What is required to convict someone of treason?

To convict someone of treason, the U.S. Constitution specifically mandates that there must be either the testimony of two witnesses to the same overt act of treason or a confession in open court. This requirement is established in Article III, Section 3 of the Constitution, which was designed to ensure that treason charges are not easily brought or based on unreliable accusations. The rationale behind this high standard is to protect individuals from the serious implications of a treason conviction, which could include severe penalties, by requiring strong evidentiary support.

This standard reflects the gravity of treason as a crime against the state and offers safeguards against false claims and potential miscarriages of justice. Thus, having two witnesses or a clear confession balances the need for accountability with the protection of individual rights.