To the Point
Drugs, Violence and Mexico's Presidential Campaign
After a drug war that's killed some 50,000 people, Mexico's beginning a 3-month presidential campaign. Is there any way to reduce the violence? What about legalization?
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenAfter a drug war that's killed some 50,000 people, Mexico is now beginning a three-month presidential campaign. Is there any way to reduce the violence? What about legalization? Will the election results have consequences for the United States? Also, George Zimmerman's bail hearing, and prostitutes in Colombia, bureaucrats in Las Vegas pose distracting embarrassments for the Obama campaign.
Banner image: A marijuana themed belt adorns the victim of an apparent drug-related execution on February 29, 2012 in Acapulco, Mexico. Drug violence surged in the coastal resort last year, making Acapulco Mexico's second most deadly city after Juarez. Photo by John Moore/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesGeorge Zimmerman Bail Hearing
The shooter in the Trayvon Martin killing will be set free on $150,000 bond. George Zimmerman spoke directly to Martin's family during today's bail hearing in Sanford, Florida. Apologizing, he said he didn't know whether Martin was armed.
Read the story8 minMexico's Presidential Election and the War on Drugs
When Felipe Calderón was elected President six years ago, he declared a military offensive against Mexico's murderous drug cartels. Since then, 50,000 people have died. Calderón's term is over and he is barred from seeking a second six-year term.
Read the story36 minWill the Sexy Scandals Blow Back on the President?
While President Obama talks about oil-market manipulation and international relations, the media have been reporting about the Secret Service misbehaving with prostitutes in Colombia and General Services Administration bureaucrats partying in Las Vegas.
Read the story7 min