Part 12/17:
The candidate criticizes pharmaceutical giants like Purdue Pharma for fuelling the opioid crisis through deceitful marketing, calling for criminal accountability and stronger legislation. He advocates for ending federal prohibition of marijuana, citing evidence that legalization reduces opioid overdoses.
He stresses the importance of comprehensive addiction treatment, emphasizing a “support up, not prison” approach. Recognizing the devastating toll of opioids, he urges tackling the root causes—poverty, trauma, and lack of mental health resources—and holding accountable those who profit from addictive substances.