DRUG WAR

In response to James McDonough's Tuesday op-ed piece: So-called anonymous
surveys that rely on the self-reporting of illegal drug use are virtually
worthless in this age of zero tolerance. Teenagers know that honesty could
very well result in drug-sniffing dogs, locker searches and mass arrests.
Most teenagers outgrow their youthful indiscretions involving drugs. An
arrest and criminal record, on the other hand, can be life shattering.

After admitting to smoking pot (but not inhaling), former President Bill
Clinton opened himself up to "soft on drugs" criticism. And thousands of
Americans have paid the price in the form of shattered lives. More
Americans went to prison or jail during the Clinton administration than
during any past administration.

As an admitted former drinker and alleged illicit-drug user, President
George W. Bush is also politically vulnerable when it comes to drugs. While
youthful indiscretions did not stop Clinton or Bush from assuming
leadership positions, an arrest surely would have. The short-term health
effects of marijuana are inconsequential compared to the long-term effects
of criminal records.

Drug abuse is bad, but the zero-tolerance drug war is worse.

Robert Sharpe

Program Officer

Drug Policy Alliance

Washington, D.C.