Sessions’ failed approach

In 1994, Steven B. Duke and Albert C. Gross co-authored the book, “America’s Longest War: Rethinking Our Tragic Crusade Against Drugs.” Their thoughtful analysis of this un-won “war” on drugs, one we have fought since the late 1800s, brings home the reality that we U.S. citizens need to try new ideas to solve this problem. A policy based primarily on the police and military has been unsuccessful. We need to try different approaches to solve this problem. More police and more military involvement in this “war” have not and will not stop our national demand for drugs nor the supply of drugs. It’s a societal issue.

Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ approach to the problem, especially regarding marijuana, reverts to the “same-old-same-old” approach that has failed over the past 120 years. Furthermore, the federal government dictating to individual states as to how they should deal with this problem, while itself maintains failed policies and does not try new approaches, seemingly goes against the principle of states’ rights.

Governor Inslee and Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson are to be commended for their stance against Sessions’ demand for return to a failed policy.

John Ludders

Spokane