But Gary Johnson had barely broken a sweat. The Republican governor and triathlete has never attempted an uphill battle he thought he couldn't win. He has shocked politicians in both parties by becoming the nation's leading proponent of the legalization of such drugs as marijuana, cocaine and heroin. Johnson doesn't drink or smoke, and has a bet with colleagues about who can survive longer without cake, cookies or colas. He insists his athleticism and position on drugs are not contradictory, saying legalization would curb drug-related health problems by controlling dosages, frequency and paraphernalia.
Drugs are a bad choice.
Johnson says drugs should be regulated and taxed much like cigarettes and liquor. He envisions a scenario in which marijuana would be legalized first, followed by more dangerous drugs such as heroin and cocaine, which would be available by prescription, only for addicts. Johnson admits he doesn't have a specific, detailed plan, but says he wants to start a debate on the issue. In his home state, which last year led the nation in drug-induced deaths, Johnson's views on drug legalization have been labeled crazy and irresponsible by both Democrats and Republicans. His own public safety secretary insists Johnson's crusade has crushed the morale of law officers fighting the war on drugs.