cannabisnews.com: White House Czar Calls for End to 'War on Drugs'

function share_this(num) {
tit=encodeURIComponent('White House Czar Calls for End to 'War on Drugs'');
url=encodeURIComponent('http://www.cannabisnews.com/news/24/thread24804.shtml');
site = new Array(5);
site[0]='http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u='+url+'&title='+tit;
site[1]='http://www.stumbleupon.com/submit.php?url='+url+'&title='+tit;
site[2]='http://digg.com/submit?topic=political_opinion&media=video&url='+url+'&title='+tit;
site[3]='http://reddit.com/submit?url='+url+'&title='+tit;
site[4]='http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+url+'&title='+tit;
window.open(site[num],'sharer','toolbar=0,status=0,width=620,height=500');
return false;
}

White House Czar Calls for End to 'War on Drugs'

Posted by CN Staff on May 13, 2009 at 17:35:54 PT
By Gary Fields
Source: Wall Street Journal

Washington, D.C. -- The Obama administration's new drug czar says he wants to banish the idea that the U.S. is fighting "a war on drugs," a move that would underscore a shift favoring treatment over incarceration in trying to reduce illicit drug use.In his first interview since being confirmed to head the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, Gil Kerlikowske said Wednesday the bellicose analogy was a barrier to dealing with the nation's drug issues.
"Regardless of how you try to explain to people it's a 'war on drugs' or a 'war on a product,' people see a war as a war on them," he said. "We're not at war with people in this country."Mr. Kerlikowske's comments are a signal that the Obama administration is set to follow a more moderate -- and likely more controversial -- stance on the nation's drug problems. Prior administrations talked about pushing treatment and reducing demand while continuing to focus primarily on a tough criminal-justice approach.The Obama administration is likely to deal with drugs as a matter of public health rather than criminal justice alone, with treatment's role growing relative to incarceration, Mr. Kerlikowske said.Already, the administration has called for an end to the disparity in how crimes involving crack cocaine and powder cocaine are dealt with. Critics of the law say it unfairly targeted African-American communities, where crack is more prevalent.The administration also said federal authorities would no longer raid medical-marijuana dispensaries in the 13 states where voters have made medical marijuana legal. Agents had previously done so under federal law, which doesn't provide for any exceptions to its marijuana prohibition.During the presidential campaign, President Barack Obama also talked about ending the federal ban on funding for needle-exchange programs, which are used to stem the spread of HIV among intravenous-drug users.The drug czar doesn't have the power to enforce any of these changes himself, but Mr. Kerlikowske plans to work with Congress and other agencies to alter current policies. He said he hasn't yet focused on U.S. policy toward fighting drug-related crime in other countries.Mr. Kerlikowske was most recently the police chief in Seattle, a city known for experimenting with drug programs. In 2003, voters there passed an initiative making the enforcement of simple marijuana violations a low priority. The city has long had a needle-exchange program and hosts Hempfest, which draws tens of thousands of hemp and marijuana advocates.Seattle currently is considering setting up a project that would divert drug defendants to treatment programs.Mr. Kerlikowske said he opposed the city's 2003 initiative on police priorities. His officers, however, say drug enforcement -- especially for pot crimes -- took a back seat, according to Sgt. Richard O'Neill, president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild. One result was an open-air drug market in the downtown business district, Mr. O'Neill said."The average rank-and-file officer is saying, 'He can't control two blocks of Seattle, how is he going to control the nation?' " Mr. O'Neill said.Sen. Tom Coburn, the lone senator to vote against Mr. Kerlikowske, was concerned about the permissive attitude toward marijuana enforcement, a spokesman for the conservative Oklahoma Republican said.Others said they are pleased by the way Seattle police balanced the available options. "I think he believes there is a place for using the criminal sanctions to address the drug-abuse problem, but he's more open to giving a hard look to solutions that look at the demand side of the equation," said Alison Holcomb, drug-policy director with the Washington state American Civil Liberties Union.Mr. Kerlikowske said the issue was one of limited police resources, adding that he doesn't support efforts to legalize drugs. He also said he supports needle-exchange programs, calling them "part of a complete public-health model for dealing with addiction."Mr. Kerlikowske's career began in St. Petersburg, Fla. He recalled one incident as a Florida undercover officer during the 1970s that spurred his thinking that arrests alone wouldn't fix matters."While we were sitting there, the guy we're buying from is smoking pot and his toddler comes over and he blows smoke in the toddler's face," Mr. Kerlikowske said. "You go home at night, and you think of your own kids and your own family and you realize" the depth of the problem.Since then, he has run four police departments, as well as the Justice Department's Office of Community Policing during the Clinton administration.Ethan Nadelmann of the Drug Policy Alliance, a group that supports legalization of medical marijuana, said he is "cautiously optimistic" about Mr. Kerlikowske. "The analogy we have is this is like turning around an ocean liner," he said. "What's important is the damn thing is beginning to turn."James Pasco, executive director of the Fraternal Order of Police, the nation's largest law-enforcement labor organization, said that while he holds Mr. Kerlikowske in high regard, police officers are wary."While I don't necessarily disagree with Gil's focus on treatment and demand reduction, I don't want to see it at the expense of law enforcement. People need to understand that when they violate the law there are consequences."Source: Wall Street Journal (US)Author: Gary FieldsPublished: May 14, 2009Copyright: 2009 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.Contact: wsj.ltrs wsj.comWebsite: http://www.wsj.com/URL: http://drugsense.org/url/atR8OkixRelated Articles:Kerlikowske Confirmed as U.S. Drug Czarhttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread24789.shtmlObama Picks The Right Man for Drug Czarhttp://cannabisnews.com/news/thread24601.shtml

Home Comment Email Register Recent Comments Help

Comment #73 posted by Hope on May 16, 2009 at 07:27:15 PT
Swords... of truth.
There is a great blade sharpener and honer in our conversations and comments here at C-News.I know Storm Crow won't think I plagerized her idea... should I get ink. But her comment helped me add one last pass of the "Sword" over the "Strop" or "Honing stone" before I went into the fray.Hope it was sharp enough to cut to the heart of the matter.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #72 posted by Hope on May 16, 2009 at 07:19:08 PT
Storm Crow
When I sent my comment to WSJ, I borrowed from your reference on another post about it not being bags of pot or such in jail, but people.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #71 posted by Hope on May 15, 2009 at 22:04:36 PT
Speaking of "Well said".
Our Paul Armentano, who, thankfully, says a lot well, has a new article up at the Huffington Post.Don't Believe the Hype! Potent Pot, So What?http://digg.com/d1rGLM
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #70 posted by Hope on May 15, 2009 at 21:49:09 PT
BGreen Comment 56
I remember when that was happening. It was frightening. I'm thankful for the little things... like warrants... that keep these cruel strangers... yes they are strangers... from defiling people's homes more than they do. They really would like to come charging into anyone's homes they wanted to and go through their belongings and mistreat them in the name of the government and it's very unjust law. They need a bigger, stronger leash... but at least there is a fiber of justice here and there to hold them back somewhat. Even though we know, that fiber, that need of a warrant, is compromised often.It's not a light matter we're fighting against... and a change of wording won't change the truth of what is happening to people in this country.Thank you Paul Armentano and Dongenero. Dongenero, I'll see if I can polish that comment up a bit, hopefully in the morning, and send it to WSJ.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #69 posted by Hope on May 15, 2009 at 19:14:48 PT
Another dead... another wounded...
in the Not a War.http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle/585/robert_woods_77_foley_alabama_killed_during_marijuana_raidhttp://blog.al.com/live/2009/05/man_killed_foley_police_office.html
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #68 posted by George Servantes on May 14, 2009 at 18:17:01 PT

Why no media complain when we get killed...
... in one of those swat raids ort in jail. Now all of a sudden marijuana activists are so bad and violent. I am not saying there are no cases but compared to prohibition crimes this is nothing.
Why no media ever say anything when prohibitionist kill, torture and imprison us for our own choice of lifestyle?
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #67 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 17:46:13 PT

josephlacerenza
Back in the 70s the movie Soylent Green made a big impact. The Green Movement started mostly by Hippies caused many of us to think about what we were doing to our planet. It's worth watching if you haven't seen it. I know Soylent Green wasn't true but in many senses it was prophetic.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soylent_Green
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #66 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 17:25:00 PT

josephlacerenza
I wasn't able to watch all of it but I saw enough to know I agree. Back in the 70s we made a decision to move away from eastern Pa and move to rural Ohio. The land is beautiful and the air is clean. I don't like to buy anything unless it is important or something I really really want. Keeping up with the Jones has never been my idea of living right for me, our country or our world.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #65 posted by josephlacerenza on May 14, 2009 at 17:03:54 PT

O.T.
I had to post this link to something I saw today. I think part of our problem with prohibition, is that for the prohibs it is soo profitable!!Kind of like, why we call the system we live under capitalism and not greed. If we called it what it was, GREED, no one would be for it!!!
http://www.storyofstuff.com
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #64 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 16:45:12 PT

AdaptBones
I think we will see medical marijuana fixed under this Administration. I think we will see people who are addicted to hard drugs helped rather then put in prison. I think we will see more decriminalization of marijuana happen in states. I consider all those things positive movements. I don't expect change overnight in areas where some seem to think it will happen. I never thought that far ahead. I try to live in the now and am happy just for a change of direction.If McCain was President we would be building more prisons. I have a glass that is half full.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #63 posted by AdaptBones on May 14, 2009 at 16:38:08 PT:

Just because
FoM, while I agree that "harm reduction" may be more acceptable to most it does not make it "right" any more than prohibition is right. People need to stop and take a look around, the system is broken fully and completely, and anyone who takes an honest look around while putting themselves in anothers shoes should be able to plainly see that fact. Accepting the inaction of the powers that be should not be acceptable by anyone, let alone those involved with this movement. While they sit on their hands "discussing" "possible" solutions people are being killed and having thier lives destroyed. It is stall tactics because the powers that be either A) don't want any change, B) don't care enough, or C) are complete cowards who are playing games for their political future instead of standing on their views or the people they represents views. They could do things very quickly if they had the mind to, but they don't. They want to stall and try and make us go away again sop they can maintain their era of power. I really don't mean to be so bitter but these people are destroying people all for one simple plant, a god given plant. These people aren't breaking any fundamental laws of nature and if it wasn't for the status quo there would be NO problem with this plant. It's unnatural and it needs to end. Of course as has been stated I am NOT advocating violence of any sort, I prefer to let my words and knowledge be my weapon. Blessed be everyone.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #62 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 15:11:47 PT

HempWorld
I watch MSNBC and very seldom CNN anymore. MSNBC's The Ed Show, Keith Olbermann and Rachel Maddow present a liberal or progressive view that I appreciate. I never watch Fox News. It makes me feel sick.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #61 posted by MikeC on May 14, 2009 at 15:07:56 PT

HempWorld...
Saw the Wolf Blitzer piece...absolute rubbish!The children...who will save the children?!!! More people to emergency rooms, more people into drug treatment, blah blah blah.You'd think that even the prohibitionists would realize just how tired and lame those arguments are.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #60 posted by HempWorld on May 14, 2009 at 14:49:53 PT

Stronger Pot on CNN with Wolfie Blitzer On Now
Duh, pot today is much stronger (because of prohibition) and that means it is also much worse for you?Not at all, with higher THC you need less smoke and thus it is less harmful. If you have cancer a higher THC content means it might keep you alive longer.CNN has let me down, it pretends to be 'left' but in reality it is as far to the right as fox 'news' possibly farther.
Let it grow!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #59 posted by dongenero on May 14, 2009 at 14:34:16 PT

Hope comment #29
Hope, that is so well said. Your comment should be sent to the Wall Street Journal. That is one of the best comments I've read for succinctly tying this decades long, despicable "drug war" lie into a clear and obvious paragraph of truth.Beautifully stated.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #58 posted by Vincent on May 14, 2009 at 14:26:54 PT:

Sen. Tom Coburn
It would appear that Sen. Tom Coburn was the lone "no" vote against the new Drug Czar because he wasn't tough enough on herb smokers. Well, look where he comes from! Timothy McVeighland. Now I know what they mean when they sing, "I'm proud to be an Okie from Muscogee, a place where even squares can have a ball".Are you sure that you don't want them to Secede?
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #57 posted by dongenero on May 14, 2009 at 14:24:22 PT

Good advice from FoM #48
"Please don't confuse being calm with not having a strong opinion about reform. I find I can accomplish way more by not getting upset and it also doesn't freak out our opponents like in this article I posted below."Be calm, direct and non-threatening. And, absolutely solid and resolute in your position and your argument.Increasingly, the Prohibitionists must resort to histrionics and general hysteria to maintain the status quo. It will not work in their favor any longer but, calm and truth will work in our favor. That position is ours to have. Happily.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #56 posted by BGreen on May 14, 2009 at 13:57:23 PT

Hope re: comment #29
Those are powerful words and I agree 100%.I drove to the Post Office this afternoon, and upon arriving back home, I looked at my beautiful Tulip Poplar trees (recently pruned by our storms) in my front yard and I couldn't help cursing the terrorists who drove their vehicles of terror onto MY driveway to threaten and accuse us of committing a crime without a stitch of evidence or proof.The fact that the shoe soles of their soulless bodies touched MY land and their hands touched my door still makes me sick, although nearly two years have passed, because I know they had one intention and that was to steal everything I've ever owned and worked for. They wanted to take everything I was looking at away from us.If the cops had anything at all on me they would have shown up with the SWAT team and a search warrant. This happens hundreds of times a day in this country.All of this over a plant. Over the possession of a plant and merely the suspicion of possession of a plant.If Mrs. Green and I still harbor this much fear and anger two years later over just a 15-minute threatening "knock and talk," I can only imagine how destroyed people are after a no-knock search warrant.All over a plant.The reason we were so afraid was not because we were intimidated, or because our refusal to let them search our house without a warrant was anything except upholding my Constitutional rights, something I always SAID I would do, but never knew I would do until confronted by these megalomaniacal drug cops.No, the reason we were afraid and terrorized is the parting threat we were left with. Gone was the phony "we're your friend" act and in it's place was the seething anger which exists in the cruel hearts of these drug warriors."We'll be back in an hour with a search warrant," he growled at us.Considering this was the creature I'd already caught in several lies to that point, the imminent threat of heavily armed and angry animals trashing and destroying our house was real.This lying SOB first said he saw a gun (it was a CD case, I own no weapons,) he then said he smelled burnt marijuana (he didn't,) and then he said that he had "credible information" that I was growing marijuana (he didn't because I wasn't.)With a tract record of lying with every word he spoke, I had no doubt whatsoever that he would lie to get the search warrant and they would destroy our house and possibly kill me or my wife.Even when called on his deception, and fully aware he had harassed an innocent couple, the anger and hatred that consumes all of these drug cops allowed him to leave us with that final terroristic threat. He knew he was lying but he still had to terrorize us with false threats of an imminent attack upon our home.Hope, your words speak all too clearly of the pain and suffering inflicted upon people over the cannabis plant. The time has finally come for the truth of your words to be heard.The (I can legally perform weddings but don't mean I should be revered) Bud Green
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #55 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 13:36:45 PT

UPI: Kerlikowske Opposes 'War on Drugs' Idea
May 14, 2009 Washington, D.C. -- Gil Kerlikowske, head of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, says the United States should not see itself as fighting a "war on drugs."The newly confirmed drug control official questioned the use of the popular "war" term, saying such an idea is actually standing in the way of positive movement regarding the country's drug problems, The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday."Regardless of how you try to explain to people it's a 'war on drugs' or a 'war on a product,' people see a war as a war on them," Kerlikowske said Wednesday. "We're not at war with people in this country."Kerlikowske added the Obama administration will likely approach the country's drug problem not just as a criminal justice issue, but also as a public health concern.The new U.S. administration has already taken steps to ban raids of medical-marijuana dispensaries in states that have legalized such medical services, the Journal said. Obama's administration is also urging for equalized law enforcement treatment of crimes involving crack cocaine and powder cocaine.Copyright: 2009 United Press International, Inc.URL: http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/05/14/Kerlikowske-opposes-war-on-drugs-idea/UPI-38331242329051/
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #54 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 12:33:16 PT

AdaptBones
Hard drug issues are really for web sites that are approaching drugs in general but Cannabis News is for Cannabis. I know Drug War Rant talks about that particular issue. If Ohio was polled on hard drug legalization it would probably be in the single digits. Harm reduction might be a better approach for purple states like mine. I will be pushing up daisy before drug legalization will happen. I might live to see the day where harm reduction is accepted. I keep my goals close to target and don't vary much from what my original focus has been.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #53 posted by AdaptBones on May 14, 2009 at 12:20:51 PT:

Very True
You are of course correct FoM, the tide may be turning but we have more to do with educating and addressing the concerns that are already there. There have been so many lies and cannabis was made out to be this huge horrible monster of a drug that there are many concerns and old lies die hard. 50+ years of pounding hard lies and using militant force to scare anyone who refutes those lies has taken it's toll on this country and the knowledge has been so fully corrupted in the minds of many that it will take time. I am of course aware of this and I know I need patience still but when I find something worth dedicating myself too I have a hard time not going full steam ahead. Education is the key and I think that (once again) this administration needs to live up to their words. They said they would let science dictate policy, well the science is on our side so why hasn't there been more change? I am a firm believer that when you make a mistake you don't drag your feet on the issue so that the mistake "eventually" gets fixed and be damned anyone who the mistake hurt in the mean time. That is unacceptable to me. So while yes I know I need to give it time and stay positive and balanced but I will not allow the powers that be to just say the words, they mean nothing without action. I think at a certain point this administration needs to admit that the science is there and that almost all studies determined that cannabis should not be criminal and then just do it. If they try to please everyone then the change will never come. Personally (as a side note) I think if the government REALLY wanted to be honest and responsible they would admit that for as long as humans have been around we have used mind altering substances and there is no realistic way of being a "drug free nation". With that in mind they should regulate ALL drugs in small quantity for personal use so they could make sure it was pure samples and educate people on responsible drug use including moderation. THAT is a much more sensable policy and would do the most to address their concerns. Blessed be.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #52 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 11:49:47 PT

AdaptBones
We understand but not everyone understands. Just talk to friends, family and neighbors. I think we feel because we are on the same wavelength that the majority of U.S. Citizens are too. That's just not so. My state is an example. 73% are for medical marijuana but over 61% are against legalizing marijuana. Ohio is a big state and we are more a purple state then a red or blue one so Ohio is a good example of how far we have to go. http://www.progressohio.org/page/community/post/daveharding/CqWK
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #51 posted by BGreen on May 14, 2009 at 11:39:48 PT

Let it be known
If any of you threaten anybody I'll kick your butt!LOLThe Reverend Bud Green
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #50 posted by AdaptBones on May 14, 2009 at 11:24:15 PT:

I read that
FoM, yeah I read that article and I was dismayed by it. There is no reason what so ever to threaten or even verbally assult any prohibs or anyone else for that matter. I do get heated at times by inaction on this topic but I try to remain balanced internally. The main problem for me is that with common sense things like drug policy, especially with regards to cannabis, I can't understand the inaction. The science is there, the desire is there, the common sense is there, AND the examples are there so I can not for the life of me understand the inaction at the expense of average citizens who's only crime was disagreeing with the status quo about what they choose to do on their own time with their own bodies. But it would be a dark day if I ever found myself to the point that I would resort to prohib fear tactics to try and make my point because no one should ever be about that. I am hopeful, I really am but the fear of what has always been is hard to overcome. Blessed be to all of you and indeed we should all try to stay positive because no matter the speed the prohib dam has never been more damaged than it is now and that bodes well for freedom.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #49 posted by MikeC on May 14, 2009 at 11:17:14 PT

AdaptBones...
I agree...talk is not enough. We MUST keep the pressure on until marijuana is completely free from the shackles of lobbyists, politicians, law enforcement, and the pharmaceutical companies.I have to credit the internet for the change in attitude towards marijuana. Remember before we had access to websites like Cannabisnews how we felt so alone in this fight. The internet has opened so many doors of communication and information sharing that this was inevitable.Thank you all for making this possible. Keep it up!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #48 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 11:11:38 PT

AdaptBones
Please don't confuse being calm with not having a strong opinion about reform. I find I can accomplish way more by not getting upset and it also doesn't freak out our opponents like in this article I posted below.http://www.pr-inside.com/threats-made-to-connecticut-senator-bring-r1253648.htm
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #47 posted by AdaptBones on May 14, 2009 at 11:08:21 PT:

True
True he has just taken the job and perhaps I am not giving him the time he needs to do anything worth anything. In that respect perhaps he has not had the time to show his actions will match his words. Change is just so close and I worry that people in the movement will become complacent because they see all the movement, I want to make sure we are holding these people accountable for their words and challenging them to make their actions match their words. He says the he wants to end the "war on drugs", well alright that is certainly positive but I've been conditioned to not believe anything anyone in politics says until the action happens, so I'm critical now because freedom and true change is almost within reach. It feels like I spotted a cookie sitting on the counter with everyone standing around it but no one taking it. I'm waiting to get my hand slapped (or worse) if I try and take it. That is all I've known in my life so I have nothing else to compare it to. Also FoM, I absolutly agree with you and I am active with writing my representatives and local leaders to support cannabis reform (among other various things). I will give him a bit more time (I guess I jumped the gun a little on judging him but I'm frusterated so please forgive my attitude) and if no actions are coming and it's all just words I will absolutly write him. My voice is of course just a drop in the ocean but how do you think the ocean was formed...lots of little drops. Blessed be everyone.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #46 posted by MikeC on May 14, 2009 at 11:00:43 PT

AdaptBones...
I understand your frustration as I suffer from it as well. It's just nice to hear our "brand new" drug czar talking about ending the "war on drugs". You'd have never heard Johnny P. or his predecessors say something like that. It may take time but I really do believe that change is coming our way. I am on your side my friend.Peace
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #45 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 10:43:04 PT

AdaptBones
Just complaining here on CNews won't change anything. Write to the new Drug Czar and share how you feel and that might make a difference.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #44 posted by Dagman11 on May 14, 2009 at 10:42:34 PT

Patience
Gil has just taken his job, he is not to blame for all the suffering in the past. We need to give him time and see where he is going with this. I for one am optimistic. Drug policy reform is not going to be a single event. It will be a progressive change implemented over a period of time. This might actually mean that our drug policy will emerge from the Mesozoic Era. -Dave
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #43 posted by AdaptBones on May 14, 2009 at 10:38:13 PT:

MikeC
Sure he may not have the power to declare something like that himself but he CAN certainly come out and make a statement that this administration SHOULD do that. See I don't buy the argument that they can't do these things. He may not be able to fix the problem but he has things he COULD be doing and saying that would go a LONG way to actions matching words. This comment was a bit more harsh than I have been in the past but I see a LOT of talk and no action to back it up and it's making me think the prohibs are trying to blow smoke of their own and when the smoke settles nothing will have changed. Until the actions of change start happening I will hope, but I will not hold my breath. Blessed be and I really hope this isn't just another song and dance.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #42 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 10:15:39 PT

MikeC
I agree with you.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #41 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 10:12:27 PT

I Found This in My California List
http://www.pr-inside.com/threats-made-to-connecticut-senator-bring-r1253648.htm
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #40 posted by MikeC on May 14, 2009 at 10:11:31 PT

AdaptBones...
I don't believe that Gil has the authority to just cease all existing marijuana laws/policy. I would have to imagine that something of that nature would take a bit of time to implement knowing the bureaucracy of this country. I wish it were that easy.I am am going to give this administration a little time before I pass judgement. I am a bit more optimistic than I ever have been but will approach with caution. I think that we can all agree however that at least rhetoric is light years better than in the past.Peace.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #39 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 10:06:18 PT

museman
I agree with you. Free Cannabis for everyone!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #38 posted by AdaptBones on May 14, 2009 at 09:53:13 PT:

Pretty Words
Those are some pretty words there Gil but words without actions are meaningless. You say it's not a war on the people of this nation, is that why you are still putting people in cages for 10 years and saying "you had no choice"? I don't believe you for a second you snake oil salesman. I want to believe you but it's hard when you are staring down a barrel of a gun and looking at a cage the powers that be would love to throw me in because I choose something different than you. So yes, the oceanliner MAY be turning (and I think it is) but that really does not help any of us until you take some damn action and actually STOP punishing people. If you came out tomorrow and said "Okay we are going to suspend all arrests for cannabis possession until can come up with a new policy because this was never meant to be a war on the people and we need to stop that now". If you came out and made ANY type of statement similar to that, THEN i would believe you. Until then it's all pretty words that do none of us any good because we are still staring down the barrel of a gun. Blessed be.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #37 posted by museman on May 14, 2009 at 09:50:43 PT

"The war is over"
But the cops are till hassling the poor, and homeless people. The rich are still rich and eating well while the 'ordinary' citizen has to make the economic choice of
'fake' food, vs real food, because the price of real food is twice as much.Water no longer flows clean and palatable, you have to buy it in bottles.The airlines still plow the sky, and dump their fleurocarbons into the high atmosphere.The scourge of Detroit still smogs the air -even with the rise in gas prices so that only the wealthy can 'See the USA in their Chevrolet.' And instead of just retooling to make Hybrids and other ecofriendly automobiles, its all about saving the SUV.You can't visit a hotspring at night because terrorists might meet there to discuss their agendas.You can't gather together on public land without fees and special use permits.The cops have become Gestapo - I don't think they've been informed yet that their hayday is over, they still think they are the 'kings of the street.'The status-quo 'professionals' still compromise their integrity for a few dollars more.Corporate monsters like Monsanto are attempting to patent the rights to all seeds, while their political puppets ae trying to include all organic, and natural herbal substances into their own new form of prohibition.You can have the greatest ideas in the world, but if you haven't the means to buy an audience with 'those who matter' it doesn't matter who you do manage to get to listen.If you aren't a licensed, insured, bonded, financially backed card-carrying member of the status-quo...who are you again?Words flow like cheap, refined sugar from the top down, but like sugar, the first effect is euphoric, but then comes the price of having your vitals eaten out from meth-like caustic, crystaline shards of chemicly created poison.So willing we are to accept the compromises offered by the status quo, and to accredit these pretenders with some kind of 'authority' because they fulfilled the narrow parameters and criteria of their various institutionalized self-serving systems,...so willing to believe in the Emperors 'new' clothes, the opportunity to actually set things to right, is as much on the verge of being lost, as the polits and pundits are trying to capitalize on the general feeling that change is in the air.The enemy of freedom is government, and the elite classes that use it to further their own self interests. As long as we continue support failed systems -which includes every single one that is sanctioned by the US Government - because in order to be sanctioned, you have to compromise and serve the interests of the controlling elite,and become willing slaves to the economic, social masters....as long as the people continue to compromise with their 'leaders' and 'betters' and 'bosses' and 'masters' there will be no cessation of war against Nature, Yah, and Humanity, by the ones who errantly claim 'specialness' in this world.I've said it before, and I'll say it again;There is no compromising with truth, for any reason, such a thing is merely the disguised creation of a lie.The truth is that there are certain rights, and liberties that we are inherently born with, such as equal value under our creator, equal access to Creation including everything that grows and can be used as food - for the body, mind and spirit, and most importantly, the totally spoiled right to fresh air, and fresh water.The truth is that this 'war' goes far beyond cannabis prohibition, and to think that any compromises offered by the government that brought us Wounded Knee, Ruby Ridge, Waco, Oklahoma City Bombing, and 911 -to name a few- is going to get us any closer to the liberty and freedom given to us at birth as human beings, and taken by the few elite, is pure fantasy.FREE CANNABIS AND HUMANITY FOREVER

[ Post Comment ]

Comment #36 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 09:48:57 PT

Had Enough
My one niece lives in South Carolina and she said her state is so backwards it's hard to comprehend. She said they are diehard Republicans.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #35 posted by Had Enough on May 14, 2009 at 09:47:40 PT

Canis420
Group wants medical marijuana legalizedUpdated: Friday, 08 May 2009, 7:35 AM EDTPublished : Friday, 08 May 2009, 7:29 AM EDTTAMPA - There's been a lot of debate over what some people call medical marijuana.http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/dpp/news/local/hillsborough/medical_marijuana_petition_050809***People United for Medical Marijuana – Floridahttp://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=127343055695We are more than just a group. We are registered voters willing to sign a petition to show our support for medical marijuana. We are a political committee registered with the state of Florida to restore patients' rights to receive safe, affordable and effective medication. We are collecting signatures to amend the constitution.http://www.pufmm.org/
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #34 posted by Had Enough on May 14, 2009 at 09:43:38 PT

Tanks
Lenawee Co. Sheriff Tankhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iz4YPMfMbI***South Carolina sheriff buys tank to conduct raidshttp://boingboing.net/2008/09/02/south-carolina-sheri.html***Arpaio, Sheriff Joe2004 - July 23: In executing a misdemeanor arrest warrant on 26 year old Eric Kush for failure to appear in Tempe Traffic Court, Sheriff Arpaio's SWAT team burned down a $250,000 home and crushed a 2001 Mitsubishi Mirage with their SWAT tank.The Sheriff's arsenal included a SWAT tank which prior to that occasion had received its heaviest use promoting the department in valley parades. Shortly after noon, the SWAT team entered the home and escorted a young woman and a child from the property, but Kush barricaded himself on the second floor. Deputies launched gas canisters filling the home with a white gas, but Kush remained in hiding. As the white gas turned to black smoke deputies discovered that the second floor was on fire. They warned Kush who then surrendered as the home was engulfed in flames. Fearing that their armed SWAT tank might become a casualty of the fire, deputies moved the vehicle to safety, parking it on an incline. Unfortunately, the tank's electric brakes disengaged when the engine was turned off allowing it to roll into and almost over the much smaller Mitsubishi Mirage. The Mirage was crushed. The $250,000 home was declared a total loss. Kush posted a $1,000 bond and was released from jail the next day.http://www.doney.net/aroundaz/celebrity/arapaio_sheriffjoe.htm

[ Post Comment ]

Comment #33 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 09:39:39 PT

Kerlikowske Wants To Drop War on Drugs Term
May 14, 2009Former Seattle Police Gil Kerlikowske, the Obama administration's new drug czar, says in today's Wall Street Journal that he wants to banish the idea that the U.S. is fighting a "war on drugs."URL: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2009219734_webkerlikowske14m.html
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #32 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 09:36:51 PT

Rolling Stone: Obama Drug Czar to End War on Drugs
May 14, 2009Potentially huge news this morning from Drug Czar Gil Kerlikowske’s interview with the Wall Street Journal. He rejects the formulation of the “War on Drugs” and voices an inclination to treat American drug abuse as a national health challenge:URL: http://www.rollingstone.com/nationalaffairs/index.php/2009/05/14/obama-drug-czar-to-end-war-on-drugs/
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #31 posted by FoM on May 14, 2009 at 09:28:02 PT

Just a Comment
I agree with those who have hope that maybe things are turning around a little. I know some people just won't ever say anything positive towards this administration and that's ok. I will keep looking towards the future with a belief that the times are a changin.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #30 posted by paul armentano on May 14, 2009 at 09:21:15 PT

Hope...
Very well said!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #29 posted by Hope on May 14, 2009 at 08:45:19 PT

The War on Drugs
It was just and unfortunate choice of words? No, it wasn't. It was well researched and thought out, and paid for with taxes taken from all of our labors, to enrage and mobilize one group of people against another group of people. It was meant to be incendiary and terrifying... as wars are.Now they are saying it was just a case of unfortunate rhetoric? Hmmm. Jackboots. Helmets. Armor. Battering rams for crashing quickly through the doors of homes. Windows broken. Incendiary flash bombs. Sudden overwhelming assault on people's homes with killing weapons drawn and to the fore to kill any animals or people that might automatically resist the assault... mistakenly or not. Women crying. Children traumatized and screaming in terror. People dead and in cages.Military surplus diverted to the "Warriors" of the War on Drugs. I'm thinking there are armored military vehicles, with heavy artillery turrets and all, being used by some police departments in the "War". Some have and others desire military battle tanks to use in their war on the "Druggie". They want high powered machine guns... so they can win the "Not War".There are helicopters and planes swooping low over people's homes so they can make sure the "enemy", though he be a fellow citizen, isn't growing the wrong sort of plants in his garden. They're drawing blood and cutting chunks of people's hair out to the scalp to make them aware that they and the most private parts of their lives are under serious surveillance by the powers in high places, inside and out.As it is, it's a war. A war by any other name is still a war.They are professional liars. We know that. They said it was a "War". We saw they meant it. Now they say, "Awww... Na... it's not really a war. We were just kidding. Yeah. That's the ticket." They're trained, professional liars. We are supposed to believe everything they say though, if we're "Real" and "Patriotic" Americans. "Follow us! We're going to war! If you're not "with us"... you're the enemy and we're at war!"I'll believe it's not a war when I see it's not a war.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #28 posted by Hope on May 14, 2009 at 08:13:05 PT

Canis420
Welcome to The Resistance.It was an episode of Cops that was one of the many "Last Straw" situations for me, too. I know mistreatment, tyranny, abuse, and the use of terror tactics and unjust laws and use of outrageous "law enforcement" against citizens when I see it. And I saw way, way too much of it. Places in my deepest being were touched, and touched in such a way that a person has to do something. They have to move. For Heaven's sake, People! There's a damn poisonous snake loose in the "house"... our country... and it is impossible for some people to ignore the thing's presence. It has killed babies and old people and every age in between with it's malicious, poisonous sting. It's crippled and maimed many, for life, that it didn't outright kill.Thanks for speaking up and standing with us.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #27 posted by runruff on May 14, 2009 at 06:38:01 PT

Potpal
You are correctamondo!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #26 posted by potpal on May 14, 2009 at 06:08:53 PT

I agree with Sam
"While I don't necessarily disagree with Gil's focus on treatment and demand reduction, I don't want to see it at the expense of law enforcement...jobs.They just left off a word.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #25 posted by runruff on May 14, 2009 at 06:05:08 PT

Speak now or forever hold your pee!
I stumbled into the computer room at 5am. When I saw that Gil announced that the war on the American people by it's own government was over, I decided to go back to bed. If I wake up and the war on us is still over, I'll believe it!Actually, I can't believe it! Over???PS- I am trying to imagine the agony Johnny Pee, the Son-O-Babs and the Great White Toad are feeling right now![pardon me while I close my eyes and savor the moment]! I do hope ol' Cheney gets his panties in a bunch over this one too. Maybe he will be stupid enough to make some mean spirited, uninformed comments for us?I know they know they have been lying to us! Now they know the world will soon see how they have lied to us!In the case of Johnny Pee; I'm not so sure he was knowingly lying. I think he is one of those "ideologes". Like people of old who refused to believe the world is not flat. It is like if you told ol' Johnny Pee , "the world is not flat", he will claim you did with smoke and mirrors. Don't confuse our information with the facts!-[The Drug war credo]!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #24 posted by heretic on May 14, 2009 at 06:00:32 PT:

The genie is not going back in the bottle
This COULD lead to liberty and justice for all!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #23 posted by happy on May 14, 2009 at 04:52:13 PT

Here comes
more BS from the darkside.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/05/14/marijuana.potency/index.html
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #22 posted by gloovins on May 14, 2009 at 03:19:57 PT

well,...
actually, I would like to see the ATF change from the bureau of alcohol tobacco and firearms to the ATFC, the bureau of alcohol, tobacco, firearms and cannabis. they could regulate it like alcohol basically. Small time growers could do that w/o permit but to sell it or large-scale grow ops i think should have some sort of regulation if they are indoors -- for safety sake. No excessive tax like this $50 oz bs (the states are bound to add their own tax...) but something nominal. Just my thoughts...
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #21 posted by gloovins on May 14, 2009 at 03:07:10 PT

wait,...
it is most certainly is a war on US citizens, this new Drug czar just doesn't like the truth and facts. Another one I'm sure he may dispute is the term prohibitionist. Bet he say's he's not one of those soon too. They don't like our buzz words and phrases because they are so fitting. And then this story of a kid getting smoke blown in their face by a parent in the 1970's (reaching back there much?) is just ridiculous. I don't get it...? What kind of point is he trying to make? It escapes me I guess. How does it relate to the broader topic of legalization? Oh well, the ONDCP cant endorse legalization efforts according to policy anyway so does it even matter? This drug czar office should be scrapped for an office on new drug policy I think. It could part of that whole "change" thing everyone keeps talking about maybe...
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #20 posted by Joe on May 14, 2009 at 02:46:24 PT:

Just Legalize and Tax it already...
LET ALL KEEP THE PRESSURE ON... MAYBE SOMETIME SOON, OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS WILL HEAR WHAT IT'S CITIZENS WANT...

[ Post Comment ]

Comment #19 posted by NikoKun on May 14, 2009 at 01:40:09 PT

Name change to weaken the legalization argument?
I think maybe this is just an attempt to weaken the sound of the legalization argument. But this changes nothing, there is STILL a war on us, because Marijuana is still illegal, as well as unregulated and uncontrolled."We're not at war with people in this country."
Until of course, you choose to use a safer drug than alcohol. See, If you pick a different recreational drug than the one they approve of, you're screwed.This war isn't over until us responsible Marijuana users stop being treated like criminals! There should be no punishment for our choice, as long as we do it responsibly. The same is currently true for Alcohol, so things make no sense until this changes.They are STILL at war with us... Because we choose differently. -_-Responsible use is not the same as abuse! Responsible users should not be punished AT ALL!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #18 posted by Canis420 on May 14, 2009 at 00:32:43 PT:

I am optimistic
First I’d like to say that I have been a Cannabis user since 1976. I am now 50 y/o. I tried to place the word Cannabis in italics as it is the taxonomically correct way to write the genus of a species, but alas to no avail. I have been using this herb since mid pubescence (a botanical term as well…means fuzzy), mostly the imported variety (brick weed). Not until recently did I become an activist in the pursuit of re-legalization of Cannabis products. My personal tipping point was when I was watching an episode of “Cops” on Fox. They were with the Tampa Police Dept and the cops were doing a reverse sting. Unsuspecting Cannabis purchasers were sold product by undercover police officers then busted for possession…then had their vehicles confiscated. This totally pissed me off as I live in the Tampa Bay metropolitan area. I have been monitoring this website for several months now…it is my first stop on the web every day, I read all the comments as well. I am a working professional as an environmental scientist and I contact my elected officials monthly to encourage their participation in reforming our current predicament regarding the drug war.This article gives me hope Peace all

[ Post Comment ]

Comment #17 posted by dankhank on May 13, 2009 at 22:37:49 PT

tucking in
but just had a hailstorm.solid iceballs of nice size.jawbreaker size, some of them
night all ...
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #16 posted by Sinsemilla Jones on May 13, 2009 at 21:44:12 PT

Imagine There's No Drug War!

It's Easy If You Try....."We're not at war with people in this country."I hope this new attitude filters down to every cop in the nation.Give Peace A Chance!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #15 posted by FoM on May 13, 2009 at 21:42:34 PT

Dankhank
That song and CSN were a big part of my life too. I'm calling it a day but I just saw Yusuf on Jay Leno and he was very good. His son is a musician too. His son has a link to Neil Young's web site among a few others. It's all amazing to me. Here's his son's web site.http://www.yoriyos.com/
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #14 posted by Dankhank on May 13, 2009 at 21:27:16 PT

C S N
I flayed that album when it was released.Played "Long Time Gone" a hundred times ...
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #13 posted by FoM on May 13, 2009 at 21:10:51 PT

Dankhank
Great song. Seeing them live with Neil Young is something I will never forget.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #12 posted by Dankhank on May 13, 2009 at 20:53:58 PT

well ....
it's been a long time coming ...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50go7zlvnfg
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #11 posted by The GCW on May 13, 2009 at 20:41:36 PT

Make their heads spin.
#1. I'm not interested in what Oklahoma Republican's think: -They don't.#2. I'm not interested in treatment for cannabist's: -Unless it's respect.#3. A war by any other name...#4. Yes, "the damn thing is beginning to turn" -But We need to see skid marks on the Replican's faces with screeching sounds and abrupt changes of direction.-0-The way tire tread on a dirt bike grabs; We need to use the face of Republicans for traction -turn that puppy and make their heads spin.Change direction with the force of SWATSTIKA.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #10 posted by Sam Adams on May 13, 2009 at 18:39:14 PT

you reveal yourself
>>James Pasco, executive director of the Fraternal Order of Police, the nation's largest law-enforcement labor organization, said that while he holds Mr. Kerlikowske in high regard, police officers are wary."While I don't necessarily disagree with Gil's focus on treatment and demand reduction, I don't want to see it at the expense of law enforcement. People need to understand that when they violate the law there are consequences."Whoa, we almost got some honesty in this last bit - only the last sentence needs to be "translated"....."While I don't necessarily disagree with Gil's focus on treatment and demand reduction, I don't want to see it at the expense of law enforcement. Politicians need to understand that when they cut our budget there are consequences."There! with a little adjustment he's 100% honest
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #9 posted by Sam Adams on May 13, 2009 at 18:36:36 PT

ringing endorsement
>>>>Sen. Tom Coburn, the lone senator to vote against Mr. Kerlikowske, was concerned about the permissive attitude toward marijuana enforcement, a spokesman for the conservative Oklahoma Republican said.That's all I need to hear, Oklahoma is pissed, I like this guy already!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #8 posted by FoM on May 13, 2009 at 18:35:03 PT

MikeC
When I saw Obama start his run for the Presidency I followed his rallys and town hall meetings very closely. I have been looking for a leader who thought things through. One that was slow to anger and used reason instead of being hot headed. I saw him win but what a hard time he had. He didn't lose his cool. I trust his hand on the button. How a person acts determines how I feel about a person.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #7 posted by MikeC on May 13, 2009 at 18:21:14 PT

FoM...
I am grateful as well.I like Ethan Nadelmann am cautiously optimistic due to the fact that we have been criminalized for so long. However, we finally have an administration that has the courage to do the right thing and for that I am grateful.These are great times!!!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #6 posted by HempWorld on May 13, 2009 at 18:21:08 PT

The only thing I like about this article is the he
adline. But I'm very grateful for that!Peace Out Everyone! Much Love ...
Legalize It!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #5 posted by FoM on May 13, 2009 at 18:17:10 PT

MikeC
If there ever was a chance it is now. We finally have a President that thinks differently. I am so grateful.
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #4 posted by MikeC on May 13, 2009 at 18:15:18 PT

Hallelujah...
Please let this happen!
[ Post Comment ]

Comment #3 posted by FoM on May 13, 2009 at 18:03:34 PT

What a Difference
I remember when John Walters had his first press conference and he was going to go after marijuana and he sure did.
[ Post Comment ]