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Dec-12-2008 01:10TweetFollow @OregonNews Marijuana Legalization Tops List of Questions for Obama in Online PollTim King Salem-News.com"We're tremendously excited about the promise of tools like this that offer Americans a level of access that has historically been hard to come by."- Obama Team
(SALEM, Ore.) - I am not surprised that the number one thing Americans are asking President-elect Barack Obama is whether or not he is going to legalize marijuana. Generations are changing and evolving and the taboos around cannabis are slowly falling away. American industries can harness the power of this multi-billion dollar, still mostly black market business. The attitude of people in this country is in a mode of great anticipation and change. Barack Obama is already on the record saying he does not want to use the Justice Department to bust state operated medical marijuana dispensaries. People submitting questions in this Online event seem to identify the legalization of medical marijuana and marijuana overall, as a top priority. I included the top ten and a link to the page that allows you to see all of the other questions that people seek to have answered by Barack Obama. Other hot topics are Wall Street, Stem Cell Research, and for a lack of better terms, retribution against the Bush Administration for things like illegal wiretapping and the authorization of torture. Since its launch Wednesday, the "Open for Questions" tool processed over 600,000 votes from more than 10,000 people on more than 7,300 questions. Voting came to a close Friday, December 12th, at 12:00 AM Eastern Time, so that the team can prepare answers to some of the most popular questions. Pilot projects like "Open for Questions" depend on feedback from users to better understand how to make participation intuitive and productive. Obama's team stated, "Participation in Open for Questions outpaced our expectations, and we're looking forward to rolling it out again next week. We're tremendously excited about the promise of tools like this that offer Americans a level of access that has historically been hard to come by." By voting questions up, users have been able to convey to the team which major issues -- including the auto industry, health care, ethical standards, and others -- are the most important to this community. As one of the only essentially mainstream news organizations Online that covers legal medical marijuana seriously, Salem-News.com has earned a worldwide and national reputation as the only Website that offers an experienced doctor who is an expert on the subject, for question and answer interviews based on visitor's questions. Dr. Phillip Leveque is a World War Two veteran and his education, background and experience in multiple specialties, places him among the most qualified doctors in the nation. He writes from the perspective of an Osteopath, Pharmacologist and Toxicologist. I am glad to see the value of this natural herb gaining acceptance for its potential value as a legal and taxable commodity, and we do not consider this as any kind of an underground or taboo subject when we report about it. Medical marijuana is legal in Oregon and many other places, and the patients have very few places to turn. We are glad to fill that void. Over the next few days, some of the most popular questions selected by the Change.gov community will be answered by the Transition team, and their responses will be posted on their site. The Questions Americans are Asking Barack Obama Currently in the lead: "Will you consider legalizing marijuana so that the government can regulate it, tax it, put age limits on it, and create millions of new jobs and create a billion dollar industry right here in the U.S.?" Second place question: "What will you do as President to restore the Constitutional protections that have been subverted by the Bush Administration and how will you ensure that our system of checks and balances is renewed?" Third place question: "What will you do to establish transparency and safeguards against waste with the rest of the Wall Street bailout money?" Sixth place question: "Will you lift the ban on Stem Cell research in your first 100 days in office?" Fifth place question: "What will you do to promote science and mathematics education to Elementary and Middle School students?" Sixth place question: "Will you appoint a Special Prosecutor - ideally Patrick Fitzgerald - to independently investigate the gravest crimes of the Bush Administration, including torture and warrantless wiretapping?" Seventh place question: "13 states have compassionate use programs for medial Marijuana, yet the federal gov't continues to prosecute sick and dying people. Isn't it time for the federal gov't to step out of the way and let doctors and families decide what is appropriate?" Eighth place question: "What do you plan to do to our food industry to make it more sustainable? Will there be changes to our farming policies?" Ninth place question: "What will you do to end the use of mercenary forces (ie Blackwater) by our military?" Tenth place question: "What will you do first to reduce pollution/waste and incentivize greener behavior across the country?" To learn what others are asking Obama, visit the Website "Open for Questions" and read many more inquiries for President-elect Barack Obama. That Website can be found at: change.gov/page/content/20081211_openforquestions Articles for December 11, 2008 | Articles for December 12, 2008 | Articles for December 13, 2008 | googlec507860f6901db00.html | |
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Joey March 7, 2011 1:59 am (Pacific time)
Legalize It!
Bob August 13, 2010 4:37 pm (Pacific time)
I am dutch, it is legal here, coffeeshops do pay taxes... The growers won`t pay taxes, is an issue here too... http://www.getmarijuanaseeds.com/
Johnathon pitts June 3, 2010 10:02 am (Pacific time)
I think that canibis should be legal because the government could taxs it an get the us out debt. an ithink the crime rate would fall tromedously. an it would also probley turn people away from other hard durgs so the government should really take in to consideration leglizeing canibis so make the right desion and legalize it. but it would better everyone. an it would boost the ecomonmy. rock on obama.
madda February 16, 2010 12:10 pm (Pacific time)
if any of yall was smart wouldnt want it to be legalized because then the drug dealers out here selling there shit doing hours crazy for the shit that pays the house rent if the shit is legal then what are they sellin legal shit sombody can just got to the market or conveince store and get what they need they wont need us any more no more money for the drug dealers
HeyyLindseyy December 12, 2009 10:09 pm (Pacific time)
everyone smokes weed and or has. i know cops who have and wont get people in trouble if they see people smoking it. its a stupid matter that needs to be tookin care of LEGALIZE IT!! it would change the economy and change the world. i think weed should be for highschoolers and above.
Mark V November 24, 2009 2:01 pm (Pacific time)
If you are not for the legalization of marijuana, YOU WILL NOT GET MY VOTE !!!
Mark V. in New York November 24, 2009 2:04 pm (Pacific time)
If you are not for the Legalization of Marijuana YOU WILL NOT GET MY VOTE !!!
CW November 12, 2009 8:38 am (Pacific time)
I liked it...Obama really should legalize weed..it makes the world a better place...taxing weed is the best idea so much money for the government to have...JOBS.. you can make clothes and extract oil from....weed could be grown over and over and over agian...LEGALIZE WEED
dj October 22, 2009 11:29 pm (Pacific time)
god put all plants with seeds for man look it up legalize it for all man kind
jonypotseed October 15, 2009 2:04 am (Pacific time)
If every body that smoked weed in America PLANTED all the seeds in all the buds, of ery bag they bought and smoked from May to the fallowing Febuary. Every year… Can you IMAGINE how much weed that would produce? outgrow the goverment
AYUB SALAMA July 26, 2009 2:39 pm (Pacific time)
Ive been smoking the sweet sweet ganji since i was 12 and im smoking as i type this! Marijuana is not a drug, a plant is all! I think this plant has kept a lot of peace on this earth. so smoketh, cougheth and passeth!!
Mikey boi June 24, 2009 1:01 pm (Pacific time)
There are alot of federal and state laws that have different ways to regulate marijuana. The one that makes me the most angry, to curb black and mexican immigrant minorities in the south. The government knows mexicans and other low wage workers use the plant. I myself use it in order to sleep and relax at the end of a hot day.. why do u think the pen is all full up with hispanic and african american men. Do not get me wrong.. there are ALOT of illicit drugs on the street. many of them are incredibly unhealthy. Marijuana is not one of these substances. If People act up on alcohol.. they will be prosecuted.. Wh not setup the same rules for mary jane? why not harness the economic capabilities marijuana can provide as an industry? we can makep (clothing, rope, psuedo plastics, and other useful instruments); jobs and hope.. that i have yet to feel from the obama administration.
janet June 19, 2009 11:09 am (Pacific time)
it should be legal. alcohol is so much more dangerouse. what are they doing to stop prescriptions from getting sold. "oh you didn't test positive for pot but just keep taking your volume, oxycodnes, etc. thats ok."you know how much jail space and money we would be saving. This whole thing is just so the government can control (regulate) our lives more and waste money.
Darick June 4, 2009 12:16 am (Pacific time)
Legalize it!
teen May 7, 2009 1:24 pm (Pacific time)
ok so im supposed to be doing a debate paper for my law class. i have read MANY articles and looked at both sides and i must say that this could be an ok idea i dont know if i like it ,but im taking on the attitude of mr schwartzenegger(probably spelled wrong) and im open to a debate on such a thing. Mr. obama should understand that todays society and ideals are changing and as a blood born christian i dont know if all of them are acceptable, our society is changing and we need to recognize this like adults not the stubborn headed 5 year olds that politicians have become we need to have an honest and open to a debate. people are saying that marijuana is "the safe drug" and that studies have shown so. this is impossible every drug ever created by man or nature has some sort of negative effects. now that all of the sudden these colleges are coming out with 8 to 10 year studies of people they are watching who are taking marijuana. i dont know if i can believe that simply because ITS STILL ILLEGAL!!! they cant conduct a study on an illegal drug! but i must say the evidence is compelling. i will continue my research.
Will April 26, 2009 8:42 pm (Pacific time)
I really think Obama did not consider the implications of his actions when he laughed at the question. He didn't consider that there are thousands of non-violent drug offenders who have been sentenced to a prison term because they were enjoying a bit of pot. He himself admitted that he has smoked before.. does that mean he should be in jail? I wish he would just have the courage to legalize it and help out all those families that are now broken because of an old scheme to save the lumber business from hemp. It must also be known that the activity or objects that are deemed illegal attract violent, criminal (of other sorts such as murder etc.) activity. A criminally minded person would have no interest in selling pot if it was illegal.. it would be like selling Tylenol.. and thus the rate of crime would diminish significantly.. Justice is meant to protect the people, not persecute them!!!
Harley April 13, 2009 7:43 am (Pacific time)
think about this would you rather two doors down from a child molestor or a person who smokes a joint a day!!
Keith the vet from CA March 26, 2009 6:13 pm (Pacific time)
I think Obama should not laught about the legalization of Marijauna. I not only voted for him but I even call my congressmen and go above and beyond to support him. There are a lot of peoples live that are affected in a negitive way because people like him think it is a joke to legalize marijauna . How about the people patrolling the border ?I just heard they killed another U.S. marshall . I know the mojority of people in CA would like to see it legal and these are the people that rally for president Obama . So for him to act like that is not something that is on our minds will not get him more support. If it wasn't so many people would not have brought it up... and no I do not smoke the stuff myself!
mike March 26, 2009 12:26 pm (Pacific time)
america is being seen as a dum a## becus we wont make a plant legal. 64% of the usa uses this plant. mi opinion is that weed is a plant it grouse in the ground if god didint wont it it wudint be around.im shor u wont it legal but your just wateing for the rest of the usa to like you mor.the only thing it dues is make u hungry,sleepy,happy.
John David Hancock March 25, 2009 10:12 am (Pacific time)
This war on marijuana is a big waste of us taxpayers hard earned money. Legalization would mean billion in annual profits that could go towards something worth fighting.. like the bigger drugs such as heroin and cocaine. I was recently arrested (3/19/09) by an officer for no reason whatsoever, i had just dropped off a friend and was leaving and turned a corner (using my blinker) and he was going the opposite direction, he turned his lights on and came up to my car opened my car door told me to get out and get on the ground and took the weed out of my door and cuffed me (i only had a quarter and a pipe) and now i'm facing over $2,000 in fines, but for what, smoking a little weed and enjoying life? To some people weed is just one of those things in life that make us happy as is sex and television. Do some research on marijuana and it's true facts instead of just hearing things and assuming they're correct here's a little webside i've found with some very interesting facts (http://www.drugpolicy.org/marijuana/factsmyths/) Marijuana's dangers are very over rated and stoners are stereotyped as low lifes that do nothing but sit around and smoke pot! it's bull shit! why wont people freakin realize that you cant do anything as an individual in this crazed world "Adam Davis agrees" we live in, BUT UNITED WE ARE STRONG! We dont have to take this bull shit any longer, we're american citizens "the supposably land of the free" who's free here? in jail we aren't free are we? ... smoke a little weed and end up in jail, and all because we just wanted to be happy.. so i encourage you, do something about it and STICK IT TO "THE MAN"!! Support Assembly Bill 390, and start the revolution and one day maybe it will be legalized in all of the United States!
Brandon Aguiar March 23, 2009 5:22 am (Pacific time)
Legalize what the lord has blessed us all with.. for I and so many will reach a sense of peace and our economy will be great..and oh yea you should regulate and tax it for all states along with a 18 or 21 age Plus..Legalizing this wonderful plant will stop violence and issue of trying to obtain it without breaking our country's law..Overall Hemp is great!
Morpheus320 March 22, 2009 6:13 pm (Pacific time)
legalize it. cannabis is beautiful plant that i love
cattellar March 21, 2009 7:42 pm (Pacific time)
To Mr. Obama: The people of your country have spoken, this IS an important subject, your nation want it to be legalized, if you dont listen to your people you are a dictator. But Im sure Mr. Obama is aware of all the facts you are saying, its his political ties and pressure that dont let him speak freely about the subject. Maybe there is a plan to legalize it, but they are denying for now. Lets just hope that.
Anonymous March 21, 2009 10:18 am (Pacific time)
I SWEAR TO YOU EVERYONE I KNOW SMOKES WEED I HARDLY KNOW A PERSON WHO DOESN'T SMOKE WEED AND I'M SURE HALF THE REPUBLICANS IN THE WHITE HOUSE DO IT SECRETLY JUST LEGALIZE IT...AND IT WOULD BRING WORLD PEACE PEOPLE WHO SMOKE WEED ARE PEACEFUL AND IT WOULD MAKE THE ECONOMY BETTER EVERYONE WOULD SMOKE IT IF IT WAS LEGAL IT RELIEVES STRESS AND BACK ACHES AND IT'S DEFINATELY NOT AS BAD AS ALCOHOL
Hopeful March 19, 2009 3:40 pm (Pacific time)
Voted Obama in the hope that cannabis would be legalized. Kinda weird to get busted over a plant that god made. Kinda like eati an apple and some cop takin it. If it was manufactured in a lab or whatever its a drug. This comes right from the ground with sunlight and water :) LEGALIZE IT OBAMA
cha cha cash March 5, 2009 5:40 pm (Pacific time)
How i feel about it weed should be legal to only ages 18 an up an focus on whats killing our people on today society in the U.S.
Deputy Tony February 26, 2009 4:55 pm (Pacific time)
This has been the question so many Americans have been asking now, more then ever. Perhaps its because we finally have a President, Barack Obama, who has a different prospective on this issue then his predecessors did. If cannabis was legal, we as a Nation would stimulate our ever decreasing economy. We would generate more then a billion dollars in tax revenues, each year. We would create thousands of new jobs throughout the country; be able to monitor our cannabis dispensary's and by doing so, we would ensure the cannabis was not being sprayed by harmful chemicals, or sold to minors under the age of 21. With over 60 million people using cannabis in the U.S. today, our laws and law makers should view it under the same-light as they do alcohol. No driving under the influence, no consumption in public, unless in an establishment designated for such consumption. This would also eliminate individuals from having to sneak into the dark corners of our communities, risking harm to themselves or worse. Studies have been done showing cannabis is not as harmful to our bodies as alcohol is. The following are statistics on Alcohol vs. Marijuana: 1. Over 100 thousand deaths annually are directly linked to-acute alcohol poisoning. 2. In 4,000 years of recorded history, no one has ever died from a pot overdose. 3. Alcohol causes physical and psychology dependence. 4. Alcohol is reported to cause temporary and permanent damage to all major organs of the body. 5. Cannabis is a much less violent provoking substance than alcohol. Marijuana Status in 1970 11% of high school seniors said they were using marijuana everyday. In 1975 About 27% said they had used marijuana sometime in the previous month. In 1978 The monthly users grew up to 37% then in 1986 dropped to 23%. In 1979 12 to 17 year old reported using it within the last month has dropped from a high point of 17% and in 1987 dropped to 12%. It's smoke, doesn't it cause "cancer"? The truth is, it doesn't increase the risk of cancer enough to associate it as such a risk. Doesn't the constitution allow Doctors to distribute medication to their patients they feel would benefit them? Bring comfort to them? Cannabis helps relieve pain from chemo therapy, allow the patient to eat something. So why does the Government protest cannabis for medicinal purposes? Now we can get really into it and discuss how the government, through the CIA and DEA allowed drugs into our country. I think it was called Iran-contra! President Reagan, Oliver North.... ringing any bells? The drug war is not winnable, but it sure is findable. The Government doesn't appose drugs in our country, its keeping the politician funded and happy. US Secretary of defense Donald Rumsfeld, was the CEO of a pharmaceutical Company. This is a Multi-Billion Dollar business, would it benefit these companies to legalize cannabis? Wake up America and educate yourselves to the facts. Politicians care about two things, getting re-elected and making money. If the American people speak out and refuse to re-elect these politicians who are on "the other side of the issue", you will see how fast they expedite getting on the "right side of the issues", with dancing shoes on.
juss me February 26, 2009 12:26 pm (Pacific time)
okay if you think about it, if marijuana were to be legalized many people would probably be sellin it and smokin it.see the goodness is that from people selling and making money they buy things from the stores and spend more money on more things. there could be other stores to that sell things that got to do with marijuana and could be making a killing.its some people just dont seem to understand that marijuana is really not that bad as they think it is.its like saying a rose or a tree is illegal.WTF.you know what im saying.but im all for legalizing marijuana.I really think that the prez oughta re-think this situation and givie it alot of thought.oh yeah did you ever here of the emerald triangle.its like the biggest f'n weed business there ever was.its located in the northern part of california.that business makes billions of dollars every year just from growing harvesting marijuana.now thats just a small portion of the U.S., can you imagine now,how much the us would be making if marijuana were to be legalized.f#%@!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!just legalize marijuana.!!!!-+
dank dank February 26, 2009 9:26 am (Pacific time)
just LEGALIZE it and we will be out of problems!!
Erik February 25, 2009 8:18 am (Pacific time)
this Adam Augustus davis guy is brilliant. He made some very good points.by legalizing marijuana we would boost the economy and bring ourselves out of debt..over half of the population has admitted to smoking marijuana...and not to mention the other people who use marijuana but dont admit to it in fear of being jailed or punished...the government could tax the living crap out of this stuff..they could tax the production of it..and they could tax the sale of it..not to mention that by legalizing it there would be millions of jobs that would be created...alchohol causes liver and kidney problems.not to mention ulsers..alchohol impairs you far worse than marijuana...it would be very smart to legalize it...why is the government so scared of a plant that grows out of the ground...god put it here..i trust him more than i trust the man who made alchahol.
n/a February 25, 2009 8:05 am (Pacific time)
wow...i just gotta say that Adam Augustus davis is making some very good points...what we need right now in this country is to save the economy..if marijuana is to be legalized it would more than likely bring us back out of debt..more than half of the ADMITTING population use marijuana...that is only the admitting portion..not the people who wont admit to it in fear of being put in jail or getting busted...the government could tax the hell out of it..they could tax people for producing/growing it,selling it and buying it at stores...not to mention that it would create millions of jobs all over the country..this could be the key to restoring our economy.
roberto February 19, 2009 1:20 pm (Pacific time)
legalize maryjane i support marijuana it was put on this earth for a reazon! legalize
Adam Augustus Davis February 13, 2009 8:10 pm (Pacific time)
If every body that smoked weed in America PLANTED all the seeds in all the buds, of ery bag they bought and smoked from May to the fallowing Febuary. Every year… Can you IMAGINE how much weed that would produce? Dude, In the prohibition, The reason they couldn’t control the Alcohol is b/c everybody had drank, (that drinks) before then. But, See when they Illegalized weed, NO BODY SMOKED IT! (except blacks and Mexicans) Who, at that time were just coming out of oppression. So there was no uprising. They had no power. But think if “all of a sudden weed was legal, lets say for a year, long enough for everybody to get the grow lights needed, and learn how to grow at their house. Actually make it two years its legal.(so people have time to start enjoying life with this new “Increased Awareness” of how much they’ve been lied to; sets in… then. Make it illegal again…. TRY TO STOP IT! 2 years! Im proposing the 2 year legalize plan. To see what would change? The Government shouldn’t be scared right? If what they say is true, they have nothing to worry about! But what is “What they say?”… I mean, does the Government have anything to justify it? What are they afraid will happen? … People “Wake up”? Seriously. If anyone has an answer please tell me! A Gateway? Cigarettes are a gateway! If I got high right now, Sitting here in my house, in 2 weeks I still wouldn’t be able to get a job; yet, I could get flat on my face drunk drive home And Still get a job tomorrow! I have a poster that says “Man made beer, God made grass…who do you trust? Gorge Washington! For gods sake… we, (as Americans) think he’s pretty “KNOWLEDGABLE” right? (His face IS on the dollar bill)… Funny, He is quoted as saying “The hemp seed is good, Sew it EVERYWHERE!” Americas economy was FOUNDED on hemp. The constitution was written on hemp paper Some say it makes you lazy, takes your motivation, OKAY!... For every pothead that you show me that it “makes lazy” I’ll show you Two that it…”Gets motivated!” For instance, me, I’m high. That’s why I’m writing this. It takes motivation to type this… Does it not? Okay. Point proven. That’s like alcohol. Show me a low bottom alcoholic, I’ll show you 2 social drinkers that can “Take it or leave it” Give me those same alcoholics, The 12 steps of AA, and a FAT SACK of NUGS, And I’ll show you some “Recovering Alcoholics that won’t relapse.” The only reason people smoke so much is b/c “The Man” tells us we can’t. And tells us not to. Actually, tells us “You better NOT! If I put you in an all white room, w/ only a little tiny tiny window, and a red button on the wall. I sat you down and I said “Whatever you do, Do Not push that button! Something bad will happen…. Most people would sit there and never touch it. Never even think about it. But some us, (anyone still reading this) … dare to question… It would drive us crazy. EXpecially when everyone else in the room is talking shit about the guy that told you not to, and saying its fun to. Their pushing it, nothing bad is happening. If something does happen, its b/c the Man caught you pushin it. And he come in and spank you…. Meanwhile other people are pushing it to, all day everyday, but he doesn’t see them! For some reason? What this letter is trying to do is get you RILED UP! Its time the people in this room, wait for THE MAN to come in and try and spank one of us, THAT’S WHEN WE JUMP HIM! Like in that book “Animal farm” Its that fuckin time people. Can’t you see it? Its boiling right at the surface, This uprising! We can do it! We need a leader… well, Hello! Im the leader!. This is my SPEECH. I am gonna be the “martin luther king jr.” of the legalize marijuana movement! I don’t have an address. I don’t have a name. But someday, streets will be named after ME! For my efforts toward this movement! So now that you’ve read this, you know why it was sent to you! And here’s how it got to you… Since I’ve taken the time to write this, You can take the time copy paste it to a letter, and send it to EVERYBODY YOU KNOW that wants “IN” that’s tired of “The Mans” bullshit.(basically anybody that smokes, or HAS smoked) anybody That anit gonna wait until our freedom of speech is taken, before they choose to SPEAK OUT about how they want to live! That’s YOU! I know it is! See how many people we got already? See? We have to unite! Divided we are nothing. Together we’re unstoppable! That’s why your reading this! If you choose not to… let me just say, that you are IPIDOMIZING the STEROTYPE of a stoner… And YOU are the reason WE PAY for it like its “something” reason its 5.00 for a GRAM of “garbage green” IT ANIT SHIT! Why am I paying 5 for it? Well, I’m not. And your not either! (anymore). Im not gonna let you! If you close this or walk away. And don’t do anything. Don’t send it to anybody… can I ask you something? How worthless are you? If you don’t stand for something you’ll fall for anything. TAKE ACTION! All its gonna take is a spark. And this thing will BLOW! I’m telling you! ITS TIME! People. ITS TIME!. START THE REVOLUTION! JOIN ME!
SSJ February 6, 2009 9:26 pm (Pacific time)
Everything has pretty much been said. The crazy part is that you have almost every type of person writing in about this subject. This can really mean only one thing LEGALIZE IT. The government wants a bailout program in 3 yrs. we could be the richest country in the world and never look back.
concerned February 5, 2009 1:08 pm (Pacific time)
Personally i would have put the 'PROJECT DISCLOSURE' debate as the number one question-free fuel!!, anyway, its not the number one question, cannabis is, it should be legal, in fact there should not even be a debate about it, people who grow it should be able to grow it WITHOUT ridicule and repucussions, its a damm earth plant and its harmless to boot!. People DO need to WAKEUP and literally smell the coffee, alcohol is LEGAL and has a PROVEN death trackrecord, but its legal? Cannabis been around for over 4000 years and harmed NOBODY and its ILLEGAL?, GO DO THE MATH IT JUST DONT ADD UP? peace.
Concerned February 5, 2009 12:58 pm (Pacific time)
The legalisation of cannabis/marajuana will NEVER be legal.......EVER!,in fact, its getting worse. Refer madness has come back to haunt the uk, by 2020 if you are caught with cannabis you will be imprisoned and your social and working life ruined. The future of one of mans many great plants in under threat and we cannot do ANYTHING about it. Just an honest opinion, not a pessimistic one Peace
narth vader February 5, 2009 10:19 am (Pacific time)
Obama should back Phelps and use it as a platform to talk about how awesome it is to smoke weed and succeed!
walkin February 3, 2009 9:43 am (Pacific time)
a friend with weed is a friend indeed
k February 3, 2009 6:03 pm (Pacific time)
everyone who wants marijuana to be legal should have voted for Ron Paul. Dr.Paul believes in smaller goverment, individual rights sound money and would actully end the war. He is for getting rid of the IRS and legalize marijuna. Ron Paul actually believes in change. He will be running for president again in 2012 visit dailypaul.com or campaignforliberty.com REVOLUTION
Tammy February 3, 2009 2:00 pm (Pacific time)
I,m all for it.... For years I have smoked on and off... Its strange because I feel more normal when I have it... and it really stinks for the people like me who use it just to calm your nerves, focus, get things done and just have a better quality of life! I wish they would legalize marijuana because it helps me in so many ways, and I don't want to feel like a criminal just because I want to live life to the fullest!!!
Jon February 2, 2009 10:43 pm (Pacific time)
Alright... Im gonna tell u all the truth... Marijuana is not a drug, its a f%$*n plant!
Thats like saying that roses are illegal..WTF? Here are some facts:
Does not cause cancer
Does not kill brain cells
Alcohol kills more than Heroin,Crack, and Cocaine combined annualy.
Improves sexual life
Positive reasons for using it
Reveals peoples true personality
Good for socializing
Calms you down
Used for thousands of purposes, all positive
Safer than tobacco
Does not kill or harm anyone it does the opposite
Releives stress, which can increase heart risk
Helathy medication
So for these reasons i am all for legalizing marijuana, not only do i think we should legalize it, I think it should be mandatory.
For all those religious folks, saying marijuana is a drug is like saying god made a mistake, so u might want to think twice about calling marijuana a drug!
LEGALIZE IT!!!!!!!!
kody February 2, 2009 12:48 pm (Pacific time)
LEGALIZE IT!!
cc rider January 30, 2009 6:16 am (Pacific time)
this is somthing no one want's to hear but: I have been a truck driver for 31 yrs. all over america, I have loged millions of miles and my records clean/ no accidents! and yes I do mean HIGH.
Kevin January 29, 2009 10:43 am (Pacific time)
marijuana is by far the least dangerous and safest drug out there, it has done nothing wrong to people and only causes good, if marijuana was legalized the U.S. would be again the most powerful country in the world and not just that but it would truly be free for us pot smokers (NORML)
Kevin January 29, 2009 10:43 am (Pacific time)
marijuana is by far the least dangerous and safest drug out there, it has done nothing wrong to people and only causes good, if marijuana was legalized the U.S. would be again the most powerful country in the world and not just that but it would truly be free for us pot smokers (NORML)
Dclassified January 28, 2009 4:49 pm (Pacific time)
its a new century,a new chapter,and a new day. Legalize what God has bless to man.
summerfun January 28, 2009 8:22 am (Pacific time)
They were just typos, sorry.
DustyD January 28, 2009 7:39 am (Pacific time)
At least learn to spell...it will make our case just a little better!!
summerfun January 28, 2009 6:54 am (Pacific time)
Being raised in a family that accepted marijuana use (responsibly, no one ever said fire up a joint and let's go driving, etc.) I never considered it a "bad" thing. All but two of my family memeber smoke on a regular basis, and everyone is a sucessful, hard working, home owning person, including myself. On the other hand, I have lost MANY friends and a few family members in the past 40 years due to alcohol abuse. Just my 2 cents.
Deputy Tony January 24, 2009 2:07 pm (Pacific time)
Hello again my brethren, I noticed some of you are making statements such as, "I am glad it's being talked about again." To try and but peace into your hearts, we are the 60's, 70's and 80's generation all grown up. We now pay the bills for our Country. Yes...the "potheads" grew up and are making a stand on an issue we all are so familiar with. Like the alcohol folks, we will have our way. It will take time, but they will wake up!!! Never stop fighting for your rights, for the rights of the sick, dying and in pain... God bless you all.
The Representation of The Northern S January 24, 2009 9:37 am (Pacific time)
These are the facts plain and simple, Obama said he could fix the economy. The people laughed and said oh yeah, he means he can nigger rig it. I disagree with this statement seeing as he is Arab. Personally, that is the only reason he got as many votes as he did. He played black, every negro in the nation votes for him not for his knowledge and expereance and values but his color and that alone. We the people of The Northern States are hopeing to see you survive for more than a few months as president, we realy are. But if you want to realy make a change it is going to take more than your skin color to impress your intentions upon the people. We here in the Northern States believe that if you want to be the largest change maker in history YOU can achieve this in ONE easy step. Legalize marijuana. If you do this you will be able to put tax on it, age limits and amount regulations. Do yourself a favor and look up the original reason for delegalization of the plant. It was uptight jackasses that had no knowledge of the plant. Well you will find that out. Anyhow, this poposal could do so much more than you can imagine. YOU, Obama can fix the economy. YOU, Obama can bring this country entirely out of debt to any other country. Do you like owing them money or favors, NO. I don't like the feelng that I owe sombody my hard earned money. Obama, you could make these united states of embarrasment great once again. Somthing no president has been able to achieve for so long. You can be thought of by the people as a hero for stoping violence started over a once legal plant. You do not have the right to tell mankind we can not have a plant. It's a plant. I know what your thinking, well so is cocain. This is true however, it requires man to change it to be the DRUG we think of today. Marijuana does not. Think real hard and try to remember when the last time you saw sombody smoke a blunt or a bong or a bowl or a joint or any marijuana product rise to their feet and yell; "Lets go rob somebody!"? NEVER. It is a harmless plant that could change this country and the constant downhill economical landslide that your former presidents have left for you to attempt to repair. Do you honestly believe there is any harm to be done? Scientific tests prove that you pay more attention to the road when you smoke marijuana. Unlike alcohol. How many people die due to drunk drivers every year? Way too many. You need to legalize marijuana and crack down on drugs, NOT plants. What idiot thought they where almighty and said ooo this is a bad plant, it should be illegal. If it were not for them it would never have been illegal. If you are worried about losing the support of the people who are against the plant then educate them. Put them in a study. Do not just say, "this is what I have been tought so it is what I believe.". You and the people need educted on this subject. You have heard not to judge a book by it's cover yet you do. Learn the facts, Obama. Take this country by the hand and lead them to greatness and individual wealth. The profit this can bring is mass hemp product production, Hemp oil, pot browny mix, other recipies, maybe it could be used to make fuels, medicines, stimulate appetite, coffee, salads, many other things as well. There is no sense in it remaining illegal. Legalization could possibly give addicts to hard drugs a fallback product that will help them overcome addiction by stimulating the need for an escape from reality if used in larger quantities, without the worry of inprisonment or fines. The bloodshed and inhumane crimes could be dropped by up to 90% or more. You would make more room in the penatetaries for criminals, not conasures. Think this over and do your research, it could benefeit you greatly as the nations elected leader. Sincerely: The Northern States.
Dupree January 21, 2009 7:20 pm (Pacific time)
I wonder about the leagalization of Marijana, will they ever do it, it isn't like we are taking the plant and put some kind of killing substance in it. Who knows, who in the economy is going to let this law pass, but if there was a way we all know we would have it leagalized, but we all know it not going to happen, and if it does we will all be happy and life will go on, but no one should put there hopes up. Obama if you could you should I see no problem with the leagalizing.
amber:) January 20, 2009 12:48 pm (Pacific time)
well i see it this way i like to smoke weed an i chouldnt for 9mounths because i just had a baby i amost got kickd out of my place for it so i havent done it every scince i think thats shit bcuz i should be able to smoke a bowl if i want to i just had a baby my backs been killing me the fucking dad not around to help just smoke a joint to calm down at the end of the day:) LEGALIZE IT AT LEAST IN OKLAHOMA an ill vote you back in...in fore years
Brian January 18, 2009 12:28 am (Pacific time)
I think its great that marijuana legalization has once again reached the top of the list on obamas change.gov, this time under the citizens briefing book, where people that visit the site and sign up can vote for ideas again. I checked the most popular issues and legalization of marijuana had first place with 75000 votes, 7000 more than making the grid environmentally friendly, which was in second place. The best part about the topic is that its gaining over 1000 votes per day. I think I saw it gain about 1000 votes in just under a few hours yesterday. This is great. After his transition team shoots down the very idea of marijuana legalization, we the people of the united states shove the issue right back in his face. We're not gonna let this go until we end this silly war on drugs! So either get used to seeing this at the top of the polls or change the laws.
teshla WV January 14, 2009 10:13 am (Pacific time)
ok well the way i see it this drug has been on earth way be4 we was ever here and it dont even come close to the drugs thats out there......god put it here and we should be able to smoke it freely and lagaly...... its not as bad as drinkin and drivein.weed as never killed any one its all that other shit so come on pass it and it opens more jobs for every one and money for the state !!!!!!!:)
? January 14, 2009 10:07 am (Pacific time)
well for one weed isnt as bad as drinkin or doin other drugs it dont hurt anyone and it should be past and it would open more jobs and have more money for thye state!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Alex Garcia January 14, 2009 10:30 am (Pacific time)
Legalizing marijuana would be good for the health, economy, and peace on earth
13king January 14, 2009 10:28 am (Pacific time)
stop the war!!!!!
teshla elmore WV January 14, 2009 10:16 am (Pacific time)
IM ALL FOR WEED IT DONT KILL ANYONE AND THERES SO MUCH TO SAY BOUT IT BUT I DONT GOT THE TIME JUST PASS IT
? January 14, 2009 10:13 am (Pacific time)
well for one weed isnt as bad as drinkin or doin other drugs it dont hurt anyone and it should be past and it would open more jobs and have more money for thye state!!!!!!!!!!!!!
JD January 14, 2009 2:05 am (Pacific time)
I believe marijuana should be legalized. we do have to many people in jail or prison over just marijuana. it is completely retarded that the government at which we the people have so much trust in, can sit there and just hurt the nation as a whole. The legalization of marijuana would be a huge step in the right direction. my reason supporting this is, you would have millions if not billions of jobs open up here in the US. im not say that the drug shouldnt be controlled, but controlled in a different manner. it should be controlled just like the tabacco products.
Richard Martel January 12, 2009 8:32 am (Pacific time)
Hell yeah legalize bud i all for that man
John January 12, 2009 2:50 am (Pacific time)
Legalize marijuana. Millions of your people rot away in our prison industrial complex over a plant. All the while you freely smoke your TAXED and REGULATED plant. Free us all from the war on drugs, which is a war on US.
Carl January 8, 2009 12:04 am (Pacific time)
Let me keep my choice, do not take it away from me! Legalize it and there will not be a problem!
Deputy Tony January 6, 2009 4:44 pm (Pacific time)
http://thelegalizationofcannabis.blogspot.com/
Wayne Smith January 6, 2009 12:14 am (Pacific time)
http://www.legalisecannabis.com The Legalise Cannabis Party of Queensland in Australia needs your help.
Adam Syed January 5, 2009 7:20 pm (Pacific time)
The second round of voting has begun today, Jan. 5. Cannabis legalization is comfortably on top! http://www.change.org/ideas?order=top#listSection
jungle d. January 5, 2009 7:16 pm (Pacific time)
I cant even get a job behind a failed drug screen. I have a fam to support. I never been fan of alcohol, just because its effects. Marijuana is not even close!!! LEGALIZE WEED!!!
Deputy Tony January 4, 2009 3:37 pm (Pacific time)
A question for our Editor Tim King: Well written article by the way sir. Just a few questions to help the cause. You mentioned, and I quote, "Barack Obama is already on the record saying he does not want to use the Justice Department to bust state operated medical marijuana dispensaries." This is unquestionable true, however, this implies medical cannabis will be excepted on the federal level. As you are aware, states like CA. disburse "med-can" cards. But it is still illegal on the Federal level, for know. But back to my thought, I am asking for the definition of "decriminalization" I herd Barack Obama say on a video, he advised he wanted to decriminalize cannabis, but not "legalize" it. What do you think the benefit to "decriminalization" will be? I am thinking citations, heavy fines or something on those lines. I was curious on your thoughts. Don't forget the court systems may still be involved in the above mentioned practices. This will enrich the court systems with court casts, fines and so on. If it becomes a "civil" matter, there will be no jail time, but monetary awards can be obtained by the court system. Just a thought, thanks for your time, Tony.
Tim King: Tony, I look to the recent Supreme Court decision that ends local government's ability to interpret the law to fit their needs. I grew up in California where it has always been a simple ticket for possession of up to an ounce. I think the changes will be more gradual than we had hoped, but I think they will come.
Deputy Tony January 1, 2009 3:41 pm (Pacific time)
I was reading some of your posted comments, as it relates to some other individuals thinking, and I felt compelled to wright yet again. The term that concerns me is "gateway drug". Does this mean every American who smoking cannabis, is on cocaine, crack or something else? Hmmmm, interesting concept. Does this mean the law makers who drink a beer, will drink then drink gray goose, and some day develop a liver disease and die? If this was to happen, and it probably will, is beer not a gateway drug, at least by their definition? When did tax paying citizens of this great Nation, which I proudly served for 10 years, become incapable of thinking for themselves? I will look both way before crossing the street, I will stand up for the weak, I will pay my taxes and respect the elderly. I will smoke cannabis, but not crack. It seems to me their running out of excuses! Thanks again for your valuable time and allowing me to vent. God bless you all, Tony.
Deputy Tony December 31, 2008 3:19 pm (Pacific time)
Hello again, I was wondering how the Government was able to pass laws which are contrary to the constitution of the United States. Doctor's, under the constitution, can prescribe medications they feel will benefit their patients. It does not mention which medications are, or are not appropriate. It seems today we, as a nation, are relinquishing more and more rights given to us by our forefathers. Not to drift too far off the subject, but we also have the right to bare arms. Many States make it illegal. Why did the forefathers do this? Because they understood the Government was not perfect and if the day came the Government tried to take over its people, we would have the right to defend ourselves and protect the rights we have under the constitution. Sure it applies to other countries invading us as well, but stay with me. The legalization of cannabis is in the front lines, in my mind, as a right I am going to fight for. The individuals on the "other side of the issue” are most certainly entitled to be. But remember, 75%-80% of our nation is for it. Hmmmm, then why the resistance? In a word, Politicians. Never forget the war on drugs is not winnable, but it is fund-able! This is why I'm telling you all, to vote them out. They are supposed to represent us, not themselves or special interest groups. Become pro-active and find out where these Politicians stand on the issues. Trust me, when they see where the bread is being buttered, they will get on the right side of the issue. They ONLY care about getting elected and making money. Wake up America, before it's too late. God bless you all, and have a safe New Year, Tony.
Mr Nice Guy December 31, 2008 2:08 pm (Pacific time)
Legalize is da way.
Jim December 30, 2008 3:08 pm (Pacific time)
If there was a full vote from the people there would be no question. heres 1 vote legalize it
Tony December 29, 2008 2:57 pm (Pacific time)
As a Deputy Sheriff I truly feel we need to legalize cannabis. I happen to take several medications for Bi-Polar disorder, and the many pills I take are not 100% effective. They can cause diabetes and other physical problems. It has caused me many difficulties in my career. As a teen, I have smoked Cannabis, and never have I displayed a "mood swing" disorder of any kind. The drug company, Seroquel themselves, don't know how or to what degree their product works. You see I do, medications are a multi-billion dollar business. We are no longer talking about whats best for a patient, it all about the money. We as a nation would be able to tax it, monitor it, i.e., ensure its not being sprayed with a harmful chemical. We could maintain control, similar to alcohol. You need to be 21, no driving and so on. Please people get a clue, put away your fears and do the right thing. Sincerely, Tony.
Micah December 29, 2008 1:31 pm (Pacific time)
This needs to be heard! Decriminalization in our country needs to happen! Stop the war against Marijuana!
Aaron December 27, 2008 5:37 pm (Pacific time)
Somebody asked what the difference between medical marijuana and regular marijuana is, so being a medical marijuana patient I'll answer that. There isn't a difference, except medical marijuana generally is higher quality because it's sold in store-front establishments, as opposed to paranoid weirdos in the back room of their parents house. Marijuana should be legal for all. Even though California has the best medical marijuana laws in the country, I still can't go down the street and get my medicine in a drive through Rite Aid pharmacy like everyone else does, instead I have to drive 30 miles or more one way to get my medicine. It's really absurd the hoops medical marijuana patients are required to jump through to get a medicine that doesn't kill, when it's far easier to get a lethal pill from the same place you buy laundry detergent.
peace to the weed December 27, 2008 3:00 pm (Pacific time)
you can die of tabacco and its legal,but you cant die off marijuana and THATS ILLEGAL. OBAMA you should switch that and you'll see more death results
WhySimpleComplexities? December 23, 2008 8:35 pm (Pacific time)
I have a 3.7 GPA and I have smoked marijuana since i was 15, I can assure you I am not an idiot. I have been outraged over this subject since I read the constitution and looked around to see where out once great nation now stands. Not only should it be seen as purely corrupt that our government would see such a natural herb as an evil greater than alcohol, but moreover that our government would restrict its people from any non-violent action at all. It is a moral debate more than anything because (put simply) people don't want their children to think it is okay to smoke marijuana, however, I believe that what makes a man (in principle) is his ability to choose what he believes is right and what he believes is wrong. If America wants people to stop leaning on the government then let us take the fall for our own mistakes and learn through our own actions instead of slapping our wrist everytime we get out of line. The only thing that SHOULD be out of line are violent crimes and man made drugs. -HERE ARE THE QUESTIONS THAT NEED TO BE BROUGHT FORTH- Isn't Asprin more potentially deadly? Does marijuana contain ANY addictive chemicals like cigarettes? Why is marijuana worse than alcohol? Among its many other advantages, doesn't marijuana actually help with asthma? How many peoples rights have been lost because they choose this helpful healthy recreation? How many smokers have lost their jobs, can't get a job, or undermined the government by selling marijuana because they have no choice in todays strict American standard? Would it even be physically possible for the government to EVER stop human kind or mother nature from growing marijuana? Why doesn't the government restore our rights and pull itself out of debt at the same time by legalizing this helpful healthy herb? Even if the expensive suits will never look past the brainwashings of their previous generations, wouldn't the best way to stop extreme usage of marijuana be to legalize it so that it may be controlled in more of a way than it is by simply slapping convicions on todays youth for something that you cannot prove to be a justified wrong in any since of the word that might even apply to alocohol as well? -IF I AM HEARD, THEN I AM NOT IN VEIN- -WhySimpleComplexities?
nikkkkkuh December 23, 2008 7:06 pm (Pacific time)
leagalize the s&%t. acohol is worse and thats legal? wtff. just pass it
stoner December 23, 2008 1:59 pm (Pacific time)
i think smoking marijuana is good it comes from a plant and i never heard of anyone dying from it.
Donald Curtis Clark Jr. December 21, 2008 7:35 pm (Pacific time)
What is the difference between medical marijuana and marijuana?
Taylor December 19, 2008 9:11 am (Pacific time)
I think we should legalize weed and make stricter drinking laws, more people die from drinking than pot. whens the last time you heard of someone overdosing on pot! Think about it.
Susie December 18, 2008 4:53 pm (Pacific time)
Please Re-Legalize Marijuana, it is just a plant.
J D December 17, 2008 5:53 pm (Pacific time)
LEGALIZE IT AND GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS GREATEST PRESIDENT OF ALL TIME!!!
J D December 17, 2008 5:57 pm (Pacific time)
LEGALIZE IT AND GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS GREATEST PRESIDENT OF ALL TIME!!!
oops, forgot to include link December 16, 2008 5:11 pm (Pacific time)
http://change.gov/newsroom/entry/open_for_questions_response/
Adam Syed December 16, 2008 5:10 pm (Pacific time)
As of today, Obama's team responded: Q: "Will you consider legalizing marijuana so that the government can regulate it, tax it, put age limits on it, and create millions of new jobs and create a billion dollar industry right here in the U.S.?" S. Man, Denton A: President-elect Obama is not in favor of the legalization of marijuana. So much for "change."
criseyboo December 16, 2008 5:06 pm (Pacific time)
i think that with som restrinctions and alot of protetion against minors using it, marijuana would make our economy strive towards something better.LEGALIZE IT!
Zach December 16, 2008 4:38 pm (Pacific time)
I am a straight A student. Im a senior in high school and i smoke weed everyday. Weed has not affected me in a negitave way ever. You tell me weed is illegal and achole (which is worse) is!
rob December 16, 2008 3:45 pm (Pacific time)
LEGALIZE MARIJUANA OBAMA!!!!
Barnett December 16, 2008 1:59 pm (Pacific time)
Unfortunately, your own link tells the answer from President-elect Obama: A: President-elect Obama is not in favor of the legalization of marijuana.
Nelson December 16, 2008 12:06 pm (Pacific time)
Pot is not a gate way drug ! Our Government has been brainwashing you! Legalize it now. Change needs to come. The war on our youth .I bet they said alchol was the devil. Bloodshed over an herb? families torn ? countries invaded over our morals. Another persons trash is another persons treasure! Kids see Titty Bars, Bars, Adult Book stores, pedofiles Orgies, Playboy etc. ,Every 45 seconds someone is arrested. Get over your fears Get a life! Stop letting our government dictate everything we do. legalize it. If someone wants to ruin their bodies, let them who are you to judge? Sit down with your kids talk to them. You need to be 21 like everything else.
Heather December 16, 2008 7:40 am (Pacific time)
LEGALIZE IT!
MrFixit December 16, 2008 6:56 am (Pacific time)
There may be more pressing matters to think about but freedom of choice should be close to the top. Freedom to choose the medicine that works best for you is the most critical. Medical Marijuana is the safest medicine available and helps thousands daily. This should be simple and easy. Medical Marijuana should be legal for those who wish to use it as their medicine. Happy Holidays Everyone.
christopher patton December 16, 2008 12:54 am (Pacific time)
i love weed somkes it ere day and have an 3.6 Gpa all cause of weed don know wat i will do without it thank God for it its his greatest invention besides me
lor December 15, 2008 6:57 pm (Pacific time)
two joints up
PSYOP December 15, 2008 5:47 pm (Pacific time)
Well, we got our answer to the #1 question regarding legalizing marijuana! "President-elect Obama does not support the legalization of marijuana." How sad, and how very unsurprising... I really like that last post: "LEGALIZE THE CONSTITUTION!" When, "we, the people" are we going to DEMAND that our government start working for us and respecting the Constitution?
Garko December 15, 2008 7:50 am (Pacific time)
Legalize the Constitution!
Samie December 15, 2008 6:41 am (Pacific time)
Bottom line? It's about consciousness. Alcohol and pharmaceuticals deaden self-awareness, while marijuana expands it. The powers that be don't want a conscious society!
December 14, 2008 7:23 pm (Pacific time)
I support Marijuana Rights. Alcohol is much more dangerous than cannabis and it is legal.
Mitch December 14, 2008 4:34 pm (Pacific time)
This is a wonderful idea. Marijuana should be legalized and regulated by the government. It would help America recover some of it deficits, lower crime and violence rates of rival sellers (freeing up the justice system and making streets safer), and has wonderful medical implications besides being the only non lethal drug. Of course special care must be given to make sure that minors don't get a hold of it. Of course this issue has its share of political overtones, but the fact is that there is a huge market for marijuana that includes people of ever walk of life including all races and classes. As with anything that you put into your body, you must be responsible (e.i. not to be used while driving or on the job) but the benefits of smoking are truly profound. If you don't believe me ask someone. Thank you and god bless
liberty December 14, 2008 11:40 am (Pacific time)
The more we allow Government to restrict and police the less liberty and freedoms will have and ultimately pass on to our children. We have take back responsibility from Government in as many areas as possible for real change.
FAST TONY December 14, 2008 10:13 am (Pacific time)
THATS ALL WE NEED IS ANOTHER GATE WAY DRUG,DRUGGED OUT KIDS AND MORE ACCIDENTS
Diego the Goat December 14, 2008 9:57 am (Pacific time)
Searching for "cannabis" and "marijuana" on change.gov returns zero results.
floresbron3 December 14, 2008 8:35 am (Pacific time)
My God of this universe, u who has entrusted men this world and who now shame the word mankind....instead of concerning ourselves with legalizing marijuana..and our civil rights lets reflect and get a solution on how to save humanity from wars and lets learn how to love one another as God intended us to live in peace, love and harmony
Moongrim December 14, 2008 7:55 am (Pacific time)
Legalization is not only long overdue, it's just facing reality. The only place in America that one cannot get Marijuana is in the graveyards, and that's because they're not buying there. End this silly Prohibition.
herman braddy December 14, 2008 7:53 am (Pacific time)
i support total legalization of marijuana-no strings attached
Henry Ruark December 14, 2008 7:25 am (Pacific time)
To all: Key fact, well demonstrated here by Comments-ongoing, is the very existence this time by Obama of this site. Did anyone ever find such in the Reagan/Bush/Cheney years ? Given that fact --and the now rapidly growing presence of S-N and some similar nationwide, we have challenge and opportunity to speak OUT and UP...and we must protect it by civil and intense use. "Let Freedom Ring" is not just a slogan, but basic principle of democracy, which is why the FIRST is first...
Fred December 14, 2008 12:27 am (Pacific time)
I believe the oil industry would have the most to lose, as hemp oil is high quality, and could replace alot of oil products.
And, every body was scared of pot because of the propaganda films like the one I saw in 3rd grade, 1956. It showed some teens smokin and laughing while breaking in the back of a grocery store and stealing a case of cola, running down the ally and breaking the necks off the bottles and cutting their mouths and not knowing it. Scarrrry.
I don't know why half the baby boomer generation are all squares,but I suspect that they didn't evolve correctly in the sixties, poor dummies.
Bladerunner December 13, 2008 11:10 pm (Pacific time)
Hemp could be part of the energy policy too.
topher December 13, 2008 8:42 pm (Pacific time)
@George. I think your right about the digg link being linked to the "vote yes", but i would like to point out that the question it linked too is not the no. one listed here. its the eleventh.
Phil E. Drifter December 13, 2008 7:35 pm (Pacific time)
Even I myself learned in grade school studying alcohol prohibition, prohibition does nothing to stop the desire for drugs, it only removes the government from taxing, regulating, and controlling it while causing outright violence on the streets.
Phil E. Drifter December 13, 2008 7:33 pm (Pacific time)
No apologies needed, Mr. Editor, and you were right, I shouldn't have made derogatory charges in my first post, I do have an inflammatory mouth at times; it just bothers me that so many people are wilfully ignorant of the truth. (Don't get me started on religion, which was no doubt the result of people ON DRUGS!) But yes, the 'war on (some) drugs was just another market our corrupt government crated for itself so it could circumvent the 'illegal search and seizure' clause of the Constitution, just as drug testing circumvents the 5th amendment (protecting one from incriminating themself).
Jeff December 13, 2008 7:13 pm (Pacific time)
Multi -Billion dollar industry! That's alot of green. This is why the "Legalization" of Marijuana is a political issue. Politicians work for money and it takes time for them to set up their transition team to change "the flow of money from the marijuana black market to the politicians" to "Legal Marijuana sales to the Politicians" which is why they do not want people to grow there own. They are all like Nixon and Blugovitch, or however you spell it, liar's, crooks and thieves. Not to mention Racist jerks. The anti marijuana laws were indeed created as a tool to use against the mexicans who flooded the southwest after the 1910 Mexican Revolution bring the use of marijuana with them. It then evolved to take in anyone who would rather use marijuana instead of booze and nicotine. But yes Racial Profiling is strong and healthy. I wonder how Obama feels about that?
Henry Ruark December 13, 2008 6:25 pm (Pacific time)
To all: Not too deep in this one, Tim wrote:"I included the top ten and a link to the page that allows you to see all of the other questions that people seek to have answered by Barack Obama." That's open, honest, democratic journalism at work for you --if you can recognize it and then appreciate it. Fact of the matter re priority of the question shows precisely as Tim reported, like it or not. Re costs and causes, one can write books about allathat --and some already have. SO we not about to settle it here. Meanwhile let freedom ring in this as for all else,via open, honest, democratic dialog, for which this is excellent example, as elsewhere in S-N, too. Test: Where ELSE do you find sharing and learning via your friends, neighbors --and others, too, sometimes !-- all for a single nickel. Be thankful for patience well demonstrated by management.
Roadster December 13, 2008 5:07 pm (Pacific time)
The drug war is a revenue scam for crooked law enforcement, particularly in a white trash dump like Arkansas, where you can be arrested for having freeze dried potato soup.
Phil E. Drifter December 13, 2008 5:03 pm (Pacific time)
Doh! sorry mr. editor! I apologize; the point i was trying to make is that drug laws are not only unconstitutional, they were racistly penned. I wasn't insinuating any other commentors in particular, it's just that the government has gone out of it's way to hide this information from the public; I however found it, at the tiny urls I listed before. And you're right it was wrong of me to start my comment the way I did; I pride myself on not 'flinging' poo because it does nothing to support an argument it only detracts from one's own cause. Glad to see this board is moderated tho so maybe we won't have to deal with hysterical people who TYPE IN ALL CAPS because they're hysterical about something.
Anyway, feel free to remove my last comment if you wish, the web pages where you can see these laws were plainly racist (after all, mankind evolved to take over the entire planet despite their continual use, although I don't have enough bad things to say about the religions that spawned from their use) tinyurl.com/1mn and tinyurl.com/potconviction which were written by two university (of Virginia) law professors after investigating the criminality of non-medicinal drug use.
Editor: Phil, sorry if I was harsh but that is a strict rule around here. I understand that you are making an important point, so thanks for writing back.
Mellow Mel December 13, 2008 5:00 pm (Pacific time)
Viva La Revolution! Viva Code Green! To say that ending prohibition on hemp and cannibis is not an important issue is to miss the glorius benefits of industrial hemp. End prohibition on industrial hemp and it can save the world because it is the perfect, self-sustaining, drought-resisting, soil-renewing wonder plant that could immediately be grown, harvested and converted to biofuel and thus end our dangerous dependence on fossil fuels. Hemp crops need little pest control thus eliminating chemical pesticides as well, Hemp is Fuel, Food, Medicine, Peace. Code Green
Phil E. Drifter December 13, 2008 4:58 pm (Pacific time)
The US declared war on (some) drugs, and the (some) drugs won. Stupid humans.
Mark December 13, 2008 3:57 pm (Pacific time)
The war on drugs is racist. Did you know that prohibition was a police endorsed originally by the KKK? Look it up. So when people talk about how we cannot end the war on drugs because of the political consequences, what they are saying is that the KKK and those like them have more political influence that pot smokers.
Buzz Dupp December 13, 2008 3:52 pm (Pacific time)
I wish that they would legalize weed for adults. I have been smoking for over fifty years and would love to be able to afford to use it in salads, pastries and teas. Gotta give those old lungs a rest.
Arliss December 13, 2008 3:41 pm (Pacific time)
Alcohol is by far much more destructive to our society than Marijuana. No one in the history of it's use has EVER died from an overdose or effects from longterm use.
Phil E. Drifter December 13, 2008 3:15 pm (Pacific time)
you're all &^%$# idiots. the reason the us government declared war on drugs was AFTER the civil war freed the slaves and AFTER 'grandfather clauses' written by racist politicians were found to be unconstitutional...so they outlawed the drug habits that minorities were using so they could arrest and imprison nonviolent minorities so that prison labor = slave labor that was lost. read tinyurl.com/1mn and tinyurl.com/potconviction for the research done by two university LAW PROFESSORS on the history of non-medicinal use of drugs. Which is why we have more prisoners per capita than any other nation in the world. prison labor = slave labor.
Editor: Geez, I hate it when guys like you come around with your filthy language. You are helping nothing and no one when you start out trying to belittle people. If you post profanity again I'll flush your comment and ban your IP. Be cool.
PS December 13, 2008 2:24 pm (Pacific time)
Because this falls under political "hot spud", the grass will not be legalized anytime soon. Just be glad your not living in Oklahoma 40 years ago, for possession was 20 years and worse.
Chris December 13, 2008 2:18 pm (Pacific time)
Actually this is not true, top rated idea was the following, until it was censored from the discussion.
topratedbutcensored911idea.com/votes.html
Tim King: I made that into a hyper link for you Chris, and we are not sleeping at the wheel entirely when it comes to this important subject. Check this article I wrote just days ago:
Catholic Bishop Publicly Criticizes Official Story of 9/11 (VIDEO)
Robert December 13, 2008 2:15 pm (Pacific time)
When 800,000 people are arrested for simple possession each year, I find it to be the largest civil rights issue of our time. I don't see toomany gay people areested simply for being gay or engaging in gay sex. When 76 % of the American public support decriminalization according to a cnn/time magazine poll, I think this should send a loud and clear message to our politicians. As far as the legality of the war on marijuana, where is the Constitutional amendment to ban it as was done with alcohol. Marijuana prohibition violates the Ninth Amendment and is Unconstitutional and the President can instruct the Attoneys General in every state to not enforce marijuana prohibition until such time as the laws are repealed.
Anthony NYC December 13, 2008 1:21 pm (Pacific time)
To the first two posters: 1) Correct we do have bigger things to think about now...like the fact that the country is running record deficits, record national debt, record incarceration rates and expediture, unemployment is rising above 6% in quite some time, and we're in two wars mostly over energy. Sound about right? By legalizing, taxing and regulating marijuana and its cousin hemp we address, in a serious way, ALL of the above. #2 - The president has a huge influence on what bills congress passes esp. as he has the power to veto them If pot were legalized the disgusting tobacco industry could switch gears (Marlboro already owns the rights to the trademark of "Marley" brand smokes), the price would sharplyy drop with the increase in supply and ease of purchase (no more meeting the guy who sells much much more than pot in the alley to get your herb), and then right's crys of "If you make it cheaper then more people will do it and society will decline into reefer madness!" could be qwelled by pushing the price back up to black market levels with a heavy tax, say 25% on sale. As the DEA's own website states, MJ is the most commonly used illicit drug in the US so the revenue potential here is quite substantial. We could be talking about paying for Obama's entire national healthcare system and more just by dropping MJ's status as schedule 1 which defines it as having no medicinal properties whatsoever when overwhelming majorities of people and 12 states and dozens of peer reviewed studies suggest otherwise. Peace,
Santa Cruz December 13, 2008 1:14 pm (Pacific time)
I'm all for legalization!
Zach December 13, 2008 12:12 pm (Pacific time)
Wow! This is not one of our biggest concerns. Not that I wouldn't enjoy smoking a fatty legally, but we have much bigger things to deal with on our plate right now. I'm assuming about 75% of people that are supporting this are under the age of 30. Grow up for now...
Mr Liberty December 13, 2008 11:53 am (Pacific time)
While I am for the de-criminalization/legalization of all drugs to eliminate their black market -- the fact that people are asking Barack Obama to legalize it shows how stupid the American public is. The President doesn't make the laws. He/she is charged with enforcing the laws. Want laws changed? Contact your Congressman/woman and Senators.
Tom December 13, 2008 11:32 am (Pacific time)
Marijuana Revolution, I'm so down.
Mohsin December 13, 2008 11:17 am (Pacific time)
Legalization Marijuana will create hundreds of thousands of jobs, something our country needs right now. I say it is a Hight Time we legalize Marijuana. Lets have a Marijuana Revolution.:D
ntopics December 13, 2008 10:48 am (Pacific time)
Marijuana is a drug like Alcohol. Both have negative and positive characteristics about them. I have not understood why one is legal and one it not. thanks from tony at: http://www.ntopics.com
Jess December 13, 2008 10:24 am (Pacific time)
backslash - insert foot in mouth.
George December 13, 2008 9:58 am (Pacific time)
LEGALIZE IT
Paul December 13, 2008 9:55 am (Pacific time)
The rating of these questions does not reflect the conscience of the American public by any means. It reflects those people who came to the website and had the time to vote. I doubt the sample of people that participated in this survey correctly reflects the population as a whole. I could be wrong. But even the questions are written from a very liberal stance. It would be hard to imagine somebody who does not have a liberal mindset voting on a question from a liberal stance. Its like asking a bunch of guys who are chosen based on their being attracted to red heads if a red head is prettier than a blond. Of course, if the girls are comparable to those indifferent to hair color, the guys who prefer the red heads will collectively claim the red head is more attractive. The only thing i see this article survey, and really this article reflecting is the ignorance of Americans. We are a nation together, not a nation individually.
Response December 13, 2008 9:49 am (Pacific time)
@AvangionQ In response to "How does the question about weed outweigh the educational or stem cell research questions?" Look at how full our jails are with non-violent "offenders". The pervasive crime associated with pot is not due to it's use, rather the black market that is enabled by it's illegality. This affects every community from costs of jailing non-violent people, to a lack of focus on serious crime. Not to mention, jail time can ruin someone's future, education or not.
new2site December 12, 2008 7:16 pm (Pacific time)
of course, all of the above posts correct. Phone calls/emails were 2000 to one in regards to stopping the the bailout in Sept. Keep that in mind when spreading your info. And keep that in mind while the dwindling support in obama continues.
George December 13, 2008 9:34 am (Pacific time)
While its interesting to hear what Obama has to say about this, its misleading to suggest this ended up a top question for any reason other than subterfuge. The link from the Digg website was misleadingly set to be the "vote yes" link -- not the link to the question itself, so thousands of people voted for it without knowing they were voting for it.
AvangionQ December 13, 2008 9:09 am (Pacific time)
Impressive questions, one and all, and they will be a test of the Obama administration to facilitate the answers ...
backslash December 13, 2008 8:33 am (Pacific time)
How does the question about weed outweigh the educational or stem cell research questions? That's ignorant. People make important what they want to be important.
JOhn Jones December 13, 2008 8:20 am (Pacific time)
I got a feeling Obama fires one up from time to time! this could be a good thing. jes swww.anonweb.eu.tc
Brinna December 12, 2008 10:24 pm (Pacific time)
Each of us should send our elected representatives a link to Obama's website so that they may see for themselves how important legalization of cannabis is to the country. I know I am going to.
Jade Queen December 12, 2008 10:55 am (Pacific time)
We need micro-grids for energy as well, as soon as possible. This would be part of every other topic: jobs, health, etc. We need to know our neighbors and how to keep them from freezing or boiling. CEO's would have to change, but their jobs would not be gone, since coordinating micro-grids so the down ones can help the up ones would still be necessary. I am concerned that isolated people are now in unacceptable danger.
Ricky Grubb December 12, 2008 10:14 am (Pacific time)
Go to Change.gov and register, then search for all marijuana ideas and vote on all (for or against). Contact your elected representitives, and the house (Nancy Pelosi)leadership, and request they; Please co-sponsor, support, and pass 3 important bills now in committee. HR 1009 Ron Paul industrial Hemp. HR 5842 and HR 5843 Barney Frank move Hemp to sched 2, end federal penalties for minor Hemp possession. The federal listing of Hemp as sched 1 is way out of line for this benign and useful medicinal plant, and the war on Hemp is stifling American farm economy, industry, and human nutritional needs, while smoking Hemp flowers has become widespread, all legitimate economic and retail uses are effectively banned. Thousands of reasonable, and informed American citizens feel very passionate (as I do) this Hemp ban is purely corrupt, ill-conceived, and un-warranted government intrusion, and untold human suffering has been the result.
Rich the Rasta December 12, 2008 7:30 am (Pacific time)
I remember voting for those questions just the other day! LEGALIZE IT
Dan December 12, 2008 2:24 am (Pacific time)
*Shakes the hand of Mr. Tim King* What an article! Keep telling it how it is, and you will have a great future sir! Thank you for being honest. -Dan
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