T
The420Guy
Guest
At least New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson recognizes the political impact of
his controversial stance on drug legalization.
Johnson, a Republican, was asked earlier this month whether he was
interested in any potential appointment in the administration of
President-elect George W. Bush, ironically including the position of
national drug czar.
Johnson summed up his response succinctly: "One great thing about being
radioactive is that I don't have to worry about that. I'm sure that's the
last headache that Bush needs to worry about right off the bat."
Johnson has received national publicity for his support of drug
legalization. Johnson favors increased drug treatment over incarceration
and contends drug legalization would remove the criminal element from the
process.
Give Johnson credit for realizing his future political aspirations have
gone to pot due to his support of drug legalization, which is more than
likely the primary reason Johnson chose to make the issue part of his
agenda now when term limits prevent him from seeking another term as governor.
Obviously, Johnson was aware there would be a political price to pay for
his drug legalization campaign.
The governor is now a political hot potato. Whether this distinction
applies at the state level remains to be seen.
Johnson has stated several goals for the Legislature, primarily increased
funding for New Mexico's teachers and continued emphasis on school vouchers.
Can Johnson separate his national status in the Land of Enchantment and
enact a successful agenda? New Mexicans and their legislators will
determine how "radioactive" the governor has become.
Newshawk: Douglas Caddy
Pubdate: Tue, 26 Dec. 2000
Source: Amarillo Globe-News
Website: amarillo.com
Author: Editorial
amarillo.com
his controversial stance on drug legalization.
Johnson, a Republican, was asked earlier this month whether he was
interested in any potential appointment in the administration of
President-elect George W. Bush, ironically including the position of
national drug czar.
Johnson summed up his response succinctly: "One great thing about being
radioactive is that I don't have to worry about that. I'm sure that's the
last headache that Bush needs to worry about right off the bat."
Johnson has received national publicity for his support of drug
legalization. Johnson favors increased drug treatment over incarceration
and contends drug legalization would remove the criminal element from the
process.
Give Johnson credit for realizing his future political aspirations have
gone to pot due to his support of drug legalization, which is more than
likely the primary reason Johnson chose to make the issue part of his
agenda now when term limits prevent him from seeking another term as governor.
Obviously, Johnson was aware there would be a political price to pay for
his drug legalization campaign.
The governor is now a political hot potato. Whether this distinction
applies at the state level remains to be seen.
Johnson has stated several goals for the Legislature, primarily increased
funding for New Mexico's teachers and continued emphasis on school vouchers.
Can Johnson separate his national status in the Land of Enchantment and
enact a successful agenda? New Mexicans and their legislators will
determine how "radioactive" the governor has become.
Newshawk: Douglas Caddy
Pubdate: Tue, 26 Dec. 2000
Source: Amarillo Globe-News
Website: amarillo.com
Author: Editorial
amarillo.com