Logan act!
The Logan Act is a U.S. federal law that criminalizes unauthorized private negotiations with foreign governments to protect the government’s official diplomatic authority.
Overview and Purpose
The Logan Act, codified at 18 U.S.C. § 953, was enacted in 1799 to prevent private citizens from interfering in U.S. foreign policy or undermining official government negotiations. It prohibits any U.S. citizen, without authorization, from directly or indirectly engaging in correspondence or negotiations with a foreign government regarding disputes with the United States or to defeat U.S. measures, with violations punishable by fines or imprisonment up to three years. The law includes an exception for citizens seeking redress for personal injuries from a foreign government.
Historical Background
The Act was a response to Dr. George Logan, a Pennsylvania legislator and pacifist, who in 1798 traveled to France during the Quasi-War to negotiate as a private citizen. Logan’s actions, intended to reduce tensions, were seen as undermining President John Adams’ administration and the official U.S. diplomatic mission. Congress passed the Logan Act to prevent similar unauthorized diplomacy in the future. Logan met with high-ranking French officials, including Talleyrand, and openly discussed U.S. political sentiments, which sparked controversy and led to the law’s creation.
Legal Provisions
The Logan Act applies to any U.S. citizen, whether inside or outside the country, who engages in unauthorized diplomacy with intent to influence foreign governments in disputes with the United States. Authorized officials, such as diplomats or government representatives acting within their official duties, are exempt. The Act has been amended only once, in 1994, to update the penalty language.
The Logan Act is a U.S. federal law . . .
= = =
The Logan Act is an old White Man thing from 1799.
Poo Poo on it!
John Kerry says, “Hello”!!