Publication Details

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

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

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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