DAY AND MARIJUANA

Not Likely A Barrier

Stockwell Day admits he smoked the odd joint.

Welcome to the club.

It's becoming the norm rather than the exception for those either in public
life or aspiring to be to admit they once tried drugs.

It should come as no surprise. Day is of the vintage where high school and
other students were lured by the temptation to try drugs like marijuana.

Though it sounds lame to say so, in the crazy social atmosphere of the
'70s, trying drugs like marijuana was considered a vogue thing to do.

So, 30 years later, how does this affect his chances to be elected leader
of the Alliance Party? Realistically, it probably doesn't make much difference.

A percentage of the party members from whom Day will be looking for support
are probably his age. Which means they faced the same temptations years
ago. Many of them may not be comfortable admitting it, but smoking
marijuana was quite common.

People might not hold it against Day that he tried marijuana, but he has to
measure his steps carefully now when speaking publicly about the issue. Is
it wise for him to admit he smoked it and then turn around and counsel
today's students to steer clear? The chances of people accepting that as a
credible position are shaky.

Day is best advised to move on from the clear, concise revelation he smoked
the odd joint.

Let lawmakers and law enforcement agencies deliver the other messages to
students.

If the public is looking for a standard to compare Day with, remember U.S.
President Bill Clinton openly admitted he once smoked marijuana. Admitting
it no longer carries the stigma it did years ago.