NATIONAL DRUG WAR FAILING GOV SAYS

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) - Gov. Gary Johnson barely rippled the political waters
five years ago when, as a candidate, he admitted using marijuana and cocaine
during the 1970s. But the Republican is making waves now by promoting the
decriminalization of drugs.

It is a stand that has put him at odds with his own party and left him with
virtually no political allies on the controversial issue.

Johnson, 46, an avid athlete who doesn't drink alcohol or use drugs, said
people shouldn't go to jail for smoking marijuana.

He contends the national war against drugs has failed to stop the flow or
use of drugs and it consumes too much money that law enforcement and the
judicial system could better use to stop violent crime.