LEAP on the Hill: Stories from the Week of July 25, 2008

“That is a good question (but I am not going to answer it),” said Mr. Will: On Thursday at the CATO institute I arrived early and grabbed a front row seat. George Will whom I have read and appreciated for 3 decades spoke eloquently for 30 minutes, then took questions. My hand shot up and he called upon me. After introducing LEAP, and myself I asked, ‘Mr. Will I have a question about the War on Drugs/Modern Prohibition. After 37 years of war on drugs and no progress made; As the nation is now close to 10 trillion in national debt. Can the country afford and continue this modern prohibition? Do you support the policy of war on drugs/modern prohibition?’ Mr. Will essentially mumbled a few words about never could the nation legalize drugs like heroin or cocaine, but maybe marijuana could be discussed. He took no position that day, nor has he ever stated his position in writing. I was disappointed, to say the least. This one man could change the minds of millions. As Abraham Lincoln said, “To sin by silence, when they should protest, makes cowards of men.” What are you doing?: Having a busy day on the Hill, I often take the early train (0611) in to prepare the materials I give to each staffer. Drinking my coffee in the Longworth café, a police officer I have known for two years asked me how the campaign was going. I told him that the day before I had sold two quarts of snake oil. “Snake oil?” he asked. ‘Every guy in Gucci shoes around here sells snake oil.’ I replied. Then he laughed. ‘What are you doing with all those papers?’ he inquired. ‘Preparing snake oil kits.’ I replied & he laughed again. I often ask lobbyists what kind of ‘snake oil’ they are selling. A few are miffed at my description but most grin and tell me. I promote my product as ‘high quality’ snake oil.