As Super Tuesday fast approaches, I decided to take a look at the influence of marijuana on the voters in the “SEC” states.
Most of the Super Tuesday states are historically red states, and while that might be true today, many of these states are considering passing laws in favor of medical marijuana. Alabama, Georgia and Texas are considering legislation. Others, such as Vermont and Massachusetts, already have medical marijuana and now are considering recreational. Of course, Alaska and Colorado have recreational use.
So, let’s look at the Republicans first. Donald Trump is leading in the polls in every Super Tuesday state that has passed or is considering medical or recreational marijuana. Surprised? Mr. Trump is on record supporting states rights. While he doesn’t favor federal legalization, his pro-states rights just might be enough to fend off his competitors. Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz are both against medical marijuana.
I ask this question to the candidates, “How do you plan on winning an election if 58 percent of the voters disagree with you?” While I am not saying that the economy, protecting our homeland, as well as foreign policy are not as important for the voter to think about, I am saying that when we go to the voting booths in November, there is a chance that up to 20 states will have ballot incentives for medical or recreational marijuana. How do the candidates except to have someone vote yes for marijuana and then vote for someone who doesn’t support marijuana?
The Democratic side of this is a much easier question to answer, as both Hillary Clinton and Sanders are in favor of states rights. Sanders has proven to be out in front on this issue, submitting the “Ending Federal Marijuana Prohibition Act” in November. Sanders is leading in Massachusetts and Vermont which are both considering recreational marijuana.
Overall, if the Republicans really want to separate themselves from each other and continue to bring new voters, and younger voters out, marijuana just might be the ticket!
David Dinenberg is the CEO of Kind Financial
