Mr. Calderón says that a renewal of the U.S. ban on assault weapons is essential — and he is hinting that a new approach to managing drug consumption by Americans is needed, too. If demand for drugs cannot be reduced, he said, then the flow of money to the drug cartels must be interdicted; and if this cannot be done, “it’s time to explore different alternatives when it comes to reducing consumption.” While the president did not spell out what he had in mind, he mentioned “regulatory and market alternatives” — by which he likely means some form of legalization.This is a message many in Washington will reject. But Mr. Calderón is raising issues that lawmakers in both countries have ducked for too long. If his parting message prompts a serious debate, his lame-duck time will have been worthwhile.

via Mexico’s truth, from Mr. Calderón – The Washington Post.