News Americas, New York, NY, September 16, 2024: Although Donald Trump is a tough guy, he is now embracing another heady issue that could provide a boost in the upcoming election: the legalization of cannabis. After years of avoiding the topic, the former president recently announced his support for a number of pro-cannabis policies, including backing the legalization of recreational marijuana in his home state of Florida.
Marijuana legalization is widely popular across party lines, with more than two dozen states allowing recreational use. However, she has particular appeal among key groups of Democratic voters Trump wants to attract, such as black men and voters under 35. A 2022 Pew Research poll found that 61% of black men support legalization.
While not a major issue for most voters, Trump’s shift on cannabis could make his candidacy more attractive to certain groups that could prove decisive in a close race. He fits a broader trend in his populist policies, including support for cryptocurrencies and eliminating tip taxes, which could help him win marginal but significant support.
“Are you looking at 10 percent of the population or voting? No, I don’t think so,” said former GOP Sen. Cory Gardner of Colorado, who often discussed cannabis policy with Trump during his time in Congress. “But are you looking at a marginal factor that can make a difference in a tight state? Yes, I think you could argue that there are enough.”
Democratic pollster Celinda Lake noted that Trump’s new stance on cannabis may resonate with a different cross section of voters, including those who are disengaged from politics. “Cannabis is very, very popular with young people,” Lake said, citing a 2023 poll showing that two-thirds of voters aged 18 to 25 support easing federal restrictions on cannabis. She added that Trump’s position could help him tap into Vice President Kamala Harris’ lead among young voters, particularly young blacks.
Trump has now publicly backed President Joe Biden’s efforts to ease federal marijuana restrictions and said he would vote for Florida’s ballot initiative to legalize the use of cannabis for adults. He also expressed support for federal legislation that would allow states greater control over legalization and expand banking access for cannabis companies.
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