Kansas Residents Overwhelmingly Support Legalizing Marijuana for Recreational and Medical Use, Poll Finds
A recent poll conducted by Fort Hays State University’s Docking Institute of Public Affairs has revealed that a majority of Kansans support legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medical use. The poll, which surveyed 603 Kansas adults over the age of 18, found that 58% of respondents favor legalizing recreational marijuana, while 65% support legalizing medical cannabis.
The poll also found that support for legalizing marijuana cuts across party lines, with 63% of Democrats, 54% of Republicans, and 60% of independents in favor of recreational legalization. Similarly, 72% of Democrats, 59% of Republicans, and 69% of independents support legalizing medical cannabis.
The poll also asked respondents about their views on legalizing and taxing marijuana as a way to raise revenue for the state. A majority of 61% of respondents supported this idea, while 21% opposed it.
The poll’s findings come as Kansas Democratic gubernatorial candidate Cindy Holscher is highlighting her support for legalizing marijuana and calling out her GOP opponent, Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, for blocking medical cannabis legislation. Holscher has argued that legalizing marijuana could generate revenue for the state and improve public education.
Masterson, on the other hand, has expressed concerns about legalizing marijuana, citing potential risks to public health and safety. However, he has also expressed openness to discussing a limited medical marijuana program.
The poll’s results are significant, as they suggest that a majority of Kansans are in favor of legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medical use. The findings could have implications for future legislative efforts to reform Kansas’ drug laws.
