What is treason?

The 1828 Webster's Dictionary was written within a few years after the United States Constitution was adopted. It is the best reference for understanding the meanings of the words that were written. Treason - "In the United States, treason is confined to the actual levying of war against the United States, or in adhering to their enemies, giving them aid and comfort."

If the "them" in the above sentence points to those who would attack the United States, would it be possible for the president of the United States to be guilty of treason due to his or her actions? Would turning loose enemy combatants who could engage in warfare against the United States (directly or by recruitment and training of others) be considered as "giving them aid and comfort?" Could downgrading protection of our borders against foreign invasion be "giving them aid and comfort?" Could downgrading the size and capability of the United States military be considered as "giving them aid and comfort?"

Could "declaring the war is over" when the United States faces an enemy that is not defined by either uniforms, or control by a national government, be considered as surrendering the United States to an undefined (but definitely real) enemy? Is it not the actions of the enemy that determine whether a war exists?

Could a person who was born without both parents being United State citizens at the time of his or her birth (that is, a person who is not a natural born citizen as required by the United States Constitution) be considered guilty of treason, or a high crime, by taking the oath of office to be president of the United States?

Patrick Henry wrote, "Is life so dear or peace so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, almighty God! I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!" Could the actions of a president, and corrupt Congress, place this country into economic slavery from which our children, grandchildren, and generations that follow never recover? Would that be treason?

Thomas Fancher

Moses Lake