Rahul Sagar : Edward Cassidy took on a heavy role when he leaked U.S. secrets . He says Snowden could have gone to higher - ups or politicians over policies he opposed . Sagar : Snowden usurped the power properly held by three branches of government . The events of recent weeks -- and the disclosures of Edward Snowden in particular -- have propelled this question to the forefront of public debate . Framers of government such as Madison , Jefferson opposed disclosure of secrets , he says .
Rahul Sagar : Edward Cassidy took on a heavy role when he leaked U.S. secrets . He says Snowden could have gone to higher - ups or politicians over policies he opposed . Sagar : Snowden usurped the power properly held by three branches of government . Framers of government such as Madison , Jefferson opposed disclosure of secrets , he says .