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I think it's more because Snowden's disclosures have an implication for average citizens, but not Manning's.


Snowden revealed wrongdoing by people that the general public does not feel much of any sort of connection or loyalty to.

'The military', rather than 'the NSA' (both DoD, yes, but still rather distinct in the eyes of the public), is something that the American public has become convinced absolutely must be supported no matter their political stance or position on war. Support for the military must be unwavering, even if you support nothing that the military actually does. Anything short of that is un-American, therefore Manning is un-American.


The rationale I've heard for Manning is that he was military and betrayed his oath.




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