Jim Ellison`s comments in Voice with regard to alcohol, a legal product, versus illegal drugs are startling and totally inconsistent.
As a 28-year member of the beverage alcohol industry, I find it insulting to be accused of being a ”drug pusher” when, in fact, I am employed in a legal industry whose products contribute over $13 billion in direct federal, state and local revenues and generate nearly 4 million U.S. jobs.
According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, whose information is derived from OSPA/Public Affairs, respondents in a recent national opinion survey were asked to name the two most important problems facing the United States today; 52 percent said drugs, none said alcohol.
In conclusion, I might ask Mr. Ellison how many dollars the illegal drug trade contributes to the American economy.
