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The White House
For Immediate Release

Statement from ONDCP Communications Director Rafael Lemaitre Regarding Efforts to Reduce Drug Demand in the United States

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rafael Lemaitre, ONDCP Communications Director, issued a statement regarding efforts to reduce drug demand in the United States. “President Calderon's courageous fight against transnational criminal organizations is a vivid demonstration that we are not powerless against our shared drug problem. The Obama Administration is working in unprecedented ways to address both the consumption and supply sides of this challenge because we know each feeds on the other. Already, drug use in America has dropped by roughly 30 percent over the past three decades. More recently, cocaine use has dropped by 40 percent, and meth use in America has been cut by half. We recognize that, despite major gains, drug use is still too high. We’re committed to building on significant progress by addressing drug addiction as a disease that can be successfully prevented and treated. Our commitment is serious and unwavering. Last year alone, we provided more than $10 billion in drug education and treatment programs to reduce drug use. These efforts will not only make the United States healthier and safer, but reducing U.S. consumption denies the revenues that fuel violence and organized crime. We look forward to sustaining our historic level of cooperation with Mexico as we work to protect the public health and safety of citizens on both sides of the border.”