The NYT put the country at risk by publishing this story. That is treason. The individuals who leaked the information also committed treason. Treason is a difficult charge on which to convict. However, proof of leaking classified information should automatically result in the removal of one's security clearance. Imagine Senator Rockefeller without security clearance.
Treason is a difficult charge on which to convict.
Yes, because the specifications are, for lack of a better word, very specific. Their are other charges with plenty of jail time for the leaks in this case. Rockefeller would probably not go to trial based on Leahy's treatment. Leahy's leaks got people killed and he simply dropped off the committee. I can't remember if he even got censured.