Meaning: The quote by journalist Larry Elder captures the essence of the ongoing debate surrounding the war on drugs in the United States. Elder's words reflect a growing sentiment among many Americans that the approach to addressing drug abuse and addiction needs to shift from a primarily punitive and militaristic stance to one that prioritizes public health and rehabilitation.

Elder's use of the term "brave politicians" suggests that there may be significant political and social barriers to shifting the approach to the war on drugs. This could be due to entrenched interests, fear of appearing soft on crime, or a lack of understanding about the true costs of the current approach. The "true cost" of the war on drugs, as Elder implies, goes beyond just financial expenditures on law enforcement and incarceration. It includes the societal impact of mass incarceration, the erosion of civil liberties, and the perpetuation of cycles of poverty and criminality.

Elder's assertion that "the American people will scream for a cease-fire" reflects a belief that once the public is better informed about the realities of the war on drugs, there will be a groundswell of demand for change. This change would involve reevaluating the role of the military and law enforcement in drug control efforts. It would also entail a shift in public perception, seeing drug addiction as a public health issue rather than solely a criminal justice matter.

The call to "bring the troops home" in the context of the war on drugs is a powerful metaphor that underscores the militarized nature of current drug enforcement efforts. It suggests a need to de-escalate the confrontational and punitive approach in favor of a more compassionate and holistic strategy. This could involve redirecting resources from enforcement and incarceration towards prevention, treatment, and harm reduction.

Elder's advocacy for treating drugs as a health problem aligns with a growing understanding of addiction as a complex medical condition rather than simply a moral failing or criminal behavior. This perspective emphasizes the need for evidence-based interventions, such as access to treatment, support for recovery, and harm reduction services. It also highlights the importance of addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to drug abuse and addiction.

Overall, Elder's quote encapsulates a call for a fundamental rethinking of the war on drugs. It challenges the status quo and advocates for a more humane and pragmatic approach that prioritizes the well-being of individuals and communities over punitive measures. The quote serves as a reminder that the true cost of the war on drugs extends far beyond monetary expenditures and that there is a growing urgency to seek alternative solutions to this complex societal issue.