Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) pointed out that cannabis reform could be a key issue influencing voters in the upcoming election, yet Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, has not emphasized it in her campaign, despite her past support for legalization. This contrasts with former President Donald Trump, who has taken a surprising pro-reform stance, backing measures like federal rescheduling and industry banking access while criticizing Harris's record as a prosecutor in California.
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Trump's pivot toward marijuana reform has raised eyebrows, with some like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD) suggesting it could be a strategic move to gain votes, particularly from younger and more progressive demographics. His campaign is also using this opportunity to challenge Harris's prosecutorial history, alleging that she incarcerated Black men for non-violent marijuana offenses—a claim some view as exaggerated but still politically significant.
Interestingly, Harris's campaign has not fully clarified her current stance on marijuana reform, even though she sponsored legislation to end prohibition while in the Senate. This omission has drawn attention from advocates who are calling for more explicit positions from both major candidates.
As marijuana legalization gains support in battleground states like Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, the issue is becoming more prominent. This dynamic presents an opportunity for both candidates to address cannabis reform more directly, potentially influencing key voter demographics, including younger and minority groups.
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