Once more President Obama wades into the online breach with yet another Facebook Town Hall to solicit questions on policy from the public. The event takes place on April 20th, a.k.a. 4/20, the unofficial national cannabis holiday, without any sense of irony that these forums have been dominated by marijuana legalization questions every time the public votes on these questions.
(President Obama’s Facebook) WHAT’S HAPPENING
President Barack Obama will hold a special “Facebook Live” townhall to connect with Americans across the country.
WHERE & WHEN IT’S HAPPENING
Where? Well, everywhere! The event at Facebook’s headquarters, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg & COO Sheryl Sandberg, will be live streamed for anyone to watch. Just come back here at the right time: Wednesday, April 20 @ 1:45pm PDT / 4:45pm EDT. Unless invited to attend in person, please do not show up at Facebook HQ. You can watch and participate via the event’s live stream.
WHAT IT’S ABOUT
President Obama will connect with Americans across the country to discuss the tough choices we must all make in order to put our economy on a more responsible fiscal path, while still investing in areas like innovation that will help our economy grow and make America more competitive.
HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE
Facebook will be selecting questions for President Obama to answer during the event. Submit questions now by posting them right here, on this event’s wall. As an alternative, you may submit a question via WhiteHouse.gov/facebooktownhall.
So how in the world can the president avoid what will surely be voted the number one question once again by the online democracy of Facebook? Simple… don’t let the public vote. Scott Morgan from DrugWarChronicle has the scoop:
It had become clear that as long as Obama’s forums allowed the public to vote on topics for the president to address, the top-ranked questions would be about legalizing marijuana or even ending the War on Drugs altogether. Reluctant to confront the issue further, the White House recently changed its approach and announced an April 20, 2011 event on Facebook in which participants will not be allowed to vote at all. Questions can be sent in by email or posted on the Facebook page, but Obama’s staff will make selections without any public input.
The inherently democratic, vote-powered economy of ideas on the Internet has proven to be a remarkably powerful tool for discovering content of social value. The ability to click on what you like is the currency of social media and it offers insights into public opinion that may be worth more than meets the eye. The participatory nature of a vote-driven web forum makes people care about the outcome. Advocates for a wide variety of causes are inspired to spread the word and work to make sure their issue gets votes. The Obama Administration has abandoned the process simply to silence one particular idea, but the effect will be to make the forum less interesting for everyone.
Moreover, the rise of marijuana policy into the realm of mainstream public discussion should fascinate, rather than frustrate, our political leadership. It’s a phenomenon that should at least interest our elected officials, even if they don’t yet fully understand or care that marijuana prohibition funds murder in Mexico, that innocent family pets are slaughtered in botched pot raids, that precious wilderness is being devastated by black-market marijuana manufacturing, that racism defines our marijuana arrest rates, that public servants are being corrupted before our eyes, and that we blow billions each year just to keep the situation as bad as it’s been for so long.
Legalize Marijuana ! Plain and simple.
Are you aware of the amount of money that can be made off of the taxation of Marijuana?
Are you aware of the amount of money that can be made off the taxation of Marijuana?
Just one more way that America decides to shut the mouths of the PEOPLE that LIVE here. You are nothing but hypocrites, asking people what they think and then shunning them for their ideas and questions. America is TRULY UN-American. Obama….you will change NOTHING. Why? Because even as president (I didn’t capitalize that on purpose) you see only what you want to see. This country will run itself into the ground LONG before a solution presents itself. So alcohol remains legal to drunken up all the violent types….and marijuana not? I feel our country is ran by undereducated, undeserving people. They have shown me NOTHING in the terms of trying to make this country better. You ask the people, then you silence them. You make me sick….
With the vastly increasing medical evidences of the incredible cancer fighting and pro-health properties of Cannabis derivatives, and the well known industrial, textile, bio-fuel and agricultural uses that have been attributed to Cannabis Hemp fibers and oils, not to mention, the enormous economic potential or the safe recreational relaxation elements, my question for you, is this, Mr. President…
“How long will it be before, like our first great President, George Washington, there is Cannabis Hemp growing in the White House Garden…?”
I’ve personally seen what marijuana can do for people in pain – please explain why everyone is forced to go to drug dealers for their medicine? That’s how people get exposed to coke, heroin and lots of pills.
What a surprise…
Fascinated or frustrated, I Question why I still support the Obama admistration, But how do you think he feel’s being put in the questionable position of changing the power base of what I believe could be a third of the American financial power base, From Textiles, Pharmaceutical’s, plastic’s, paper, Fuel, Oil’s, protien,and foods, to name a few.
Imagine the 80yr corporations that could be removed with a swipe of a presidential pen, Lumber,pulp, cotton,Oil company,s, countless drug patent’s, Billions in law enforcement, jail’s, Prisions, courts, lawyers and counsellors,
Just imagine the scope of legal hemp.
Why wouldn’t we want the violence to stop over a plant such as Marijuana. Legalization of other drugs as well would cut down dramatically on use. Who do you know who would want to show id to buy something like heroin or crack cocaine . I do not know any But I do know a huge amount of people who could help to safe our economy but legalizing and taxing Marijuana in its many forms of use. Hemp itself can be used for rope , clothing as well as many other house hold items many use every day. And it is only a plant which heighten aware3ness it does not make people dumb it helps ailments like chronic pain and ADD. I am a mother who would have used it as a medicine for my child if were to help him focus in school. and Yes I have chronic pain due to hereditary problems and Yes if it were legalized and taxed for use I would be a consumer. I know thousands of others who feel the same way Mr President how can you not see how this PLANT can help our economy and boost your plan to help the deficit faster than in 12 years and by making less cuts. Create Jobs for farmers, manufacturers of many house hold goods and for those who can benefit from the medicinal ways THC can help America. I do not smoke because of the legal reasons Sir but if you were to make it available to lessen my daily pain I would be a more productive mother I would be able to do simple things like plant a garden something people take fore granted and Sir I would be able to go back to work and help my husband provide for my family!
Wow, way to cheaper the democratic experience Obama. Obviously something so widespread couldn’t possibly be a hot button issue? Lol of course not. Just silence the masses.
This displays evidence of the federal government avoiding the popular opinion of the government. The people cannot expect politicians to take our interest. We must talk amongst ourselves and demonstrate solutions LOUDER. The people of WI stood strong at the capital, they did not partner together and suggest alternative solutions. They did not form financial teams to fight money with money. This war is about money. Marijuana was the first billion dollar industry in America. It’s an attack on Big Oil, Big Pharmacy, Cotton, Lumber, chemical companies (pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizer), government jobs… Now there’s tax payer expense. As people we need to reconnect and emotionally strengthen each other… fight by joining TEAMS in the cause of solutions. Make pushes in your local state… Montana and North Dakota are leading the way! Things are changin’ and it’s time the people lead the change rather than expect it from politicians. Join a TEAM or form a TEAM.
What a surprise. Silence the masses to avoid the inevitable. I’m sorry I ever supported you President Obama. Your not different than the rest who lie to gain our votes then turn on your country in the blink of an eye.
When will you and the FEDS learn and accept that you will never, and I mean NEVER stop us from using cannabis? I will use it whenever and however I want, and guess what? I’m gonna grow it too and so our the rest of us and there’s not a goddamn thing you can do about it.
You all literally make me sick to my stomach. You give us alcohol which destroys our livers and makes us brainless, incoherent idiots. You give us cigarettes that cause cancer and disease, all for profit.
And yet you keep cannabis illegal? Why? You pigs can’t profit from it! That’s what its all about. Selfish greed. Typical America. You can keep it illegal all you want but you’ll never stop me or anyone else from using it! EVER.
Yes, marijuana being illegal sucks, yell at the senate and house of rep. To change it they need to pass it to him before he can sign it.so yell at them at least hes trying to do a good job
You know, our national political leaders and literally millions of Americans who remain fully supportive of pot prohibition and drug prohibition generally will readily chuckle and laugh at the FOLLY that was alcohol prohibition. Obama will probably sit and watch Ken Burns upcoming Prohibition documentary and shake his head at how misguided and futile it was. He might even be sipping a glass of wine as he does. How they can be that cognitively disconnected I don’t know, but they are.
This is all apart of the master plan to make Americans into a country of servants. Where we are told we have a say in how are country is run and and what laws we want.
What the truth is that Obama and all other presidents before and in the future are all puppets. they do not care what we as a country want. We need to take back our country from these villains. I hope the nation opens its eyes before its too late. Come on every day the DEA shuts down a tax paying medical marijuana business if Obama cared he would put a stop to it. The people who run and operate those businesses are do9ing the American dream. paving new ground for new industry.
Free enterprise. Something is wrong when a government edits public opinion.
What’s the matter Obama? It is painfully obvious to everyone but you politicians that prohibition on marijuana is not and has never worked, but we as a country keep pouring money into this “so called war on drugs” and all it is accomplishing, is putting money into the black market, sending innocent people to prison resulting in over crowding, causing more tax dollars to be wasted, and even more being missed out on by the government. My question is this, How can you keep skirting the issues, ignoring the American people, and keep one of the biggest cash crops in the world illegal when the United States is in the worst economical state in it’s history simply because you do not want to be known as “The one who legalized marijuana”? WE NEED CHANGE!! Where is it at Obama? You promised us change but have delivered more of the same half truths and lies that the United States government have been feeding us since 1937.
If offered sufficient facts and evidence, any reasonable, self respecting, law abiding individual would [at the very least] expect and demand proof beyond a shadow of doubt, that the evidence supported by the facts is true. With that in mind – and – despite all appearances as a just person – how in the bloody hell can any prohibitionist have the nerve and audacity to corroborate the complete and absolute bullshit presented by a prejudice and unjust law – unless they are the author of that misplaced justice.
Prohibs probably have it in their minds, as a passing observation that 4-20 @ 4:20 will be a meaningless gesture on our part. Tomorrow – it will be up to us to show them how mistaken they are. Some ask what can we do? Tomorrow – we can give Obama a real piece of our minds on his Facebook.
Good luck and have a really great CDXX Communion.
FUCKYOUBARRACKOBAMA
Obama is holding this Facebook forum on April 20th at about 4:20 p.m.. If he refuses to address the Quagmire prohibition v.2.0. has created then he is outright slapping reformers in the face with a wet rag.
He mocks us!!!!!
I have 2 questions for you, Mr. President. #1) What happened to common sense? #2) Why on earth did you do a “flip flop”?? Finally, Please Do Not Treat This Issue As A Laughing Matter or Joke, As You Did Before. Thank you. Sincerely, BD
One and DONE! Can you hear us NOW?
this is sad, president obama is going to have a town hall meeting. and then he is not going to let the town people in. they need to rename this as a campaign speech. how do you debate the people when you dont let the people in ? im really beginning to think this goverment is more a dictatorship. if people ask me questions i dont want i wont talk to the people . the president will only surround himself with the corporations that is putting money in his pocket. this form of goverment sucks
Obama’s Road to RU IN: Has anyone noticed that the Obama campaign theme, which is also posted on Barack Obama facebook page is: “Are You In?” Now, if I text that to someone, it comes out as: RU IN. WTF? This guy is an ass, don’t drink the koolaid. Vote for any else.
I won’t vote (again) for a two faced lying piece of crap. He’s gone back on his “words” and doesn’t seem to have control of DEA or any federal agency. It’s still business as usual for all republicans still holding Bush appointed positions. I don’t think they fired any federal DA’s in any state. He kept all of them! Walk on Barry I’ll be voting for anyone that doesn’t consider me a criminal.
Happy 4/20 and let’s not forget about all our people that are rotting in cages. Marc, Eddy, we won’t forget. FTW
To all my brethren in the “Reformation of the Genesist Faith”
HAPPY NATIONAL HEMP DAY – HAPPY 4-20 – CANNABIS WILL RISE AGAIN at 4:20 p.m.
God be with you.
Lost all faith in the so-called electronic “democratic-process” since the first 26-Mar-2009 Online Town Hall Meeting. (Didn’t wholeheartedly believe Obama’s vague, weasel-worded, pre-election responses to cannabis law reform questions either), so his contemptuous laughter 26-Mar-2009 at America’s #1 concern was no real surprise to me…!!!
Behind every wimp is a domineering woman. I feel sorry for the guys who marry his daughters.
It seems that President Obama does not have what it takes to do what he really (probably) wants.
I honest believe, that if marijuana was legal for adults, that he would truly enjoy himself by smoking a but of the herb while relaxing on a nice beach in Hawaii. I’m 100% sure it is something that close to 50% of all Americans would like to do if given the chance.
It’s truly sad he has so much power but is apparently afraid to use it. Either that or he has changed so much since his younger years as to now be unrecognizable.
I just re-read the post I just made and noticed a few spelling mistakes… I wish we had the ability to edit our posts so that we could avoid appearing less intelligent than we truly are…
One more thing – I am disappointed in NORML for not getting behind the gathering that is now taking place in our nations capitol! I think NORML has a lot of power when it comes to rallying people and getting them involved but doesn’t take advantage of it nearly enough. I’m aware of the conference going on right now, but I have to say the timing sucks. I think getting us all together in DC to make our voices heard would be more fruitful…
[Editor’s note: 1) The organizers of a 4/20 event in DC when there is a well advertised NORML national conference is in Denver and 2) Congress is not in session was unwise.]
The war on marijuana has failed just like the “war” on alcohol. STOP THE OPRESSION, we have the RIGHT to decide to smoke this PLANT if we want to. It’s just as bad as tobacco. Punishing and ruining innocent people’s live and futures with these stupid petty misdemeanor possession charges. GO STOP A METH LAB OR CRACK HOUSE YOU PUSSES.
My question to President Obama:
After 40 years of the epic failure of the War on Marijuana isn’t it time to try something different? How about just eliminating the office of DEA which will save 2 billion dollars and farm out all the staff to Afghanistan and Iraq as support services and stop funding private for profit companies like Xe (formerly Blackwater) who are wreaking havoc over in the Middle East.
even without a vote it wont matter. if the overwhelming input on facebook is the drug war issue then even if he dodges the bullet he knows what the people want him to actually do. i say continue to attack his approval rating, if he fears losing the election in 2012 he might at least fully decriminalize possession
If alcohol is legal. Marijuana should be equally as legal. how many people do you hear of that go into a high stuper and kill their wives or beat someone. i think people who smoke the pot are less likely to corrupt society than the people who down alcohol daily. i havent been smoking the pot and my head is pretty clear and i can tell u right now legalizing the pot will probably HELP the government. I mean its legal in a quarter of the country anyway. so whats stopping the rest?
“Facebook will be selecting questions” vs “Obama’s staff will make selections” Which is it? I’m assuming it’s the later but they are using facebook as a scapegoat.
{paraphrasing} Mr. President… I’m a LEAP guy… WTF prohibition over.
Answer (trying not to laugh) oh yeah this is serious and should be discussed…
Just not in public where anyone can see, right?
Tell ya what Mr prez… I will do my business in secret too… the next time I pull the voting lever asshat!
You cant give up that is what they want. Keep the pressure on.
we need a third party , if barrack obama will not face the issue , how can you vote for a rebulican , my god there is no choices any more. the people running this country is corporations. about 15 years ago congress passed a lad allowing corporations the ability to buy as many mass news media outlets as they can possibly buy. you can now see why that was so inportant when the news will not report the truth about marijuana or any other subject that the big corporations dont want you to hear about. democracy is something that used to be what our goverment worked by but that went out the window a long long time ago. its time to find a third party candidate that will stand up and talk about the issues of the day and not the issues of big corporations
ahhhhh! i wish i can make it …… i have to work. everybody, please flood this facebook town hall meetin with marijuana legalization questions. we made it the most frequently asked question when he held an online town hall meetin. we can do it again. legalize
The election is coming up (at least in the eyes of political wonks). Obama’s opponents target the culturally conservative as a voting block and even the slightest miscue could lead to the rise to power of those avidly against our interests. If they dragged William Ayers out of the closet for the last election, imagine what they’ll do with any comment even vaguely pro-marijuana.
DEFEND THE GARDEN
Some times the best defense is “no defense” – but – for the most part, and most of the time – the best defense is a “strong offense.” Today – 4-20 @ 4:20 – we, the Genesist Faith and friends, make a Declaration, and deliver it to all prohibs. Today – we start “defending” the garden with a “strong offense.” Today – and for all time – prohibs will be the “defenders” if they have any inclination whatsoever of invading the garden. The barbarians are at the gate – but – the shame they wear on the bosom of their soul, and their jersey, bear a huge 86. Today – we’re going to let our “offense” take the field – “GAME OVER.” But – it doesn’t stop there! After today – we offer them one word to get used to – “DEFEAT.” We hope – we truly hope – that they are good losers, and can handle their loss – otherwise – “They made their bed – now – they can lay in it.”
If we could bribe Congress and the Senate with as much money as the Drug Corporations do, Marijuana would be legal today. Tax money isn’t good enough….they want pocket $…..
President Obama knows exactly what today is! Folks are talking about IT (legalization). The President isnt giving amunition to those opposed to legalization. He has picked the time and place for the town hall on facebook…come on people that is code for give me a second term and we will get the job done. I certainly don’t believe there is a Republican on the horizon planning on riding in on a white horse with ending prohibition top on his agenda. I may be delulded but I say odds are far greater that should legislation passes both houses of congress ending prohition, President Obama is far more likely to sign it than not.
My concern is for the Post Obama era. Can you imagine having the Feds cracking down in CA and other states again!
Don’t be so hard on the President, there may be more at play here than meets the eye.
VOTE!
The best question to ask Obama is: “Seriously, who do you think will be the next president in 2012?”
Legalize cannabis is the only hope for the future.
It’s time to start a Marijuana Revolution!!
I cannot support this president who has withdrawn all support for me and my people.
Don’t ask the president for help, ask your friends and neighbors, everyone you know. The people have the power, not the president. When enough average people demand change, it will happen; change will not come from the top.
WHY DO WE NOT HAVE PEOPLE ARRANGING PICKETERS OUTSIDE OF FACEBOOK HQ?! CMON NORML…
“Unless invited to attend in person, please do not show up at Facebook HQ.”
This is why I will not be renewing my membership to NORML. Sorry guys, seems like I am contributing to nothing but your own wealth…
HAVE PEOPLE RAGE 4.20 OUTSIDE FACEBOOK HEADQUARTERS.
IF YOU LIVE ANYWHERE NEAR PALO ALTO CALIFORNIA, PLEASE DO WHAT SHOULD BE DONE IN SUCH A SITUATION. I know I would, but I thought Norml would be all over this…
[Editor’s note: As NORML is convening a national conference in Denver, CA-based reform groups involved in medical marijuana protested Obama today…]
Our President is a joke. I supported that man and even defended him when other people said he didn’t know what he was doing. I bet I look like a fool to those people now. Thanks a lot Obama.One day I hope and pray we get a President that will cut the puppet strings the DEA has on them and really think for their self.
Mr. Obama
why not tax the cannabis to finance the war on terroist????????????
420 @ 4:20
END MARIJUANA PROHIBITION
There should be a MASSIVE STORM brewing at the forefront of Representation all across the LAND of the OPPRESSED and in Washington D.C. today.
May the lord be with us and on our side always!
LET THE MANNA FLOW!!!
420 @ 4:20
Same SHIT different President
Do you guys think Obama gets re-elected after this? If he comes out and says, “I think marijuana should be decriminalized” again, will people take him seriously?
Do you think that if marijuana legalization advocates try to hold his feet to the fire on this one during the upcoming campaign season, that his newfound drug war mentality will be spun into a good thing?
I do not want 4 more years of this. People should not donate to his campaign unless he addresses the mj issue and, once and for all, tells us where he really stands.
How comically ironic would it be if he gets defeated on the marijuana issue this time? If he dangles some kind of “maybe” or “stick with me” or “give me more time” malarky, I suggest we read between the lines and realize he’s full of shit.
Oh, yeah… Happy 420!
if the Prez really wants to cut useless spending he should start with the 15 billion that goes to the Drug Zcar
I don’t see how the president, a man who’s very job is to listen to the people of his country, can just simply avoid letting a discussion of a topic happen when in the most diverse location of social interaction it is clearly the most desired topic
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
They are altering your free speech here, amendment #1.
I think the real question is just how much bullshit will Americans put up with from BIG GOVERNMENT before we take our 2nd amendment and put it into use.
What does that have to do with the price of eggs?
^^^^ Read about the federal reserve ^^^^
Give me liberty or give me death.
This could be advantageous for Gary Johnson. He should hold a Q&A the same day allowing the questions Obama will not allow. He could trump Trump on the silly “I’ll show you my tax return if you show your birth certificate.”
Amending my previous comment. Johnson could start the site today then run the Q&A for awhile to address what Obama does not address.
Stop the war on drugs its killing thousands of innocent people in Mexico and the U.S.
Those of us who live in “chronic” pain and others who need cannabis to live a half way normal live find it hard to believe that you have done a full 180 degree turn in response to a cannabis reform law. You have proven that you only say what will get you elected and then sell out to big corporations. I voted for you and feel extremely let done and sold out.
Sense when is a “Town Hall” meeting a one way conversation, is this the “new” democratic process?
I watched it. It was just a stunt to get people to watch his campaign: it was a clever trick, really, letting everyone think they had some input, but he only picked the questions that prompted the campaign talking points he wanted to say.
Of course, I say they were “picked,” but my guess is the questions were actually scripted. I would be interested in determining if the questions he claimed to have gotten from the facebook forum are really on there.
The government will never realize the usefulness of this plant so they will continue to speak outlandish bullshit about the subject. We just have to except they we are criminals because the government labels us as it. Scratch that, they know the usefulness of the plant but don’t want to admit that they were wrong.
“If I don’t see it, it doesn’t exist.”
Try as hard as they want, this issue is never going away.
nothing! not a word. nothing on the news either with all the 420 gatherings. the nazi’s have taken over, more police, more prisons, more drug war dollars, controlled media. wonder what george washington would do? yeah george, but now they have the best guns, and they;re taking ours, and the new bullets they’re coming up with only last 6 months. big corporations have stolen life, liberty, and happiness for their ceo bonuses and world government and our future is 40,000 dollars in debt for every citizen. slaves to the nazi’s, it doesn’t matter if you call them repub or demo, its trickle down.
Obama fundamentally misread the mood of the American public vis-a-vis marijuana and that is why the Republicans enjoyed a landslide victory in 2010.
Abandon Liberalism !
I signed up for Facebook just for this event. I suggested a cannabis related question. In spite of it being April 20, 4/20, and there being so many cannabis related questions, the President did not answer one that I saw. I couldn’t believe it. I canceled my Facebook account in disgust.
So…America…do you not see it? If you speak out they will silence you , if they dont like your vote they will vote for you….sounds like communism/fascism too me. So how did Obama really get voted in?
The best thing you can do is continue to live your lives using what helps you. Be safe about it, and don’t get caught. If you know in your heart that something can help make you a more balanced, productive, and happier person, don’t let someone else take that away from you. Or, simply look to any search engine with scholarly information like EBSCOhost, JSTOR, hell even GoogleScholar will have things to say on the medical benefits of marijuana *when used with sense and reason*. The problem is, because certain folks want to keep the taboo of Reefer Madness around it, proper dosage information is going to take longer to surface. But it will, in time. Until then, we’re left to our own devices while addictive, killer drugs like alcohol and tobacco are sold. There’s a great difference in our country between the sense morals make, and the sense dollars make. Obviously we can tell which kind of sense our government is interested in.
Celebrate safely my friends, and for the love of all that’s good don’t act a fool today and give douchenozzles on Fox another arrest to gloat about.
Pandering!,but not to the masses,just the money.
53 Bighare1
Do I detect a genesist in the crowd? If I do congratulations. What colony [county], and state are you in? We’re always happy to have a new friend in the brethren and the “Reformation.”
Have a great CDXX Communion
BarT Genesis Lake, Tn. Colony.
What kind of action did we get locally in and around Lake county? What were your ideas about the movement – now – for the 2012 elections? Let’s talk on the Faith’s e-mail genesisthefaith@earthlink.net.
Hope you had a great day.
Happy 420 and Happy CDXX Communion.
Manny San Diego, Ca.Colony
Hootie just bought a parrot!
Parrots are “wild game.” Just take away their cage – and – you will “know” just how wild they really are. I never buy anything that eats. If it eats – it shits. If it shits – I have to clean up after it. But – Hootie takes in all the animals, God bless her heart. Hootie is- as big or bigger – a freedom fighter than “ANYONE.” She would bare her breasts and lead the charge with gun and flag in hands. She’s a real American girl – first family American – deep roots in the American ground she stands on – land of the free – home of the brave – in God we trust. America doesn’t prohibit anyone’s God – or – anyone’s faith in him. Americans will “defend with a strong offense” our individual faith in what ever religion we choose – we so declare – Amen.
Does anyone know trumps thoughts on Marijuana legalization? if my logic is right trump is a business man and marijuana brings in over 2 billion dollars a year in tax revenue. so he should consider putting marijuana on the marke, right?. Am i right or Wrong/ if trump runs for president we should see where he stands on this issue.
The united states govervment not only lies to its people but to itself. arrogant hypocritical u.s. goverment. land of the free? i think not. America incarcerates more people per capita than ANY country in the world. liberty for all? bitch please, the constitution is being abandoned and authority just seems to do what they want.secret societies, need for oil, corruption, recession, invasion of countries, illegal terrorist prisons, failed justice,lobbying, debt,and a 2 party bickering system. im honestly thinking about moving to switzerland.
I watched the entire thing in anticipation that he would answer one of the thousands of marijuana related questions. Not a damn one was answered. Also FUCK the facebook employees! Answer the general public at large.
Honestly I think all the questions were planted. Why else would Facebook employee’s get so much facetime?
@79 – Trump believes marijuana should be legalized and taxed. He is a good businessman after all!
Trump looks like he hasn’t taken a shit in a month.I know he SAYS pot should be legal and taxed, but hes full of shit.
Make this election a ONE ISSUE ELECTION: LEGALIZE IT!!
HAMMER YOUR POLITICIANS running for office with this question: Will you make cannabis legalization YOUR FIRST PRIORITY?
If they say anything other than YES, GET RIGHT UP IN THEIR FACES AND YELL FUCK YOU!!!!
It must be nice for them to be able to decide which questions they want to answer and which they don’t. If a presidential cantidate promises to legalize during his term. Then he WILL be our next president.But if OBAMA ignores us then we ignore him.
Obama SUX!!!
OUST Obama!
Obama dodges the will of the people!
Obama is undeserving to be president.
We want someone that will address our concerns at the front of the line.
Obama dodges the main issue!
TIME TO GO OBAMA, KISS 2012 GOODBYE, OH AND BY THE WAY,,”UP YOURS”
The president works for the people who pay him. Not the people he cons votes out of.He intentionaly lied to get my vote and now he’s turned his back on me.Because his masters have orderd him to do so.
they made mention of 4:20 @ 4:20 on msnbc, twice now in a weeks time the anchor has said its time to legalize marijuana. they had a new poll out that said marijuana legalization now stands at 46 % of the people support it . the reason dont hear about our cause is about 15 years ago congress passed a law stating corporations could buy as many mass news media outlets as they could buy. thats why you never hear about it because pharmacuticals dont want you to hear anything about it
Legalizing Marijuana: An Exit Strategy From The War On Drugs
http://www.eurasiareview.com/legalizing-marijuana-an-exit-strategy-from-the-war-on-drugs-oped-19042011/
“If you support the Kool-Aid mass suicide cult of prohibition, and erroneously believe that you can win a war without logic and practical solutions, then prepare yourself for even more death, tortured corpses, corruption, terrorism, sickness, imprisonment, economic tribulation, unemployment and the complete loss of the rule of law.
The only thing prohibition successfully does is prohibit regulation & taxation while turning even our schools and prisons into black markets for drugs. Regulation would mean the opposite!
Prohibition is nothing less than a grotesque dystopian nightmare; if you support it you must be either ignorant, stupid, brainwashed, insane or corrupt.”
From a FORMER and incredibly vocal white Obama supporter ( I wanted white noted because I refuse to change my vote based on color) I want the President to know, that you have officially lost my vote. If you want it back do the following:
1. Legalize Pot
2. Create a fucking job or two (which legalizing pot would do)
3. Get us out of the 3 ridiculous wars we are in as promised (fyi – we were only in two when yuo came into office).
You have proven yourself a liar. I know that liar is synonomus with politician, but really, you can kiss my ass, because unless you change your politics in the next few months, I will vote for anyone but you, Mr. President.
The drug war is non partisan because the reform movement is non partisan. Two things drive politics in the U.S. 1. Money 2. Votes. We offer neither
Gary Johnson has announced he will run for president in 2012. It would be even better if he and Ron Paul would run on the same ticket. If they run against each other it will just fracture each others chance at winning.
Still…GARY JOHNSON for President in 2012!
I told Obama from day 1 – legalize pot or you lose this white boy’s vote.
GARY JOHNSON – I voted for him the 1st time he won in NM. Now I live in PA and he gets my vote now. Wouldn’t it be ironic if he won?
he is a liar. he will not get my vote again. obama is the opposite of transparency/reform/change .
End the war on drugs – take the billions currently spent on law enforcement, interdiction, prisons, jails & the Courts, and create a real public health system. Then tax all the profits, now legal, and wipe out all the red ink – get China and all the other foreign US bondholders out of our business.
The United States government can run but it can’t hide for long. Go Gary Johnson. Gary Johnson for President of the United States. We can improve our country greatly by voting for Gary Johnson.
The US Government has mistreated their people since 1937, enough is enough.. Let it be known as Campaign 18699
Fucky you Obama bin laden.
For those of you who are saying we need a third party — there already is one, but you all always ignore it, the LP is pro-freedom in all aspects, start electing them to local and state offices so they can get enough name recognition to succeed in a federal election.
And, yes, there IS a fairly well known Republican who advocates legalizing, his name is Gary Johnson, he is the former Governor of NM, and he just declared his candidacy for the presidential nomination, get behind him, donate to his campaign, tell other people about him, and we could have a “pro-pot- president” in 2012 if we can get him elected.
Ron Paul is pro ending the war on drugs, too, but at his age he will do us more good remaining in the House, especially with is son in the Senate, then we’d have three strong anti-drug war people in government, between them, with our support, they’ll get the job of legalization done.
@tlc The odds of a Paul/Johnson ticket would be very high considering Dee Johnson. I agree it would be interesting to see what the vote would be as a test drive for 2016 as they are all crash dummies in my opinion.
These bloggers have got to get real. Someone needs to ask the 45 million AARP members: “Do you think the Trillion Dollar Drug War has played a role in running your Medicare/Medcaid thru the Congressional meat grinder?” Yes or No?
If – there’s anything good to say about law enforcement – I would say this:
Remember! – whether good or bad – “they are fighting crime” – and – they “CAN” use every dirty trick in the book – fighting it – advantage cops. They haven’t won the war [long national disgrace] since 1937 – and – nothing has changed since then. They’re still losing [still disgraceful] – and – they always will lose. They’re just flushing money down the toilet – but – they [are] getting their paycheck. When I say – “they don’t get it” – I mean “they truly don’t get it!” Look! – “they’re institutionalized and brain washed – puppet cops/ killer robots – and – any cop that thinks out of the box is a rogue cop. What do we expect – miracles?”
Remember! – “They’re fighting crime and they’re after our asses!” One of “theirs” has been killed too – and – they think of us as “complicit cop-killers [maybe we didn’t pull the trigger , but we loaded the gun].” Aside from “truly believing that we’re killing their kids” – and – other than the fact that they insist that we are supporting drug cartels aka terrorists “they are dedicated and totally committed to -getting our asses.” – we’re a notch on their gun and a feather in their hat – good job! good job!.
If – there’s anything good to say about prohibs of any kind – I’d like to hear it.
Frankly – the whole bloody mess is lunacy – crazy – insane – but then – war is too full of horror for human beings. You can never “end a war” by being part of it. We must find an immediate solution to end this senseless evil war – now! One would think – there’s got be a rational, level headed person in government – somewhere! We sure won’t find common sense and reason in prohibs. Because we can’t find common sense and reason in our “elected” leaders [those we have chosen], anger and pain make for a volatile combination, and we seek retribution. Retribution requires nothing more than determination and
execution. Of course – the answer is relatively simple. Tried and true in tradition [it’s] “Put your money where your mouth is – money talks and bullshit walks.” So! its time to take back our country from prohibs. We the People didn’t hand our liberty over to them – they took it away from us with their chicanery. If we’re going to rebuild America, we should start by weeding out the prohibitionists – otherwise – we can only look forward to SOS – “Same old shit different day!” Back in the toilet again.
All of you who supported Obama drank the same kool aid and now your upset. I just have to laugh, sorry!!!
I am conservative as they come and believe marijuana should be legal.
If you want a man of action, listen to former two term New Mexico Gov Gary Johnson at CPAC (Conservative Political Action Committee). Listen to the people cheer when he talks about marijuana. The people cheering are all conservatives. Hmmmm what do you think about that?
Gary Johnson is a GOP candidate for president in 2012. NORML are you going to support him???? Have a great weekend folks!!!
this is exactly the type of thing that is making myself and, alot of other americans in this country very disheartened about america. and, it is not but one of the many issues that will not be explained by our government.its all become greed and power…ive never been so disappointed so much in all my life. im finding it harder and harder to support such a mockery of true government. i believe in the american people but, not in our government…..so disappointed..i realize it is weak but, i find myself wanting to throw in the towel. its harder then ever to pay taxes and support a group of law makers who do not give a damn about what people really want….their just seems that the flicker of light at the end of this tunnel is going out……for those of you who have not been bitten by the drug test of america in order to keep a good job an are sitting back not worried about all this…wait till you do have to conform…life will suck and then, you will wish you gathered up your stones and stood up…..seems many of us will only know true freedom when we have lost it…
Remember the sick and dying Mr. President. We still have a right to vote and since you are not listening to us at town hall meetings. Or in any other way The Medical Marijuana Community will not be listening to your pleas for another four years to ignore us more. For being college educated you seem out of touch with the concept of mercy. Oh that’s right, your were and are a Lawyer. My Bad……..
so many brothers and sisters in prison just for marijuana how can they ignore that. let alone justify it
105. katiespaw124
Each prisoner runs around $54K per year – and – if one has medical problems, add another $14K a year. $$$ is their justification, and they can’t ignore big bucks. Sickening isn’t it.
I feel I must preface the following remarks with a renunciation of any unjustified violence — it is invariably counterproductive and contrary to both my personal belief system (I’m Buddhist) and against the basic tenets of both of my heroes, Gandhi and MLK. But there is a point at which nonviolence gains nothing more in the advance of social justice. Have We the People reached that point? I don’t know …
Playing Devil’s Advocate: An Argument In Favor Of Domestic “Drug Cartel” Blowback
Malcolm X once used the term “chickens coming home to roost” to describe the cause & effect that resulted in the assassination of President JFK, for which he was excoriated in the MSM press along with the Feds, and the Black Moslem Brotherhood who squelched his public speaking engagements. So much for speaking truth to power. What he was referring to is the axiom that “actions have consequences, sometimes quite predictable (or not) negative consequences”. The USA’s Intelligence Community, long involved in the unwanted intervention in the affairs of other nations as an adjunct to the projection of America’s mercantile colonial empire, under the guise of the Cold War, even coined the term “blowback” to describe those unintended negative consequences.
But the USA Intelligence Community’s many decades of covert & overt interference in the domestic affairs of other nations, which has gone such a long ways toward creating the breeding grounds of resentment and potential blowback against the USA, refuses to this day to take ownership of such unintended negative consequences — only ownership of the term they euphemistically coined. National Security Advisor Condoleeza Rice’s infamous protestations that “we had no idea that “this” could happen” in regard to the events of 9/11/2001 were, of course, outright lies. Well, our government lies to its citizens all the time, in the name of either concealing past misdeeds or advancing one ill-advised policy after another that would otherwise foment domestic rebellion and regime change — remember Saddam Hussein’s WMDs and those looming nuclear mushroom clouds over Chicago?
It’s the same damnable lies regarding the War on Drugs — propping up corporate cronies and suppressing minorities, under the guise of “protecting our children, and society”. There were over 875,000 drug arrests last year, about 750,000 of which were for simple illicit drug possession. Data reveals that whites and minorities engage in illicit drug use in roughly equal percentages, and yet about 70% of those arrested are minorities. With a felony drug arrest comes the prospect of becoming a second-class citizen, especially with the loss of voting rights. This is hardly a coincidence — effectively it’s an organized governmental suppression of minority rights.
President Barack Obama’s long association with Reverend Jeremiah Wright’s suburban Chicago church should have made him quite aware of the phrase “chickens coming home to roost” and the explicit meaning of that Intel euphemism “blowback”. He would have had to be asleep during all those Wright sermons otherwise — not a credible prospect. The foreign policies that spawned the blowback of 9/11/2001 have a domestic policy analog — the tyrannically repressive War on Drugs, which has merged over the past 8 years with the War on Terror, both domestically and internationally. Another term Malcolm X used to describe docile “willing tool” blacks might be apropos for Obama — that of “house negro”. Obama certainly has expressed no particular qualms about suppressing minority rights while ramping up the War on Drugs. The “Unitary Executive” continues unabated, along with ever-increasing erosion of domestic personal rights and liberties. Fascism is fascism, regardless of which political party is in power.
Mexico is experiencing a bloody rebellion between their drug cartels and their government, with over 6,200 lives lost, many of whom are innocent civilians. “Why hasn’t this bloodbath spilled over into the USA”, one might well ask? It could be that the drug cartels don’t want to “poison the well” they get their annual $20 Billion USD from, but it is far more likely that those drug profits have already “bought off & corrupted” all the USA officials at every level of government needed to facilitate their business here — corruption the Mexican government has been fighting back against.
If a similar level of drug war violence was seen on American streets, there might be a public hue and cry to end this Prohibition, not unlike the end of the Alcohol Prohibition in 1933. Then where would a these corrupt USA officials get their extra cash? Where would our corrupt banking system get their extra billions of dollars in drug money to launder through the Wall Street Mobsters? Where would the USA Intelligence Community get their illicit “off-the-books” funds that gives them covert operational independence from the purview of Congress?
The 6,200+ Mexican lives lost in their drug cartel war exceeds the total number of DEA agents, now about 5,000. Factor in the number of corrupt War on Drugs facilitators — the judges that issue poorly justified search warrants, the District Attorneys that persecute and prosecute victimless drug “criminals”, the police commanders that “green-light” violent militarized SWAT raids, and the politicians that financially benefit from asset forfeitures and one might begin to surmise that the USA is a “target-rich” environment for domestic War on Drugs blowback. Bringing the violent War on Drugs back into America with the perpetrators getting some rough “street justice” might be the only way to end Prohibition 2.0. It worked with Prohibition 1.0 back in the day. Sometimes sacrifices have to be made to water the Tree of Liberty — better it be the blood of our tyrants instead of We the People. Just don’t expect we laid-back chilled-out marijuana smokers to do those “dirty deeds” — leave that to the real bad-ass revolutionaries. Harry Anslinger’s hateful invective of “Reefer Madness” was just another example of government lies …
To quote that Village Idiot President from Whacko, Texas: “Bring it on.”
I am grateful that Obama called off the DEA hounds, but now is the time to “CHANGE” the laws and listen to the people of the United States. We want the prohibition to end.
Obama campaigned on the agenda of change. He is just another lying politician. He has not kept his promises.
Everyone is focused on the chemical side of marijuana and forgetting that there are MANY uses for the rest of the plant matter that are not being utilized.
The pharmaceutical companies are controlling the politicians. They want first dibbs on the money so they are lining their pockets with campaign contributions. This is America people. Who ever has the money makes the rules.
What we need to do is have us a END MARIJUANA PROHIBITION March in front of the white house to show that we will not be pushed aside. That we will not go anywere till are voices are heard and our demans are met.
Down with Oppression and up with FREEDOM.
People are standing up all over the world for what they believe in. It’s time we do the same.
“LET IT BE DONE!”
“If you don’t love America – you can kiss my ass.”
Nobody said you have to like the assholes running it. They ain’t nothin’ but a bunch of lizards. You just can’t blame “the country – the free ground you walk on” – because of government’s legion of idiots with their heads caught in their placentas. They’ve hung on to their bullshit too long – now their embarrassing themselves. The whole bunch of them have been on the take for a long time. It’s time to take the take away – pull their plug. It matters not what we replace the “prohibitionist” with, as long as the prohib is down the road, and long gone replaced. – without honor. They deserve no favorable recognition.
@112 – Just wondering – What do you actually do to promote ending prohibition besides criticizing, name-calling, and complaining?
Personally, I’ve written numerous times to our nations leaders. I’ve made contributions to help the cause. I’ve participated in many blogs outside of NORML’s…
What have you done, and what have the American Genesist’s done??? Seriously, you seem to consider yourself a religious bunch, but your words sound anything but religious to me… They sound more like the words of an anarchist.
It’s simple, Obama does not get my vote until he addresses drug law reform. Ron Paul is addressing drug law reform. Gary Johnson is addressing drug law reform. WHO DO YOU THINK WILL GET MY VOTE?
113 Don
If I’ve offended [any] prohib – that was my intent – I have nothing to be sorry for – political correctness is a thing of the past – as it should be. As for activity – my resume will equal yours – I’m sure! It is the Genesist’s objective to gather the flock. As far as being a “religious bunch” – we are Protestants, Catholics, Jews or any monotheistic religion believing in God and God’s Sacrament. Our argument is that our Faith and Sacrament has been denied us. This cannot be. As far as being anarchists – “We are prepared to defend the garden.” Criticizing – you bet ya! – I’m sure you can’t disagree that there certainly is something to criticize. Name-calling – yup! A little reality never hurt anyone but the guilty – prohibs wear their shame on the bosom of their soul. Complaining – who’s complaining? – just stating the facts. The fact is – “Genesists will defend the garden” – will you?
Thanks for your comment – and – have a great CDXX Communion Don.
Let it be done.
Be it known by all persons, with intend to be constructive notice, that of this day of our Lord God, April 20, 2011 at 4:20 p.m., the Genesist Faith hereby declares a “Conscience Clause” that prohibits Genesists from obeying any law that denies us our Faith and our Sacrament. “We claim religious right and use.” Our references are: The Holy Bible – Genesis I:1,29,30,31 – and – The Establishment Clause in the First Amendment, Article I. of the Constitution of the United States of America – specifically the Establishment Clause with emphasis on “Prohibiting the free exercise thereof.,” and the definitions of Religious Exercise and Free Exercise.
Religious Exercise means: 1.) any exercise of religion, whether or not compelled by, or central to a system of religious belief. 2.) any conduct protected as exercise of religion under the first amendment of the Constitution.
Free Exercise means: That portion of the first amendment to the Constitution that [proscribes] laws prohibiting the free exercise of religion and includes the application of that [proscription] under the 14th amendment to the Constitution.
@115 – I agree there is much to criticize but I’m concerned about your approach…
I think it is possible that your writings have the potential to do more harm than good toward ending prohibition. Would you agree that it is possible that the prohibs might see your attacks as a reason to keep you under control? That, my friend, is my point and my concern.
117. Don
Being a mediator for 35 years – I recognize your point, and to some degree [potentially], it could be valid. Now! with all due respect to your view, here’s our point! We don’t give a big rats ass what prohibs think, say, or do anymore. We are indifferent to their agenda. To be very frank with you – IT’S NOT A MATTER OF CANNABIS – they can and do – prohibit anything. Prohibs have violated our Constitution [for what ever reason] and have denied us [Genesists] our Faith and our Sacrament. As American Genesists – we will not allow this to continue. Prohibs have had “control” for 74 years [and think they will have control for another 74 years]- but – “no more – we will defend the garden.” Let’s just say – “We’re the icing on the cake – and – there are 3141 cakes [counties] in the United States that believe differently.” I guess in plain old English – “We’re fed up Americans, and is nothing to mess with.
117. Don, my friend. P.S. to 118
This is going to be like a very bad divorce. We [prohibs and Genesists] are at each others throats, and are waring over the settlement agreement. It’s going to get nasty – be prepared.
117. Don. P.S. to all posts.
Prohibs stole something from us. That something was our Constitutional right to our Faith and our Sacrament. We didn’t agree with this theft at the time – and – we sure don’t agree now. We’re simply not going to let any enemy – foreign or domestic – retain what they stole from us – especially after pissing on our Constitution. I guess I’m finished.
Someone said:
“If we get our politicians to feel that if they don’t work for legalization, they will be out of power, then we will see some definite change.”
That will work ONLY if EVERY person who supports the reform of drug laws takes the few minutes necessary to actually email (via the congress critter’s webform) their thoughts on the issue, and their threats to ACTIVELY work against the re-election of said congress critters should they refuse to vote FOR reasonable reform, or even if they just ignore it to prevent it coming to a vote on the floor of either house of congress.
I’ve been doing this for more years than I like to count, but it takes a LOT more than one or two voices to get them to move in any direction but that ordered by their corporate masters. It is going to take a TSUNAMI of emails and phone calls to make this happen. So if you really care about this issue, don’t just post on the pages of the choir, go tell your elected officials, too, and not just those in congress, lobby your State and local officials, too, with the same intensity.
@121 Windy – You are so right!!! I’ve contacted my State Reps several times and have written to President Obama twice now. I got no response from the President or his staff, and I’ve got your standard replies from my State Reps. But at least I can feel like I’ve done my share and that they are aware that people that have the power to vote for or against them don’t like things the way they are.
Now, anyone reading this that hasn’t already contacted the leadership – PLEASE DO SO!!! Else, don’t bother complaining…
Greed can be a powerful ally, this they vigorously and ignorantly possess. It is not us of whom it will betray. Be diligent yet patient for greed WE THE PEOPLE do not possess. This is their downfall, not ours. Because of the good we seek,we have already won! This WE THE PEOPLE shall see.
Just came across a brand new social networking website for medical cannabis. Looks very good – www .. weedpals .. com
Want to thank all of you, for your Powerfull stand against Oboma & His Corrupted political partners.
But there is so much more we can
do. Being aggressive and focusing on the facts and truth is only the first step.
We musT follow Up with more details standing by our
convictions and dont back down.
Oboma has NOT brought CHANGE, In fact ~! ~ THE ONLY real THING needing CHANGE !….Was
Barack Hussein Obama II.
HIMSELF
Barack Hussein Obama II ( Who hates American Values ) who is A ” SELF
PROCLAIMED Enemy” ~of responsible, Morally Conscious
HARD WORKING Americans.
oBOMAS Irresponsible & DRUG MAFIA and
reckless supporters KNOW~ that Barack Hussein Obama II, WILL FORCE YOU to paY THEM,
out of your PockeT
.{ FOR all of their
UNCHECKED Vices and THRILLS/ { All on YOU | /
At your COST & Sacrifice
…This UN~CHANGABLE fraud, has done His VERY BEST to
Inspire VIOLENCE.
THESE ARE OBAMAS OWN WORDS.. saying ………To his supporters.
Saying “Get ready for hand-to-hand combat with
your Fellow Americans”
– Obama has ALSO DECLARED to his Supporters.
“I want all Americans to get in each others faces!– Obama
demands !
“You bring a knife to a fight pal, we’ll bring a gun” –
THESE ARE OBAMAS OWN WORDS..
ANGER VIOLENCE and more
taxes….. THIS IS OBAMAS Change for america
/“Hit Back Twice As Hard”. He commands !
*Obama on the private sector: ~~ “We talk
to these folks…~ / so I know whose a*$ to KICK.“ OBOMA wants to KICK your a*$ /
Shouting THAT Republican victory would mean ~
“hand to hand combat”
HE IS EXPECTING people to be on Edge and BORDERLINE killing MODE, VIOLENT / and STAND up for their
immoral CAUSES and THIS
IS WHAT HE LIVES FOR ./ ./ ./
THESE ARE OBAMAS OWN WORDS.. !
* Obama Tells democrats: “ I’m itching
for a fight.” !
….PLEASE…. go to reXes NEW WebsiTe ~ ! Oboma *( Just like Adolf Hitler~~\
oBOMA~~~ Demands ! — [ THE FINAL
SOLUTION – for Un~Wanted Children
Barak Obama is A MURDERER .~Torturing UNWANTED babys on DEATH ROE
CLICK HERE
http://obomlnation.webstarts.com/index.html
OBAMA TAKES a little NEW BORN innocent child. BORN. ALIVE
sTabS it iN the head SUCKs ITS BRAINS OUT.
What’s eating Obama? http://420.at/Obama