Snowden violated his contract with the United States government (and therefore with the United States citizens) and did not follow proper channels in questioning information he found in his position. By releasing information to the global public as he did, he jeopardized the security of the people of United States, international relationships with other countries, and the global image and effectiveness of the United States of America as a trusted world power. The impact on the economy of the United States has yet to be determined but is undeniable.



