May 8, 2009

Breaking Rank

It takes a great deal of courage to admit a mistake on a controversial decision, even years after the fact. Virtually nobody gives you credit. You may even feel stupid. But history appreciates candor and that should afford some solace. Norm Stamper is probably most remembered, at the moment, for his being Chief of Police in Seattle during the 1999 WTO "Battle in Seattle." OK, he didn't handle it too well. Case closed. On many issues, nevertheless, Norm is a veritable beacon of enlightenment, to whom we should pay close attention. Legalize all drugs, he says. End the death penalty, he says. Don't imprison as many people, he says. Control police at a local level, he says. So much sense no wonder The Nation press published his book, Breaking Rank. It was a great pleasure to talk with Norm and he's pretty much convinced me that he's right on the issue of drug legalization. Total runtime an hour and sixteen minutes. Listen twice!