With the presidential elections in the United States just a few weeks away, both candidates and voters are gearing up for the final stretch. During the recent presidential debate in Philadelphia, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump shared their thoughts on several issues, though marijuana legalization was notably absent from their discussions. Despite differing views on many subjects, this is one area where both candidates may agree.
This election could be pivotal in changing the nearly century-old federal ban on marijuana use. Currently, 24 U.S. states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana, imposing taxes on its sale akin to alcohol. In addition, 7 states have lifted prison sentences for possession of small amounts of marijuana. Overall, 38 states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws for its medical use.
According to a survey by Gallup, approximately 70% of American adults believe that marijuana should be legalized.
Kamala Harris's Stance
Kamala Harris's stance on marijuana legalization has evolved over time. In 2019, she introduced a bill in the Senate to decriminalize marijuana federally. However, there was a time when she opposed it. During her 2010 bid for California Attorney General, she opposed legalization. But in 2019, as a presidential candidate, she supported it and even admitted to using it herself. She has called for pardoning those jailed for marijuana use.
Donald Trump's Stance
Donald Trump's stance on marijuana legalization has always been ambiguous. As president, he neither clearly supported nor opposed it. However, he recently voiced support for legalizing marijuana in Florida. He wrote on Truth Social, 'It's time to end the unnecessary process of sending people to jail for small marijuana offenses.' He also mentioned that if reelected, he would promote research for the medicinal use of marijuana and reclassify it as a 'Schedule 3' drug.
It will be interesting to see what decisions the new administration will make regarding marijuana legalization post the November 5 election.
