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AP - Columbia, SC — On the heels of word that drug charges may be filed against storied Olympian Michael Phelps, the swimmer, his legal team, and his PR team have mustered a new two-word retort to help combat his tailspinning reputation: “Legalize It!”

In his new “Legalize It!” approach, Phelps is championing a motto that was popularized by reggae legend Peter Tosh in 1975. Phelps and his representation hope the swimmer’s noteriety coupled with his strong feelings on herbs will add momentum to the pro-marijuana movement, which has been gaining steady steam nationwide in recent years.

A statement prepared by Phelps’ damage control team reads: “With the absurd amount of attention that the picture of Michael smoking marijuana has received, we felt it beneficial to use this situation to spotlight the harmlessness of the drug and the unnecessary laws against it. The most decorated Olympian ever is a marijuana user. Our current president admits to using marijuana. The stigma attached to cannibis is undeserved, and if alcohol and cigarettes are legal, there’s only one thing left to do with marijuana: Legalize It!”

In a separate statement, Phelps said he plans to toke reefers throughout his training leading up to the 2012 Olympics in London and added, “This time I’m going to win gold in every goddamn swimming event and smoke a fat joint on top of each medal stand.”