As of 2023, the United States’ national debt has reached an astounding $34 trillion. This enormous figure reflects years of ineffective, wasteful fiscal policies, economic fluctuations, and substantial spending, particularly on the War on Drugs. Nixon’s war was aimed at reducing illegal drug use through strict enforcement and prohibition, but the result has been a bust. This article examines the monetary waste that we have been forced to subsidize.

The Financial Cost of the War on Drugs

Over the decades, federal and state governments have spent over a trillion dollars on enforcement, incarceration, and interdiction. Last year, the total amount spent on drug enforcement policies was over $50 Billion. Despite this immense financial outlay, which doesn’t take into account things like the prison cost, lost wages, family court, etc, drug availability and addiction rates have not decreased. Rather, they have increased substantially.  This raises questions about the effectiveness of these efforts.

Opioid Overdoses: A Deadly Epidemic

The opioid crisis has become the leading cause of death among young, healthy adults in the U.S., surpassing all other threats. With over 600,000 deaths from opioid overdoses, this epidemic has claimed more lives than all U.S. military conflicts since World War I combined. If any other cause of death were so pervasive, it would undoubtedly prompt a national emergency declaration.

The Average Cost in Dollars

Dividing the national debt by the number of opioid overdose deaths reveals a shocking figure: approximately $56.7 million spent for each life lost. This highlights the futility of our government’s efforts and draws attention to the true cost: sons, daughters, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins.  While this is admittedly an oversimplification, it serves to emphasize the profound human and economic toll of the crisis.

Contrasting Approaches and Outcomes

The juxtaposition of high national debt and ineffective drug policies raises critical questions about resource allocation. Billions spent on enforcement could be more effectively used for prevention, education, and treatment. Countries like Portugal, which prioritize public health over punitive measures, have seen significant decreases in addiction and drug-related deaths. In other words, treating the drug crisis as a health issue rather than a criminal one has yielded better results.

The Path Forward

The ongoing opioid crisis underscores the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes public health. Redirecting resources toward evidence-based prevention and treatment could save lives and reduce the financial strain on the nation.

In conclusion, the paradox of exorbitant spending on drug enforcement alongside a worsening opioid crisis calls for urgent reform. Investing in public health and shifting focus from punitive measures will undoubtedly save countless lives and ease the financial burden on future generations. The time for decisive action is long overdue.

Thank you so much for your time.