Harris-Walz Ticket First to Support Federal Cannabis Legalization

LOS ANGELES- Vice President Kamala Harris and Governor Tim Walz have made history by becoming the first major party presidential ticket to endorse the federal legalization of cannabis. This move aligns with the growing national support for cannabis reform, with polls indicating a significant majority of voters favoring legalization.

Harris, who has evolved her stance on cannabis policy, recently stated, “The War on Drugs was an abject failure. It’s time to legalize marijuana and bring justice to people of color harmed by failed drug policies.” Her legislative efforts in the Senate and as Vice President have consistently pushed for pro-cannabis measures.

Governor Walz complements this stance with a strong record on cannabis reform. He signed a bill legalizing adult-use cannabis in Minnesota and has been a consistent advocate for decriminalization and the establishment of safe consumption sites. In Congress, he sponsored a landmark cannabis reform bill that successfully cleared a committee.

The Harris-Walz ticket’s pro-cannabis position reflects the increasing public support for legalization. A Fox News poll found that 69% of voters support adult-use legalization, while a Pew Research poll showed that 88% of voters favor either medical or recreational legalization, with 57% supporting recreational use.

Leili Fatehi, Partner and Principal at Blunt Strategies, remarked, “The Harris/Walz ticket is undeniably the single most progressive ticket in U.S. history when it comes to drug policy reform.” David Culver, SVP of Public Affairs for the US Cannabis Council, hailed the selection of Walz as a historic milestone, stating, “For the first time, there will be a pro-legalization major party ticket.”

This development is seen as a potential game-changer in the federal cannabis policy landscape. The Harris administration is expected to build on the progress made under the Biden administration towards ending federal cannabis prohibition and addressing the societal impacts of past drug policies.