Reagan Wanted Marijuana Legalized

email ^

[jla]

I seem to recall reading this in "Reagan: In His Own Hand" also

Yes, the book can be bought in an audio format.
And Ronald Reagan did say everything that was in this thread's lead post. But the author(s) of the email infer that Ronald Reagan advocated the legalization of marijuana when he clearly states just the opposite.

Here is the exact preface to Ronald Reagan's addresses on this subject in the book:

In several radio addresses Reagan argues that marijuana is a dangerous drug and opposes legalization. But while emphasizing that young people should be made aware of the risks involved, he also says, "If adults want to take such chances that is their business."

Of course Ronald Reagan knew that even though it was illegal, many adults would still choose to smoke it.

[Senator Pardek]

PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFUL TRUISM #1: In order to run for POTUS and have a chance, one must be pro-WOD and pro-death penalty.

Of course Reagan was smart enough to realize that throwing pot smokers in jail is silly, but he would have never made it to the convention in '80 if he made a point about it.

And is there any question why Hitlery is pro-death penalty, going against all of her leftist beliefs? She's well aware of TRUISM #1...

[Moonman62]

Thanks for adding context. I guess when Reagan referred to "taking chances" that also meant breaking the law as well as health risks from smoking pot.

[Redmen4ever]

As President, Reagan was responsible for enforcing the law. He did so without reservation. Whatever his private position on MJ, advocating legalization wasn’t a priority. Reagan had a clear idea of what he could actually achieve as President, and that’s where he put his attention.

Besides, even if he were inclined to some kind of reform of MJ laws, I am sure he’d be concerned about things like organized crime, differentiating between MJ and more dangerous drugs, how do we prevent driving under the influence, and how do we prevent the sale of MJ to minors.