Libertarian view on war on drugs

The Libertarian Party has consistently denounced the failed war on drugs for 41 years. Here are a few facts:n Five hundred thousand-plus people currently are incarcerated on drug-related charges;

* Seventy percent of the prison population is minorities;

* Illegal drug use rates in the U.S. have remained flat since the 1980s;

* Fifty thousand people in Mexico killed by drug cartel violence since 2006;

* Legalizing drugs would inject $76.8 billion per year into the U.S. economy.

I welcome any adult discussion regarding the failed war on drugs. Obviously the incumbent regards this important issue as cheap political fodder to scare people into electing her to a ninth term.

RICK VANDEVEN, 724 Helen Ave., Chaffee, MO 63740