Wisconsin Democratic Candidates for Governor Push for Marijuana Legalization
In a social media campaign on April 20, several Democratic candidates for governor in Wisconsin advocated for the legalization of marijuana. The move comes as the state continues to lag behind its neighbors in terms of cannabis reform.
Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, one of the leading candidates for governor, took to Twitter to express his support for legalization. “Wisconsin is falling behind,” he tweeted. “Legalizing marijuana is about fairness, growth, and common sense. Illinois got $36 million in tax revenue from Wisconsinites in one year – we’re giving our neighbors millions every year by not legalizing.”
Rep. Francesca Hong, another top contender for the Democratic nomination, also used social media to push for legalization. Her “Weed for Speed” policy aims to establish a smart legalization program that would prioritize rural broadband development and repair the damage caused by decades of criminalization.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who is also running for governor, echoed the sentiments of his fellow Democrats. “Wisconsin is falling behind,” he tweeted. “Legalizing marijuana is about fairness, growth, and common sense. Outdated laws hurt communities and waste resources. As governor, I will legalize it and invest the revenue in schools, infrastructure, and small businesses.”
While most Republicans in Wisconsin remained silent on the issue, a few notable exceptions emerged. Brady Penfield, the head of the St. Croix Valley Young Republicans, pushed back against a statement from Democratic Socialist candidate Juliana Bennet, who argued that Wisconsin should join its neighbors in legalizing marijuana. “Actually, they should,” Penfield tweeted.
The push for marijuana legalization in Wisconsin comes as the state continues to struggle with outdated laws and a lack of progress on cannabis reform. With several Democratic candidates vying for the nomination, it remains to be seen whether the party will ultimately support legalization in its platform.
