> The only reason drug cartels exist is because of the insatiable US demand for drugs. Yes and no. Drugs are the market that cartels currently serve, but they

> The only reason drug cartels exist is because of the insatiable US demand for drugs. Yes and no. Drugs are the market that cartels currently serve, but they also thrive because of weak local governments. Keep in mind the mafia has existed for literally centuries in some places before drugs and alcohol - on nothing more than violence and protection rackets. We've seen the newer cartels willing to diversify into other criminal activities like taking hostages or even avocado rackets. Legalization may shrink the resources of the cartels, but you would probably see an increase in other unsavory activities that would still create refugees and trade problems for us.