Only six representatives co-sponsored Barney Franks' sensible bill to end the federal prosecution of marijuana possession for personal use. One of them, Lacy Clay, mistakenly thought it was a medical marijuana bill. Is there now egg on Clay's face? Not at all.

Clay was worried about the reaction. Supporting the liberalization of marijuana laws is not often seen as a political winner, especially in Midwestern cities like St. Louis. But instead of stoner jokes, derision and righteous indignation, Clay was surprised to start getting praise from complete strangers. ...

So far, he said, his calls, mail and contacts are running 80-20 in favor of the bill. He was impressed enough that he decided to go ahead and step before the cameras last week with Frank and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) at a news conference touting the bill.

The prison and law enforcement industries, both of which see marijuana busts as job security, support the war against pot smokers. Many others realize, as Clay has come to believe, that it's a waste of federal resources. [more ...]