Addressing the Fentanyl Crisis: A Novel Approach to Demand and Supply

The fentanyl crisis in the United States has reached catastrophic proportions, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives and devastating communities across the nation. President Donald Trump has recently implemented new tariffs targeting Mexico and China, citing their roles in the importation of illegal fentanyl into the U.S. as a primary reason. While the effort to curb the supply of this deadly drug is commendable, the root of the problem lies deeper—in the insatiable demand for illegal drugs within the United States itself.

### The Fentanyl Tragedy: A Game of Russian Roulette

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, has become a leading cause of overdose deaths in the U.S. For many young people, using drugs laced with fentanyl is akin to playing Russian roulette. There is no oversight, no quality control, and no guarantee of survival. Each hit could be their last. The Mexican drug cartels, often blamed for the production and distribution of fentanyl, are undoubtedly evil organizations profiting from this crisis. However, it’s crucial to recognize that these cartels exist because of the overwhelming demand for illegal drugs in the United States.

### The Demand Problem: A Uniquely American Issue

The U.S. is by far the largest consumer of illegal drugs like fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin. No other country comes close to matching this level of consumption. Breaking it down further, the biggest consumers are suburbanites, and even more specifically, white Americans. This demand fuels the supply chain, enabling cartels to thrive. While efforts to stop the importation of fentanyl are necessary, they alone will not solve the crisis. The demand must be addressed head-on.

### A Novel Approach: Targeting Demand with Draconian Measures

President Trump has shown a willingness to take swift, decisive action, as seen in his approach to mass deportations and tariffs. Why not apply that same boldness to the fentanyl crisis? Here’s a radical idea: an executive order making the possession of fentanyl in any quantity a felony punishable by 30 years in prison. Going a step further, the distribution or sale of fentanyl could be made a crime punishable by death. Such draconian measures would send a clear message: the U.S. is serious about ending the fentanyl epidemic.

### The Logic Behind the Proposal

If the possession of fentanyl carried severe consequences, the demand for the drug would likely plummet. No demand means no supply. Without a market, the cartels would lose their primary revenue stream. While they might still engage in other illegal activities like human trafficking, these ventures alone cannot sustain their operations. History provides a precedent for this approach: during the Prohibition era, organized crime flourished due to the demand for alcohol. Once the Volstead Act was repealed, the mob’s power waned significantly.

### A Call for Bold Action

The fentanyl crisis is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted solution. While targeting the supply chain is important, it is only one piece of the puzzle. Addressing the demand for illegal drugs within the U.S. is equally, if not more, critical. By implementing strict penalties for possession and distribution, the government could disrupt the cycle of addiction and cut off the cartels’ lifeline. It’s time to turn the tables on this crisis and take decisive action to protect American lives.

The fentanyl epidemic is a national tragedy, but it is not insurmountable. With bold leadership and innovative solutions, we can stem the tide of this deadly drug and save countless lives. The question is: are we ready to take the necessary steps?