Not exactly - classified information is already effectively "owned" by the USG from a stewardship perspective (not ownership). USG is supposed to protect and sa

Not exactly - classified information is already effectively "owned" by the USG from a stewardship perspective (not ownership). USG is supposed to protect and safeguard said info - said info is still technically public domain (owned) - it is just restricted due to national security implications. SF-312 clearly specifies to the person receiving classified information that they have unique requirements for handling and disclosure. That said, given SF-312, I think Chelsea Manning had a lot more downside exposure than Edward Snowden does. Ms. Manning shared the classified information in a very vindictive and dangerous way. Mr. Snowden was very careful in what and how he leaked with regards to the data in question. Both acts are still technically violations of SF-312 (among other stuff, like criminal law), but the extent of risk and damage done to the USG interests is always evaluated. (Have signed SF-312 multiple times in my life.)