Opinion: Why Snowden should not expect the same treatment as Manning

To the editor: Precise terminology can enlighten a reader on both an event and the relevant process. In The Times’ article on former U.S. soldier Chelsea Manning, the two distinct methods a president can use to bestow clemency, either by pardon or commutation, are less than clear. (“Obama commutes Chelsea Manning’s prison sentence,” Jan. 17)

Manning, who was originally sentenced to 35 years in military imprisonment for leaking thousands of classified documents to WikiLeaks, received the benefit of commutation, which is a lessening of her punishment. A pardon, on the other hand, is the more comprehensive edict of innocence; it voids all consequences of a past conviction or any possible future one for a given action.

Former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden could now be pardoned, but by not subjecting himself to the criminal justice system, any sentence he might get cannot be reduced by a president. This is part of the argument for Snowden to return to the country and face trial.

Al Rodbell, Encinitas

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To the editor: Manning’s commutation is another indication of either the ineptitude of President Obama or an indication of his disdain for our military. There was no need to shorten this traitor’s sentence from the 35 years she received originally.

Shame on this president, who The Times endorsed twice.

Marcus Kourtjian, Northridge

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To the editor: Many thanks to Obama for his courage and compassion in taking the controversial action of commuting Manning’s sentence to time served plus 100 days. It will give me one more reason to remember him as a shining example of the best that America has to offer.

Noel Park, Rancho Palos Verdes

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