On the other hand, President Obama "is just as opposed to marijuana legalization as Romney. Contrary to his campaign promises, he has presided over a crackdown on medical marijuana more aggressive than his Republican predecessor's. The difference is that Romney is candid about his anti-cannabis absolutism, while Obama pretends to be more enlightened and compassionate"I would not legalize marijuana for medicinal purposes, and the reasons are straightforward: As I talk to people in my state and the federal government about marijuana, they are convinced that it's an entry way into a drug culture for our young people. The idea of medical marijuana is designed to get marijuana out in the public marketplace and ultimately lead to the legalization of marijuana overall. In my view, that's the wrong way to go. If you'd like to get someone who is in favor of marijuana, I know there are some on the Democratic side of the aisle who will be happy to get in your campaign. But I'm opposed to it, and if you elect me president, you're not going to see legalized marijuana. I'm going to fight it tooth and nail.
My Claim is: Marijuana is the drug most commonly thought of when you hear "illegal drugs" and this drug alone has the ability to not only reduce crime but majorly boost our economy.
My Audience is: Congress.
Evidence: Stamper’s (2010) article states, “Not only is cannabis the biggest cash crop in those 12 states, it’s in the top three in 30 states, the top five in 39.
Marijuana is the greatest revenue producer of all agricultural products grown in the U.S. With production values of roughly $36 billion annually, the cultivation of marijuana is permanently entrenched within and integrally connected to the U.S. economy. And it’s illegal.” (Stamper, 2010)
Challenges With Controversy: “Studies show that the U.S. collects about $8 billion yearly in taxes from alcohol. The problem is, the total cost to the U.S. in 2008 due to alcohol-related problems was $185 billion. The government pays about 38% of that cost (approximately $72 billion), all due to consequences of alcohol consumption” (Stutman, 2009).
Individuals beliefs and personal experiences are the circumstances that mold the public view of the issue. If a family has someone close to them suffer from drugs or is hurt from someone because of drugs, they can be opposed to legalization, but for someone who hasn't had these experiences, they can be advocating legalization.
http://reason.com/blog/2012/09/07/romney-vows-to-fight-marijuana-legalizat
This is a timely issue, but the assignment is not meant for you to explore the merits of varied positions on an issue. Instead, take a look at the efforts of one particular organization - Is there a group contributing ads to any state where this question is on the ballot? Legalization or decriminalization measures are happening in numerous states. Are any groups hoping to impact voting with commercials or a web presence? Interestingly, the top contributors to the campaign to defeat Prop 19 last election cycle in CA were a conglomerate of medicinal growers - motivated by a desire to keep hold of their monopoly. This issue is no longer about health or even prison costs - but rather about the money being made by pharmaceutical companies on drugs for a variety of ailments from gloucoma to depression. When voters get to express themselves on a public measure, these organizations are ruthless in trying to gather public support.
ReplyDeleteIn this project, focus your research efforts on one particular campaign. Examine difference between how ads are designed for TV v online v print consumption. Let me know how I can help.