Pubdate: Thu, 03 Jul 2003
Source: Austin American-Statesman (TX)
Copyright: 2003 Austin American-Statesman
Contact:  http://www.austin360.com/statesman/editions/today/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/32
Author: Associated Press
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/people/Dennis+Kucinich

WILLIE GETS POLITICAL

The presidential primaries are seven months away, but the endorsements have 
begun, reports The Philadelphia Inquirer. Country legend Willie Nelson has 
announced his support for U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, D-Ohio, saying he 
"stands up for heartland Americans who are too often overlooked and unheard."

Nelson, who once famously admitted smoking pot on the roof of the White 
House during the Carter administration, also applauds Kucinich's efforts to 
legalize medical marijuana and end the drug war.

A spokesman for Kucinich ("Rhymes with spinach, and they're both good for 
you," says his rep) tells The New York Daily News: "We hope to invite 
Willie back to dinner at the White House after Dennis' inauguration."

Meanwhile, Nelson's Sept. 7 Farm Aid concert will take place in Columbus -- 
which Kucinich represents. The Farm Aid concerts, started by Nelson, Neil 
Young and John Mellencamp in 1985, have raised $24 million for farmers. 
This year's concert will feature all three, plus board member Dave 
Matthews, Sheryl Crow, Brooks & Dunn and Trick Pony.
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager