Pubdate: Sun, 12 Sep 1999 Source: San Francisco Chronicle (CA) Copyright: 1999 San Francisco Chronicle Contact: http://www.sfgate.com/chronicle/ Forum: http://www.sfgate.com/conferences/ Author: Bruce Skogen `YOUTHFUL INDISCRETION' IS NO EXCUSE Editor -- It has become standard for politicians caught lying about their drug use or their sex lives to blame ``youthful indiscretion'' and dismiss the issue. In the case of drugs, youthful indiscretion has left tens of thousands of Americans languishing in prisons, associating with hardened criminals. These people are overwhelmingly black or Chicano. They do not belong to the ruling class. Youthful indiscretion becomes a mark on their lives that prevents them from getting jobs and realizing a future in America. George Bush, raised in privilege, protected from military service in Vietnam because of his connections, could afford to take drugs without consequences. As governor of Texas, he has increased the penalties for casual drug use at the same time refusing to reveal his own past use. Is this the man we want to be president? I think not. It's time George fesses up and comes clean. Then the voters can make an intelligent choice among candidates. BRUCE SKOGEN East Bay - --- MAP posted-by: Derek Rea