Rep. Peter King, R-N.Y.

There's a controversy over whether government information leakers such as Edward Snowden should be punished under the law for allegedly compromising national security. As for the reporters who publish those leaks, Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) believes they should be prosecuted, too.

"If they knew that this was classified information, I think action should be taken, especially on something of this magnitude," King said on CNN Tuesday night, regarding the recent National Security Agency leaks by Snowden. "I think something on this magnitude, there is an obligation, both moral but also legal, I believe, against a reporter disclosing something which would so severely compromise national security."

King's office did not respond to request for comment from TheBlaze.

In the interview with CNN, King also described Snowden as "a traitor or a defector."

"I think what he's done has been incredible damage to our country," King said. "He's going to put American lives at risk. I don't know how he can live with himself."

Snowden is believed to be in hiding, likely in Hong Kong.

Watch King's interview on CNN:

Related:

• Ted Cruz Reserving Judgement on Whether NSA Leaker Is a ‘Patriot’ or a ‘Traitor’
• Journalist Who Exposed NSA Surveillance Says There Are Still ‘A Lot More Significant Revelations’ to Come
• Lindsey Graham on Domestic Surveillance: ‘If I Thought Censoring the Mail Was Necessary, I Would Suggest It’

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