White House, top intelligence lawmakers reject NSA leaker Snowden's plea for clemency
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}In this video frame grab provided by LifeNews via Rossia 24 TV channel, which has been authenticated based on its contents and other AP reporting, former National Security Agency systems analyst Edward Snowden looks over his shoulder during a boat trip on the Moscow River in Moscow, with the Christ the Savior Cathedral in the background. LifeNews said the video was shot in September 2013 and Snowden’s lawyer, Anatoly Kucherena, confirmed the photo's authenticity. Snowden is calling for international help to persuade the U.S. to drop its espionage charges against him, according to a letter a German lawmaker released Friday after he met the American in Moscow. (AP Photo/LifeNews via Rossia 24 TV channel) TV OUT (The Associated Press)
The White House and the heads of the intelligence committees in Congress are rejecting a plea for clemency by National Security Agency-contractor-turned-fugitive Edward Snowden.
White House adviser Dan Pfeiffer says no such offers are being discussed. He tells ABC's "This Week," that Snowden should return to the U.S. and face charges, which include leaking classified information.
That sentiment is echoed by the committee chairmen, Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California and Rep. Mike Rogers of Michigan.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Rogers calls clemency for Snowden a "terrible idea." Feinstein says Snowden broke the law, when he could have privately reported his revelations to her committee.
Snowden, who has temporary asylum in Russia, made the plea in a letter released Friday.
Rogers and Feinstein appeared on CBS' "Face the Nation."