Paul: Eastern Kentucky drug problem not ‘a real pressing issue’

[ccharles000]

FRANKFORT — Republican U.S. Senate nominee Rand Paul said he doesn’t think the drug problem in Eastern Kentucky is “a real pressing issue,” even though others have described substance abuse in the region as an epidemic.

Paul’s latest comment, made in late July while speaking to an Associated Press reporter, expands on his previously stated position in favor of cutting federal funding for undercover drug investigations and drug treatment programs. Many officials say both are badly needed in Appalachia, a hotbed for marijuana growers and drug dealers selling prescription pills and methamphetamines.

His Democratic opponent, Jack Conway, favors using federal money, as does the region’s Republican congressman, U.S. Rep. Harold Rogers of Somerset.

“I don’t think it’s a real pressing issue,” Paul told The Associated Press, suggesting that Eastern Kentucky voters are more concerned about fiscal and social issues. The AP first reported the quote on Thursday.

http://bluegrasspolitics.bloginky.com/2010/08/12/paul-eastern-kentucky-drug-problem-not-a-real-pressing-issue/

[era veteran]

1. kicking Rand all day

You can't make this up/ fool Rand thinks no drug problem./ http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x8938762

[Hestia]

2. I'm pretty sure that 99% of the people are all for shutting down the meth labs

but dang, leave the cash crops alone.

[Mopar151]

3. The Dan Quayle of his generation

What a clueless goober........

[Political Tiger]

4. Not for him....he's got plenty of dealers. n/t

[tridim]

5. He has the meth/Oxy user and supplier vote locked down.

And checks in the mail from Big Pharma I'm sure.

He must be so proud.

[era veteran]

6. Eye Doctors may have the cocaine at the office too.

I had some for eye injury. Do not use this info to break in and steal his stash, I mean supplies.

[krabigirl]

7. Well, i agree with him re: the weed. as for the others, honestly, I am tired of the war on drugs.