Has marijuana become a political football?

Almost 90 percent of the country's population, especially younger voters, believe that alcohol should be legal in some form. Which party will achieve this goal?

The presidential election is heating up and both parties are grappling with demographic changes and a tight race. Plus, 41 million new Gen Z voters will be eligible to vote and they see things differently than baby boomers. One big issue is causing heartburn for at least one side…has marijuana become a political football?

RELATED TOPICS: Government has until November to help veterans

Data shows that 85-89% of the country believes cannabis should be legal in some form. Florida went against the governor to put recreational marijuana on the ballot, raising $60 million for the governor's team that raised less than $100,000. The biggest problem, however, is Generation Z turning away from alcohol and turning to weed. To them, it's like buying booze, and they don't understand why old politicians are so resistant to something that's proven to be a medical aide. While it takes a back seat to voters' concerns about the economy, public safety, and democracy, it will still play a role in influencing millions of votes. And the party that gets it across the finish line will be a hero.

The current administration has been slow to act, and it was not until the election year that significant progress was made. Following recommendations from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the American College of Physicians (ACP) have moved the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to follow suit and reclassify cannabis to Schedule III of hazardous substances based on science, showing it has medical benefits and is classified like ibuprofen. But the late start is painful, with Republicans throwing obstacles in the way while the public (90%) and the medical community have taken a very public stance. The Biden administration may have waited too long to secure this before the ballots drop. Vice President Harris, who has been a vocal, staunch opponent of legalization, has changed course and embraced the reclassification and the potential benefits for patients, veterans, and voters.

RELATED TOPICS: Science says medical marijuana improves quality of life

Republicans are pulling out all the stops to prevent the process from passing at all. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-KY), a longtime critic, has allowed votes to halt the process and allowed lawmakers to request that the DEA halt, slow or delay the process. In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, House Republicans said something is fishy if the process cannot move forward at its usual pace. Part of the policy shift is the overwhelming support of major medical associations. Republicans are pushing policies that are clearly against the will of the public, which is a bit confusing if you want to win.

In addition, Florida Gov. DeSantis has launched a frontal attack despite donations from some industry figures. Although he has dropped out of the race, DeSantis still likes to be in the spotlight. Speaking at a Florida sheriffs' conference about legal marijuana, he was a bit loose with the facts, especially about its success in Colorado. DeSantis has confused voters and patiently explained that his nanny-state philosophy is best and that the will of the voters should be preferred over his personal beliefs.

The electorate has demonstrated its will through its purchasing power. Illinois, a key state, has already sold over a billion dollars worth of marijuana this year. The next 100 days will be critical for the cannabis industry and voters' rights.