Following closely on the heels of the end of the "war on terror," is the end of the "war on drugs" ("White House Czar Calls for End to 'War on Drugs,' " U.S. News, May 14). Who would have thought that all of America's wars would end not with a bang but with a delete click on a keyboard?

Apparently, "war on drugs" was too bellicose and was interpreted by people "as a war on them." One presumes that "people" in this context refers mostly to drug users, although drug czar Gil Kerlikowske doesn't really make that distinction. In his defense, he's fresh out of Seattle, so he may not realize that there is a distinction. Seattle's needle-exchange program and, with any luck, the Hempfest celebration of hemp and marijuana will be models for national policy. The latter can be held on the National Mall going forward so that everyone in Congress and the Obama administration can attend; maybe that'll slow down legislation and stimulus spending for a day or two.

Our lexicographer leaders fully grasp the power of words, which is why they are "spreading the wealth" instead of waging another "war on poverty." War is hell; at least many Americans will be too stoned to notice if our enemies respectfully disagree with that notion.

William Brandt
Norwalk, Conn.

Mr. Kerlikowske should go further and propose that marijuana be treated like alcohol and tobacco, which the government regulates, strictly controls and taxes. Advertising should be prohibited, and a significant percentage of tax revenues should be used to fund drug-treatment programs for those who seek help for substance-abuse conditions, including alcoholism.

As a taxpayer, it sickens me to think of the waste of my tax payments and the damage to liberty and lives which result from arresting and imprisoning nonviolent drug offenders. It is not surprising that supporters of the status quo include the prison lobby and some elements of law enforcement. It is only they and narco-criminals who profit from prohibition.

Steve Persky
Los Angeles