Kansas Residents Overwhelmingly Support Legalizing Marijuana for Recreational and Medical Use
A recent poll conducted by Fort Hays State University’s Docking Institute of Public Affairs has found that a significant majority of Kansans support legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medical use. According to the survey, 58% of respondents favor legalizing recreational marijuana, while 65% support legalizing medical cannabis.
The poll also found that a majority of Democrats, Republicans, and independents support legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medical use. Specifically, 63% of Democrats, 54% of Republicans, and 60% of independents support recreational legalization, while 72% of Democrats, 59% of Republicans, and 69% of independents support medical legalization.
In addition, the survey found that 61% of respondents support legalizing and taxing marijuana as a way to raise revenue for the state, while 59% of adults say they are highly or somewhat likely to vote for political candidates who support legalizing medical cannabis.
The poll results come as Kansas Democratic gubernatorial candidate Cindy Holscher is highlighting her support for legalizing marijuana and calling out her GOP opponent, Senate President Ty Masterson, for blocking medical cannabis legislation. Holscher has pointed out that despite the popularity of marijuana legalization, Masterson has consistently opposed it, citing concerns about gang activity and the potential risks to children.
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has also expressed support for legalizing medical marijuana, and the state legislature has held numerous hearings on the issue. However, efforts to pass medical cannabis legislation have stalled in the past, with some lawmakers expressing concerns about the potential impact on the state’s drug laws and the need for further research.
Overall, the poll results suggest that Kansas residents are overwhelmingly in favor of legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medical use, and that political leaders who support this policy change may have an advantage in the upcoming election.
