Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Jim McGovern (D-MA) have united in a bipartisan appeal urging President Joe Biden to pardon Julian Assange. The lawmakers argue that the prosecution of Assange under the Espionage Act endangers press freedom and sets a dangerous precedent for journalists.

The joint letter follows Assange’s recent plea deal, which ended his prolonged detention in the UK and allowed him to return to Australia. Assange pled guilty to “Conspiracy To Obtain and Disclose National Defense Information,” resulting in a 62-month sentence, most of which was credited to time served.

Massie and McGovern expressed gratitude for the resolution but voiced deep concern about the implications. “The decision to prosecute Mr. Assange has alarmed Members of Congress and advocates for freedom of the press,” they wrote.

The lawmakers highlighted warnings from press freedom groups, including the Committee to Protect Journalists, which described the case as a harmful precedent that could criminalize journalists for publishing classified information. “This should never have been the case,” noted CPJ CEO Jodie Ginsberg.

The congressmen argue that a pardon would reverse this precedent and reaffirm the U.S.’s commitment to protecting journalists. “We urge you to consider issuing a pardon for Mr. Assange,” they wrote.

The bipartisan push underscores broader concerns about freedom of expression and the U.S. government’s role in safeguarding journalistic practices worldwide. Critics warn that failing to act could damage America’s standing as a defender of free speech.