The Heat discusses NSA, CIA, press freedom with journalist James Risen

The Heat

Pulitzer-prize winning journalist and author James RisenPulitzer-prize winning journalist and author James Risen

James Risen is the New York Times reporter who broke the story about the secret warrantless wiretapping program by America’s National Security Agency. Now he is under pressure by the government to divulge his sources or go to jail. In his new book, the Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist writes about how the American government is consumed by war.

For more than six years, Risen has fought a legal battle to protect confidential sources. In 2008, Risen was subpoenaed by the U.S. Justice Department to testify before a grand jury. Testimony, American federal prosecutors say is vital to their case against former CIA officer Jeffrey Sterling.

In his 2006 book, “State of War,” Risen describes a botched CIA operation in Iran. Federal agents believe it was Sterling who leaked classified information to James Risen. His case went all the way to the Supreme Court. But the justices refused to hear it allowing a federal appellate court ruling to stand that Risen could be subpoenaed to testify.

Journalist James Risen joined The Heat to discuss his legal battle and his latest book, “Pay Any Price: Greed, Power and Endless War.”

Risen continued to talk about his thoughts on the Edward Snowden case.