Daniel Ellsberg Press Freedom and Whistleblower Protection Act of 2026

This bill amends the Espionage Act to reform how whistleblowers and press freedom are protected under federal law. It requires prosecutors to prove that individuals leaked classified information with specific intent to harm the United States or benefit foreign nations, rather than just showing they knew the information was classified. The legislation also establishes an affirmative defense allowing defendants to argue they disclosed information to reveal illegal activities, constitutional violations, or significant threats to public health and safety. Additionally, it permits defendants charged under these sections to testify about their motivations for releasing the information. These changes directly affect government employees, contractors, and journalists who handle classified materials.