Pubdate: Mon, 07 Nov 2005 Source: Rochester Democrat and Chronicle (NY) Copyright: 2005 Rochester Democrat and Chronicle Contact: http://www.democratandchronicle.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/614 Author: Chris Maj Note: Rochester mayor Candidates who did not receive the Democrat and Chronicle's endorsement for election were given the opportunity to respond. CANDIDATE RESPONSE: CHRIS MAJ I aspire to the notion that we should "think globally and act locally." Recognizing that most violent crime, gang activity, prostitution and even petty shoplifting is directly tied to the illegal drug trade -- which is international in scope -- I believe by ending state and federal Prohibition in Rochester we can usher in a new era of public safety. When elected mayor, I will appoint a police chief who will move drug possession laws to the lowest level of enforcement priority. I will implement arrest-free 911 calls for nonviolent drug and alcohol overdoses to help save lives. I will open the way for addicts to obtain their drugs from licensed pharmacies and doctors instead of teenagers on street corners. I will focus on providing drug treatment instead of jail sentences, through strict regulation of the market. The door is always open for more sensible drug policies that reflect local values and respect local autonomy. In August, the California Highway Patrol stopped arresting medical marijuana patients. Last Tuesday, the citizens of Denver voted to legalize marijuana for adults 21 and over. Please consider voting for the Red, White and Blue Party on Row H as voting to end Prohibition. Maj is running for Rochester mayor on the Red, White and Blue Party line. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman