Kamala Harris has made headlines by pledging to fully legalize recreational cannabis at the federal level if elected president.
This marks a significant shift, as she is the first presidential nominee to take such a clear stance against cannabis prohibition, emphasizing the need to help Black men disproportionately affected by the war on drugs profit from the industry.
Experts have mixed feelings about the implications of this announcement. Vince Sliwoski, a cannabis law attorney, appreciates the messaging but notes that legalization cannot be enacted solely through executive orders.
Similarly, Griffen Thorne, another cannabis attorney, suggests the timing of the announcement—just weeks before the election—indicates a strategic move to engage Black voters, who have shown declining support for Harris compared to Biden.
READ ALSO: Bethany Hamilton’s Nephew Andrew Dies At 3 After Drowning Incident
Support for cannabis legalization is growing across the U.S., making Harris’s stance politically astute.
Cat Packer, a drug policy expert, highlights the importance of creating legal cannabis markets that include provisions for Black men to benefit from the industry.
She stresses the need for social equity in cannabis policy, aligning with Harris’s promise to address historical injustices.
Harris’s proposal sets her apart from both her opponent and her predecessor. While Biden and Trump have expressed varying levels of support for cannabis reform, neither has made legalization a priority.
Biden’s efforts, including some expungements, have been criticized for lacking follow-through, while Trump’s past associations with anti-cannabis policies raise skepticism.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Harris’s pledge, challenges remain. Even during Biden’s presidency, efforts to pass comprehensive cannabis reform have stalled, often due to internal disagreements within the Democratic Party.
Legislative efforts like the More Act, which Harris co-sponsored, aim to create equity provisions but face hurdles in Congress.
READ ALSO: Jay Cutler Allegedly Tried to Flee DUI Scene After Offering Driver $2K
Industry reactions to Harris’s announcement are mixed. Some view it as another political maneuver, while others see it as a potential step forward for comprehensive reform.
Supporters like Bryan Gerber hope Harris’s previous advocacy for cannabis will translate into meaningful legislation if she is elected.
Ultimately, the success of Harris’s promise hinges on congressional support and the ability to navigate the complexities of cannabis legislation.