Hey Bloggers! Thunder is a rollin in Spokandyland!

hope Wednesday is going your way!

Go Green for Iran!

Helloooo Anderson, Erica, Edurrado(Ed Henry) David Gergen and my friends Twitter/Facebook Bloggers!!!!!
I hope Iran need to stop violence on the street and more peace.... we need together to support peace for rally.

Evening Anderson!
Hi friends, David (Indiana), bloggers, 360 team …

Iran ... More tyranny and less freedom of expression and information – All websites should remove any page with content that "incites hatred".

Good evening bloggers. Iran = WOW. Unbelieveable.

"Collapsing" is odd term to use: would you consider the American revolution as the collapse of the 13 colonies?

the quiet protesting is really creepy...

evening all..
wow, the silence of the protesters is powerful!

@Anderson

How can the population fight without the right to freely express opinions, ideas and thoughts?

Freedom of expression is a fundamental concept in modern democracies in which the censorship has no moral support.

Good evening Anderson, Erica and fellow bloggers! Hope everyone had a good day!

I like the idea of trying to fight the violence with silence....

I am really suprised Iran banned international reporters to see image pictures, and so horrible to know why Iran banned to access see on the internet.

Good evening Anderson, Team 360 and Fellow Bloggers –

Wow - news out of Iran is amazing –

Don't think President Obama's actions today are a "cop out" but rather a beginning. He's only been in office 140 days - seems like some people are a little too impatient. Congressional action takes time and I'm sure the White House is working behind the scenes to effect the change the President pormised during his campaign - give him time.

I called my uncle in Tehran this morning. Like most Iranians he has a (forbidden) satellite dish and gets his news from a German tv channel.

goodevening everyone.

i cant believe what they are showing on Iranian TV!?

These suppressing acts can no longer hide, the internet has connected the world. what can we do to help the Iranians?

I hope this demonstrations make a difference, and maybe one day others in the region will follow.

will u be traveling to the area? Love ur show

Anderson, can you please break down all the different factions and players in Iran?

Democracy depends on a society educated and well informed with access to information allows you to participate as fully as possible in public life of their society and criticize government officials or policies senseless and tyranny. Citizens and their elected representatives recognize that democracy depends on the widest possible access to ideas, information and opinions not subject to censorship.

America has to sit and watch as the turmoil in Iran continues. We can not continue to act like "hall monitor of the world". Prayers are with them all. The best we can do is step back and let Iran settle its' domestic problems. It's not easy, but in the end we will have better support from around the world when we show that we are not trying to interfere in other nations problems. As we all see now, they will blame us anyway, but will have no leg to stand on.

Support our President, whom we elected to handle these problems. Good luck and God speed to all Iranians in their struggle.

Hey Hey Heey, everyone!

Ohman, Iran is going nuts! ouch, those wounds that man has looks really painful...!

Is there a confirmed death toll on the protests in Iran?

My buddy is from Iran and we have had many talks about who the Republican guard can do pretty much whatever they like. It comes to no surprise that Iran is surpressing their people and I have no doubt that the vote was rigged. I hope the people rise up and take back their country! Our thoughts are prayers are with you!

My uncle said that a lot more is going on after dark because then the protesters can run and hide easier from the Basij. He called it a "cat and mouse" game.

Hi Anderson, Erica..my smartees..good evening to all..

That silent protest was the most powerful statement I've seen in recent years..I really hope the violence stops..and hope the CNN continues to keep w/ the story..more than 1 or 2 segments.

I know the situation in Iran is horrific, but the fact that so many are actually protesting or at least doing their best to do so somehow makes me hopeful that a resolution might be found. It's so much different than what severe dictatorships are, e.g. North Korea.

@Casey Jones

I agree with you... the new regulations announced today are very impostant too

Oh my gosh!!!!!! I really shock police attack students at college get burn whole school!!! That's terrible I see this image!!!!

I hope Iran doesn't collapse, but if it does, it is a necessary evil.

I stand correct Revolutionary Guard not Republican***

Freedom of expression, especially on politics issues and public support is the lifeblood of any democracy.

Obama represents what the rest of the world wants and they want it bad enough that to me, it resembles our own civil rights struggle in trying to get, "change".

seeing that woman get up after being knocked down is amazing. her courage is admirable.

I respect these Iranians that are risking their lives to stand up for their belief. I pray all will be peaceful..

Anderson, I truly hope the Islamic Republic is collapsing - NOT Iran.

Despite Obama leaning backwards, the regime has blamed the USA of meddling... do people really believe that Obama should continue pursuing dialogue with these terrorists?

The regime is most likely seeing their last hours... but the question is what / who next? We need true democracy in Iran, one that can be at peace with the World, while offering its citizens hope and prospects.

Many thanks Anderson

It would be great if we could get some guarantee that we, the US, are not playing favorites in their election: No military backing or secret deals. They are a civilized intelligent people, too, and can resolve things without our help.

Thanks for this great coverage of Iran. Amazing. My prayers are with those brave young men and women.

@Alice, I totally agree with you - well stated.

We need to pay attention to what's happening in Iran. These people are making a huge statement. They're willing to die for what they believe in, FREEDOM. How do they rid their gov't. of Khomeni?

"Collapsing" is an overstatement at this point, don't you think?

Greetings to All! We get to 'talk' to each other here because of modern technology.We are able to see the brutality and corruption in Iran because of it too.The world on the web has all of us in it.

Is there a chance that Ahmedinejad won by the choice of the Supreme Ruler of Iran?

Evening Anderson, Erica, Isabel. "Pierce the firewall" I think that firewall is being pierced from numerous directions. It is disturbing to see how unbelievably quiet the shows are on State Media in Iran when there are massive protests going on in that country.

You can't help but wonder if the protests were being shown on tv in Iran the energy of all those protest would be being released just as intensely but constructively with less worry about collapse of the country.

Democracy is incompatible with censorship because censorship prevents the proper functioning of democracy.

A prerequisite for the functioning of democracy is the free circulation of ideas, opinions, facts and the political pluralism, the ideological pluralism and the artistic pluralism. And the censorship is an autocratic and unilateral imposition of ideas and opinions. And the establishment of monopoly political, ideological and artistic in society.

Minou, New York City....
I am glad you called your uncle is safe in Germany!!! *whew*

My country had 31 years of military dictatorship.
I was born and grew up living with repression and without freedom of expression.
I remember of my father telling that when was published the list of banned books, he was obliged to throw these books in a river not to be arrested.

It is very sad when is removed from the people the right to think.

Hi Anderson,
Excellent program. Thanks for covering the news from Iran. Please keep us updated everyday.

Hi everyone! This is mis-use of Religion. For sure God for whom they do claim to give them wisdom to lead is not happy with whats going on.

Why can't President Obama come out and say the US supports the PEOPLE of Iran?

im terrified for the people in Iran right now. im so glad my aunt and her family are all in Cali.

Anderson,
Hi! Happy Wednesday.
I hope the silent demonstrations will signal an end to the violence of the past several days.
–It's great that you are able to report what is really going on in Iran–in spite of the restrictions.

Good evening everyone!

What is happening in Iran is a good revolution to get rid of bad revolution. This is the best time for the world leaders to support Iranians.

Change is always painful whether it be a person or a country! Iran is not collapsing, it is just struggling for change. Remember, we had the civil war!

Hi Anderson,

Thanks for covering the Irans news. Milani was great and insightful. What Iran needs now is rejection of this election by west and demand a free election.

Help us

another politician with another sex scandal? ugh...

No, it will not be peaceful. The current regime will not give in, leaving the people only two options: Submit or overthrow.

Well, if the print newspapers weren't in trouble, they are now. It's been the internet leading the news out of Iran, even ahead of TV and radio.
History in the making is what we're witnessing I guess.

Nothing changes in this part of the world, every ruler don't want to leave the chair and people will have to pay the price tag for those years, its unfair when entire nations want democracy and only one person don't, shame.

Ask Sanjay how many deaths have been attributed to marijuana use as opposed to how many by smoking.

I've tried to go on iranian websites. (official government websites) and all of them are down.
the Iranian embassy's website here in Ottawa is down.
Let's keep the pressure of Iran. Hopefully other dictatorship states try to give their citizens human rights. Don't these government officials have children, daughters, mothers, sisters. How can they treat women this way?

There is doubt that Iran is headed towards a rapidly changing future with greater freedoms and human rights for all Iranians.

Thanks for Dr. Milani interview; It is important to hear those who have the right information and can analyze things intelligently.

Anderson,

I have been told by my relatives in Iran that most Basij and Riot police specially the ones with ski masks are not Iranian, they are Arab speaking, thought to be from Palestine and Syria.

They are using these foreigners to beat and kill the Iranian people.

besides the 3 mil hardliners the rest of the country hates the government and wants it gone for ever.

Hi Anderson,

It is obvious that people's votes have been manipulated in Ahmadinejad's interior ministry. It was a fraudulent election.

Interesting when you contrast how radical regimes have learned to manipulate technology to get their message out and (some) recruit others to participate in carnage and then how the same technology is now unraveling their "empires," and readily exposing them for who they really are.

Does this shock anyone? Infidelity doesn't even seem to shock me anymore....It has become so commonplace in our society and its really sad...just add Senator Ensign to the list...

These demonstrations will have a tremendous impact in Iran whether they will achieve the goal of a new election or not. I only fear that the regime will crack down hard after the protests stop...and stop they will at one point. I understand that world leaders can't interfere, but I hope the world will make the mullahs understand that they are on the side of the reformists. They need our support.

Anderson... so true! The more a person is rigid on a value, the more suspicious I become of that person!

the US and European Union should help the clear majority of the Iranian people to free themselves. PLEASE HELP THEM MR. OBAMA!!

irritated at the people who feel it's alright to go back on their word. Hypocrisy...seems to happen majorly to the GOP....

The death toll will never be known. Thoursands have been arrested and most of the prisoners will "disappear" in their judicial system....most are tortured and many are never heard from again... PLEASE KEEP REPORTING ON THIS! DON'T FAIL THE POOR PEOPLE OF IRAN!

Republican affairs are becoming commonplace. The shock now would be a good ol' Democratic Senator having an affair. I think it's the hypocrisy that puts the spotlight on the Republicans when they go astray.

Power to the people. When every one sees Iranian people especially women, the say they are oppressed, no voice of their own. But we are all being proved wrong.

The pendulum swings back and forth in Iran. I wish the Iranian people well.

Its called over compensation! Focusing on someone else so you do not draw attention to yourself. Big strategy in politics. That is why I seldom if ever believe a politician.

Ensign is another conservative biggot, scumbag, and hypocrite. It just goes on and on and on with our lesgislators, doesn't it?

This is wonderful to see the masses speaking out against injustice in a peaceful manner such as this. It's about time the Iranian people stood up to their oppressive government.

Silence or noise, will any of it really make a difference? Without outside intervention, are their efforts not in vain?

It is up to the Iranian people and not the U.S. or the Obama administration to decide the future of Iran. Obama is doing a good job of keeping neutral.

I am so extremely proud of all these young people. They are risking their lives for what they believe and they must have a LOT of courage to go against these riot police. I think it's about time Iran saw a change.

It's about time the iran citizens rise up and make there voice heard, we are behind you 100%!! the U.S. nedds to support the citizens of iran, just by the footage being shown, the iranians are tired of thier oppresive, abbusive govn't and we as americans should help the people acheive the state of democracy they desire.

Sen. John Ensign is one of the people who displays the distortion of the word "values". He is one of the people who uses the word "values" to mean going to church and voting republican instead of what it should mean: Honesty, loyalty, and wisdom.

I couldn't believe my eye!!!!!! That's really shock to me Senator John Ensign already admitted have other affair, I think He will be out of senator fast.

@ Megan Dresslar: thank you! yes, he's fine, but he is in Tehran...just watching German tv cuz he speaks fluent German.

Why is Iranian government accusing US Government of meddling in its internal affairs? I did not hear anyone mention that Americans with the exception of Iranian-Americans, who by anyway has right to do so, cast a single vote in their election and no American was caught on Tehran streets protesting the outcome of the election. It is Iranians fighting for their rights.

I wish all the best to the people of Iran. I hope this is a turning point in the Middle East

Iran will not collapse, the regime will and we need to be ready to help the new movement and democracy!!!!!!

Twitter, Facebook, Ipods....this is no your father's revolution Iran.

Democracy doesn't happen over night! It is unfortunately forged in blood and tears!

It is important to note that change will gradually come since you can only fool the people for so long!

Why did he come forward? The press reported he was being black mailed and that is the reason he came forward. That says to me it would have been kept secret and his coming forward was not geniune.

hi, everyone. the evolving story in iran is impossible to turn away from

I just find these whole political sexual scandals unbelievable - when Congress was calling for the impeachment of President Clinton over sexual indiscretions. Talk about the "pot calling the kettle black" - Unfortunately, this issue crosses party lines and I have a feeling is not going away any time soon –

I realize that both Democrat and Republican politicians have committed adultery, but I find it especially reprehensible when these ultra-conservatives do so. Totally a case where they feel they are above the morals they love to preach to everyone else.

I'm not even a Christian and yet I've never had an affair with a married man. According to most Christians, I can't possibly have decent morals, but in this case I seem to have done better than Ensign.

I wish President Obama will make strong statements supporting the Iraninan people.

It is true no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes, but hypocrisy in a leader encourages hypocrisy in his followers.

This is wonderful to see the masses standing up to their unjust government. I'm proud of the Iranian people, and I wish them well in their plight against their oppressors.

Why is Iranian government accusing US Government of meddling in its internal affairs? I did not hear anyone mention that Americans with the exception of Iranian-Americans, who by anyway have right to do so, cast a single vote in their election and no American was caught on Tehran streets protesting the outcome of the election. It is Iranians fighting for their rights.

What are collapsing in Iran are an edifice of intimidation and a wall of fear. But one should not underestimate how brutal the regime can be. It is only if all who are committed to democracy, human rights, and peace stand up in solidarity with Iranians, and become a voice for the uprising that hope and freedom may win in Iran.

I think what is going on is the Iranian version of the Ãmerican Revolution. God bless em all, the birth of something wonderful and new is bloody and painful. The brutality of the thugs in power cannot be hidden now that we have the internet and cell phone cameras. I wish the Iranians more power as they struggle for their freedom.

Zola

@Dr.Gupta :Whaty is the difference between addictrion to pain prescription medcications and marjuanna?

We are witnessing history in the making, the Persian people have awakened. The Clerics ruling Iran have seen their last days of absolute control. The dynamics of Obamas presidency, has stimulated an awarness of needed change around the globe. Even Israel has taken a step toward peace with the Palestinians, and with a change in the Iranian regime, the two state plan is now more then ever within grasp!

Hi Erica

Iran...I am proud to see the Iranians standing up for their rights from a corrupted election. I am so sorry to hear about and see the injuries and the deaths occurring but they are fighting for their rights, for their freedom. I stand behind the protesters 100% and know that you all are in my prayers.

Thank ppl around the world, twitters, facebookers, Piratebay and all others goin Green to support iranians. we are watching and we are proud of the movement.

Good evening Erica. Nice to see you here

Until I watched your report, I never saw marijuana as anything but a very safe but potent pain killer. Anything that can allow a victim a moment's piece when that person is suffering on-going chronic pain is, as far I'm concerned allowed to be legal. Hey, it's not addictive, it's natural and the best pain-killer in the world.What's the big deal in the overall scheme of things

Iranian people need America's support to succeed with their freedom. Their success is our success to fight terrorism in middle east. Iranian "Regime" is key for all the violence and should be stopped!. Iran does not need a new president, they need a change in regime towards democracy. What are your thoughts about this?

By the way, I Love your show Anderson!

Remember Ghandi first used non-violent protest so successfully to end British rule in India–looks like Iran is going to be forced to change because of the same power of the peaceful opposition-how incredible for the rest of the world to see!

We may be looking at the start of a very different Middle East with US army leaving Iraq and political change coming to Iran!

I hope Iranians get what they want. I think they are very brave people risking beatings and death to stand up for their rights. We as Americans should admire that

Good Evening Bloggers John Ensign is doing damage to his senate career by admitting this not to mention his family .

Prayers go out to the silent protestors who will not allow their spirit to be silenced by those who fear freedom.....the world is watching your beautiful display of courage

Hello blogger people...

So many people preach family values and say that their spouse is the most important person in their worlds but I fear that a lot of them operate on the 'do as I say not as I do' mantra. When did wedding vows stop meaning what they did back in the day when my grandparents were married?

It is always those who tout Christian Values and point fingers at others who are biggest offenders.

Senator Ensign had an affair
Then CCN covererd it- now that isnt fair
How can he be president in two thousand twelve?
with an award for hypocrisy right on his shelf?

Hey, I thought we were talking about legalizing pot.

)

The sexual scandal follows these senators and history keeps reapting itself .

People in Iran need change and the end to the mollahs dictatorship...they need freedom just like everyone else in the world

@Isabel I agree and freedom of speech is the lifeblood of a democracy, it's also the lifeblood of human relationships. Your post excellently makes the pt that freedom of the speech and of the press helps people be full partners in their own societies and governments.

Abbas Milani's analysis takes a bit further the pt Reza Aslan made about how the clerics might be losing power. I hope there's not a collapse of the Iranian govt. Moussavi and his supporters are right ratchet down the protests, to help begin to avoid the violence that's breaking out. Hope it all doesn't backfire and end up with a massive crack down.

I do wonder what media people in Iran, other than cyber, have access to.

Those poor people on the Air France plane...sad..so sad

How absolutely frightening it would be to be in a plane as it was breaking-up. I wonder how long any of the passengers survived after the initial cabin pressure loss on 447?

i am not feeling the drug story, not sure why but it really is not of interest to me, the whole should we make it legal or not just isn't something that floats my boat. For medical purposes so be it if has proven efficacy. End of story in my opinion.

Dear Anderson :
Love your show. On Iran, I would like to say that regardless of what the outcome of the "investigation" into the June 12 election will be – I personally think that the Guardian Council will certify the announced results because the strongman of the Council has publicly supported Ahmadinejad – this is not going to effect Khamenei's (or Revolutionary Guards') goals of getting the nuclear bomb. So the US needs to move fast with its diplomacy, and have Plan B (serious pressure on Iran) and even Plan C (force) ready before US credibility is lost in the region, etc, and the cat is out of the bag.
Thank you, Ham

Hi Erica.....
I agree with you..... I wonder Iran could be more be careful to stop violence or attack protesters on the street.

What is going to happen with the election in Iran are they going to recount the votes ?@Erica

No kidding Erica. I find myself following as closely as I can at work all day. Will the Iranian people have the courage to see this to the end?

LOL

"The Truth About Cheating"

laugh out loud

Sonjay is it true that if you vaporize or eat marijuana that you avoid the carcinogens in the herb

Keeping this story the main headline of everyday is big help to the people of Iran....this is a start to defeat the regime!! we need to exploit everything that goes on there to build world support for the people

The ones who tout christian values often it's a case of do as i say not as i do and they are total hypocrites.

i have emails from iranian up rise . one is showing govt tugs in civilian clothes knifing a man & using clubs on him .another showing a young man killed showing ijuries on his body very very graphic ,i need a n e/m address to send to yoy. also there are reports 5 labanes air planes landing in iran to kill people this govt pays labanes, phalestinian. thx

I luv LOL. it says it all...quickly.. better yet is LMAO.

Hey Erica, your right!!! I have kept my tv on CNN everyday since the election in Iran in my home office.

One fantastic news I heard from my brother who lives in Tehran is that people know how to peacefully defend their rights:

1) When they see Basijs are coming toward them they sit down in the street all together and become absolutely silent. That way the basijis could not attack them b/c there is no reason to do so!

2) When a bsiji starts to attack them they all surround him and make a small circle around him so he cannot move around.

That's how they could manage peaceful protests for 5 days!

Our president is doing well not to deeply get involved in this mess.For sure these hardliners would love to have someone external to use as an excuse!

Iranians have suffered much with this current Presdient and when the votes were going in favor of the challenger they fixed the election and now thre is strife and protests .

The violence in the streets is brutal and disturbing innocent people are getting hurt i pray for the country to have peace soon .

Wow, "Psycho". Life imitates are or art imitates life?

LOL....laugh out loud....

but Anderson might like, ROFL, LMAO,

lawls!

Hi AC, AC360 casts and chat typists,

Oh my lord, the Iran's protest pictures look luridly horrifying. There needs be reconciliation and mutual understanding among dissidents.

On the lighter footnotes, I'm ebulliently happy to see Mr president sign a memorandum of same-sex partnership benefits for federal workers... Gotta get busy finding the one!

as a doctor would you say overall marijuana use is safer than cigarettes and alcohol?

LOL!!

We see increasing number of reports that there are non-Iranian Arabs working with the Basiji militia. Many in Iran are shocked to see them. Any comments? Can your Stanford expert comment?

According to president Obama both regimes, the current and that of Moussavi's would be difficult to deal with for the United states.That said I think the Iranian people deserve to get the president they voted for. Can anyone imagine this in the U.S?...not a chance!

if we can reduce our debt by legalizing marijuana and taxing it why aren't we doing this again?

I just returned from Iran a few weeks ago. I saw many beautiful places and met many warm wonderful people. This is a sad event but one that must play out in the name of freedom and democracy. I talk to my mother-in-law and brother-in-law in Tehran every day and things are harsh; cell phones being cut off in the evenings, no internet, power going off for hours at a time but the people are all pullig together for each other. I'm told that even with no cell phones, updates can be passed by word of mouth to thousands of people in a very short time. I guess when you are used to living under those kind of conditions, you develop your own means of survival. I hope to return very soon. Let's remember to pray for them all, citizens and police alike. We are all human beings.

very interested to hear this next discussion

Wow - how low can we go - a teenage texting contest! Now there's something for your college application/resume! Would lilke to see these same teens math and spelling grades –

@Zola, your comment is inspiring. the flyers, leaflets, broadsides of history used to stir up the passions of the people from the French revolution on, have evolved into Facebook and Twitter. Regardless of outcome of this is, it has been an unprecedented experience

My mom suffers from rumatory arthritis...I have seen research that medical marijuana not only eases the pain but slows down the destruction of the joints...do you think it could help

Iran is not collapsing...though it's government may be. As a non-Iranian who, up until a month ago, lived in Tehran for the past 4 years, I can say that it is a beautiful country, rich with history and culture. The people are kind and giving and that is why it is even more surprising and somehow exciting that so many people are fighting for their rights.

The people need to fight their own battle, but we need to stand supportive as the leaders of the democratic world. Their government is obviously trying to censor what the rest of the world can see – don't let them be successful in making us forget what is happening to freedom loving people – JUST like you & me. If the time comes – we need to push for the UN to help – let's just hope it doesn't come to that!

Support the Iranian people!

Iran is not collapsing but is going to a huge major political change. People became aware of their power and know how to peacefully ask for their votes! That's a huge political progress that the world and the countries in the region can learn from it. I'm proud of my people

@ Erica

Evening! It's great to have you blogging with us!

Congrats to CNN on the frequent coverage on events in Iran. Please keep it up... the world needs to see just how oppressive this regime has been against its people. We have a moral duty to tell their story.

It seems to me that leaglizing pot, is like gay marriage. State by State just a matter of time .

I am horrified that yet another conservative hipocrit that spews family values has caught his tongue in his pant zipper – NOT. Let this be a lesson to all of us – don't ever to politicians that support family values or suggest to us all how to live our lives. The credibility and trust factor for me is nil with these clowns. The latest clown from Nevada deserves to be pummed in the press. Good bye bozo.

Obama said that it is not possible to give homosexual couples the same rights as heterosexual, married couples. Why is that?

people who are against gay rights are just haters... what's so hard to accept?

Let people live their lives.......
God judges at the end.

the President could not extend the benefits of health care to same-sexers because that would be the job of Congress. what he did, regardless, is a start.

Dear Mr. Cooper,

Regarding IRAN, what is happning, and what are different outcome of the protests.

Thanks for covering this and grate work so far.

I see you are interviewing people with grate theoretical knowledge about Iran but unfortunatly non have the full story to tell the public.

To understand what is happning and why, and what could/should we expect as outcome we need...
1- Where the regime is comming from
2- How it is structured and who is really running the country. If anyone think Supreme leader is the one, is really has no clue about the structure of this regime and I am so sorry to see and hear so many wrong or misguided analysis.
3- Who are the protesters
4- who are the candidates and where they come from....
5- There is few options here as the possible outcome of protests which will be defined by the actions on the streets of Iran which we can discuss it and compare to what happened during the cupe against Mosadeq and revelution against Shah.
6- Just do not neglect effects of political activiists (Iranians) residing outside the country
7- let us not forget thoes whom been silensed for 30 years....

Sincerely

Yash

Let's get serious about our Constitution President Obama. Are you simply trying to appease us with these "rights" you afforded us today? Black is right. We remain second-class citizens. I pay my taxes and i want my rights respected.

Michelle D., I can answer that question for you. Prescription pain medications are, as you stated, addictive (highly so). However, marijuana is not. That is the difference. Also, many people find it easier to function normally while taking cannabis (as opposed to prescription painkillers).

I'll never get why in the day and age we still don't have equal rights for everybody. All Americans deserve to have the ability to get married and have a life and care for their families.

Should people who grow these hemp plants have a licence like the liqour stores who report to the liquor board . What's the differnce ?

On the evening of 9/11, I chatted with with a young Iranian in an international chat room. We have kept up our correspondence ever since then....his latest word: "We have freedom of speech...we don't have freedom after speech."

On the subject of pot. My first job as a nurse in 1975 was working on an oncology unit. Our oncologist was doing research way back then and some experimentation using pot on cancer patients in great pain. I think we have to separate medicinal use of cannabanoids from recreational use. Is it addictive? Maybe not but many recreational users find it very hard to give up after long term use. It also causes many to lay on the couch for long periods (years) contemplating working without actually ever going to work, dude.

LOL@Anderson and Erica!!!! Very funny!!!

Gays are expecting way too much from President Obama, too quickly. Dustin Black acknowledge this too, but still expects a quick fix.

Legalizing gay marriage in the U.S. would generate a LOT of revenue! It's big business in Canada.

Straight ppl need to march along with gays!

It is past time for us to give gay/lesbians their rights. I feel President Obama will face this issue later. . . I hope

Equal rights for homosexual couples should not be put on the back burner. The LGBT deserve equal rights. There are no excuses.

It is so important for the governments of USA and Israel to stay clear of what is happening in Iran. The Iranian revolution Guard, Basij and Khamenei (who are the real enemies of democracy) are waiting to blame the uprising on the enemies of 79 revolution (US and Israel).

I would like to hear how supporters of Same Sex Marriage plan to fight the opposition of President's weak plan without ailienating a potential alli.

Conservatives such as Republicans have not been supportive of the Same Sex Cause in the past.

Upon the next change of administration the issue could be be put back into play with potentially less favorable results is they are back in Presidental office.

@ Alice I agree with you . 100% America needs to stay out of it .

What's happening on the other side of our world is evil and unjust. I respect and support those protestors fighting for their basic human rights. These protests can't be ignored forever. The world is watching and someone with the power must do something. Until then, there will never be change, there will never be peace.

Unfortunately the homosexuals are so persecuted.
Last Sunday, a man who was in the Gay Parade in my country was attacked and today had brain death ... these things are absurd!

The HIV travel ban is just infuriating. Talk about discrimination. And encouraging people to lie about who they are while serving in our armed forces? How ironic and ignorant is that?

I work in a manufacturing plant. For safety reasons, we do not want forklift operators or heavy equipment operators under the influence of marijuana or any other drug while they are working. Similarly, none of us want our doctors, nurses, policeman stoned while they are on the job. We also don't want to be driving on the same road with someone who is high.

Is there a test (similar to blood alcohol content) that would determine if someone is actually under the influence of pot? The tests I'm aware of show if someone has used pot in the last several months, not whether they are currently high or not?

Let same -sex partners just live in peace .Why is Obama flip-floping on the issues of this .

Hi - second class citizens? I get it! What about women? When are women going to rally about equality like the gay community! We all need to help each other get equality. Why is this such a problem?

I hope that President Obama's promises are fulfilled

As an American it gives me the jitters to see Iranian democracy at work and if the truth be told the Iranians that are marching for truth and honesty could give us lessons about standing up for what you believe in. God bless them and protect them in their struggle.

Legalize!!!

ok, lets see, we went from discussing how 50% of married men do not respect the sanctity of their marriages to discussing the protection of that sanctity of marriage by giving less than equal rights to gay people.

what was that word you said earlier, anderson? hypocrisy? yep, thats it!

or is it an oxymoron?

@Minou I agree they should march with gays!

D.L. Black is smart, handsome, and well-spoken... I like this guy!

Hi Anderson,
I came in on the tail end of your interview about the President's memo regarding same-sex benefits. I hope the point was made that the President did what he was allowed to do under the law. Some of those benefits have to be granted by congress. In holding elected officials accountable, let's be fair and tell the whole story.

I have heard that one of the biggest lobbying groups against medical marijuana is the pharma industry...wouldnt many sick people save millions of dollarts collectivly if they could grow their own natural FREE pain medicine

The President stated today that this is "only the beginning" ... let's give him a chance. Perhaps instead of blaming the President, individuals need to take action to persuade their congressmen that it's time to catch up with what's happening in society and take the necessary legislative action.... The President can't do everything, and the civil rights movement took more than 140 days!...

I support gay rights, same sex unions/marriage, etc., but am getting a little tired of all the blame for inaction being layed at the feet of the President. Perhaps he hasn't made public statements, but do you really know what's happening behind the scenes?

@Isabel. That surprises me (in Brazil). How is it being covered by the Brazilian media?

Anderson,
give President Obama a chance. It is a start you know. Better than the previous administration right??

Anderson,
I am not a gay person, but I do fell that the gay and lesbian community does deserve full equality. I have to say though that the gay and lesbian community needs to relax and give president Obama some time. I believe he will deliver on his promises, I mean he still has 3 and half years in his presidency.

To paraphrase Bill Maher, gay people are allowed to have birthdays, they just don't get as much cake to send the right message to children.

Go ahead and legalize weed already, this is a good revenue source for states like Cali. It could affect so many things, cut farm subsidies,the problems with cartels in mexico,etc,etc.

Do not be fooled. Marijuana is addictive. Ask any habitual user of pot of the effects when they try to quit. I'm all for legalization for medical purposes but I watched my son go through rehab and he finally came to understand it is an addictive drug.

President Obama's afraid to take a stand and alientate each groups playing both sides of the issues.

I hope that there is a revolution. It is time the "real Iran" came forward into the world and give their country a better name. Go green!

The expression of Iranian is great! Then why the reaction is going to be too hard? Can we act more healthily?

If we look at the cold logic of numbers and the market, the conclusion is that are spends billions of dollars a year, there are many kills and arrests, but the traffic is sophisticated, creating parallel powers and seeps in the police and politics . Consumption increases in all social classes.

A greater realism in the fight against drugs, without bias or ideological views, would help to reduce damage to persons, companies and institutions.

Hello Anderson,
I think all of us should support the Brave Iranian People,in their fight for Democracy.I admire these Brave Men,women,who are ready to give their lives for Freedom,Justice.
Iranians,who are Persians(no Arabs),been fighting for Democracy for last 100 years.

I amagine it will have to be treated the same way as beer? Instead of guys walking around with beer bellies it'll be munchies bellies huh ?
Also it's all going to be DUI now, no more DWI, it's going to be obsolete.

As supporter of gay rights, have empathy for those waiting for reform. Some of this requires congressional legislation.

Obama has his hands full with so many issues – economy, health care, energy, two wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, foreign policy issues in middle east and Korea... The list goes on.

Obama is committed to gay community but give the guy a break here. Were the GOP in charge as they were for past 8 years, there wouldn't even be room for discussion or opportunity for change in area of gay rights. Settle down. Change takes time – more than four or five months.

Marriage is strictly a religious thing, and should remain religiously defined. However, all of the benefits of being married, as recognized by the government, should be available to any pair.

i know there are alot of issue on our Presidents shoulders...but can anything be more important than giving all americans equality under the constitution...Anything less than equality is unexceptable.. We expect great things from this President not status quo...

Barry C

If I were Iranian, I would used the PROTEST to select a leader of the People, for the People.” The question is, “Who is the BEST person to represent the Iranian people during this era of CHANGE?” I really feel, “A more Westernized Leader is the BEST choice.”

Come on now its just POT!!!???? Legalize it!!!!

Why not these cheating senators make polygamy legal than shame themselves with lies! After all almost everything will be legal soon......gays,marijuana! In a way polygamy is part of religion.

Today the war of drugs kills more than overdose.

Legalize it!!

Whether it helps people or not, it certainly is helping Paul the pusher.

The effects of drugs are harmful to health, as well as those caused by alcohol and cigarette. The difference is that pot hasn't regulation, criterion; pot doesn't generate dividends to the country and feeds trafficking in drugs.

unbelievable, the pres. signs a memorandum today extending benefits for gay and les. fed workers, and all he gets is criticizm from the very people that it is going to benefit!! People, relax....it's been 5 months, and unfortunately gay rights aren't on the top 3 list right now.

Don't fight it!!

@Brandi – perhaps it is a sad irony

I think people need to be educated to the fact that marijuana is not a drug. Marijuana is an herb and a flower. God put it here. If He put it here and He wants it to grow, what gives the government the right to say that God is wrong?

@Isabel, that's a very insightful look into what it's like to live in a country under a repressive govt. Thank you for sharing that part of your personal experience.

Question for Dr. Sanjay Gupta. How long does marijuana stay in the body, how long do it's effects stay in the body?

the best way to keep marijuana out of the hands of children is to legalize it, i've never heard of a drug dealer checking someone's id, why keep a relatively harmless drug in a market controlled by gun wielding criminals, it's not 1900 anymore it's time to do some new research

@Brandi....very well said! It is incredibly sad at best...

I am tired of weed.
I do not approve of weed.
Weed causes crime.

It amazes me that in a country that has gone through so much and come such a long way in civil rights, we are still having this discussion! When will we learn? Why does sexual orientation make anyone different to me or you?
I am a straight married 44 year old woman and I do not get it!
Why is my gay friend not able to sponsor his partner for a green card? Gay people are representatives, teachers, doctors, bank clerks, artists, lawyers, and construction workers... just like a lot of us are. They pay the same taxes and have the same civil obligations on duties that us all. Then why can't gay partners that have been together for 20 years not decide for each other in medical situations? or inherit each other? I do not care if you call it marriage or not, I care that the rights are exactly the same. When America, when?

@Erica, very sad indeed. shameful.

Hey people do you not remember when Ahmadinejad said that democracy was a failure? There was no intention for a reformist to win in a democratic election in Iran where only the supreme leader can appoint the person to be president. No this election was just a show to the world that Iran cares for the rights of the people but now it is known that the religious fanatics really do not care for the people! They only care for their power and control over the people

I'm a public defender in New Orleans, 90% of the cases I deal with are possession of marijuana. Small amounts. It is a waste of time, imagine if the criminal justice system could focus on violent offenses?

I am an American who happens to be gay. I am not a gay man who happens to be American. I am tired of these self-appointed gay spokespeople bashing Obama. Would Bush have taken the step that Obama took today? No! While it may be wrong, the journey for equal rights in this country will be long, it will be painful, and it will be ugly. But one day, we will overcome!!! But one day, we will overcome!!! Give the man a chance, he inherited quite a mess! I can wait for him to fulfill his promises.

I'm so looking forward to the Angelina Jolie interview tomorrow! I admire her greatly.

People should have deucation when it comes to growing the plants and taking it for medecine purposes they need to wathc thier doseage.

There are already 22 million people who smoke pot every month. The health care costs are already being absorbed with zero revenue. Hence the 20 billion dollars earned by legalizing it would have to be less than the amount of new people smoking which would have to be huge!

Decriminalize the herb and put an end to the insanity!

CNN: kuddos!

Freedom always costs someone's blood

Hello Anderson,
Our President is doing A great job it is a good day for Equal Rights to all and soon it will be legal to marry in every state, just be patient. we have allot of other problems at this point, this is a good first step,

Isabel, I know exactly how you feel. I grew up in a place where connections with the outside world were non-existant and the government controlled what people could watch, read, etc. I was a kid then and didn’t know any better, but when I had the opportunity to encounter that forbidden outside world, I was stunned at how many things there were that I had no idea existed.

I am definitely a believer that having the opportunity to experience and encounter different points of few through education or travel can only enrich people and make the differences between us seem less severe.

Sen. Ensign report is an example of a popular moral conflict in the U.S. It is not really his fault, he is expected to promote family values as a part of the process to become elected. Family values are merely part of the meaningless rhetoric used particularly in U.S. politics.

In the 13 billion of savings for legalization, did that include the money prisons will save by releasing all of the inmates currently being held for marijuana related charges? Probably not

Hey people do you not remember when Ahmadinejad said that democracy was a failure? There was no intention for a reformist to win in a democratic election in Iran where only the supreme leader can appoint the person to be president. No this election was just a show to the world that Iran cares for the rights of the people but now it is known that the religious fanatics really do not care for the people! They only care for their power and control over the people!

@ S. Gupta

is there any hope that a comprehensive treatment program include weaning off the drugs in similar ways as methadone programs?

please also comment on the social aspect of abuse as a larger mental health concern.

Weed only causes crime because its illegal..whens the last time some gangsters robbed or fought for beer? they sure did during alcohol prohibition

Legalize!! Stop the gangs, put age restriction on it. Alcohol is more addictive and kills more per year. Cannabis has never killed anyone. Why is the one that doesn't kill the illegal one?

I don't understand why same sex rights are such a problem . People should be able to LOVE who they want. I cherish every moment of the last 16 years of marriage with my wife and I think the world would be a better place if there was more love and less hate. Does it really matter if someone is married to the same or opposite sex? Let's set a good example for the world and live by a profound statement, "All you need is Love."

Drugs don't ruin people lives. People ruin their lives. An addictive personality will find SOMEthing to abuse, one way or another. And the finger points back to the family environment when talking about the development of addictive personality traits, doesn't it?

I knew two ppl who smoked regularly and could not stop. Maybe the addiction is not physical, but it sure is psychological!

arent pain pills opiate based and guarenteed addictive over the long term treatment of pain?

@ Casey Jones
The main newspapers are limited to giving the news and highlight the crime. Unfortunately I do not see support for the homosexual question as I think should happen

@Will, and what happens when the 22 million users explode to 50 million once it's legal?

Mr. Cooper,
Thank you for having the guts to bring the debate to the forefront, for the last 72 years we Americans have been lied , to the point government agencies continue to "fudge" the facts to protect their enormous budgets. Recreationally no one has ever overdosed or died from the use of pot , nor have any medical patients. I am no Doctor nor is the DEA so how can we tell someone that a particular medicine does not work for them. Educate, Legalize, Regulate, Tax

Thanks for having Dr. Gupta on this evening to give a bit more of a medical perspective to marijuana. I always enjoy his insight and he has a way of explaining things so that I understand it!

I just want to let all the none users to know that most of what has been taught to you about MJ was fabricated back during the prohibition days. There were laws put in place to combat the hidden agenda of racism. Propaganda went out, the public bought it and here we are. It is time to rethink this whole thing. Please do some research, there is a lot good data out there that may help you to understand. Try it you will see. Go DR GUPTA

Until now, I never thought Marijuana has any major significant health benefits!!! Excellent reporting Anderson!

Marijuana is much more benign than many of the pharmaceuticals that some doctors would prefer that you take.

@ Krasa

Thanks! Where do you grew up?

Can someone explain to me why it is beneficial to health than the harm it does?

Typo correction: I think I spelled alli instead of ally. Sorry about that. I'm not an idiot. Just beautiful and sometimes typing challenged.

@ Krasi

Thanks! Where you grew up?

Why should anyone have to take an artificial pill when there is an all-natural plant that, quite frankly, works better?!

@Max, how does legalizing marijuana keep it pout of the hands of kids? Most smokers begin as teenagers, not as adults; meaning they have no problem getting cigarettes illegally while underage.

I didnt think Marinol was that effective for spurring my appetite. In fact, I'm not convinced it did anything (when I was hospitalized years ago). Smoking marijuana seemed to be a different experience altogether.

@ David, Indiana @Krasi

Unfortunately on dictatorship, repression and censorship I have extensive knowledge of the facts.

People always lose a lot in these cases. The output more quickly (and more violent) is a revolution. Or wait for many years that the dictatorship falls of rotten!

the only real danger in smoking marijuana is getting caught.

There are safe alternatives to smoking. You can Vaporize the cannabis and you can make it in to edibles like brownies. You do not have to Smoke Cannabis.

The problem with pot is that you have to suck it into your lungs. Lungs are not designed to do this, lungs want to process oxygen and clean the body of carbon dioxide. When you drink alcohol it gets processed through the digestive system as other liquids do. And no you are not supposed to abuse alcohol. Just a social drink now and then.

Yay!. Dr. Gupta said marijuana can be vaporized, not smoked, and titrated by the user. talk more about this!

I dont under stand why the government has a problem with legalizing marijuana. Most poeple dont know but oxycodone darvacet and hydrocode are just about the same thing as heroin. I had a surgery a few years back a got addicted to it... Ive smoked pot now for 3 years now and never had a problem when i go without. Marijuana should be leagal. Im all for voting for legalization on the federal level.

Do any states allow residents to use doctor recommendations from other states like other prescription drugs?

Anderson – Enjoyed Sanjay's segment - have a feeling you received more than 1 text question - anyway he could blog the answers to some of the other questions you received? I always appreciate his informatvie reports.

That drug business is some serious stuff.

"...and what happens when the 22 million users explode to 50 million once it’s legal?"

We collect that much more in taxes. That's what happens.

Synthetic THC is not the same as Cannabis.

That is such a crazy story! The man who supposedly went missing when he was 2...

The farce-players resolved to make the version in real life of the classic film "Psycho" by Hitchcock.

Well done Dr.Gupta. But, Do you think Marijuana is a safer alternative to alcohol?

Susan in IL, like all prohibitionists, feels the need to post lies concerning the marijuana debate. Marijuana is not physically addictive. Anything can be psycologically addictive (take shopping for example). Just because some substance or activity may become addicting to certain predisposed persons is NOT a valid reason for it to be illegal.

Why is alcohol legal then because last i knew it causes medical illness's as well as it is very addictive.. plus what about drunk driving?
i know people drive while high, but what is the ratio to drunk driver to high drivers and death relations?

Janine...that's why alcohol causes cancer in every part of the body. Cannabis doesn't cause lung cancer... it helps prevent it and COPD.

its okay anderson! i didnt get it until you spelled it out for me! lol

goodnite all.

"Most smokers begin as teenagers, not as adults; meaning they have no problem getting cigarettes illegally while underage."

Sounds like we're making up statistics here. What are the hard facts?

you really shouldn't have to worry about getting caught. The police should be taking care of real problems. Not busting someone who just wants to relax with a buss. People do it all the time with alcohol. The only difference is Weed has practically no ill effects. Legal makes more sense.

Oh, look there goes "Norman Bates"!

Medical marijuana seems to me like smoking aspirin (which comes from the bark of trees I believe) – there's negative effects of aspirin too, but it's still used medicinally – but marijuana makes you laugh (so I hear) – is'nt laughter the best medicine?

good show tonight. everyone take care and stay safe.

It won't get to 50 million because people are either pot smokers or are not pot smokers. 95 million people have tried pot and only 8 million become habitual smokers. Meaning a lot of people just don't like it. It's not for everyone

Isabel, I grew up in Bulgaria which was under a communist regime at the time.

Like you say, though, it did open my eyes on what dictatorship can do to people.

Good night!

Ok, this should be freaky... A guy dreassing like his mom for 6 years... Creepy....

It's about that time –

Good topics tonight Anderson –

Enjoyed the chat, Fellow Bloggers –

Hope everyone has a good day tomorrow and until tomorrow night .... peace.....

@Anderson

Yes... The farce-players resolved to make the version in real life of the classic film “Psycho” by Hitchcock.

The 30 million or so regular pot smokers in the U.S. need to do what the people in Iran are doing right now. Take to the streets and demand change.

What people will do for money! Pretty gutsy!

I can see how gay and lesbian advocates are getting impatient with the Obama admin. or with govt generally. For one thing the question of same sex marriage is always having to take a back seat to each and every crisis that comes up and there are a lot of crises lately.

@Isabel good pt about the approach to coping w/drug substance abuse needing to be more realistic. Seems like at pts it is more focused on counseling and rehab and that seems to work

Psycho is right! Night peace love and (((hugs)))

Good job on the marijuana segment. If society can handle the 2 most deadly and addictive substances than it sure can handle a zero deadly and less addictive substance.

Addiction rates: Tobacco 31%, Alcohol 17%, Cannabis 5-9 %

Deaths: Tobacco – 400,000 , Alcohol 100,000 , Cannabis 0

Good night everyone! Sweet dreams!

I just got done with a long hard day at work and I'm siiting here, smoking a joint, watching your show. Two main questions are: who am I hurting by doing this and who am I helping by doing this? Answer 1: no one. Answer 2: the drug dealers. why should I feel like I'm the bad guy because I smoke it and that the bad guys are good just because they're providing it? it seems backwards. but without a change to policy, there will never be a change to how I and millions of other americans feel everyday.

Is someone who drinks wine every day an alcoholic? Why is someone who uses a healthy herb every day a drug abuser? Ridiculous!

Because of $ 18,000 per year?

What some people will do for money,tsk,tsk,tsk.Goodnight everyone.Peace to all of you and yours.

I am suprised little boy was lost and found, but He is ok to be alive......
Good night Anderson, Erica, David G, Edurrado (Ed Henry) and my friend twitter/facebook bloggers!!!!!!!
Have a great night and sleep tight everyone!!!!
See you tomorrow night!!!!
Day of the shot with really funny wrong man I saw!!!! LOL!!! Very funny shot!!!!!! OUCH!!!!

Anderson,
Have a great night, good sleep at home after work!!!! See you tomorrow night!!! Have a plenty sleep!

The only reason why Alcohol and Tobacco cost more money then it makes in taxes is because IT IS Dangerous and has the potential to KILL you. Cannabis is 100% safe.

Unbelievable!!! lol...

does it matter if it’s smoked? sit in traffic for one hour with the windows down and your lungs have probably endured worse than what smoking marijuana every day for a year would do.

anyway, even if marijuana was twice as harmful to your lungs as tobacco, I’d still take lung cancer at the age of 60 over being jailed until I’m 60… If the intent is my personal well-being, then this is not a reason for it to be illegal. Why is it illegal?

@ mike, isn't that the same time most people try alcohol for the first time? a far more addictive substance with much worse side effects? not to mention people in highs school don't sell vodka out of their lockers, a "responsible" adult has to purchase it for them, so ok some adults might still decide to make that bad decision your right, but that's why we have consequences for those people who contribute to delinquency of minors

Dressing like your deceased mom? What is there possibly to gain from that? Oh money...I get it. Anderson seems to be relatively amused by this shot! I love it...and the Psycho sound effects...excellent!

Good night Anderson, Erica and fellow bloggers! Hope you have a good sleep and a wonderful tomorrow! The weekend is just around the corner!

Honestly Anderson, $115,000 doesn't sound like a lot given the state of various "affairs" in the U.S. And, I find irony when people who make "healthy" salaries talk about something like this.

I think there comes a time when we need to respect the choices another government, even the ones we are not liked by. We may not agree with their beliefs or political choices but that doesn't mean we cannot respect them and their requests.

what people are referring to money .

that man dressing up for SIX YEARS as his mother?! just – Wow.
he is C-R-A-Z-Y. holy crap i can't believe he did that..... wow... $18,000 a year.... oh my god this is one of the craziest stories i've EVER heard of.
"I am my mother." that is insane. but i loved it – so funny!!

goodnite Anderson and Erica, can't wait until Thursday's show =]

Good night, Anderson!

Good night, friends, David (Indiana), bloggers, everyone!

That fraud claimer "would'nt even hurt a fly!"

Thanks! The show today was great!!!!
See you tomorrow!

Guy in the wig: I thought Phil Spector was locked up!