As the November election approaches, a new series of polls reveals widespread support for marijuana legalization, rescheduling, and industry banking access among likely voters in three key presidential battleground states: Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.
The surveys, conducted by The Tarrance Group and commissioned by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, asked respondents about four marijuana-related issues. In each of the swing states, there was majority support for all of the proposed reforms, with varying levels of support.
The results come as observers await a statement from the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump, on a recreational legalization measure that will be on the ballot in Florida, where he resides. Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, has a more defined position on cannabis issues, having sponsored a comprehensive legalization bill in the Senate and calling for legalization in March.
The new polls suggest that either candidate could benefit from backing marijuana reform, particularly in battleground states. “Candidates who favor common sense marijuana laws and rules have a real advantage in battleground states and can make inroads with key voting blocs that are expected to play a critical role in deciding the presidency and control of Congress,” said Brian Herrington, vice president of external affairs for The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company.
The polls asked likely voters in battleground states about their views on four marijuana-related issues:
1. Medical cannabis legalization: Would you favor or oppose legalizing marijuana for medical use by adults with conditions that the medical community agrees marijuana can help treat?
2. Adult-use marijuana legalization: Would you favor or oppose legalizing marijuana for recreational use by adults over age 21?
3. Federal scheduling status of cannabis: Should marijuana continue to be listed by the federal government on the most dangerous drug schedule with substances like heroin, LSD, and ecstasy, which have no medical benefits?
4. Cannabis banking reform: Would you favor or oppose allowing state-licensed marijuana businesses to access traditional banking services in states where marijuana is now legal?
The results are as follows:
Michigan:
* Medical cannabis legalization: 83%
* Adult-use marijuana legalization: 64%
* Keep marijuana in Schedule I: 19%
* Cannabis banking reform: 67%
Pennsylvania:
* Medical cannabis legalization: 79%
* Adult-use marijuana legalization: 58%
* Keep marijuana in Schedule I: 14%
* Cannabis banking reform: 70%
Wisconsin:
* Medical cannabis legalization: 83%
* Adult-use marijuana legalization: 62%
* Keep marijuana in Schedule I: 20%
* Cannabis banking reform: 71%
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