Should Michael Phelps Have Apologized for Using Pot?

By U.S. News Staff

February 6, 2009 RSS Feed Print

"I know with all of the mistakes I made, I learned from them and that is what I expect to do from this. By no means it is fun for me, by no means is it easy," Michael Phelps told the Associated Press yesterday. Phelps was referring to the photo of him smoking marijuana from a bong, and the incidents that have followed its publication in a UK tabloid. Meanwhile, South Carolina authorities are gathering evidence against Phelps, raising the possibility that he might face charges. Some in the media have come to the swimmer's defense, while others, like our very own Mary Kate Cary, feel that Phelps's actions and the actions of those who have come to his defense are shameful and disappointing. Should Michael Phelps have apologized for smoking marijuana? Should he be penalized for doing so? Post your thoughts.

Previously: Should Obama Apologize to Iran?

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On the other hand, people spend so much time talking about Phelps and his marijuana wrong-doing, but what about our president. He talks so much about his cocaine usage, and people pretend to just throw it to the side, but when Phelps enters, he’s our main target.

Angela of TX 2:01PM April 13, 2009

I do believe Michael Phelps shouldn't apologize for smoking pot due to the fact that he works his behind off ten months a year. He deserves a break. The man has obviously made a success of himself despite using marijuana, as thousands before him. I truly understand that smoking pot isn't role model like, but America needs to stop expecting its role models to be picture perfect, because no one is. It was just a simple mistake. Sightly. I like Phelps. If he truly wants to be a role model, he can take his comments and platform to the next level. However, several other celebrities have used marijuana and haven't actually apologized for it. So why is it such a huge conflict with Mr.Phelps and what he decides to do? Overall, he shouldn't apologize to the media, to fans, or anybody. He can do what he pleases at any given time, and I believe that what he does, or the choices he makes has nothing to do with us. Sure it may impact on alot of people, but he is who he is.

Tanay Banks of MS 1:56PM April 13, 2009

We all, as adults and as Americans should be free to make our own decisions about how we live our lives. It is no ones business but our own. South Carolina authorities need to back off and go fight "real" crime. It's about time we start standing up to so called authorites and start living free.

Not a pot smoker of IA 5:22PM February 12, 2009

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