Drug WarRant takes on the 2004 elections

Last week I mentioned that I was working on a new project for voting and drug policy reform activism. I now have the beginnings of that project to show you.
While I am going to continue to look at the Presidential race, I’m shifting the focus of this site’s activism in attempt to have greater impact. The recent Hinchey amendment votes in the House of Representatives got me thinking that the drug policy reform community might be able to make a real difference by swinging some U.S. House races.
Most of the focus, therefore, will be on House races, with the goal of tipping the balance on such issues as not interfering with the states when it comes to medical marijuana, repealing the HEA drug provision, reducing the drug war support in Colombia, etc.
As time permits (and depending on the help I get from readers), I’ll have recommendations in a large range of U.S. House races.
Recommendations will be entirely on what’s best for drug policy reform, and not any other issues. Endorsements will also be made regardless of party affiliation.

• Illinois Candidate Details by U.S. House District

Right now, I only have Illinois up, but plan to add additional states. I’m looking for volunteers to help out in gathering the information. You don’t need to know anything about the candidates. I’ll provide you with everything you need and specific instructions. It’s just a matter of taking a couple of hours to cross reference some statistics.
The next states I would like to add are California, Nebraska, and Maryland.
Also, if you have additional information to add on any race that I’m profiling, please let me know.
Drug WarRant Featured Race
Drug WarRant also has a featured race for 2004.

It is, interestingly enough, my own district – Illinois 11. It is a competitive race, with a real good chance of removing Weller and replacing him with someone clearly on our side. Weller has voted in lock step with his friend (and drug warrior) Mark Souder. He’s voted against the Hinchey amendment twice (which would have prevented the feds from interfering with states on medical marijuana), and has spoken out to support increased funding for the drug war in Colombia.
Tari (pronounced “Terry”) Renner is in favor of medical marijuana and also supports decriminalizing marijuana — a very dramatic change from Weller. Senator Durbin strongly supports Renner (and Durbin has been a friend to drug policy reform), so Renner will have some additional advantages in getting connected in Washington.
Over the next few months, I may add several more featured races. If you have suggestions, let me know.