With death tolls mounting and institutions under threat from drug trafficking organizations, some Latin American leaders are condemning a California initiative that would legalize recreational marijuana use.
Many in Latin America say a “yes” vote on Proposition 19 on Nov. 2 would undermine their fight to root out organized crime and stem illegal drug production and distribution to the United States.
The debate is a contentious one in America, and opinion south of the border is also divided over how Prop. 19 could affect drug violence in Mexico and the rest of Latin America. Some say it would be a blow to drug traffickers, as it would rob them of a lucrative market, while others say it will do little to impact overall revenues and could in fact increase demand and sales from illegal gangs.
Full Story: Latin America’s leaders condemn California’s Prop. 19 to legalize marijuana – CSMonitor.com