Thanks for publishing the honest column by Randall G. Shelden ["Hey, Rush,
Why Didn't You `Just Say No'?" Oct. 30].

Ever wonder why George Bush, John Ashcroft and other "leaders" haven't
denounced Rush? Because the "war on drugs" isn't about justice. It's about
politics.

John Ashcroft's nephew was charged with growing 60 marijuana plants back in
the '90s. This charge would normally guarantee a prison sentence. He
received a suspended sentence with probation. He also failed his first
urinalysis while on probation but still wasn't sent to the "Big House."

We all know the story with Bush. It's been reported that he has done
substances that would have sent others straight to prison. And it's said
his daughters dabble in the cannabis themselves.

Even our senators and representatives have conveniently exempted themselves
from drug testing while drug czar Barry Walters tours the country
pressuring school boards to implement drug testing for our children. The
hypocrisy of this war is so thick it stinks.

What message are we really sending our kids? Our "leaders" need to find the
courage to end this insanity before another generation is forced to endure
the hypocritical prosecution of American citizens. If our "leaders" can't
find that courage, then they need to be voted out to make room for those
who have the conviction to do real justice and end this domestic policy
disaster.

Scott Russ,
Baton Rouge, La.