Watch Romney tackle the medical marijuana issue with a voter in New Hampshire.
WASHINGTON (CNN) - Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney was confronted head-on Saturday over the issue of medical marijuana.
Following a campaign appearance in Dover, New Hampshire, a member of the audience, Clayton Holton, told Romney he has muscular dystrophy and said five of his doctors say he is "living proof medical marijuana works."
"I am completely against legalizing it for everyone, but there is medical purposes for it," Holton told Romney.
Romney pointed out that there is synthetic marijuana as well as other pain medications available.
"It makes me sick. I have tried it, and it makes me throw up," Holton said. "My question for you is will you arrest me or my doctors if I get medical marijuana."
"I am not in favor of medical marijuana being legal in the country," Romney said as he moved on to greet other people.
Holton continued, "Excuse me, will you please answer my question?"
"I think I have. I am not in favor of legalizing medical marijuana," the Massachusetts Republican said.
Other Republican presidential hopefuls have also recently been confronted by patients on the issue.
The New York Times reported a patient in New Hampshire accused former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani of saying he would have “federal agents arrest the sick and the dying.”
"I never said that," Giuliani said.
Meanwhile, The Associated Press reported late last month Arizona Sen. John McCain told a patient, "Every town hall meeting I have, someone shows up and advocates for medical marijuana, and, by the way, in all due respect, alleges that we are arresting the dead and the dying, and I still have not seen any evidence of that."
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Sounds pretty aarogant to me. Open-mindedness is so looked down upon. I bet Mitts is in favor of alcohol use despite the thousands of lives it takes yearly compared to the thou-, the hund-–, zero lives Marijuana claims yearly.
Legalize it and tax it. Wake Up. Hipocrisy runs sooo deep in our government.
idiot. I hate this man.
He would only be in favor of legalizing medical marijuana if a member of his family or himself were afflicted with muscular dystrophy. It's the same story with all of the other hypocrites in Washington who oppose stem cell research or legalizing marijuana for medicinal purposes. They opposite it because it doesn't affect them.
Did you expect anything else from this creep Romney? Yeah, why allow someone who is sick to benefit from something that can be grown dirt-cheap for free when you can make them pay through the nose for a chemical cocktail?
Do we really want a president who's so ignorant of the facts about cannabis making policy? What else is he ignorant of? Just what this country needs, more raids on doctors and cancer patients and more prisons filled to the brim with nonviolent pot smokers, instead of actually focusing on crime and the horrors the so-called war on drugs has perpetrated on this country.
Please keep in mind that Mormons are not allowed to use mind altering substances. This includes marijuana, alcohol and caffeine. His stance is no surprise to anyone who knows anything about Mormon beliefs.
I don't know what's more typical of a Republican, dodging very important questions or being ignorant in the face of science for their own faith. Mitt Romney's ignorance towards this young man only further expresses the ignorance displayed by the party as a whole. Republicans love money, dispise diversity and equality and waste time with their churches' ludicrous teachings. Mitt Romney is just plain wrong for the enevitably progressive America.
Please keep in mind that Mormons are not allowed to use mind altering substances. This includes marijuana, alcohol and caffeine. His stance is no surprise to anyone who knows anything about Mormon beliefs.
Posted By Buggie, San Diego, CA : October 8, 2007 11:26 am
Many would say that religion itself is a mind altering substance.
Who the hell are these people to tell us what we can and can not consume to ease our pain and suffering?
Medical marijuana DOES NO HARM in any way, whatsoever, to those who do not want a part of it.
HEARTLESS !
He is not in favor of it becasue it will cost the Drug industry billions. It's only about the money for thease guys. Would Jesus deny thi sguy treatment. Ask yourself that.
The shocking thing about this video is not Romney's position on medical marijuana. His position is actually pretty conventional. The shocking thing is his refusal to answer the young man's question and then to move on with his plastic, fake smile ignoring the guy. It shows a callousness that should disqualify Romney from being President.
wao, Mitt show you care a little at least when you are in front of a camera and try not to be so fake and uncaring if you like to get to the WH.
I will never vote for this guy now
I honestly cannot understand how anyone can support this guy. He just seems so sleazy.
"Please keep in mind that Mormons are not allowed to use mind altering substances. This includes marijuana, alcohol and caffeine. His stance is no surprise to anyone who knows anything about Mormon beliefs."
I don't care about the religious affiliation of a presidential candidate. I do care if they see fit to shove the nonsensical beliefs of their ridiculous cults onto the rest of us.
I cant say that I agree with Mitt on this subject, but at least he did not side step the issue. He answered directly. I would like to hear the other candidates stances on this subject, and see how many of them skirt the issue.
Maybe if they legalized it then put taxes on it, we could fund programs like SCHIP.
I wonder if Hillary will say she didnt inhale when she was smoking it with Bill?
Lets face facts, it could be proven to cure cancer and the Republican flat-earth machine would manufacture some data that claimed it caused hairy palms! Romney is only a reflection of the narrow-minded, fanatical fascists that make up his dark-ages party...
To Biggie in San Diego:
The majority of the Starbucks in Utah are run by one, large business consortium – a consortium owned by a prominent Mormon. He also owns a large trucking company in this country – Swift Transportation.
Aren't facts grand?!
Prohibition didn't work for booze, hasn't worked for pot.
Our politicians are paid by big business. Pharmaceuticals are big business. Pot is grown from a seed and if a field is left alone ... we see why we also call pot weed.
When he sxpresses HIS opinion, he is "shoving his beliefs" on you, but when you express YOUR opinion, we are expected to agree or else we are "nonsensical"? Don't even the candidates have a right to hold and state an opinion? You are entitled not to vote for anyone who does not think the way you do. Personally, wether I agree with him or not, I rather like the fact he was willing to state his opinion, and stick to it.
I'm Democratic and I agree with Romney.
Another reason why you do not elect a member of a cult to political office or the presidency. A cult is a cult wether it's been around for less than 50 years like scientology or 150 years like the Mormons.
Wrapping it all up under the name of God does not make it any less a cult.
Avoid this guy America or fear the consequences. This is just the tip of this guys iceberg.
George,
You are absolutely correct.
"Religion is the opiate of the masses."
For me, and I think a lot of the commenters on here, it's not his stance that's disgusting (I don't support the legalization of marijuana, but I wouldn't deny it to someone with an illness such as MD), it's his treatment of that kid. He DIDN'T answer his question. The kid asked if Romney would throw him in jail and dodged and weaved and walked away with a plastic grin. He didn't have the decency to show this kid any respect.
Yeah, well I'm not in favor of medical Oxycotin. But I'm not going to force 300 million Americans to submit to my personal preferences.
The answer, of course, is that Mitt _will_ arrest him, wheelchair and all, and send him to a federal correctional facility in the midwest to await the Second Coming According to Mormon.
Nice move, Mitt. He always ignores the tough questions. Doe4sn't matter if it's Chris Matthews or some "dumb voter" asking them.
http://political-buzz.com/
wonder if Hillary will say she didnt inhale when she was smoking it with Bill?
Posted By Larry : October 8, 2007 11:40 am
Bill "didn't inhale" at Oxford University, long before he met Hillary. A lame excuse but probably true as he does smoke. Letters Hillary sent to someone nearly 40 years ago recently published included one in which she was upset about a friend who was using POT. This provides absolute proof that Hillary did not use any illicit drugs in the 60's when such use was common.
Romney thinks everyone should conform to his religious ideals. He doesn't believe in modern medicine, he believe's in magic underwear. Vote for him and seal your fate...
Such arrogance - he just lost my vote.
I support Romney, but disagree with him on this issue. Unlike the sheep that support their candidates every view (see Clinton, Hillary).
For the uninformed who say he would support this if it was a member of his family, well, his wife has MS, but you wouldn't know that because unlike OTHERS, they don't SHOVE that down our throats.
Diane from Kentucky put it best, he is only expressing his opinion and NOT shoving any beliefs down our throats.
How do you think Shrill would have answered this, vaguely as hell depending on what group she was pandering to that given day.
I DISAGREE with him, but he was not arrogant or "vague", he answered the question, PERIOD.
Romney is just another presidential candidate who is willing to "play ball" with the rank and file elite of this country. He believes that he "is doing God's will" by imposing his beliefs on the entire nation.
There is only one member of the GOP who knows it is not his place to push his beliefs on every American and that is Dr. Ron Paul. Please look at him America. Don't let the media tell you who you can or can't vote for. Hillary will likely be the Dem front runner. If Dr. Paul does not win the GOP ticket via the primaries, 2008 will be a presidential debate between an anti-war candidate (Hillary) and a pro-war candidate (Romney, Giuliani, Thompson, McCain, etc..)
On the other hand, if Dr. Paul wins the GOP ticket, we will be able to choose between two anti-war candidates. personally, I sincerely hope Paul wins. That would say something nicely intelligent about the average American.
My sister had cancer and was actually prescribed this. I would not have had her go without it. Its not like she was sitting around with hippies smoking pot, she was just trying to take the edge of horrifyingly intense pain. Lets see him say that if he or someone he loves is in that situation.
wonder if Hillary will say she didnt inhale when she was smoking it with Bill?
Posted By Larry : October 8, 2007 11:40 am
Bill “didn’t inhale” at Oxford University long before he met Hillary at Yale. Bill’s excuse, while lame, is probably true, as he does not smoke.( allergy ). Letters Hillary wrote to someone nearly 40 years ago included one in which she was upset about a friend using POT. From this we know for certain that she did not smoke pot at a time when this was a common practice.
this makes me sick.
It's hard to believe there are actually people like this in the world, the scary part is they're the ones with power. Please Karma, give Romney some justice.
It's a good thing that marijuana is readily available here with millions of users. Drug war? laughable.
I'm sure Romney will be doing some good ol fashioned drinking and driving later tonight.
Close your eyes to the world and be blind... or open your eyes to the world and become enlightened.
It's not like marijuana is hard to find or buy anyway... if we want to turn around our national debt, all we gotta do is tax it.
All the GOP candidates seem to be against helping people and against anyone who deeds medical assistance. Why are they so blind to the needs of these people? Oh, right, they're only interested in the power of the office and not helping anyone but themselves or their cronies, who've had seven years of unfettered greed and stupidity.
I totally agree with Clayton Holton. Marijuana is a substance that should be legalized, but only for medical purposes. And while I respect all the candidates' religions, I think Romney is being absurd. "Absurd" is also a word to describe Guliani. Even if he didn't say "federal agents should arrest the sick and they dying," he was undoubtedly thinking it.
I would like to ask Republican bloggers a question: which of the two is worse in your view: Obama's "kingdom on earth", or the Republican party's stance on the legality of medical mj?
Soooo, are all of you potheads? That is exactly what we need, more of you.
The hypocrisy of a country that allows heroin and cocaine to be used for medical purposes while continuing to demonize marijuana would be laughable if it didn't have such monumentally dire consequences.
I would never vote for this guy anyway. Mormons are known for hiring only thier own and making an impossible working enviroment for those who do not believe as they do. I hate that religion has any place in politics, as we have learned with dumya, people will vote thier religious beliefs. The US gov has hid many reports that say pot has many medical benefits. The only reason that pot was not brought back from prohibition is because thier was no way for the gov to make money on it. It can be grown in nature anywhere, therfore no cash for the gov. Wake up people, we are living in a police state and have been for many years now. Death from Alcohol=To many to count, Deaths from Pot=0. Follow the money. My advise to this poor guy who has been helped by pot, keep smoking buddy, do whatever helps you make it through the day. No one knows this mans pain and what he endures everyday. Apparently Romney doesn't care, like someone else said previously, if it was him or someone in his family, he would feel differently, but its not so he will remain ignorant and insensative.
Get over yourself Romney…
As a citizen of Massachusetts, I find it absolutely astounding that anyone would support Mitt Romney. He did absolutely nothing as the leader of our state. Not exactly an impressive foundation to base a candidacy.
If you want an empty suit in '08, vote Mitt!
Even if Mormons do religiously oppose mind-altering substances, so do Buddhists and other religions around the world. Though marijuana is a mind-altering substance, what about alcohol, pain killers, tobacco, and caffeine? These drugs can do a lot worse in terms of addiction, physiological impairment and permanent physical damage. Why are these legal when medicinal marijuana is not? Mitt Romney may just be following his own beliefs but his opinion is decidedly close-minded and hypocritical.
DR. RON PAUL is for legalizing marijuana!! and ending the useless war on drugs!
Look it up.
It's sad that after 5,000 years of cannabis use among humans with no deaths directly related to use, no established LD-50, and literally dozens of studies showing the immense health benifits in relation to relative non-toxicicity. Yet the pharmaceutical industry, paper industry, oil industry, alchohol industry and more still have the power to keep the failed drug war alive. Not to mention the DEA and Private prisons making billions off of minor drug offenses.
All while I can go down to the gas station buy cancer sticks an the most abused and horrendous drug there is alchohol. And then proceed to my doctor to be prescribed Oxycontin (hillbilly heroine). Thank you for protecting me and the children America.
I have no idea why marijuana (for medical purposes) is not legalized. Yes, it is controversial, but still less-so than leaving a suffering patient with no other viable options.
A classic case of ideology winning over science.
Of course, Mitt has no problem allowing the drug industry to extract the THC from the cannabis plant, and turn it into a pill to sell for millions of dollars to suffering people, instead of letting people grow it for themselves (which is extremely easy, afterall it's a weed).
Like many other herbs, I think this one is special.
Cannabis has been used as medicine, food, fuel, shelter, and spirituality from the first time man discovered it. It wasn't illegal and it worked. lol! It occupies first place on a list of 10,000 medicinal plants in the Zend Avesta centuries before Christ. You and I have cannabinoid receptors in our body! In Canada and Europe cannabis has been found to promote the growth of brain cells and destroy tumors. It is also quite helpful with Alzheimers, autism, MS, epilepsy, diabetes, chronic pain, depression, nausea, migraine, arthritis, obesity, asthma, emphysema, herpes, Parkinsons, Huntingtons, Tourettes, Crohns disease, and more! For some reason modern science is only now studying this remarkable plant. Wonder why?
The cannabis seed is the most nutritious thing you can eat and in our diet could alleviate many of the health conditions mentioned above. It could also replace the need for hormones and remnants in our feedstock which is why American beef is banned in Europe. These additives are believed the reason for the spread of BSE's in our food chain that can cause mental deterioration in some people.
Anyone that is against cannabis simply does not know what they are talking about. The history is there for anyone that has eyes to see!
IT’S A PLANT! ONLY A PLANT! LEGALIZE IT AND TAKE THE CRIMINAL ENTITY OUT OF THIS. This is one war that will never be won no matter how many "billions" you throw at it... Why is this so hard to accept? GET A CLUE!
Sam from Florida. Hello? Where have you been? You said:
"He would only be in favor of legalizing medical marijuana if a member of his family or himself were afflicted with muscular dystrophy."
Have you met his wife, Ann Romney who HAS muscular disotrophy. He can see right through the guy, knowing FIRSTHAND there are other alternatives.
Of course we're not going to legalize medical marajuana, there is already proof that it is long-term detrimental.
I could not respect ANY candidate who would pander to such ridiculous special interest.
It really says something about a candidate's character when he or she is unable or unwilling to answer a direct question? I mean the man asked Romney if he would arrest the man for using medical marijuana, he did not ask whether or not Romney was in favor of medical marijuana.
It is sad that the candiate, Mitt Romney in this instance, did not have enough respect for the individual (and by default, us voters) to give him a "yes" or "no."
My Bible says; God gave us all seed bearing herbs for our meat.
So go figure!
Most posters are getting hung up on the marijuana issue. The Anti-drug stance, even medical marijuana, is a basic plank in the republican platform.
What really got me was watching Romney's reaction to the person asking the question. Romney acted as if he'd been stung by a bee or was jumping away from a hot flame. Instead of facing the questioner and explaining his views, like them or not, Romney treated to man as if he were a leper and someone to be shunned.
That alone is disrespectful and shameful. Romney is not someone I'd even remotely consider presidential.
Sure MR expressed his opinion...but he did not answer the question. There is a distinction between legalizing medical marijuana and enforcing the law requiring the jailing of sick people. MR avoided the issue. As for his opinion, he avoided explaining his rationale for his opinion. Why is he opposed to legalized medical marijuana? Is his position based on his religious beliefs? It cannot possibly be a rational view of the scientific knowledge!
If Hillary says she never tried marijuana, she's lying. I'm from her neighborhood. I know someone that knew her well, back in the day. That individual toked up with Hil and her brother Tony on several occasions.
I'd love for some reporter to ask her this question.
To Anonymous
Just because Hillary was upset that one of her friends was using drugs, does not mean she was not using them. She could of been upset that someone else, besides herself, was using illegal drugs.
She is not all that clean herself. None of the candidates are.
All of you who agree with medical marijuana must be drug mafias. You are really evil, you use sick patients to get marijuana legalized. May all of you who want marijuana to be legalized be put in hell by God's own hands. Do you really think that you can confront God? Once you'll his hands, you'll realize that there is really God, but it'll be too late, dear.
For those the patients who want to get cured, there are many other ways rather than using marijuana. First of course you must repent (remember you almost die and will face the Creator soon, so you'd better repent when there is still enough time). Second, consult with second, third of fourth doctor to get other opinions for your illness. There must be another way, remember that. May God bless you.
Why prevent people from receiving effective medical treatment, Mr. Romeny? Are you afraid of smoke blown in your face? Or are you more scared of the “Fall-out” you’ll have with your sanctimonious supporters?
Romeny belongs in church, not in The White House. His Mormonism, like Christianity, is not grounds to dictate law. He may have his opinions; however, as a lawmaker, Romney's religion and state of mind are inseperable. We have enough Puritans in office...
Shawnie Cannon: Actually Ann Romney has Multiple Sclerosis, not muscular dystrophy (it's actually a common confusion, so I don't fault you for that).
BUT, you said "He can see right through the guy, knowing FIRSTHAND there are other alternatives."
He raised those alternatives with the kid (pain meds, synthetic THC, etc..) and the kid said he's tried all of those and that medical marijuana works best for him. Are you calling the kid a liar?
to Shawnie Cannon, Grants Pass OR:
Who are you to tell this man how he can and can not suffer and what he can do to alleviate this?
You are concerned that "there is already proof that it is long-term detrimental."
HELLO! What do you think muscular dystrophy does to you long term?
You live your life. You let him live his. That's freedom.
the guy was acting he isnt really sick
MITT ROMNEY JEB BUSH '08!!!!!!!!! WOO BABY!!
Shawnie,
"Of course we're not going to legalize medical marajuana, there is already proof that it is long-term detrimental."
I have two family members living with MS and before they discovered cannabis their doctors were happily prescribing them 16 different prescription drugs to take during the day and they still suffered greatly. Not to mention went broke. Then they went to a doctor who prescribed cannabis. They were able to dwindle down to 4 prescriptions and the cannabis helped in a way the pharmos never did. Cannabis has no long term affects if taken through vaporization or ingestion. Not something you can say about the pharmos.
"I could not respect ANY candidate who would pander to such ridiculous special interest."
Thats interesting you say that because by denouncing marijuana(amidst loads of postive research) he is pandering directly to one of the most corrupt special interests, Pharmaceutical.
Presrciption drug deaths each year: 200,000 plus
Tylenol deaths each year: 3,000
Cannabis deaths since written documentation. 0
Peace
I didn't know presidents had the power to arrest individuals. I think the person did get a reasonable answer to the issue of medical marijuana.
What troubles me is all those who might say I have an exam next class and I feel stressed. Or claim it helps them kick their tobacco habit.
If it provides for a better quality of life for a cancer victim I am for medical marijuana but we need clear limitations and controls.
All one can say about this man is, What a Shmuck.
he is in favor of synthetic cannibis because some conglomorite can take your money and please the share holders
The GOP are against some thing you can grow your self for free
And as other posters have said , if his kid suddenly could benifit from it he would change his mind no matter how small it is
Mormons are not allowed to use caffeine, so you might want to ask why it is, therefore, that their church owns stock in Coca Cola.
one interesting point: a number here have said "this is a Republican issue". Have any of the Dems been asked this question? And how did they answer?
I believe that everyone here who has posted against the legalization of medical marijuana is a hypocrite. If you or a loved one had an ailment where it could subdue the agony of pain you would be a proponent of it use or would get it illegally. You need to smell the crap you are shoveling.
How can anyone say they are pro-life yet actively deny the very sick the medicine they need most? He's a hypocrite who has shown his true colors in this video. Just another glad-handing poltician who cares more about political expediency than doing whats right.
EEEEWWWWW. I just watched the video for the first time after commenting after merely reading the article. Romney looks disgusting. He should be ashamed of the way he treated that kid first of all. He was completely dismissive and disrespectful to a young man that afforded him every respect only to have his face spit in. It's sad people are actually considering this rude businessman as a possible candidate. Shows me how much farther this country still has to go...
Go Obama!
By the way, there is a candidate who opposes the drug war. His name is Ron Paul.
What's the worst ANY drug can do?
It can kill its users.
It can make its users more likely to harm or kill others.
Alcohol does both of these, yet we live with it, and no candidate is calling for outlawing it. So why are people in "The land of the free" so willing to give up their freedom to use other drugs?
The vast majority of the problems caused by illegal drugs are caused by the money involved, not the drugs themselves. Legalize and live with it.
I wish they would legalize it for all, our tax dollars are wasted on this harmless drug. It would free up millions to go after real drugs like crack and heroin. Medically would be a great start.
In order to stay within his religious boundries he would have to allow innocent people to suffer instead of taking advantage of a low cost and natural relief. In addition to that if he cannot handle mild mannered confrontation with a young man asking him questions about legalizing marijuana how in the world will he handle confronting terrorism? He now appears not only rude, but spineless.
I believe what the New Hampshire man said about Rudy. Rudy has never been an honest man. He falls in love with any woman that looks at him. Even his children are voting for someone else. No wonder they didn't want him in Gracie Mansion anymore.
..Hillary did not use any illicit drugs in the 60's when such use was common. –By Anonymous
And its not common now? I often get very upset when my friends do it too.., WITHOUT ME!!
The fact that ignorant people like Romney, Giuliani, etc. are even in the presidential race is scary. Then again, the American public did elect G.W. Bush twice so maybe I shouldn't be so surprised. People for a true candidate among both the Democrats and the Republicans who will take this country in the right direction is Dr. Ron Paul. Please tell your friends and family to check him out: http://www.ronpaul2008.com. I am not a pais operative just an average Joe who sees through the BS of all the rest.
Maybe magic underwear can work better than marijuana!
No Mitt...you did not answer his question.
His question was would you arrest him or his doctors?
Mitt just wants to look tough on drugs while ignoring the real medical debate.
Obviously he seems to be a big-pro pharmaceutical lobby supporter and would rather have people vomit and die of side effects.
"Weed isn't a drug..it's a plant, it just grows like that..and if you should so happen to set it on fire, there are some effects", "Nobody has EVER OD'd on marijuana, you might THINK they dead..but they aint dead...they'll wake up in half hour ready to eat up your whole house"...but if you take 15 aspirins... that'll be your last headache."
LEGALIZE MARIJUANA....alcohol and cigarettes are more dangerous than weed.
ROMNEY is heartless. I hope this video gets more publicity in the media to show what an evil and self centered person he is. He could careless about a dying man so think what he would do for you.
Watch out for this guy – if this is an indication of his beliefs getting in the way, we're in trouble.
He was no good here in Massachusetts, and you don't want him running the country.
I think the way that Romney kind of ignored the guy as he was still talking talking is a clear view of the superficial nature of politicians. Yes, he's a busy man, but would it kill him to give the guy5 minutes of his time?
Romneys has no need for marijuanna. If he did smoke it he'd probably start seeing ghostes. i.e. ghostes.
The only good thing about marijuanna being legal is that it's tax free. The down side is, they will arrest you if you're sick and dying. Those political thugs know it too. I'm sure you all know it most local papers have run storys about local citizens who are sick and cultivate or smoke pot legally. At least here in California.
State rights are being squashed by a federal Empires terror.
No doubt.
I never seem to understand why the government insists on spending so much money to fight marijuana, all of the telivision specials seem to show how its not bad for people, and how a brash decision back 100 years ago made it illegal. let people whom are allready sick do what they want. its like fighting to eliminate poison ivy. why isnt that illegal, its proven to be more harmful than the other...lol
Religion is the opiate of the masses, but on some people it's more like PCP.
WOW...so, so sad....Mitt couldn't even give this guy the time of day. I bet it took that kid every bit of effort to attend that conference and ask that question, and Mitt slapped him in the face and ignored him.
Mitt is the typical plastic politican, who cares more about big business and interest groups than he does about the general public. He doesn't want to hear our problems!!!!
Wow, it's awesome how many religious bigots post on here and tout their 'progressive' cred. Way to go guys.
Medical or Not, Legal or Not people who wants to use it for recreation still manage to get it illegally. So what Romney and others like him are doing is only a political stunt. What about poor patients who need it for leigtimate reasons ? Go to streets and buy illegally ?
No Mr. Romney, you did NOT answer the man's question!
It amazes me that politicians – who are our legislators – do not support the use of medical marijuana. They do, however, support the production of synthetic drugs produced by multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical companies that are much more dangerous, much more addicting and much more expensive than marijuana.
Oh wait, I think I just pinned the tail on the donkey! The reason why medical or marijuana in general will never be legalized: money! Why would the politicians – whose pockets are lined by the pharma companies – advocate for the legalization of a "medicine" that they cannot charge $200 bottle for?
When you vote in the primary and general elections, please consider voting for a candidate who is about non-intrusion of government in our daily lives and allows us to decide what is best for ourselves.
California passed a medical marijuana law a while back and it is certainly being abused. Just about anyone can get pot by saying they have back pain or anxiety. What's interesting is that there hasn't been a large increase in crime or people crashing cars or whatever the problem with legal dope is supposed to be. We don't understand why pot helps some people medically but it DOES. The downside, even with a poorly written law, doesn't seem to be all that bad.
Here Mr. Romney, have a synthetic apple, its very good, especially for you.
Mitts is an educated elite not in touch with pulse of the majority in this country – the middle class and below.
John Edwards in on the other end of the spectrum. He is honest and down to earth. It will be big loss to the nation if he does not get a chance as President or a Vice-President to do some good.
Edwin from Worcester-
I am willing to bet you have never even looked at a ballot. You vote "D" all the way down, just like everyone else in this broken State. Why is it broken, because there are not two parties. The Democrats run wild with no checks and balances. Governor Romney had to deal with 90% Dems in Congress.
He did nothing? I'll start, with Health care for everyone. How about that?
They are already calling Mass the little Vegas becasue Patrick has threatened an increase in State taxes or open 3 casinos. They just increased the Mass Pike tolls again.
This State is a mess.
In regards to this story-
This is not a Dem/Republican issue. Name me one candidate that has gone on record as saying they would legalize marijuana or medical marijuana?
They won't because they know they will lose votes.
I'm all for it, trust me. Does less harm than alcohol, and we could destroy the debt in a short time, and balance the budget etc. . . . not to mention the real help it provides to the sick. There are people hiding in Vancouver right now for providing medical marijuana. That is wrong!
Im a firm believer of making things that can kill you if misused.
i bet we could repay the deficit if you took all the money used to fight marijuana and added it all up.
It's not about whether he's personally for or against the legalization of marijuana for medicinal purposes. It's about respecting the constitution, more specifically, the 10th amendment.
Republicans, in the past, were about state's rights. If a state wished to legalize medical marijuana within its own borders, the feds should have nothing to do with it. Yet the DEA has raided medical marijuana facilities in California.
Every Democrat candidate has vowed to end the raids if elected. Only two Republicans have - Ron Paul and Tom Tancredo. Yet the Republicans still call themselves the party of state's rights.
As a pharmacist, this certainly narrows down the candidate pool for me.
The American Medical Association stance follows:
"The AMA believes that effective patient care requires the free and unfettered exchange of information on treatment alternatives and that discussion of these alternatives between physicians and patients should not subject either party to criminal sanctions."
It is not only Romney. None of the candidates will say they support legalizing medical marijuana. The drug companies have more lobbyists in Washington than any other industry. The drug companies "donate" millions of dollars to political campaigns. Doesn't America get it yet? Our government is no longer for the people by the people it is for Corporate America by Corporate America. That is who is running America Inc.
Hey JB from Boston, MA:
The ONE candidate who has gone on record to state that he does support the legalization of marijuana: RON PAUL. http://www.ronpaul2008.com.
"The New York Times reported a patient in New Hampshire accused former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani of saying he would have “federal agents arrest the sick and the dying.”" – hmmm...so any acusation (albeit unfounded) is printed in the New York Times – ok...I want them to print this "A blogger on CNN acused Hillary of throwing stray puppies at cancer patients" – wait....they won't?? (liberal left believes this....such effing morons)
Forget party lines here, this is one of the best examples of governmental closed-mindedness in the country today. It's a PLANT. A PLANT. IT GROWS IN THE GROUND LIKE TOBACCO.
Having someone in my family going through chemo right now, I just saw the bills for anti-nausea pills. 100 bucks a pop....thats one-hundred dollars, PER PILL.
A decent bag of marjuana will cost about $50 and should keep for a month.
So if you were to take a pill every day, thats $3,000.
Or buy a bag of weed for $50.
Big Pharma and our bureaucrats are raping the sick in our country.
I'm glad to see how many people commenting here are sensible people. I have a chronic pain condition that is only manageable with (natural, not synthetic) marijuana. Without this medication, I would be bed-bound – with it, I am able to fulfill my potential as a productive and happy member of our society (I am a university instructor and PhD candidate).
While John McCain may be right that no one is arresting DEAD PEOPLE (god, what an idiot), patients are in fact arrested and convicted on a regular basis. A man with AIDS was recently convicted on drug charges in Colorado (where medical marijuana is legal!) because his doctor was too afraid of legal consequences to give him a written (as opposed to verbal) recommendation to use cannabis. Extremely sick people are living in fear every day. The commenter above me, Kate, is wrong, though – ALL of the Democratic candidates have said they will stop the DEA from arresting patients.
I'd like to end by noting that Romney being a Mormon should have nothing to do with this. I support Mormons' choices not to imbibe substances – I think this is a healthy way to live. But this should not affect Romney's political policy – he isn't trying to prohibit alcohol or caffeine, even though these are also considered drugs to Mormons. And we aren't even talking about legalizing marjuana – we're talking about letting extremely sick and dying people maintain a reasonable quality of life using a natural substance that God put on this planet. A substance which, by the way, was a part of the official United States Pharmacopeia until 1941 – and even after this, the Journal of the American Medical Association continued to support the medicinal use of marijuana for some time. An administrative judge (Francis L. Young) with the US Drug Enforcement Agency also said about cannabis in 1988, that "in its natural form, it is one of the safest therapeutically active substances known." As soon as drug companies find a way to make money off of this (which is tough, since anyone can grow this plant themselves), it'll be legal.
Rich and compassionate conservatives are amazing people, always able to walk a mile in another man's shoes.
Romney is a creepy politician, phony as can be. What a disgrace. I am so sickened by watching him that I cant even write. Wake up America its time for Ron Paul! Ronpaul2008.com!
You go Kate!!
Legalize it.
Tax it.
Save millions by not arresting and prosecuting harmless marijuana users.
LEGALIZE IT !!! YOU BOOZING HYPOCRITES!
I wonder how many of these people have previously smoked pot prior to their Medical condition and are using this as a crutch to do it legally now.
He did answer the persons question.
I think the most obvious thing here is if there are pharmaceutical companies who have made pills that simulate the chemical properties of marijuana – it OBVIOUSLY must have some medical merit.
So why deny people the right to smoke "weed"? It's about corporations and their political enablers making a profit.
I live in NH and the only people I know who support Romney give as their reason "He looks more presidential than the other candidates". Serious minded voters know what he is from his days in Massachusetts, nothing but an oportunist.
Regarding Mormons and mind altering drugs–Ephedra grows wild in Utah–they call it Mormon tea. We all know about ephedrine, now don't we?? Cannabis, medical use and the money in question are the most interesting topics in the presidential race. New blood, so to speak, is being drawn in the Drug War.
I want to add, it's amazing at how political this has become.
It's also funny to watch the left wingers vs. the right wingers. You guys are pathetic!
just by reading the responses i can assume that a large majority of the country has at some point smoked pot, or atleast recognize the finer qualities of the drug, and even though this country has serious problems, we still seem to be – for the most part – ok.
wow – total run-on sentence...
anywho... why are we still having the discussion about pot. isn't it ok yet to smoke it? didn't god create all plants and animals? why is that one singled out as horrible?
as for the money aspect... i once heard that "The Marboro Men" owned rights to market the first marijuana cigarette.
seems to me it would be a cash cow.. and since they practically own the world (along with 'the terrorists") wouldn't it make since to make it all legal?
just some (half-baked) thoughts
Wow, some of you Romney haters sure are angry. Grrr. Lets see how awesome things get when Obama or Hillary gets in the oval.
Im a Romney Supporter and even I felt he brushed him off at the end a tad harshly – but it sounded like he (guy in wheel chair) tried to corner him or trick him to answer a question he couldnt.
Romney was clear – no medical marijuana. Where's the confusion?
Romney if elected is not a policeman. He can't arrest anyone.
I believe the correct answer "should" have been, "I'm not a doctor or a scientist, but I will look into these things if elected. I'll do everything I can to look to science for reasonable answers to help individuals like yourself get better. I'm very sorry about your situation. Its really unfair."
I have voluteered for the Texas MDA, and I never knew how serious the condition was until I became a volunteer. Romney's actions are abhorrent, but they are not uncommon for a politician. His blatant disregard for the issue and ease to talk about terrorism shows his obvious stance towards continuing the agenda of the Bush Administraion. I also believe that if doctors that approving of medical marijauna would make there position more obvious and unite then the issue would recieve more attention. Until medical profssionals decide to tell the truth as a united front (4 of 5 apparently)then the issue will continue to recieve the cold shoulder. By the way, CommonSense makes a good point.
Ron Paul has gone on the record and said he would want medical mari. legalized.
ronpaul2008
There is no such thing as "synthetic marijuana." There is a pill called Marinol which contains synthetic THC, the component responsible for marijuana's "high," but other components such as cannabidiol have been shown to contribute to marijuana's therapeutic benefits. And, as the Institute of Medicine, The Lancet Neurology, and other experts have noted, THC taken orally is absorbed so slowly and unevenly that dose control is effectively impossible.
You are right about one thing, we do have better things to do on a Saturday morning than listen to a politician. We could be listening to a statesman like Ron Paul, for example.
Ohhh...my god...he smoked POT....-uses a razor to cut up some coke-Ohh..dude can you save me some??
This is such a "fair" blog entry. Bravo CNN!
Bite your tongue Clayton!
The front door delivery service I get is way more preferable than government involvement..:)-
Why don't we ask the candidates if they know why Marijuana was made illegal in the first place? A clue, it was done in the 1930s, largely due to the beliefs of ONLY a single person, accompanied by a massive campaign of false and misleading propaganda paid for by public tax dollars.
Why do we accept, without question, that marijuana should have been made illegal in the first place? No politician wants to re-visit that issue because of the truth it will lead to.
As with everything else done in a deceptive and underhanded way – follow the money. Who stands to benefit financially by keeping marijuana illegal?? Answer that candidates!!!
O.K. I believe in legalisation.
I was wondering if any of the candidates have a problem with mass urinalysis. I feel it is a violation of privacy or unreasonable search and seizure over something that comes out of my body!
I seriously have a problem with schools,private companies or even the government being big brother to my bodily fluids.
What next?
And those of you who think a drug free workplace needs to have a urinalysis..well learn the facts!!
People on certain anitdepressents and other medications for injuries, either will not get the job because tell before hand aor dont get the job because they failed and no questions were asked!
How many show false positives?
The tests really only test for pot not for other drugs, because they only last in the body for a few days!
How does that show that you are using drugs in the workplace?
Why doesn't it test for alcohol?
Why doesn't it test for LSD?
Why should we test at all?
They can not dictate our weekends, vacation, or things that we might have done or taken in the past couple of months.
Is no one concerned about Big Brother having our pee, blood or spit? After all, we do sign the concent form!!!
How is this any better than a national ID?
Mitt's personal opinion and/or belief about medical marijuana are his own and he's entitled to them and should even express them. However his refusal to say whether he would "arrest" a medical marijuana user is a clue to his political agenda.
The FDA approves dangerous and addictive DRUGS every day.. these drugs are KILLING people. Yet doctors say medical marijuana is saving lives. I think we should listen to the doctors! The FDA obviously does not really care about patients – only lobbyists.
Marijuana should be legalized at the federal level for recreational use... PERIOD! If any of these candidates knew how to play politics, they'd start immediately campaigning on that front, as well as offering to release ALL non-violent pot offenders from our prisons. This debate has got to end. Polls show that 80% of Americans favor legislation that would lift the ban on marijuana. Doesn't it seem like in a democracy where the will of the people is to be met by their leaders that someone in this race should stand up and say, "it's a ridiculous law and I vot to abolish it."?
I want to note a comment from above by a God fearing Christian named ME. Don't worry about God... GOD DOESN'T EXIST, and nor do ANY reasons why pot should remain a controlled substance in this country. America, land of the belligerent and oppressed.
Kate in Aurora, CO nails it: Marijuana will NEVER be legalized in the U.S. because of bought-and-paid-for politicians (ALL of them) in Washington D.C. Look at the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 and ask why it was passed in the first place? Google the name Harry Anslinger and read about his conspiracy against Hemp (think about the entire Reefer Madness idiocy). Big Corporate America back in '37, specifically Big Alcohol, Big Tobacco, Big Lumber, DuPont, William Randolph Hearst, etc. all made sure the 'evil weed' Hemp/Marijuana was made illegal. Hemp/Marijuana is a uniquely versatile crop that can be used for a myriad of textiles (rope, paper, clothing, plastics, etc.), in addition to its relaxing, mind-altering capabilities. If marijuana/hemp were legal, it would have a dramatic impact on bottom-line revenues for many Big Money Corporations.
70 years after the Marijuana Tax Act was passed, we obviously know of the medical benefits of marijuana, but again, Big Drug Companies (in addition to others listed) have been working for many years behind the scenes to keep it illegal. It's a shame our government is controlled by men who will do anything for anybody as long as it lines their pockets with Benjamins ($$$$$$), regardless if it makes common sense and would benefit America long-term.
Marijuana may not be legal, but it is easy to find (although spendy). As long as you smoke it in the confines of your own home, the government will probably leave you alone. Yes, even in ultra-conservative Utah.
Oh by the way, get off of Mitt Romney just because he's a Mormon. Like Mormons are any worse than any other religious group. I'm sick and tired of hearing about how it's a cult because it's only been around 177 years. Most of you who bag on the Mormons could use a little education about its history. Is it different than Catholocism or the MYRIAD of protestant faiths? Of course, but there are far more similarities, with the most important one being live the Golden Rule and treat others as Jesus would have.
I am seeing a lot of responses stating: "Keep in mind Romney is Mormon and they do not allow mind altering substances." My argument is that the entire United States is NOT Mormon. It is very typical of most politicians to push there close minded views without bending the other way even when evidence supporting things such as more stem cell research, drug laws and sentances that make sense, as well as providing healthcare to every American. The facts are that people are getting sentances which exceed sentances of rape for selling drugs or possessing. Stem cell research has proven to be key in curing diseases such as diabetes, which I struggle to deal with as well as to pay for. In the meantime drug companies and insurance companies are in charge of our health and frequently profit on our health care denying and setting their own standards based on their research, consistenly increasing profits each year. When I hear the argument that we don't have long waits to see doctors like other countries, my simple answer to that is when everyone gets health care there is going to be a longer wait and we should not exclude people from basic health care because they cannot afford it, I would be more than happy to wait another 2 months to see my Endocrinologist if it meant many more people with diabetes could get care. To end my rant Romney showed typical U.S. politics by avoiding the question and walking away turning his back to the tough questions.
I lost my fiancee to a terminal kidney disease four years ago. During her battle and treatments (including chemo), not one single prescribed anti-nausea medication worked. The only thing she tried that worked was smoking marijuana (isn't it an oxymoron to try swallowing an anti-nausea med anyway...how can you keep it down if you're vomiting every few minutes?!). Her MD told her "if smoking marijuana eliminates your nausea and allows you to eat, feel better and be stronger, then do it."
This is heartbreaking to think that anyone would prefer to make a chemo patient suffer.
Not that I'd wish my fiancee's illness on anyone, but it sure makes me pause when I see a holier-than-thou politician try to dictate what's right for a sick/dieing person. Romney better hope there isn't such thing as karma...because it sure hurts seeing someone you love suffer so much when it doesn't need to be.
I don't care what his religious beliefs tell him about altered states of mind...his stance is completely inhumane, as was his response. He basically just told that guy that he didn't care if he lived or died...and that he would arrest him.
I think the only admirable candidate on either side right now is Ron Paul...who ,by the way, supports legalization and taxation of cannabis. I side with common sense!
((In five years, (exaggeration)...I bet we could kill that deficit with the money from cannabis consumption alone))
Amazing! This schmuck [Mitt] is against substances that harm the body, but suggests this guy try "synthetic" substances to help?!? Why on earth would anyone want to choose a synthetic substance over a natural one that has proven effective time and time again?
Sounds like Mitt is not only ignorant, but also uneducated. It's obvious he lacks common sense.
Not only would Ron Paul legalize medical marijuana, he would decriminalize personal use. A move that would saves millions, perhaps billions, of tax dollars for prosectuing victimless crimes.
Why is CNN keeping Mitt's media produced MM moment at the top of its ticker? Are they following Hillary's lead of down playing Sandy Burger's involement in her shameless campaign??
What a LOSER!
Romey is a sleaze ball.
Someone needs to ask Dr. Ron Paul about this. Being as he's the ONLY candidate with ANY medical experience, I think his is the ONLY opinion I'd actually listen to.
It is unconscionable that anyone would deprive sick people of the medicine that helps them.
Dennis Kucinich believes marijuana should be decriminalized, which would free up so much tax money paying for the incarceration of Americans arrested on pot charges. If the government taxed it, we could be out of debt in no time, and the people would be glad to pay extra for the assurance that they won't get arrested.
If there is any doubt whether marijuana has been used as political scapegoat for minorities, the poor, immigrants, and pretty much anybody affiliated with the counter culture, look at this talking head pandering to the social elite who won't partake in such savage past times. It is the number one cash crop in the United States. In many cases grown right here in America, by Americans, for Americans. Stop the propaganda. Appalachia smokers 4 life
Sue,
I doubt he ever had your vote.
And for everyone else, Mormons can use caffeine.
No. Not all Republicans are against medical marijuana.
Dr. Ron Paul is this exception and he wants to end the War on Drugs. Drug abuse should not a crime, it's a medical problem! Do we throw alcoholics into prison?
Several of these comments ask what the positions of the other candidates are on the legalization of medical marijuana. This website details the positions of all the candidates on this matter.
http://granitestaters.com/candidates
All of the Democrats favor legalizing it,with Biden having reservations about it, and only Paul and Tancredo favoring it on the Republican side.
if mitt gets elected he will outlaw everything and be in everyones bedroom. this guy has flip flopped on every single issue, he is a political hack who is now funding his own campaign because contributions are not coming in... there is no reason why medical marijuana should not be legalized, this is just another issue of republicans wanting to be in your business and tell you how to live.
Boy there are a lot of angry pot smokers commenting on this article. They get so mad that yet another public figure thinks pot smoking should be illegal, that they didn't even pay attention to what Romney said.
He very clearly answered the question. If he believes something should not be legal, that necessarily means that someone could get arrested for doing it. As far as him being rude or cocky goes, he disagrees with the guy's position 100%. What more is there for them to talk about? If a presidential candidate took 10 minutes out of the day to have a lovefest every time he/she came across someone who disagreed with them, they would never get anything done. POT IS A STARTER DRUG THAT MAKES PEOPLE STUPID. STOP SMOKING IT.
It's funny how we focus so much on an illegal drug that benefits a few instead of working issues that affect millions.
I think it's interesting that McCain isn't in favor of drugs, since he hired Mark McKinnon, a former cocaine dealer from Austin Texas, as his advisor.
Sure, marijuana use would go against Romney's Mormon beliefs. But, is he running his campaign based solely on those beliefs or on the basis of the greater good for the country? I want to vote for someone who sees the big picture of the greater good, not someone whose hand is in the pocket of the pharmaceutical companies.
To Laurinda in NY.
The reason why Guliani is not the Mayor anymore is because of Term Limits.
Why does everyone want to legalize Marijuana? Is it because it will be easier for you to get a joint?
Are we absolutely sure that no one has died from Marijuana? No one has gotten behind a wheel while they were stoned and went into a tree or worse yet, another car? Of course this happens with alcohol, but it still is not right. But to say that Marijuana has never killed anyone is a bit much.
I am not aware that the FDA allows medical Cocaine. That is a new one to me.
America, get with it. This is not the reefer madness BS of the 50's.
Try walking in these folks shoes and try to relate to the normal humans on this planet.
The argument is about as sane as the stem cell debate.
I'm not sure. But is Romney a whimp for not answering a question from a nice and harmless young man, or a bully for running away faster than the kid could possibly chase him?
Damon, next year they're going to outlaw coffee, then cigarettes. Just wait.
Someone made the comment that Mormons are opposed to mind altering substances. I'm Mormon, and yes, I am opposed. But, guess what...I happen to be in favor of medical use marijuana. I have a step-daughter who has medical problems that I won't go into, and the drug out there that helps her is pot. I'm in favor if its for that purpose, and that purpose only.
This is exactly why the Republicans didn't want to do the YouTube debate initially. They are bad at caring about people and are not the party of the people. Answering unscripted, direct questions from constituents is uncomfortable at best.
This could be considered a little preview of the YouTube debate. Or is CNN going to go easy on them?
I'm not upset about his answer. I think it's incredibly stupid to not legalize for medical uses, but that isn't what makes me see red here.
What gets me is the way he treated that young man. Shameful, the walking away while gladhanding and talking over his repeated question.
NO he didn't answer the question because while he doesn't support the usage, it doesn't mean that he will increase enforcement or leave it to the states to mandate or study the issue.
He just blew off the guy in a wheelchair, after barely making eye contact and acting superior and know-it-all about synthetics (that are MUCH more expensive and much less effective) as if the young man wasn't smart enough to have tried those???
REAL presidential behavior, that.
!!!!!!!!
Did anyone else notice that after the cameraman presses him – "You're just going to ignore a man in a wheelchair?" – Romney turns and says, "He's worthless."
I'm serious. Watch the video again. He calls a handicapped guy worthless.
Ethically, isn't this worth about 4,000 Dean Screams?
HOW SAD AND UNINFORMED THESE POLITICIANS ARE ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA.
THEY OBVIOUSLY KNOW NOTHING ABOUT MARIJUANA AND ARE ONLY USING THE SAME TIRED OLD ARGUEMENTS THAT HAVE BEEN USED BY POLITIONS FOR DECADES. SAY, OR DO ANYTHING TO GET ELECTED, SEEMS TO BE THE MOTTO FOR SO MANY OF OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS. FOR HEAVEN'S SAKE GET INTO THE 21ST CENTURY. GIVE THE SICK AND DYING SOME COMFORT. IT IS NOTHING BUT RIDICULOUS!
William Randolph Hearst & Lammonte DuPont did a great deal of harm in smearing marijuana like they did, so they could profit. Hearst went on to harvest millions of acres of timberland to print his newspapers on, and DuPont went on to market synthetic fabrics, which are no good to the environment. Before the "Reefer Madness" campaign, and before the pharmaceutical industry pushed aspirin, weed was a quite common pain reliever.
Are we absolutely sure that no one has died from Marijuana? No one has gotten behind a wheel while they were stoned and went into a tree or worse yet, another car? Of course this happens with alcohol, but it still is not right. But to say that Marijuana has never killed anyone is a bit much.
I am not aware that the FDA allows medical Cocaine. That is a new one to me.
Posted By Carl Spackler – IL
Believe it... no one has ever died becuase of PLAIN Marijuana. If they did it would make the news. WHY!?!?! because high people drive slower than Ms Daisy. While alchohol makes people reckless and drive fast. If a pot smoker WAS to hit a three or another car it would be at 5 miles per hour.
And Medical Cocaine... what do you think Methadone is? Plenty of people have died using that THAT stuff.
You arguement is flawed because, Alcohol, cigarettes, and methadone are legal. All of which are HORRIBLE for people. They have been proven time and time again to KILL people. POT by all accounts (yes makes teenagers lazy) but on the other hand saves lifes, and keeps people from pain
Romney shows his true colors and what a jerk he is. He just walk away from that poor boy and didn't answer his question.
Is this the kind of heartless man we running our country.
Tom
Hey, there is so much Mormon bashing going on....I'm almost scared for my life and my children's lives. Everyone needs to calm their hatred down and learn some facts...you don't want to come across sounding like the Nazis during WWII with their accusations against others that were differernt then them. I hope CNN you will post my following comments because you have let a lot of hazing comments towards Mormons be posted, like Magic Pajamas. Many religious people wear religious clothing. Our undergarments are sacred to us. We wear our religion under our clothing because it is a sacred and personal thing. There is nothing weird about them. They are functional and I for one am not ashamed to be endowed as we call it in our church. Go to our website for more info on our Temple Endowments.
Just for clarity on Mormon's Word of Wisdom Beliefs:
(From Spencer W. Kimball 1942 on of the Mormon Prophets)
The Lord commands us not to use wine and strong drinks, meaning drinks containing alcohol. The First Presidency has taught that strong drink often brings cruelty, poverty, disease and plague into the home. It often is a cause of dishonesty, loss of chastity, and loss of good judgement. Expectant mothers who drink can cause physical and mental damage to their children. Many automobile accidents are caused each year by people who drink alcohol.
Tobacco is not for the body. Scientists have shown that tobacco causes diseases and can harm unborn children.
We have been couseled against "hot drinks". Church leaders have said that this means coffee and tea, which contain harmful ingredients. We should avoid all drinks that contain harmful ingred.
We should not use drugs except when they are necessary as medicine. Some drugs are even more harmful than alcohol and tobacco.
We should not use anything that we know is harmful to our bodies. We should not use any substance that is habit forming. The Word of Wisdom does not tell us everything to avoid, but it does give us guidelines. By living the Word Of Wisdom,which also tells us what is good for our bodies, we become stronger spiritually. We purify our bodies so the Spirit of the Lord can dwell with us.
The Word Of Wisdom is found in
Mormon Scriptures called the Doctrine and Covenants section 89.
sue
"Why does everyone want to legalize Marijuana? Is it because it will be easier for you to get a joint?"
No, it's because it would bring in billions of dollars in tax revenue, reallocate police resources to more important concerns, card children, make a dent in the cartels by cutting into their profits, reduce exposure to harder drugs, etc.
"Are we absolutely sure that no one has died from Marijuana?"
I'm sure they meant overdose. You can't overdose by smoking marijuana while you can with numerous other substances including alcohol. Yes people have died from marijuana, but if you look at the literature, you will note that impairment on marijuana isn't nearly as bad as it is with alcohol. I encourage you to dive in.
"I am not aware that the FDA allows medical Cocaine. That is a new one to me."
Cocaine is schedule 2, thus can be prescribed medicinally.
"common sense" makes sense......
stop the non-sense and legalize it...
tax it and legalize it....just like
booze.....must be 21 just think of the tax revenue.......we spend millions on prosecuting and jailing offenders...and it's never going to go away.....wake up!!!!
For any of you who oppose medical marijuan, please watch the documentary In Pot We Trust and then decide whether or not it should be legalized. Medical marijuana helps a lot of people go from not being able to function to getting their jobs and their lives back and being able to care for their families. These are basics that apparently some people take for granted.
I could go on and on but all I really need to say is:
Wow, sue aspen granda hills ca., you are an idiot on so many levels.
As a member of the hemp movement(low thc variety of cannabis) for 20 years, its refreshing to read the many commenters who actually use critical thinking and logic when interpreting their belief on the drug war. Lets not forget that hemp was the #1 crop in the US before prohibition. It's drought/pest resistant and grows anywhere, merely a weed after all. It is estimated that planting a 16th of the land in the continental US could produce all the fuel we need to fill our insatiable need.
This is an important issue that should be discussed more often.
They won't legalize medical marijuana yet my children can be prescribed controlled substances for their ADD. So they can hardly use the fact that marijuana is a controlled substance to deny it's being legalized for medical purposes. The drug companies must donate a lot of campaign dollars.
To the guy who said Mitt Romney said the boy was "worthless"... listen again. It's clear Romney said "I spoke to him". He didn't walk away because he was afraid of stating his opinion. He expressed that clearly. He showed incredibly good judgment by walking away from a political activist who was trying to trap him into saying something regretful. Talk about shameful, the "poor boy" uses his wheelchair as a political platform to obtain instant mercy whether warranted or not. There are MANY options people. Find one that is legal.
TO: By sue aspen granda hills ca
Oh where do I start...
First. I agree that some of the postings on here are just Anti-morman BS
You should have the right to not put into your bodies things you dont want. ON THE OTHER HAND, just because you dont want them in your body does not mean someone else feels the same.
You have the right to your religion and I have the right to IGNORE your religion
The point is this political issue is that there is NO REASON WHAT SO EVER for alcohol and cigaretes to be Legal and Marijuana NOT. It makes NO SENSE what so ever. People would not be so upset if they were all Illegal. But to pick one item and say NO, just because is senseless.
ALSO
"Church leaders have said that this means coffee and tea, which contain harmful ingredients. We should avoid all drinks that contain harmful ingred."
Green Tea it absolutely one of the best natural things on the face of this planet to drink.
Many of you in your rush to condemn Romney fail to mention (and have probably failed to even find out) that Romney's wife Ann has struggled with MS for years. Now consider that he has been married to Ann since the age of 21, they have five children together and 10 grandchildren. This is a man who is intimately connected with disease, it's fear and heartache. Both Mitt and Ann have stated that they would be opposed to certain kinds of research – even if it helped Ann's MS. Bear in mind, they have a lot to lose. However, they have principals that they are not willing to compromise on. Perhaps they even try to look at what they feel is the greater good – in this case, the national good. Whether you agree with Romney's stances on this issue or others, it is a bit infantile to lie and accuse the man of not caring or of being hypocritical or the many other bitter and petty statements that many of you have made. What ever happened to the ability of people to disagree with someone on an issue without becoming angry and hateful?
I think that Romney clearly showed that he is just another politician. I was appalled by his behavior, but not surprised.
Sick people ARE being arrested and jailed for using medical marijuana. I know of one case where a person died while in jail for using medical marijuana.
In the second case, the sick person was turned in by a neighbor that saw his pot plants in a window (nice neighbor). The police stated that this person was growing pot only for his own use in treating his illness. Yet he was arrested and made to stand trial. (I do not know the outcome.)
For those of you that would like to know the truth of how marijuana came to be illegal, I recommend Peter McWilliams' book "Ain't Nobody's Business If You Do".
For those of you who see through the stupidity and hypocrisy, and would like to see medical marijuana available to those who need it, please support Republican Ron Paul for president.
Mitt...you obviously need a pair of new "MAGICAL UNDERPANTS" because at the rate you're going...you will never be President of this country!
THIS IS SHOCKING:
!!!!!!!!
Did anyone else notice that after the cameraman presses him – "You're just going to ignore a man in a wheelchair?" – Romney turns and says, "He's worthless."
I'm serious. Watch the video again. He calls a handicapped guy worthless.
Ethically, isn't this worth about 4,000 Dean Screams?
Posted By Keith : October 8, 2007 3:23 pm
-- Now I'M WORRIED --
Ron Paul is for not just respecting state laws allowing people to get medical marijuana, but for ending the whole failed "War on Drugs." Despite needing the votes of more conservative leaning Republican voters to win his primary, he is better than any of the Democrat candidates on the issue. Dr. Paul has voted against Drug War funding and long spoken out on the issue (see for example http://www.lewrockwell.com/paul/paul179.html ). Hilary Clinton failed as First Lady and as a Senator to use her clout for drug reform, and neither she nor the other Democratic presidential aspirants are speaking out against Prohibition despite their left-leaning base (see http://www.commondreams.org/archive/2007/03/24/63/ ). Barack Obama has even called for expanding the DEA in New Orleans (see http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle_blog/2007/aug/28/obama_what_new_orleans_needs_is_).
ALSO
the history channel did a special few year back on why certain drugs were illegal.
turnsout marijuana was only made illegal so the border patrol had a reason to stop and arrest the people crossing the border with it.
Pot was the smoke of choice for blacks and mexicans, People felt like these people were taking there jobs so found a reason to arrest them.
ALL you have to do is watch the original "reefer madness" and you'll see that all of it was just propaganda at its best.
No marijuanna, but bubba redneck can have all the beer he wants. hmmmmm...
I do not favor the legaliziation per se, but when are we going to wake up and admit we like to use recreatioinal drugs as a nation? Alcohol, nicotene, caffiene?
I do not understand what the big deal is.... If it helps the sick why not legalize it. I mean my gosh... IT FREAKING GROWN IN NATURE. How is it different from tobbacco... or alcholo??
"He showed incredibly good judgment by walking away from a political activist who was trying to trap him into saying something regretful. Talk about shameful, the "poor boy" uses his wheelchair as a political platform to obtain instant mercy whether warranted or not. There are MANY options people. Find one that is legal."
Well gee, if I was in a wheelchair and under threat of arrest for using my medicine, I would probably be an activist on the issue as well. What the hell is wrong with you?
You are wrong when you say there are plenty of options. The options that exist don't always work for every patient. For a sub-population of patients, medical marijuana works best for them, and may be the only thing that works at all. Anti nausea and pain options are weak.
Sue Aspen – Granda Hills, Ca:
Some of us are extremely familiar with Mormon beliefs & doctrine. Your "enlightening" facts still do not justify Romney's ignorance and disrespect towards that young man's affliction, nor did he answer his question fully.
Politicians are to uphold the separation of church and state – this means putting aside his own personal/spiritual views/agenda.
Still, you have not given a persuading argument as to why medical marijuana should not be allowed. Given it's healing properties for those afflicted with an array of diseases, it should be allowed. Just because Mr. Romney doesn't view it as valuable, doesn't mean that's so.
You should also be aware of the "church's" belief that there is a natural cure for every ailment. Perhaps you should continue your studies so you can present a better argument next time.
David Glick, Staten Island, NY
So what his wife has MS. The drug he is talking about may work for her but it has also been shown NOT to work for everyone.
ALSO Mitt has a personal wealth of over 30 Million dollars. and him and his wife get the best healthcare money can but FOR FREE.
It does not help his case that his wife has MS, it makes him seem less human that he has seen the pain a person goes through FIRST hand and still refuses to make ALL options available.
YIPPIE his wife has found an aid that helps AND she can afford. MILLIONS other are not so lucky
Ha, it is so interesting to hear all of you say things like, "This guy is a jerk" and a "hypocrite" and is "close-minded" and so on but show those same qualities with the comments that you post. There is absolutely nothing wrong with disagreeing with someone because of the policies that they have. It is American to question. But it is completely different to bash on someone because of their religion. Yes, I would agree that religion does play a large part in how someone goes about with their lives, but some of you go farther than just disagreeing with the man. I'm talking about your biggotted comments against Mormonism that are neither true nor...as some of you would say "factual". Which is worst? Hypocricy or Biggotry?? I would say that both are terrible qualities to have. A great man once said.. "Let he who is without sin cast the first stone". Mitt Romney doesn't represent the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints – he is only a member of the church. He doesn't speak for the church, neither does the member who owns all the Starbucks Coffees in Utah. (What a rediculous comment that was by the way). Attack Mitt, not his religion, or be just as guilty as you claim he is. Enough said..
It's clear this video has captured the attention of the Legalize Marijuana crowd. I don't think there is much that can be done to change their minds. To Romney, I think his answer was correct, even if he did move quickly to get out of there. This was a trap designed to provoke a Romney. There's pretty much nothing he could have said that would have satisfied the boy. I'm pretty sure if he had hung around and engaged sincerely in the conversation, the "boy" would have continued with over provoking loaded questions. Come on people, you expect Romney to be Mother Teresa when confronted by a wheel chair activist who very insincerely asks "will you throw me in jail...". Romney was right to make a quick exit rather than hang around in a hostile situation.
Who cares ablout medicinal, what about recreational? LEt's be honest, it is a much safer alternative to alcohol. I'm amazed by all the people who have been conned by the establishment that MJ is somehow harmful. The reason it is frowned upon is that it somehow encourages thinking. And what is more dangerous to a government than a thinking population? People go to jail for nothing when they go to jail for cannabis offences. It is a shame.
what the heck man, when i become the next woman/black president, don't worry you guys, if its not legalized by then i will leaglize it for sure.
What about medical poppy. Are you ready for that? I hope so, medical uses of the poppy are your opium based pain killers.
While I am not in favor of legalization of marijuana for sale across the counter, it has been proven to have certain properties that are useful in treating a number of illnesses, not curing them, but permitting individuals to maintain a somewhat accetable life style where they would be unable to do so other wise.
A great number of drugs are from plants, however the drugs have been developed with a delivery system that can control the dose and be sold in the phramacy.
Mitt lost me from the very beginning for hauling his dog on the roof of his car, but this really makes my blood boil!!
Mitt's a pretty face, phony, a–hole!!!
Everyone should see this. It speaks volumes!
Jones said:
"It's clear this video has captured the attention of the Legalize Marijuana crowd. I don't think there is much that can be done to change their minds. "
The legalize medical marijuana crowd is around 70% of the nation.
" To Romney, I think his answer was correct, even if he did move quickly to get out of there. This was a trap designed to provoke a Romney. There's pretty much nothing he could have said that would have satisfied the boy."
How was his answer correct? His reason was wrong. Synthetic THC is not a solution for every patient. There's nothing he could have said? How about he could have said "No, I won't arrest you for using your medicine. I won't have the DEA target medical marijuana patients."
" I'm pretty sure if he had hung around and engaged sincerely in the conversation, the "boy" would have continued with over provoking loaded questions. "
Pure speculation based on nothing but your own bias.
"Come on people, you expect Romney to be Mother Teresa when confronted by a wheel chair activist who very insincerely asks "will you throw me in jail…".
Hmm, his position is that he will throw that person in jail since he wouldn't change the law. How was it insincere?
I'm pretty sure Sue Aspen was just trying to clarify the Mormon church's exact stance on certain substances, since many on here miscontrue them and use Howard Stern's doctrine on Mormonism. For example, Mormons CAN drink Coke.
Holy cow. What a response from the They accuse Romney of being harsh only to spew out biggotry and hatred without restraint. Can't they see that this was just a political activist who wanted his moment in the spotlight? Well, he got his moment. He asked a question, Romney answered and then everyone condemns Romney for being a meany-pants. Way to go Mitt. This was a lose-lose situation and he was right to get out of Dodge.
CNN and the so called mainstream media have departed the ranks of impartial journalism and joined the ranks of the partisan advocates for a liberal take over of the government. Tell me, do you collaborate much with the "mainstream media" in Venezuela. You have so much in common.
Meany-pants... hilarious. I would have done the same thing. This guy had an axe to grind and was trying to grind it on Mitt Romney. How about he use the existing democratic process to get the law changed? If so many people agree with him, it should be a piece of cake to pass legislation to legalize marijuana. So I pose the question of why has it not been legalized? BECAUSE IT'S A DUMB IDEA. Just what we need in society, a bunch of dope-heads using their sore back as a means to obtain mind-altering drugs. Duh.
He DID answer the question. Not being in support of legalizing marijuana means....YES, if you are taking it and your Dr. prescribes it to you than both of you can be taken to jail. How is that not answering the question.
This was all a trap to get Romney to say he would arrest the poor little wheelchair kid to his face. I think he handled it just like any of you hipocrites would.
I'm not going to vote for Romney, but most of you people are idiots.
BTW, I don't think legalizing medical marijuana is bad, as long as it is regulated just like any other medicine to help keep doctors from prescribing it to healthy people or trying to make money off of it on the side.
The powers that be evidently manufacture candidates from the same robotic/slave formula they want to inflict upon the general populace. It doesn't matter that they've been documented as implictly advocating arrests of the medically needy. What really does matter is the query: How long must we let out-of- touch politicians rule our lives by their same out-moded, old-fashioned, ignorant knee-jerk condemnations of something they can never have first-hand experience with? The candidate without compassion is the candidate who'll cause more problems as another corporate tool. Too long has the working class had to carry the corporate welfare class, with scorn its only reward. We don't need their permission to be happy, and we need not apply for it.
I never cared for Romney. Good that the media shows this. Walking away from a sick guy wanting an answer breaks my heart! Wonder how Dr. No would have answered his question? Were did cannabis ever go wrong? cannabis is Big money in alot of areas (court fees, Lawyers, cash busts, etc.)
plus this harmless weed puts so many behind bars.
It must be really hard to be a Republican these days. If they hadn't enabled the worst pResident in History, I'd almost feel sorry for them.
Let the Gopers Lament.
http://www.tellercreations.com/goperslament.mp3
Kucinich is pro medical marijuana use.
China is free to grow hemp! America is free to arrest people and grow the for profit prison-industrial complex. America is also free to import millions of dollars of hemp products from communist China! So free in the USA!
There is no way that the corporate society (of which he is a member) will give up any aspect of their prison/police/medical money making schemes, no matter how damaging it is to the country or individuals. Romney is not a person we want for president.
Ron Paul would legailize medical marijuana and get rid of the DEA, we should all be supporting him.
If the majority of the base supported this issue, I am sure he would be for it. This guy will say anything to get elected. He has no principles and it is shocking to see the supposed Party of Principles tout his candidacy.
Check out this link:
God, I hate republicans so much. They claim they want less government interference in the everyday lives of citizens and then they say "listen, we know better than your doctor on this one."
RON PAUL IN 2008!!!!!
hempcar.org vs dependance on foreign oil.... hmmmmmmm....hmmmmm. ..that's a tough one.
Legalize Marijuana NOW! How is it that booze is legal everywhere you go and kills thousands of people a year? You can't overdose at ALL on weed, driving (while it would probably be outlawed) high is a lot safer than drunk as well! How many times have you seen kids die from car accidents on prom night from drivers who were high and not drunk? It's rediculous how a tiny little plant can cause such a raucous. Check out most of the people commenting on this subject and you'll see they're all in favor of legalization. How many songs do you hear on the radio about smoking pot? It's time the country that LET'S US live "free" started letting us do what we want to ourselves!
The truth is that a bag of weed is far cheaper than those toxic pills the drug lobbies want you to buy.
That's the reason cancer patients take it so they can keep an appetite and not want to vomit from the toxic pills.
The truth is that marijuana is so cheap people could potentially grow it for free in the backyard...which could mean billions in lost tax revenues and corporate profits for the drug lobbies.
Who cares what Romney thinks about ANY issue becuase he'll flip 180 degrees to suit whatever audience he's pandering to at the time. What's left to know? We know everything about him already...he's a liar, a panderer, a fraud, a fake.
I really don't expect Mitt Romney to support any medical marijuana intiative because the mormon faith dosen't even support the use of coffee. I was struck though by his total disconnect to even to listen to the young man and allow him a moment to explain his treating some of his symptoms with marjuana.
hempcar.org vs. dependance on foreign oil......hmmmmm that's a tough one.
China free to grow hemp! America free to feed the for-profit prison-industrial complex with non-violent hemp users! America- free to import millions of dollars of hemp products from communist China!
This is not a free country – No one can give me a good reason why in the land of the free it is illegal for a tax paying, law abiding (ration laws) adult citizen to go home to his or her private residence and ingest whatever he or she wants. In the privacy of your own home you should be able to take whatever you want into your own body, anything less than that is not a free society – realize this please – no where in the constitution gives anyone the right to tell an adult American what he or she can ingest, period!
hempcar.org vs foreign dependance on oil.....hmmmmmm....that's a tough one.. .....
This video seriously creeped me out. I am scared of this man. Put medical marijuana aside... Romney was asked by a suffering patient about whether they would continue the federal RAIDS on himself and his doctors, and romney WALKED AWAY... Oh my goodness... I literally got goosebumps. How dare he ignore a constituent. He said "I believe I have answered his question" which means that his answer was "yes I will arrest him and his doctors."
Putting medical marijuana aside, how can anyone vote for a man so cruel as to walk away from a disabled person. If this person wins presidency, I am literally leaving the country.
I think enough people are doing this dumb drug already. I feel it's the reason why our population is getting stupider. Romney is standing by his choice, I have heard of many who aren't even sick taking advantage of "medical marijuana" so who legalise it, you just know it'll end up in the wrong hands.
How arrogant, unfeeling, disrespectful and basically Teflonesque can you get?
NO ONE like that deserves to be in public office – no matter how rich he might be.
Great!!!!! Law and Disorder conservitives! If u plant the seed and let mama nature take over your a drug dealer!!!! I have cancer and I have to go to Vermont from Massachusetts,because of religous politicans!!!!Rommy makes me sick,more than my cancer!!!!
I was a life long democrat (voted first time for Mondale) and watching this video has me a tad scared to vote repulican, however I am voting for
Ron Paul!
I think democrats need to give a serious look at Ron Paul, the democratic party isn't giving any options to the far left, their candidates are only appealing to the moderates. Ron Paul is anti war, for the legalization of all drugs, etc
How about some Ron Paul coverage?
“How about he use the existing democratic process to get the law changed? If so many people agree with him, it should be a piece of cake to pass legislation to legalize marijuana.”
Yes, it was a piece of cake for the 14 states that have passed legislation legalizing marijuana. But then the federal government sends its’ henchmen (DEA) to steal the entire cake. That’s the exact topic the axe grinder was addressing.
“ So I pose the question of why has it not been legalized? BECAUSE IT'S A DUMB IDEA. Just what we need in society, a bunch of dope-heads using their sore back as a means to obtain mind-altering drugs. Duh.”
Just like we don’t need a bunch of drunks driving and running our government. Or a bunch of pill poppers spewing hate on the radio. Or my grandma taking her Sunday drive an hour after her Sunday Nyquil. Or people who write out Duh when typing a comment.
I have heard of many who aren't even sick taking advantage of "medical marijuana" so who legalise it, you just know it'll end up in the wrong hands.
Posted By Chris, Huntington, California : October 8, 2007 5:03 pm
Chris, I have heard of many who aren't even sick taking advantage of Valium, Codeine, Vicodin, Percoset, Klonopin, etc. Why aren't they illegal?
I don't know why anyone's surprised about this with Romney, or many others in the GOP, but that doesn't strike the fact that it's yet another decision that they're not basing on science. We all know the reason why it's illegal and Romney's response underscores that truth – that there are synthetic medications available, ones that are made by Pfizer, Bristol Myers-Squibb, and all the other companies who benefit from sales. What's worse is that our tax dollars support the propoganda television spots against marijuana, only to be followed by the ads for Ambien CR and Levitra. It's like a "Buy One, Get One Free" special for advertisers.
PLEASE READ: http://www.november.org/thewall/cases/magbie-j/magbie-j.html
Then, check out the victim section on this site: http://www.mpp.org
I don't trust most polititians, they feed you want you want to hear (or maybe I'm just paranoid:)
edit: Legislation legalizing Medical Marijuana.
what an idiot. what kind of stupid question is that to ask? of course no one in their right mind would legalize any form of marijuana. That is a self interest question that got more of a response than it deserves. All they need to do is put THC in a pill. The real question is to ask clinton why she wants to kill america and make it a socialist state. after all, she's lived off the taxpayers dime for decades...
LOGIC! Some people use it to solve riddles and disputes.
There is NO logical reason to deny the public marijuana and not deny us tabacco or alchohol. If, that is, they are sticking to the whole " For your own good" line. Think about it for a second. This is and has always been about money! Relax, the right is going to lose on this one. Do you know why? It can be grown with out any effort. Seriously its nothing...or so I've heard.
John,
"what an idiot. what kind of stupid question is that to ask? of course no one in their right mind would legalize any form of marijuana."
So you're saying that their is no one with "right mind" in California, Vermont, New Hampshire etc...That's alot of anger to be spewing at a person stricken with a disease such as muscular dystrophy, who is merely asking a question. Karma
I have a tough time understanding people that think he didn't answer the question. He said that he dows not support making it legal (which it currently isn't). If the police found him with Marijuana then of course they would arrest him. There is nothing left to the imagination. The primary reason they have not legalized Marijuana is the huge costs. Yes, you could tax it, but there would be huge costs in prosecuting doctors that are writing illegal prescriptions, crops that are stolen and the majority of the country does not support legalization!!
As a Massachusetts resident who lived through Mitt Romney as governor, I am not surprised. He was always arrogant and never answered questions that mattered.
He put this state in a horrible place economically and structurally. I can only imagine the damage he would do as president.
If you want intelligent honest and balanced commentary on this please take a listen to the Dopecast on dopefiend.co.uk. I think the first thing the public needs to see is that we are not the "Cheech and Chong" sterotype. There are ALOT of successful professional people who use Cannabis in moderatation just like many of you who fear the "evil weed" use alcohol. I have a BS in Business Management and will soon have a MBA. I have a good job, own my own home in a decent neighborhood By the way, Cannabis is not even listed by the Government on their top five list of dangerous substances.
Chris, Huntington, California:
"Stupider" is NOT a word. Whose the dummy now?
Furthermore, it's already in the "wrong hands" – our politicians.
"of course no one in their right mind would legalize any form of marijuana."
Posted By John, Phoenix, AZ : October 8, 2007 5:29 pm
Well, apparently the majority voters in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Montana, Colorado, and Maine, and the majority of legislators in Hawaii, New Mexico, Vermont, and Rhode Island are not in their right mind. Because all 12 of those states have laws that protect seriously ill patients like Clayton from arrest and prison. Also, Richardson, as Gov. of New Mexico, signed that state's medical marijuana into law. Clearly, he's not in his right mind.
For all of you who say that we just want medical marijuana so we can smoke it is wrong. We can get pot easy, its not tough at all and the penalties are just like a $25 fine. We want it medicaly legalized because it does such a great job at reducing pain and so people who have it perscribed don't have to fear having their doctors arrested
Nathan, Seattle Wa: Please don't forget that Ron Paul IS a TRUE Republican except for his anti-war stance and foreign relations policy, He is anti-choice and against stem cell research just to name a few things. I have heard some disturbing racist comments written by him, and hear rumors of ties to the klan.
How scary!
DENNIS KUCINICH is the ONLY choice for peace-living, free-thinking Democrats.
Please stop this madness of Democrats registering as Republicans!
And don't let the corporate-run mainstream media brainwash you into thinking that Kucinich has no chance. He is the candidate we've all been waiting for:
1) He can't be bought (no corporate donations accepted- and yet FOR THIS REASON- not having the big dirty bucks- his campaign is discounted). How wonderful it would be to have confidence that our President ONLY has OUR best interests at heart!
2) He is honest and has NEVER said anything just to get elected.
3) He is the ONLY candidate with a plan- HR 676- in Congress, that would provide REAL Universal, not-for-profit health care for ALL. Hillary and Edwards' plans would make us all give money to the corrupt insurance companies (that contribute millions to their campaigns), or we will be fined, like car insurance. How is giving more money to the companies whose only interest is profiting from NOT giving us health care solving our health care crisis? That is really screwed up people!
3) Dennis (& Gravel) are the only candidate(s) that believe ALL Americans should have equal rights (even if you were born- HEAVEN FORBID- gay).
4) Dennis feels marijuana should be decriminalized. Enough of the Reefer Madness people! The other candidates are too busy pandering to the right to see what is right and wrong. Bill Clinton passed the most harsh laws to date against marijuana users JUST to prove to the right that he really did "just inhale".
5) Kucinich was the ONLY candidate (besides Republican Ron Paul) to vote against the war and against funding Halliburton and others with exclusive war contracts 100% of the time.
6) Kucinich is the ONLY candidate with the balls to IMPEACH Cheney- HR 333. He knows this is necessary to avoid going to war in Iran, which is what this crooked administration plans on doing before they leave office. Hillary, Obama, Edwards, Dodd, and Biden voted in favor of military action against Iran- with WHAT money and with WHAT troops?
I think I'll stop there, but that is by no means a complete list of the superiority of Dennis Kucinich as a Presidential Candidate.
Oh, that's right though... he's short. I forgot.
I was waiting for someone to get Tasered during that interview. But it didn't happen. Why didn't they taser the man in the wheel chair for pestering Romney?
Its interesting that Mitt Romney is oppossed to medical marijuana yet he can advocate for the lad to take Marinol – which is THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. How does this square with his Mormon theology, if that's the basis for his opposition to medical marijuana?
I think Romney would be just as bad for this country as Rudy would be. Wouldn't it be nice if people would stop knowingly put other people's words in their sentences? Perhaps we should also stop using other peoples secret names. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all get along together.
Dear Don of Akron Ohio,
Am I an idiot for being Mormon or because I am supporting Romney for Pres? Just curious... maybe it was the typos?
You probably don't give a care about why I shared doctrine...but I tell you anway, I did it today because of something that happened to me in my youth.
When I was a teenager I was in a work situation where other adults found out that I was LDS. They hazed me in such a cruel and embarrassing way that it took me years to recover.
Now that I am a parent and raising children, I am trying to help them to be emotionally strong so that they can endure various situation dealing with all sorts of prejudices, (one of our children has a weight issue and another is handicapped). It's not easy, but honesty is always the best policy.
Bukky From Baltimore MD, you asked about my position on Medical Mary. I have good friends who are suffering from cancer and MD and use it for medical purposes. I found out today for the first time, reading all the blogs... that there are alternatives to it.
I will have to think about the matter more.
As far as I could see on the Video piece about Romney talking to that man, I thought that Romney seemed uncomfortable talking with him, and maybe it is because it is a sensitive subject with him because of the condition of his wife, who has MS. After watching the video of himself, he will talk about it with his people and they will help him come up with better ways to interact with fellow Americans out there in the political arena. He is learning as he goes... he might not have it all right yet, but there are many more new days of staying the course, carrying on and trying to win votes for his side.
Posted By Gavin, Gainesville, FL
You have chosen to side with tyranny and propaganda instead of the will of the people and medical facts. You are a disgrace as a human being and more fit of living in a dictatorship where they think big brother government knows best. Hang your head in shame.
The power of money..He even states that there are other pain relievers out there. Pharmiceutical companies and food and tobacco pay billions to keep it illegal. The sick and ill people of this country should have the right to choose a method that may relieve their symptoms with a Dr's prescription and not be forced to go the highly addictive and mega withdrawl effects pham. drugs have..Marijuana has zero addictive traits and no withdrawl symtoms. Prscription drugs ruin millions of families a year. Let's start to fill prisons with rapeist and child molesters and hardin criminals instead of small time marijuana users. Until then, our jails will remain full and child molesters will continue to walk free.
My favorite comments are by people who say things like, "pot makes you dumb"... "enough people are doing this dumb drug already"... I am smarter high than millions of TV-watching drones sober... I can get high and discuss Platonic philosophy but I recommend that dumb people spare their few working neurons...
There is a medicine people can use, it works, and to deny it to the sick is in it's self sickening. Romney just showed he does not care about American's who are sick.
His stance is one more reason I do not regret having changed parties.
Guess who I will not be voting for – a man who has no feelings for others.
Tom Dedham, Mass,
"but he was not arrogant or "vague", he answered the question, PERIOD."
LOL .. he did? So he gave a yes on no answer to Holton's initial question?
NOPE!
So he answered YES or NO to Holton's follow up question when he asked "My question for you is will you arrest me or my doctors if I get medical marijuana."?
Answer: NOPE!
Romney said what his personal stance on the subject was .. he NEVER answered the question with a straight yes or no answer.
Tom, try reviewing the video AGAIN genius ... and point out to us where ... ANYWHERE ... a yes or no answer was given by Romney!
Newsflash: Repubs STILL have a problem with reality and reading comprehension!
Shawnie Cannon, Grants Pass OR,
"Of course we're not going to legalize medical marajuana, there is already proof that it is long-term detrimental."
Ummm ... "long term detrimental" to say ... someone already DYING FROM CANCER?
"I could not respect ANY candidate who would pander to such ridiculous special interest."
Those people who need the drug to help them with their muscular dystrophy or to more peacefully die from cancer are "special interests" to you?
Good GOD! You're IQ is dropping with each post! Next thing you know, you'll try to tell us that Romney never flip-flopped right?
Would you like a do-over on that post Shawnie?
Mitt Romney and the rest of the GOP are idiots.Who cares if sick people smoke pot?Do these presidental canidates not have better things to do?
" Please keep in mind that Mormons are not allowed to use mind altering substances. This includes marijuana, alcohol and caffeine. is stance is no surprise to anyone who knows anything about Mormon beliefs."
So, does this mean he is also against Big Pharma? I damnly doubt it. They contribute to much money to oppose them!
Romney was obviously being baited into a trap by the line of questioning. He was wise to succinctly state his opinion and move on.
But hey...now we can now look forward opponents adding this gem to their bag of insincere heart-tugging tripe. I can hear it already: "What a creep. Mitt hates dogs AND disabled people."
Enough! I've had it with the Karl Rove politics on both sides. This guy is a Democratic plant. The people asking Hillary Clinto about her comments on Iran are Perublican plants. It's bad enough that the campaigns feed us crap. Do we have to keep going back pleading, "More gruel, please!"
Politics will be muck as long as we tolerate it.
Amen
What a double-talking charlatan! The fact that Mitt Romney is even a major contender for the GOP nomination is prrof of just how out-of-touch and vile the Republican Party really is!
I have say that I agree with Romney on this one. As a doctor who works with concer patients I understand what they have to go through and yes, marijuana can help. There are synthetics out there that work better in my experience. The young man states that they make him sick, but in all my years I have never had a patient get "sick" from it. And to all those who say that marijuana does kill, well that's a lie. Last night 3 teenagers where killed in an automobile accident because they were riding high.
Another great "macaca" moment. Goodbye Mitt.
Anyone who calls the Mormon religion a cult clearly has never read the Bible or doesn't understand what it says.
Maybe this is why we need to elect a medical doctor for President. Who would that be? None other than Ron Paul
http://granitestaters.com/candidates/ron_paul.html
People, before you crucify the guy, just do some google search on marijuana side effects and adverse effects. Some of the common side effects include:
* Trouble remembering things
* Sleepiness
* Anxiety
* Paranoia (feeling that people are “out to get you”)
* Altered time perception
Using marijuana for a long time makes some people lose interest in school, work, relationships and other activities. It may also cause legal problems. Using marijuana can be especially dangerous in certain situations, such as when you are driving.
Marijuana causes physical side effects as well, some of which are: Dry mouth, Nausea, Headache, Tremor,
Decreased coordination, Increased heart rate, Altered pulmonary status
Altered body temperature, Reduced muscle strength, Decreased cerebral blood flow, Increased food consumption.
To me, it is no-brainer that marijuana causes more damage than good.
Second. I just made a compelling observation. Can we agree that Romney's head-on confrontation by Clayton Holton and Hillary's engagement in a verbal tussle with a questioner over Iran are similar situation? Well, I hope so. But for some odd and peculiar reason these same individuals that want to chew up Romney to pieces over his incident, defend Hillary with all their might (and she was very rude and obnoxious). Why? Don't you have any dignity and your own convictions?
Last. Come general elections, marijuana is going to be a non-issue to most voters, while Iran will be a very serious issue to all.
Hello! Most all the republican candidates are against medical Marijuana. Why is it that when Romney does it its because of his Mormon faith? I'm a Mormon and I support legalizing Marijuana. Sure Mormons aren't supposed to use drugs but that doesn't mean we all think we should impose those beliefs on others.
And 75% percent of the things stated about Mormons on this board are incredibly ignorant! I'm getting tired of it. The Mormon church does NOT own stock in Coca Cola, Mormons are NOT forbidden from drinking caffeine, and we don't shun modern medicine IN ANY WAY.
People claim it has no medicinal value, but they synthesized it. It was going to be used by Ford to power their cars, but they went to petrol instead under pressure of big oil. It was used as paper for the Constitution and as fabric for our first flag. It was used by Jesus within the oil used to heal the sick, yet for the past 70 years, it's been illegal. It's time to wake up and see that drugs do more harm to society by being illegal. Its a public health issue, not a criminal one. The people in power benefit from all of those felony drug arrests who are no longer able to vote, and living in prison. They are still counted as residents of voting districts that the prison occupies, adding to the electoral votes for the district. These politicians claim to care about us, but they stopped funding needle exchange programs that could have prevented countless new HIV infections. They claim to own some fictional higher, Christian moral ground, yet they fail to utter a single phrase about understanding and tolerance for which their socialist savior was eventually executed for. Leadership requires action, because people can follow. They spew rhetoric with the virulence of fascists. Jesus led by example, and didn't require his disciples to do anything that he himself, was not willing to do. Let's stop the blind from leading the blind for once.
To "Me" from Fullerton, CA who condemn those who wish to see God's creation come out from beneath the boots of our government, "why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye, and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?." (Matthew 7:3)
"Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; that which cometh out of the mouth defileth a man." (Matthew 15:11)
Do some research and stop being force-fed your ideologies. The biggest threat to the powers at be are an informed populace. Pose a threat.
My mother died for four years, 1979 to 1984, from chemotherapy and cancer, cancer brought on by legal drugs like nicotine and alcohol, and fueled by AMA hormones. She wasted away during this time,until she looked like a walking skeleton. She hated that dope but when nothing else could help (patients with overwhelming nausea cannot keep oral meds down, even if they could help; smoking is the only way) she finally tried some MJ. It greatly improved the little time she had left in this world.
I have been smoking MJ for over 40 years. It doesn't matter if it is medical or not. It deserves to be made legal of its own accord. It is time.
Marinol (synthetic THC) only contains the psycho-active ingredient in MJ, and does not include any of the rich variety of other substances that the native plant has. Cannibidiol is the pain reliever, not THC. In effect, the pharmasuits have created a more perfect monster. People that have used Marinol report that it gets them high without any of the beneficial effects. (Heroin was created to get wounded soldiers off of morphine.)
Please support NORML. Their website is norml.org. They have been leading the fight for legalization for many decades now. Educate yourself and your friends. Stop the hypocrisy.
It is estimated that we waste over 40 billion dollars a year on pot-hibition.
The medical point is moot. There is nothing wrong with enjoying MJ as a social drug. It is far better for the individual, the family and society. I have seen harm reduction come to people's lives when they switched to the noble weed and quit alcohol. I dislike alcohol enormously, yet I tolerate/respect other's rights to use this evil drug. I expect tolerance for my pursuit of the activities that make my life pleasant. Viet Nam Era Veteran, 1972-1976, drafted.
So in other words no one cares about the sick and the dying. I mean you wont arrest them but you dont give a whoot about them either. I think if you can get codine and morphine from a perscription then why not a natural plant that has been used by many from when the indians ran the country. heres a thought give the country back to the native americans and let them run it. It would be a better place i am sure.
Google RON PAUL. A physician who knows the truth about medical marijuana, and will see to it that the suffering are not persecuted. Ron Paul 2008, Hope for America
I cant say that I agree with Mitt on this subject, but at least he did not side step the issue. He answered directly. I would like to hear the other candidates stances on this subject, and see how many of them skirt the issue.
Maybe if they legalized it then put taxes on it, we could fund programs like SCHIP.
I wonder if Hillary will say she didnt inhale when she was smoking it with Bill?
Posted By Larry : October 8, 2007 11:40 am
He did not sidestep the issue??? What were you watching. The kid asked him if he would support arresting him and his doctor. I don't recall Romney answering that question at all.
All of you who agree with medical marijuana must be drug mafias. You are really evil, you use sick patients to get marijuana legalized. May all of you who want marijuana to be legalized be put in hell by God's own hands. Do you really think that you can confront God? Once you'll his hands, you'll realize that there is really God, but it'll be too late, dear.
For those the patients who want to get cured, there are many other ways rather than using marijuana. First of course you must repent (remember you almost die and will face the Creator soon, so you'd better repent when there is still enough time). Second, consult with second, third of fourth doctor to get other opinions for your illness. There must be another way, remember that. May God bless you.
Posted By Me, Fullerton, CA : October 8, 2007 12:38 pm
wow, what a disgrace. I guess you must think marijuana is evil, the evil weed right? Ever think that maybe GOD put marijuana on this earth. To hell with you and your ideas.
He should have told the guy he was an idiot for thinking that there is no legal drug on the market that could have the same effects on his problems. But then he wouldn't be able to use the excuse of medicinal needs to go and get hi...
They burn the plants ,then they grow more."legalize it".no sense into that,i just dont think its anyone's bussiness of how we live.if pot can help one that is not well or suffering then they should have a right to use it..its way cheaper than a prescribed drug that only covers up the problem.look at all the seniors in nursing homes they take so many pills, i bet if they were prescribed pot, they could walk freely and get out of there wheel chairs.
People, before you crucify the guy, just do some google search on marijuana side effects and adverse effects. Some of the common side effects include:
* Trouble remembering things
* Sleepiness
* Anxiety
* Paranoia (feeling that people are “out to get you”)
* Altered time perception
Using marijuana for a long time makes some people lose interest in school, work, relationships and other activities. It may also cause legal problems. Using marijuana can be especially dangerous in certain situations, such as when you are driving.
Marijuana causes physical side effects as well, some of which are: Dry mouth, Nausea, Headache, Tremor,
Decreased coordination, Increased heart rate, Altered pulmonary status
Altered body temperature, Reduced muscle strength, Decreased cerebral blood flow, Increased food consumption.
To me, it is no-brainer that marijuana causes more damage than good
Posted By Val Davydov, Agawam, MA : October 9, 2007 12:11 am
First, these side effects, as with any other drug, don't effect everyone the same. Second, you're stating these and saying it's a no-brainer. Do you feel the same about pharmaceuticals that are given out? The side effects seem worse to me, as shown below by these two random choices. Go look up any others, I'm sure you'll find they're similar.
Side effects of Prozac: Some people experience side effects like nausea, difficulty sleeping, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness, weakness, loss of appetite, tremors, dry mouth, sweating, decreased sex drive, impotence, yawning, changes in sexual desire or satisfaction,
Side effects of Valium: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives); sores in the mouth or throat; yellowing of the skin or eyes; a rash;
hallucinations or severe confusion; changes in your vision; drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness; depression; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation; difficulty urinating; vivid dreams; headache; dry mouth; decreased sex drive; or changes in behavior.
On the plus side, all of them decrease your sex drive, meaning that they can sell more Viagra.
I don't expect any Republican candidate to support medical marijuana, and as long as it's a crime, obviously Mitt intends to arrest doctors, at least, for prescribing it, and presumably patients for possessing it. All that is regrettable but clear. What's not clear to me is how anybody with any heart at all turns away from a terminally ill person in a wheelchair who has just asked if he'll be arrested for using the only thing that allows him to have an appetite and IMMMEDIATELY RESUMES HIS BLANK-EATING GRIN FOR THE FOLKS. This guy Romney is nothing on a plate, a zero with mayonnaise, don't hold the hypocrisy.
for those of you who say its detrimental...why not show us where these reports are? not a single person has died from its usage since its first recorded usage. They say you would need to smoke a pound of weed a minute for 15 minutes to MAYBE recieve a lethal dose...think about ciggarettes and alcohol...can you tally up all of those deaths since their birth? The marijuana plant is the most useful plant on this planet...us ignorant, ideological, and just plain stupid americans buy anything FOX news and the media tells us...there is not one bit of qualified unaltered evidence that says marijuana is bad for you...maybe its tar...but vaporize it and you are golden. The first law in America regarding marijuana was that every American was required to grow it for its alternate purposes. I believe the colony was Virginia. Its in history...read an unaltered nonconservative book a learn some truth for once.
Posted By Rick, Chicago Illinois : October 8, 2007 7:29 pm
Nice to hear from you "Ricky", did you just get out?
Romney stated that he is against Medicinal marijuana (I disagree with him on this "Ricky"), he made his stance on the SUBJECT plain as hell.
You know and I know that this guy is a plant who keeps going around asking the same type of question (NOT TO DEMOCRATS THOUGH) and there is no good answer to his hypothetical question, as either way, it is a losing answer, so the best answer would be to either support or not support the usage.
It's called political nuance "Ricky" and they all use it, ESPECIALLY Hillary, except she doesn't answer hypothetitcals.
No anger towards the guy, like Shrillary was with her LIBERAL plant, just a nuanced answer.
Welcome back.
I'm dropping off his team as of Monday. Only a brainwashed idiot would fall for that line that if it's dangerous for children, it should be outlawed for adults. You could also apply that to driving a car or drinking beer, you morons. It's a con job being perpetuated by big money from the pharmaceutical companies who have legally taken control over our bodies, as well as both major parties, for profit.
I do not like Ron Paul and don't agree with him about foreign policy in many instances, but we have problems here at home that are never addressed, because big money has a louder voice than we do, and it's time we started focusing on our own rights and lives for a change. The powers that be in the Dem and Repub party have been playing diaper games with us, while pretending they are capable of being our leaders. Go blow your snotty noses and get the hell out of our way.
I'm descended from Christian pioneers who used herbal healing in the wilderness and believed in the Bible, where Jesus said not to let others tell us what to put in our bodies, those things came from the Lord. They also fought for my autonomy and rights in the Revolution and I'm ready to fight again at the polls for my God, my freedom and my country.
You're in over your head, Romney.
I would like to add that it's one thing to "use" something and another to "abuse" it. I even ran into one woman who was so out of control over her desires, she was grabbing flower pots out of my hand at a nursery and her explanation was that she was "on a diet." Maybe it's time we made geraniums illegal, too. Overspending or wanting what others have is just a cover up for some other personal problem and we are enablers for putting those temptations in their faces.
this guy is pretty harsh. he should lighten up!
This man iS a complete moron. I smoke pot everyday and i wouldn't hurt a fly. We need to arrest crack heads not normal people. This guy has lost my vote. not Because he won't legalize marijuana, but because he is the dumbest person i've ever seen.
Mitt Romney's ignorant stance on medical marijuana belies a deeper, more critical issue for our nation. Since national polls consistently indicate that medical marijuana has 70-80% support from Americans, Romney is clearly willing to oppose the vast majority in order to enrich his pharmaceutical company lobbyists, who can't obtain research patents on substances that grow naturally. Let's not forget that methamphetamine is LEGAL for medical use in the U.S. (marketed under the brand name Desoxyn), and yet we don't see Romney jumping up and down about "protecting the children" when it comes to medical meth. That's because big pharma patents and profits from the sythetic drugs.
Romney is liar who would throw your sick grandmother in jail before he would allow the free market to operate. He loses my vote.
Mitt Romney needs to wake up and realize that there are people out there everyday that rely on medical marijuana just to survive and if he cant understand the needs of americans than he needs to get out.......
To those saying: “he does not understand because he and his family don’t have a disease that leaves you in pain so bad that you need pot.” I REMIND YOU HIS WIFE HAS Multiple Sclerosis-–A disease that leaves you unable to function with pain and lethargy. So don’t play that card!
I have been a nurse for 20 yrs and I have seen pain. I have worked in oncology, telemetry, geriatrics, and pediatrics. I also have seen that the pain can and is relieved by conventional drugs. Those who say pot is the only answer are wrong and obviously do not understand pain management or just want an excuse to buy dope legally.
Perfect example of a candidate with no empathy. I'm glad I never worked for him and surely would never vote for him.
I've worked in pharmacy for a long time and each medication affects each individual differently. There is no drug that works the same for everyone.
Pain can be relieved by scheduled meds but that's not always the answer. Many of those meds are highly physically addictive and if marijuana is helping those who choose relief in other forms, then who are we to say what is right or wrong for them? ...Maybe Mitt can? lol.
I don't want to seem like a one issue voter but even if I had previously supported him I would not vote for him after seeing this. It's not so much that he doesn't support the legalization of something I am an advocate of, it's that it shows that he is blatantly ignorant. They have a small argument for full decriminalization, a very small one, but I don't see how any semi-informed person living in the 21st century can make an argument against medical marijuana. Romney asked the man if he had taken prescriptions for his disease, prescriptions that are far more dangerous than cannabis so he is really just making a hypocrite out of himself.
I meant argument against full decriminalization.
white america