The Surprising Truth Behind Nixon’s Admission on Marijuana

Two years into the war on drugs, President Richard Nixon surprised many during a meeting in the Oval Office when he admitted that marijuana was “not particularly dangerous.” These remarks, captured on the former president’s secret recording system, shed light on the political motivations behind the criminalization of marijuana. Ernesto Londoño, a New York Times reporter specializing in drug use and counternarcotics policy, delves into this revelation.

Many have long believed that the criminalization of marijuana was based on misguided perceptions of its dangers. Nixon’s admission seems to confirm this notion, suggesting that political agendas may have played a significant role in shaping drug policy.

Londoño’s investigation into this revelation provides valuable insights into the history of drug policy in the United States and raises important questions about the impact of politics on public health. As attitudes towards marijuana continue to evolve, Nixon’s admission serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between politics and drug policy.