian Assange has a big decision...
3
Actually, all you have to do is have an abnormally harsh sentence applied, serve more years than others convicted of similar crimes and be a model prisoner. She served her time. It's now time for forgiveness.
7
Chelsea Manning has not had a sex change operation.
5
I don't think Obama will commute or pardon Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert. The former hypocrite and child molester, the darling of the GOP patriot crowd, should get the 35 years which Manning was received.
5
Unacceptable! So glad Obama will be gone in days!! People like this commit these crimes and he lets them go. He should be charged now! This person is a criminal and needs to be in prison and deserves no special treatment/attention especially with his gender identity.
3
High profile cases get the nod for pardon. Thousands of 'nobodies' languish in State and Federal prisons for far less offense than Pvt. Manning's damaging intelligence leaks. And General Cartwright, a liar, also gets pardoned. Very uneven balance of justice in this country and these two pardons do not make it any better.
2
Locking up innocent people (Trump took out a full page ad to advocate innocent men released from jail should be locked up), executing people (bringing Jeff Sessions onboard who seems to be proud of executing people including those with diminished mental capacity) and faux outrage over cyber security (see the Times article on Trump supporters who don't care if Russia helped Trump win) are hallmarks of the right. I'm glad Obama commuted her sentence brought about by over charging procecutors with rules made mostly by white men for their own benefits. It is time for a criminal justice upheaval where juries reject this behavior by procecutors and politicians.
5