ICYMI: “CocaineMitch” Backlash Over Drug-Themed Campaign Shirts

FROM THE KENTUCKY DEMOCRATIC PARTY

Frankfort KY— On Thursday, a Kentucky mom who lost her son to a drug overdose in 2014 penned an open letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell calling for him to stop selling drug-themed shirts as part of his campaign fundraising and donate the money raised to addiction recovery services in the state.

Tanya Meeks writes to McConnell:

“The shirts aren’t just offensive, they’re a painful and cruel joke to those of us grieving a terrible loss or fighting desperately to save a loved one.

The shirts are not acceptable anywhere, but in a state that is ground zero for opioid addiction, it is reprehensible. The sale of the shirts should stop immediately, and any funds raised should be donated to addiction recovery services in Kentucky.”

Meeks also put up an online petition and McConnell’s constituents are starting to weigh in:

“I work in a field that deals with drug addiction. We need leaders that don't think addiction is a joke. Ditch Mitch.” Jill Stratton, Springfield, Ky.

“I knew Mitch was dirty but this is beyond despicable. I have family who lost their life to opioid addiction. For once in your life do the right thing Mitch and stop selling these shirts.” Beverly Bratcher, Hartford, Ky.

“The Opioid Crisis is no laughing matter. This is a slap in the face of those fighting addiction and also the families who have lost a loved one.” Shelley Lewis Mount Vernon, Ky.

“I lost my amazing grandson to a drug overdose. his camp thinks this is funny but i find it hurtful and appalling. its people like Mitch McConnell that’s the problem” Katherine Caywood, Lexington, Ky.

Link: https://medium.com/@tanya.meeks.email/an-open-letter-to-sen-5eddeb68baf1