US Support for Marijuana Legalization Reaches 70%
- Gallup polls show that a record 70% of Americans now support the legalization of marijuana, a number that has been growing since the mid-1990s. The increase is attributed to more states adopting legalization and the public’s preference for regulation over prohibition.
- The NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws) reports that support for cannabis legalization is widespread and bipartisan, with the highest support from self-identified liberals at 91% and Democrats at 87%. NORML emphasizes that these policies are working as intended and there is no ‘buyer’s remorse’ among the public regarding legalization.
- Despite the increase in public support for marijuana legalization, federal legalization remains a challenge. There were almost a quarter million cannabis arrests across America last year according to FBI data, and President Joe Biden has not been an ally of cannabis during his career. Advocates hope for further progress as more states like Ohio legalize cannabis and reduce arrest rates.
Record Support for Cannabis Legalization in US, Gallup Reveals
Gallup’s latest poll reveals a record-breaking 70% of Americans back the legalization of marijuana, following Ohio’s recent cannabis victory. Thissupport has surged over the years, from less than 30% in the mid-1990s to 50% in 2011, and now 70%.
Cannabis legalization gained momentum after Colorado and Washington led the way, with the positive outcome dispelling initial fears.
NORML, the oldest marijuana reform organization, welcomes this development. According to Deputy Director Paul Armentano, the rising support indicates there is no ‘buyer’s remorse’ with legalizing cannabis as more states adopt this policy. He asserts that legalization and regulation are preferred over the failed marijuana prohibition policy.
The support for legalization is diverse and bipartisan, with liberals showing the highest support, followed by Democrats. Armentano emphasizes that legalizing marijuana is one of the few issues both left and right voters agree on, demanding action from elected officials.
As more data trend towards legalization, federal legalization looks increasingly achievable. Earl Blumenauer, the outgoing Cannabis Caucus co-chair, aims for a vote on the issue before his term ends. He has dedicated 50 years to cannabis reform and insists that nationwide reform is inevitable but challenging.
Blumenauer emphasizes that federal partnership in this transition is essential for the safety and well-being of small businesses, veterans, and communities. With over 227,000 cannabis-related arrests across America last year, continued legalization efforts, like Ohio’s, contribute to reducing this number.
An intriguing development to watch will be the Senate’s decision early next year. Any bill passed there stands a good chance at the House and eventually the President’s desk. While President Biden has not shown strong support for cannabis in his career, advocates remain hopeful for further progress towards the new year.
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