Cannabis reform is making its first waves in a national forum this election cycle. Former cop Vice President Kamala Harris is adamant about freeing weed prisoners. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump seems to have warmed up to the cannabis plant as well. These are sentiments echoed by American voters. Turns out, no matter the party preference, voters agree that cannabis needs federal reform.
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Survey data from Ranger Research Partners polled 1000 voters in the battleground states of Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan. These are locations where either presidential candidate could win in any given election year. About 33 to 34 percent were from each state, and more than 200 oversample respondents in Florida. A majority earn about $75k yearly with less than a college degree.
Those surveyed supported cannabis regulation from multiple angles, for the most part. 43 percent of those surveyed voted for Biden in the 2020 election, and 41 percent chose Trump. The respondents were 78 percent White, nine percent Black, four percent Hispanic, and 4 percent “other.” As for political leanings, 37 percent of these swing state voters identify as conservative, 30 percent are independent, and Democrats make up 33 percent.
“Every group in every region is in favor of legalizing medical marijuana by at least 75 percent. Legalization for adults 21+ enjoys supermajority support among almost all demographics, including moderates and persuadable voters,” the research report read.
The report shows agreement on more than legalization. Surveyed voters overwhelmingly disagreed (82%) with federal scheduling, and 71 percent felt “strongly” about it. There was also a regard for medical cannabis as an affordable healthcare alternative (84%). Age limits are desired across the board, with 62 percent supporting legalizing weed for those over 21 and 73 percent wanting a firm age limit.
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This was a small group from a valued voter pool, which amplifies the value. Swing state voters have earned that name by changing elections as quickly as a pendulum swings. If this group supports cannabis legalization, rescheduling, and medical access, it will likely gain the attention of presidential candidates. As America rounds the corner to election season, cannabis reform has maintained its space in the conversation.
