Publication Details

Inside America’s Opioid Crisis: 12 Hard Lessons for Today’s Drug War will be published on February 19, 2026.

Advance reading copies may be available for journalists, conference organizers, and academic reviewers upon request.

If you are interested in interview requests, speaking invitations, or advance review consideration, please use the inquiry form linked below.

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Early Praise for Inside America’s Opioid Crisis

“Required reading for anyone serious about ending America’s opioid crisis — offering a fearless, clear-eyed account of what got us here and a playbook for healing that thoughtfully bridges policy and practice.”

— Patrick J. Kennedy, former U.S. Representative; author of A Common Struggle: A Personal Journey Through the Past and Future of Mental Illness and Addiction

“A crisp, strategic, and uncompromising account — this book offers practical lessons and clear guidance for leaders charged with protecting communities and saving lives.”

— General (Ret.) Barry McCaffrey, former Director, Office of National Drug Control Policy (1996–2001)

“Richard Baum brings a passion for leadership on drug policy — together with his long, bipartisan experience in the White House drug office — to create a powerful and comprehensive approach to this unique new epidemic. It provides a blueprint for tomorrow’s better national drug policy.”

— Dr. Robert L. DuPont, first Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse; second Director, White House Office of National Drug Control Policy; author of Chemical Slavery: Understanding Addiction and Stopping the Drug Epidemic

“Richard Baum brought deep institutional memory, sound judgment, and a steady hand to the nation’s drug policy response — strengthening cross-border cooperation and helping develop strategies still in use today, always with a clear vision centered on public health and safety.”

— Dr. Bertha K. Madras, former Deputy Director for Demand Reduction, White House Office of National Drug Control Policy