American Scandal: ENCORE: Edward Snowden | Going Public | Episode 3 - Detailed Summary

Introduction

In the third episode of the "Going Public" series within Wondery's "American Scandal," host Lindsey Graham delves deep into Edward Snowden's pivotal decision to expose the National Security Agency's (NSA) extensive surveillance programs. This episode meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to Snowden's public revelation, the intense collaboration with journalists, and the ensuing personal and political fallout.

Edward Snowden's Decision to Leak Classified Information

Early June 2013, Hong Kong

Edward Snowden, a former NSA contractor, finds himself in a precarious position. Disillusioned by the NSA's pervasive surveillance of American citizens, Snowden decides to take a monumental risk by leaking top-secret documents. The episode opens with Snowden in a chaotic Hong Kong hotel room, preparing to disclose the NSA's intrusive monitoring practices. He expresses his belief that "citizens deserve to know the truth about their government," highlighting his motivation to protect freedom and democracy from governmental overreach ([00:58]).

Collaboration with Journalists

Snowden partners with documentary filmmaker Laura Poitras and Guardian reporter Glenn Greenwald to ensure the information reaches the public responsibly. The trio spends days in the hotel room meticulously planning the release of the documents. Snowden emphasizes the importance of ethical journalism, insisting, "This information can't put any innocent people at risk" ([05:32]).

However, tension arises as Snowden seeks assurances that the journalists will handle the sensitive material appropriately. Greenwald reassures him, stating, "We'll do our job. I'm serious. The public has to know the truth" ([09:15]). Despite Snowden's exhaustion and anxiety over potential repercussions, he remains steadfast in his resolve to expose the NSA's actions.

Guardian's Publication Hurdles

As Snowden gears up to go public, Greenwald faces significant delays from his editor, Janine Gibson, at The Guardian. The episode portrays the intense pressure Greenwald endures, waiting for editorial approval to publish the groundbreaking stories. At one point, Greenwald conveys his frustration: "The government cannot be allowed to shape their reporting. They'll kill the story" ([15:45]).

The internal conflict within The Guardian becomes palpable when legal advisors suggest showcasing the stories to federal officials before publication. Greenwald vehemently opposes this, arguing, "This isn't how it's supposed to work. The press is supposed to hold the government accountable" ([18:30]). Realizing the delays could jeopardize the entire operation, Greenwald resorts to creating an ultimatum, demanding publication by 5 PM or risking taking the story elsewhere.

Ultimately, under immense pressure, The Guardian's editor agrees to release the stories within thirty minutes, cementing the publication of Snowden's revelations. Greenwald's determination pays off when the first article hits the public domain: "NSA collecting phone records of millions of Verizon customers daily" ([25:10]).

Personal Impact on Snowden's Girlfriend, Lindsay Mills

Parallel to the main narrative, the episode provides an intimate look into the life of Lindsay Mills, Snowden's girlfriend. As Snowden's information becomes public, Mills grapples with fear and uncertainty. Federal agents surveil her, leading to invasive interrogations and insinuations about Snowden's whereabouts and actions. Mills' realization that Snowden might be the whistleblower forces her to flee Honolulu, seeking safety and normalcy amidst the chaos.

A poignant moment occurs when Mills discovers Snowden's face in The New York Times, solidifying her fears and the undeniable truth of his actions. The emotional toll on Mills is evident as she contemplates the irreversible changes to their lives: "Snowden just confessed to a crime. She thinks it's moral and righteous, but it's still a crime" ([34:50]).

Snowden's Public Revelation and Media Frenzy

With the articles live, Snowden faces the reality of his decision. He watches as media outlets and political figures react vehemently to the NSA's surveillance programs. Snowden collaborates with Poitras, Greenwald, and Guardian journalist Ewan McCaskill to plan his next move: publicly revealing himself as the whistleblower.

Snowden articulates his rationale: "For Edward Snowden, standing up for what you believe in is what it means to serve your country" ([40:25]). The journalists support his decision, understanding the necessity of his exposure despite the personal risks involved.

Escape and Legal Challenges

As global attention intensifies, Snowden recognizes the imminent threat from the U.S. government seeking his extradition. The episode details Snowden's strategic move to a safe house in a poor Hong Kong neighborhood, highlighting his struggle with the legal limbo awaiting him. His lawyer informs him of the formal charges: theft of government property and unauthorized communication of classified intelligence.

Snowden contemplates his limited options: applying for asylum in Hong Kong or seeking refuge in another country. The gravity of potential extradition looms over him, pushing him closer to the brink of seeking further evasion. The episode underscores Snowden's resilience and unwavering commitment to his cause, even in the face of probable life imprisonment.

Conclusion and Foreshadowing

Episode 3 of "Going Public" concludes with Snowden entrenched in safety, yet burdened by the uncertain future. The narrative sets the stage for the subsequent episodes, where Snowden's escape from Hong Kong and the U.S. government's relentless pursuit will further unravel the complexities of whistleblowing in the digital age.

Notable Quotes

• Edward Snowden: "Citizens deserve to know the truth about their government." ([00:58])
• Glenn Greenwald: "We'll do our job. I'm serious. The public has to know the truth." ([09:15])
• Glenn Greenwald: "The government cannot be allowed to shape their reporting. They'll kill the story." ([15:45])
• Lindsay Mills: "Snowden just confessed to a crime. She thinks it's moral and righteous, but it's still a crime." ([34:50])

Recommended Resources

For listeners seeking a deeper understanding of Edward Snowden's journey and the ethical implications of his actions, the episode recommends the following:

• Books:

  • No Place to Hide by Glenn Greenwald
  • Permanent Record by Edward Snowden

• Documentary:

  • Citizenfour directed by Laura Poitras

Production Credits

• Host: Lindsey Graham
• Writers: Austin Rachlis
• Editors: Christina Malsberger
• Sound Design: Derek Barrons
• Music: Lindsey Graham
• Executive Producers: Stephanie Jens, Jenny Lauer Beckman, Marsha Louie

Looking Forward

As the series progresses, listeners can anticipate further exploration of Snowden's attempts to evade capture, the global political ramifications of his leaks, and the enduring debate over privacy, security, and government transparency.

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