I would like to start by telling you that I am a dedicated democrat and would love to see you as the country's new president. One thing I have noticed while keeping up with your campaign though is the lack to mention the country's marijuana laws. While some would say it is the downfall of the youth, others would say it is an illegitimately targeted drug. Marijuana has been present since prehistoric times and has proved itself useful in many ways beyond just relaxation. It is a national tragedy that marijuana, a potentially very beneficial substance, has been deemed illegal and has turned ordinary citizens into criminals.

Throughout these past few decades, marijuana has been wrongfully labeled as the dangerous gateway drug, but, in reality, it has less toxins than alcohol and tobacco. Marijuana also has a considerably lower amount of deaths on record than alcohol. So why is it that America has two substances, which are more harmful for its citizens, legal but continue to demoralize the use of marijuana?

One of the many arguments for the legalization of marijuana is its beneficial aspects in the medical community. Chronic pain, intraocular pressure, muscle spasms, tremors, and spinal cord injuries are just a few of the conditions that can be relieved by the smoking of marijuana. Not only does marijuana alleviate pain and discomfort, but it also treats insomnia, recovers appetite, and lessens feelings of nausea. All of the physical complications mentioned can be tied to people with diseases such as cancer, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, fibromyalgia, and other related disorders. But with the marijuana laws that our country has, these people, who are just trying to make it through the day and enjoy the life they have despite the obstacles, are at risk to be charged with a criminal action. And I would like to ask, when has it been criminal to try to feel okay?

But marijuana not only dulls pain but enlightens the mind to the beauty of itself and the world around it. In other words, marijuana can be used to treat depression in all of its diverse states. It can be used to decrease stress, release bad thoughts and feelings, and as a form of relaxation, which in turn can change a person's outlook in a positive way. So marijuana has, and can, be used as a way for people to escape the oppression of their own minds and bodies.

Now I know you must be thinking, "Well how can the legalization of marijuana benefit the country?" And the answer is fairly simple. The legalization of marijuana could help boost the economy, agriculture, and the workings in the judicial system.

The economy could be helped be the legalization of marijuana because it would use less of the tax payers money to house "criminals", and instead use the money towards getting the country out of its deficit. Also, taxing marijuana would bring more money in for the government to use to improve its state. So, the legalization of marijuana could improve the United States economy by bringing in more money for the government to use in areas that need improvement.

Now for agriculture, marijuana is already Kentucky's number one cash crop. If legalized it could be a hearty crop for many farmers to grow. It not only creates marijuana, but also hemp, which is a substance that many desire. Hemp can be used for rope, jewelry, cloth, lotion, and other such things. Also, since hemp is a natural substance, it would be creating eco-friendly products. This is beneficial for the farmers, trade, and the Earth.

And finally for the judicial system. Marijuana legalization could lessen the crowding of American prisons, because people who have been charged with possession or distribution would be released. Not only would it lessen crowding, but it would also promote beneficial use of the drug. Instead of marijuana being looked at as an illegal substance that can be used to rebel, it could be looked at as a substance that is for people who will use it for beneficial reasons such as physical and mental health.
So Senator Obama, I would like to ask you to open your mind to the possibilities that lie with the legalization of marijuana. The possibility of having Americans being able to legally find freedom from physical and mental oppression, the improving of our country, and the beneficial use of a substance that has been deemed immoral for too many years.