Why the Hell Isn't Biden Ending the Federal War on Cannabis?

[JoeOtterbein]

Daily Beast

Getting the federal government out of the “war on marijuana” is popular with both Republicans and Democrats. Why is Biden not keeping his promise to do it?

Ben Burgis
Published Jul. 13, 2022 8:00PM ET

Joe Biden and the Democrats are in deep trouble. The president’s approval ratings are in the sewer and all signs continue to indicate that his party will be pulverized this fall.

It’s not surprising. Biden enjoyed public support at the beginning of his presidency when he was actually doing things for the public (like economic stimulus and child tax credits). All of that’s a distant memory now. The president and his spokespeople barely even talk about the ambitious legislative proposals they introduced with so much fanfare in 2021. And gas and food keep getting more expensive.

Under these circumstances, you would think that the administration would be leaping for any action they could possibly take that lies in the overlap area of the Venn Diagram of (a) promises that Biden made during the 2020 campaign that (b) can be carried out by executive action (no need to get the often recalcitrant Democratic Sens. Joe Manchin or Kyrsten Sinema on board), and crucially (c), are extremely popular.

And yet.

snip

more at link

If Joe supported ending the "war", and Congress did it, we would ace the 2022 & 2024 elections.

[padfun]

1. I want that too.

I waited for 8 years during the Obama admin and nothing happened.

[Hekate]

28. Take it up with your Senator

[questionseverything]

34. At least Obama ordered it to be the last thing prosecuted

Biden needs to do an eo moving it off the schedule 1 list

[jmbar2]

2. Quit bashing Joe

He has bigger priorities right now, like dealing with fascism, Ukraine war, resurging pandemic, inflation, an attempted coup, global warming, defending women's rights, and holding onto the House.

The RWNJs are itching for something new to whip up their fans now that their favorite politicians are all implicated in the insurrection. Don't give them a new issue.

[JoeOtterbein]

5. I'm not "bashing",...

...I'm suggesting.

[Just A Box Of Rain]

7. Pure Biden bashing

For fuck's sake!

[Doc Sportello]

12. So pointing out facts is "bashing"?

Like calling facts fake news. Isn't that what the other side does.

[GoodRaisin]

17. No it's not. Did he or did he not run on this? nt

[Hekate]

23. I recall that he ran on "restoring the soul of America" after Trump. TFG left a lot of damage...

Like a withdrawal treaty with the Taliban that Trump wrote and that left Joe no leeway.
Like a SCOTUS that is now so far to the right we’ll be lucky if we have a soul left when they get done installing their theocracy. The SCOTUS issue alone is in process of undoing a century’s worth of women’s progress — and the foundational laws for that include LGBTQ+ rights, gay marriage, trans rights, contraceptive rights… maybe you didn’t know that?

So you and the others on this thread just go on telling us that Joe Biden doesn’t give a damn because your personal pet project can’t get thru Mitch McConnell’s Senate. Sure — it is all Joe Biden’s fault.

[GoodRaisin]

47. Yeah, and he ran on this too, no?

Please don’t put words in my mouth. I neither said or implied he “doesn’t give a damn”. Don’t assume because I weigh in on one issue that it is a “personal pet project” or that “I don’t know” about other issues. I don’t disagree with you on the Afghanistan withdrawal, or SCOTUS, or McConnell, etc…

Nobody said being president is easy. We still need to keep our promises. He did campaign on this issue, and the OP wasn’t bashing him by bringing it up.

[lapucelle]

190. No, Biden did not run on unilaterally ending the "federal war on cannabis".

It's Jacobin hack Ben Burgis who's putting words in President Biden's mouth.

Who benefits from a Daily Beast narrative (written by the same guy who wrote such tripe as "Bernie Sanders’ Successors Are More Woke Than Progressive" and "Neither Party Cares About the Working Class" ) that bashes Joe Biden for not "keeping promises" that he never actually made?

Cui bono?

Not Democrats

[GoodRaisin]

203. Nobody runs "unilaterally" on anything for POTUS.

Let’s have an honest conversation. We’ve already agreed that he ran on decriminalization. I’ll agree that the article was harsh, but, when you don’t do what you say, you set yourself up to be criticized for it.

[lapucelle]

204. So the answer to your question remains "No, Biden did not run on this."

[BlackSkimmer]

209. He had an ad in which he promised to decriminalize weed.

But, I guess that’s not “running” on it.

[lapucelle]

214. Candidate Biden promised to "work to to decriminalize marijuana".

Burgis claims that Biden promised to "end the federal war on cannibas" which is unworkable hyperbole.

Sorry, but I can't take a person seriously who falsely claims to be a professor at Morehouse College, whose only steady gig is at Jacobin, and who has published other potboiler crap at Daily Beast entitled, "Bernie Sanders’ Successors Are More Woke Than Progressive" and "Neither Party Cares About the Working Class".

[AntivaxHunters]

53. "Personal pet project"?

Weed decriminalization is an important issue.
People like me who can't use opioids due to prior addiction use weed for pain management.
Right now I could be tossed in jail for years should I decide to travel to say WY from Colorado for vacay because I took my pain meds with me.

Do you know, weed is one of the largest reasons why POC are incarcerated? This is a social justice issue and some seem to forget that.
One EO would decriminalize it and it's a very important and huge issue for young voters who are now the largest voting bloc.

Yup, this needs to get done & will get the vote out. What's not to love?

[TexasTowelie]

83. Which of the 30 doctors that you mention in your profile am I speaking with

and do the other 29 doctors agree with you?

As far as your concern about being tossed in jail for years because you crossed state lines with marijuana, then you need to make a decision. Which is more important, getting your MJ pain relief or traveling to Wyoming from Colorado for vacation? You're a health professional so you certainly have the intelligence to prioritize. The simple solution is if you don't want to get arrested for marijuana possession for crossing state lines, then DON'T cross state lines with marijuana--particularly if you value your professional licenses.

Meanwhile, feel fortunate that you are wealthy enough to even get to consider your hypothetical situation because I couldn't afford out-of-state vacations even when I was employed. Feel fortunate that you are working in a medical/health career considering that you admitted that you had prior addiction problems. The last person I knew working in a medical field that had addiction problems lost their DEA license and is running a gym now.

[Lordquinton]

91. Now respond to the second paragraph

[AntivaxHunters]

104. Awful response

As far as your concern about being tossed in jail for years because you crossed state lines with marijuana, then you need to make a decision. Which is more important, getting your MJ pain relief or traveling to Wyoming from Colorado for vacation? You're a health professional so you certainly have the intelligence to prioritize. The simple solution is if you don't want to get arrested for marijuana possession for crossing state lines, then DON'T cross state lines with marijuana--particularly if you value your professional licenses.

Nobody should be getting jailed for weed possession and that's the point. And it's a bit concerning you seem absolutely fine people are.
Do you know weed possession is one of the largest reasons why POC are incarcerated at much higher rates than white people? have you stopped to consider the social justice narrative that accompanies this? There's really no reason to not support weed legalization and or weed decriminalization. Zero.

Meanwhile, feel fortunate that you are wealthy enough to even get to consider your hypothetical situation because I couldn't afford out-of-state vacations even when I was employed. Feel fortunate that you are working in a medical/health career considering that you admitted that you had prior addiction problems. The last person I knew working in a medical field that had addiction problems lost their DEA license and is running a gym now.

I should feel fortunate? Personal attacks won't cut it with me and this has zero to do with anything. I'm sorry you're so upset that you need to project on to me and insult me. I'm also sorry that your take lacks class consciousness entirely. But hey! I'm not the one who is in the minority on this issue.

[TexasTowelie]

124. And an awful reply that is inconsiderate of the rights of others and plays the race card.

Nobody should be getting jailed for weed possession and that's the point.

No, the point is that people are supposed to follow the laws in the jurisdiction where they reside or where they visit--the same as the Brittney Griner situation in Russia. If you aren't willing to obey the laws in that jurisdiction then that is the risk that you choose to take. Otherwise, people can selectively choose to follow whatever laws they desire.

Even if President Biden issued an executive order regarding the federal prohibition against marijuana, it doesn't resolve your hypothetical travel situation if the state laws in Wyoming still prohibit marijuana.

Do you know weed possession is one of the largest reasons why POC are incarcerated at much higher rates than white people?

Yes, I know, but there are other questions that need to be asked along with that question. What are the reasons that the person is being incarcerated? Is it for simple possession, or are they street dealers, or involvement in a major crime syndicate? Were there also weapons or violence involved? Was there a traffic-related offense involved? Making a statement that the incarceration rate is racially motivated is meaningless unless the entire context of those arrests are evaluated.

Have you stopped to consider the social justice narrative that accompanies this?

Yes, and the same questions in my prior response also apply here.

There's really no reason to not support weed legalization and or weed decriminalization. Zero.

I'm certain that there are people that have been harmed or have relatives/friends harmed by marijuana consumers--that has happened in my own family and also in the families of two of my in-laws. It may be direct physical harm such as a traffic accident or it may be harm done to the family when people selfishly spend money on weed rather than on other necessities such as food or utilities. Even as a marijuana smoker, I wouldn't make a blanket statement saying there are zero reasons to legalize/decriminalize when there are obviously reasons that non-smokers may have that are as valid as smokers' rights. Drug possession is not a victimless crime.

By the way, I also know quite a bit about pain since I had my right leg amputated nearly two years ago. I will suffer from pain for every remaining day of my life. While the reform of marijuana laws would benefit me, I'm also aware that it could infringe on the rights of others.

But hey! You do you babe. I'm merely pointing out that this isn't as cut and dry as you suggest and that you may have not considered actual justice issues while you were making points about the social justice issues.

[betsuni]

126. +1

[inthewind21]

167. Bravo

[Calculating]

200. How the hell would legalizing mj infringe on the rights of others

It's literally a victimless crime if someone wants to get high after work to chill or treat their pain/sleep issues.

[TexasTowelie]

224. Is it a victimless crime if someone is spending money on weed rather than on necessities?

I think about the fights within my family and within the families of my two BILs, and it is apparent that there are victims. Pretending that others are not affected is denialism and a coping mechanism.

I also recognize that people have medical issues that marijuana may alleviate since I'm in that boat as an amputee. I suspect that there are a far greater number of people that are smoking solely for the purpose of getting high than there are people that have medical/sleep issues. It shouldn't come as a surprise that some marijuana users will rationalize circumstances to justify their behavior--been there, done that, and observed that behavior among other marijuana users.

I'll also point out that there are plenty of marijuana users who are consuming before they go to work. The potential to have "victims" is obvious, particularly in high risk occupations.

[Calculating]

230. Wouldn't all of that apply to alcohol, gambling etc?

Why is alcohol legal and not cannabis? Why shouldn't I just want to "get high" sometimes in my free time? Why is that anymore wrong than having some beers? Your arguments are like something I'd expect from a social conservative.

[TexasTowelie]

235. To begin with, don't insult me by calling me a social conservative

since I've proven my bonafides at this site with over 94,000 posts.

Second, you once again use the fallback of rationalizing your position by comparing marijuana with alcohol. Will you at least acknowledge that?

The facts are that any type of drug usage affects the people that associate with the users. Drug usage (including alcohol) is not a victimless crime despite all the claims to the contrary that I've heard over the 40+ years that I've been a smoker. I used to make the same arguments as you are using when I was younger, but then I woke up and acknowledged the harm that I caused along with the observations that I made outside of my personal experience. Recognizing and acknowledging reality is not social conservatism.

[Calculating]

237. Social conservative thinking has always been about limiting vices

To protect people from themselves. Banning alcohol, banning drugs or prostitution, burning books that give the kids impure thoughts, banning things that are seen as non family friendly, etc. This is all done in the name of the greater good, but limits freedom within our society. Personally I want more freedom and not less.

I bring up alcohol because it's impossible to correctly analyze the justness of cannabis prohibition without looking at the status of legal alcohol. How in the world is it right that the much more harmful drug is legal and socially encouraged, while the less harmful drug that comes from a natural plant is criminalized? I don't care about the greater good of society as much as what is right/fair. Doing everything in the name of the greater good is how you get dystopian nightmares like China where they're even limiting video games now. It's like they want everyone to be a perfect obedient robot.

[TexasTowelie]

239. LOL.

This is all done in the name of the greater good, but limits freedom within our society.

I had a colleague at work make a similar comment to me about 15 years ago when I was employed. That comment came from a conservative/libertarian so after your earlier remark about me the irony is amusing.

We aren't going to agree on this matter. My personal experiences and observations provide plenty of evidence that any drug usage has the potential to harm others; therefore, I can't rationalize it by stating that it is a victimless crime. I haven't read any comments in this thread that has shifted my opinion.

[Calculating]

241. Shouldn't people have freedom to grow and use a plant

Without the govt kicking in their door, shooting the dogs, and confiscating their stuff? How many people use worse drugs or alcohol because cannabis is illegal? How many young people have had their lives ruined because the cops caught them with a joint? The harm caused to society by prohibition of cannabis seems to be way more than what would result from legalizing.

Aside from that, I resent being told that I shouldn't have access to something that I greatly enjoy and have never had an issue using responsibly because "some people might use it before work or drive stoned"

[TexasTowelie]

242. More rationalization because of a resentment?

Pardon me, but I think that is how someone who is not a user would respond to the questions you asked.

At least we cut to the crux of the matter--this is about your personal liberties and freedom. The welfare of those who may be affected by the user's actions are irrelevant or secondary as long as the user's desires are fulfilled.

I'm not intending to be harsh with you. I recognize some of my past mindset when I read those questions and comments.

[Hekate]

243. Thank you for directing me to that info, TT! I didn't know the TOS allowed a consortium to post...

… as a person. Too late for MIRT, unfortunately, but I would certainly like to query someone about that.

[Maru Kitteh]

256. And, why would 30 doctors use an apostrophe on "doctor's"

where the sentence indicates plurality, not the possessive? Also, I have a difficult time believing 30 doctors share a DU account. That’s silly to me. It’s like something a person who has never actually known a doctor would make up. They’re not really big on sharing attributions, in my experience.

[Hekate]

276. Is there anyone we can actually ask about that?

It’s kind of disturbing.

[ripcord]

94. Either Congress or the D.E.A. can reschedule cannabis

I know the President can't do anything about Congress but I think he has some power over the Justice Department. There was an attempt at a petition to reschedule recently but it was dismissed in federal court after the D.E.A. opposed it. Maybe next time the President should direct them not only not to oppose it but to approve it.

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/court-dismisses-dea-marijuana-rescheduling-case-but-judge-says-cannabis-reclassification-may-be-coming-anyway/

[Emile]

112. Biden said: "As president I'll work to decriminalize marijuana!

Biden said, “As president, I’ll work to reform the criminal justice system, improve community policing, decriminalize marijuana, and automatically expunge all prior marijuana convictions.”

[mcar]

157. Did he say he'd do it by July 2022?

He's been pretty busy with saving lives and the economy, the war in Ukraine, etc.

He said he'd work on these things and I believe him. I also believe we've got many more important issues to contend with right now - like saving democracy by electing more Democrats in November.

This article is yet another attempt to suppress the Democratic vote in November, another chew toy for certain people to latch onto. Akin to the student loan stuff.

[Emile]

158. How long does it take to ask the DEA to reschedule weed?

[inthewind21]

168. SMH

Ask them and see.

[BannonsLiver]

160. No.

Hope that helps.

[GoodRaisin]

181. See response no. 69

Hope that helps you.

[BannonsLiver]

191. Oh. My bad.

I totally forget that he mentioned it…that one time in a TV ad. But yeah, sure, it’s totally the same as “running on it” (which implies it was a high .
priority.)

[GoodRaisin]

197. Uh huh. He "mentioned it".

That’s laughable.

I guess that’s better than pretending it didn’t happen at all.

[lapucelle]

185. No, Biden did not run on a promise of magically decriminalizing pot through an executive order.

Biden said he would "work to decriminalize marijuana."

Legislation has stalled in the Senate. Anyone who wants this done should be busy working to elect more Democrats

During his primary campaign, Biden was one of the few Democratic candidates who did not support federal legalization of marijuana for recreational use, citing concerns that it could be a “gateway drug.” But during the general-election campaign, he softened his stance, saying that the drug should be decriminalized and that individual states should decide whether to legalize it for recreational use.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2021/01/11/biden-war-on-drugs/

[GoodRaisin]

193. Come on. You know I didn't say that.

He did say he would work to decriminalize it. There are other actions he can take that are not waiting on the Senate.

[lapucelle]

202. Sorry, but that's a distinction without a difference.

Biden never promised unilateral executive action on this issue.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

When Ben Sturgis bellows

Why the Hell Isn’t Biden Ending the Federal War on Cannabis?

and then someone else wonders

...Did he or did he not run on this? nt

and

Yeah, and he ran on this too, no?

The answer is

No, Joe Biden did not run on this.

no matter how many times the question is asked.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Maybe Ben Burgis should contact the White House directly so they can take his invective under advisement.

And when Ben is through with that call, he might want to contact Morehouse College. Ben Burgis claims to be an adjunct professor of philosophy there, but he's not in the faculty directory.

Burgis' Patreon page is, however, active.

https://morehouse.edu/faculty-profiles-home/

https://morehouse.edu/academics/majors/philosophy/faculty/

[GoodRaisin]

207. Sorry, but it's not very convincing. He promised some action.

We’ll just have to disagree.

[lapucelle]

211. Glad it's finally clear that Biden never promised to unilaterally end the federal war on cannibis,

and that Jacobin hack Ben Sturgis has a troubling history of telling tales.

[GoodRaisin]

212. I'll look forward to the action he did promise.

[Hekate]

245. TY, lapucelle

[AntivaxHunters]

50. lol no it's not

[BlackSkimmer]

121. It's bashing to point out something he ran on?

Really?

[BannonsLiver]

159. He ran on legalizing marijuana?

[BlackSkimmer]

178. It was explained elsewhere in the thread.

Smh.

[BannonsLiver]

186. So he didn't actually run on it then.

SMH.

[BlackSkimmer]

208. Um, he had an ad saying he would decriminalize weed?

How is that not “running on it?”

[BlackSkimmer]

182. Here ya go.

From another thread, post number 3

https://www.democraticunderground.com/100216923430

[Hekate]

18. Nah, you're bashing, & so is the author of the article you quote

Good job, that!

[Violet_Crumble]

116. Article should be renamed 'Don't worry about democracy, we need legal weed NOW!!!!' n/t

[inthewind21]

169. Right

[Shellback Squid]

102. you are bashing

[Violet_Crumble]

115. It's "bashgesting' n/t

[betsuni]

120. Bashing.

[msongs]

11. hey joe's got time to go "visit" the saudis he's got time to keep campaign promises at home nt

[Hekate]

24. Ya think he'll get photographed waving a golden saber & caressing a lit-up crystal globe like TFG?

It won’t be a real Saudi trip unless he does that, right?

Or do you think he’ll be cold sober about the oil prices?

[iemanja]

52. When did he promise to legalize pot?

I never heard him say that.

[questionseverything]

76. He talked about decriminalization

[questionseverything]

25. It's literally a matter of a stroke of a pen

An eo to take it off the schedule 1 list would go a long way


We are paying for 40,000 people to be imprisoned for simple pot possession not to mention the terror the law inflicts on their children and families

[Hekate]

29. ###Error message

Last edited Fri Jul 15, 2022, 12:00 PM - Edit history (1)

[questionseverything]

31. If our democratic president would do things that are popular

We wouldn’t have to worry about the repubs getting back in charge

But you knew that didn’t you?

[Hekate]

38. That is hilarious, given the politics of this benighted nation

[questionseverything]

39. Over 70% of the nation want it legalized

Over 90% for medical mj

So basically everyone but dea agents

[Calculating]

201. Jesus

Even the Republicans mostly want it legal. This is low hanging fruit that would help Biden.

[questionseverything]

37. Eo don't expire just because the president changes

[tritsofme]

46. That's not true. A future president can revoke a previous EO, but it doesn't expire.

It’s also not true that Biden could reschedule by executive order, it would require a new rule, likely at the FDA, and would have to follow all APA processes.

[questionseverything]

74. It's the dea that decides and Biden clearly has authority to direct the dea

[Mariana]

251. That is false. Please stop spreading misinformation.

[fescuerescue]

253. No. EO's stay active until rescinded.

also it would be a good wedge issue to campaign against republicans on.

And it would fulfill his promise.

ANd it's a really good, common sense idea.

[fescuerescue]

252. Yes. But all those efforts are currently not successful

Legalizing weed would give him a quick win.

That would be nice.

[TexasTowelie]

3. Ending the war on cannabis is not going to impact the 2022 or 2024 elections.

However, continuing the Democrats are in disarray message is a yawner. I guess that the Daily Beast didn't have any other material to publish.

[JoeOtterbein]

6. We need to do it...

...not just because it would be a clear winning message and prove again that the idiot republicans can't agree to do anything good, but also for moral reasons too.

[TexasTowelie]

13. So do we have 60 votes in the Senate so that the bill won't get filibustered?

Biden can't do anything until there is a bill on his desk. While he can exert pressure on the Democratic senators, he doesn't have much influence among the GOP senators.

Sorry, but this is a weak attempt to take a pot shot (pun intended) at Biden. An alternative question could be phrased as "Why the hell isn't Senator ______ doing something to pressure colleagues to pass a marijuana legalization bill?" At least that question is more germane in that it is addressed to the people that could actually do something to fix the issue rather than blaming President Biden.

[In It to Win It]

15. There is some interest on the GOP side for changes on cannibis

I'm not sure if it's "10 senators" kind of interest... but there is some.

Some members of the GOP have played footsie with the idea.

Sure, Joe Biden can make a fuss about it but the Democratic senators need to be the ones to push a deal with the GOP. That work should go to the Democratic legislators.

[robodruid1]

16. Its not the 70's

Oklahoma, freaking red oklahoma has legal cannabis.

[In It to Win It]

21. I don't disagree

But some GOP senators will resist any legislation just for the sake of sake if resisting, just playing politics.

If I recall correctly, our very own Joe Manchin opposes cannabis legalization, so we don't even have our full senate caucus on board. I don't even think Jon Tester is on board with legalizing cannabis.

That can be a really big bipartisan push and it's extremely popular but we're stuck with a few folks who are stuck in the 70s.

ETA: I think Diane Feinstein is also opposed to legalization.

[Hekate]

35. WaPo article 4 years ago says she no longer opposes legalization

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2018/05/01/sen-dianne-feinstein-says-she-no-longer-opposes-legal-marijuana/

[In It to Win It]

42. I stand corrected then

I recall reading an article a few months back that mentioned she still opposes it. Maybe that was an old article

[Hekate]

30. What does your Senator say? Can they go up against Mitch McConnell?

[Doc Sportello]

14. You don't know that

Polls say it could help them. I don't see pointing out promises made are not being kept is Democrats in disarray.

[TexasTowelie]

32. Like most elections, the economy and financial issues will take priority over social issues.

Polls say a lot of issues could help Democrats. So where does legalizing marijuana fit in on the scale as far as getting potential votes? Does it rank above or below student loan forgiveness, child care tax credits, abortion rights, voters rights, having a job (a necessity to be able to afford weed unless you are dealing or growing your own)? When examining and comparing issues, I doubt that marijuana legalization is the #1 issue for most voters.

Finally, why blame President Biden when it is the fault of legislators for not giving him a bill to sign into law?

[Doc Sportello]

40. Like most elections there will be close ones

That could control who controls the House and Senate. Cannabis could get more voters, such as younger ones, to the polls. It doesn't have to be the number one issue for it count with some.

Blame Biden? You do know that presidents can lead on issues, even talk to legislators about bills. Read up on how LBJ got legislation passed, for an example.

[TexasTowelie]

48. So what proof do you have that President Biden isn't talking to the legislators about the bill?

And if not President Biden, perhaps VP Harris is having those discussions?

BTW, I could easily counter that cannabis legalization could also get less voters to the polls. If they are anything like myself, they probably would rather chill out or take a nap after smoking.

[Doc Sportello]

226. You're veering off topic

Which is Biden's promises regarding cannabis, which doesn't even include the topic of legalization. The fact that nothing has been done in regards to promises is the proof.

Here's an unbiased take on the matter:
https://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/promises/biden-promise-tracker/promise/1529/decriminalize-marijuana/

The House has voted, etc. but the take here is that it is stalled due to inaction at the top:
"Maritza Perez, a director at the Drug Policy Alliance, an organization that supports changing marijuana laws, said that Biden could order the Justice Department to deprioritize marijuana prosecutions or use his clemency power to release people serving time for federal marijuana offenses. Biden could also throw his weight behind the MORE Act, a bill that would remove marijuana from the list of scheduled substances under the Controlled Substances Act and eliminate criminal penalties for an individual who manufactures, distributes or possesses marijuana. The bill was introduced in May by Rep. Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y., and has 101 co-sponsors."

Some of these steps would be easy to implement, and have bipartisan support, which is right in Biden's wheelhouse. I wonder if his own beliefs on this topic are playing a role.

[TexasTowelie]

233. Do you have more current information?

The article you linked to is over six months old so it obviously wouldn't include more recent actions.

I do agree with the article regarding whether President Biden should use his political capital on legislation which will likely die in the Senate.

Meanwhile, there are more important events occurring than this legislation or implementing executive orders that will be rescinded the next time a Republican is president.

[questionseverything]

41. He could do an eo taking it off the schedule 1 list

Which is crazy anyway

[TheFarseer]

19. No way

This is a winner. This would give millions of people that don’t vote a reason to vote and maybe even sway a bunch of libertarians and moderates. Besides probably getting millions of people back their right to vote that would probably vote for us.

[questionseverything]

26. You couldn't be more out of touch

Mj, student loans and codifying abortion rights are all the young people talk about

[TexasTowelie]

43. I met up with a young person today.

Of the three topics you mentioned, the only one we talked about was marijuana and that was because I was procuring my next supply. Student loans and codifying abortion rights weren't discussed at all.

Perhaps you need to expand your base of young friends if the only things they talk about are mj, student loans, and codifying abortion rights. Do any of them talk about music, art, and physical activities (camping, hiking, biking, swimming)? Has any of those young people read a book lately or watched any movies? Have young adults given up video games?

Based upon the list you provided the young adults are more concerned about their social freedoms than politics which makes me wonder if they will turn out to vote even if their wish lists are granted.

When I think about it, it makes me wonder if mj, student loans and codifying abortion rights are all the young people talk about.

[questionseverything]

57. They are asking for things he campaigned on and can easily be moved in a positive direction

Direction

[TexasTowelie]

68. Yes, Biden can sign an executive order

and the next president can rescind the EO the day they are inaugurated. Not really a good way to run a government when the laws can change backwards and forwards at each election.

And if any Democratic or borderline voters are foolish enough to not vote for the Democratic nominees in 2022 or 2024 because of this one issue, then they should be reminded of the results of their purity tests in prior elections and why we are in our current predicaments.

[AntivaxHunters]

55. I'm not so sure about that

when a full 2/3rds support legalization itself.

This is from 2019, it's likely gone up even more since.

Two-thirds of Americans support marijuana legalization

Twohttps://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2019/11/14/americans-support-marijuana-legalization/

-thirds of Americans say the use of marijuana should be legal, reflecting a steady increase over the past decade, according to a new Pew Research Center survey. The share of U.S. adults who oppose legalization has fallen from 52% in 2010 to 32% today.

Meanwhile, an overwhelming majority of U.S. adults (91%) say marijuana should be legal either for medical and recreational use (59%) or that it should be legal just for medical use (32%). Fewer than one-in-ten (8%) prefer to keep marijuana illegal in all circumstances, according to the survey, conducted Sept. 3 to 15 on Pew Research Center’s American Trends Panel.

As in the past, there are wide partisan and generational differences in views of marijuana legalization. Nearly eight-in-ten Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents (78%) say marijuana use should be legal. Republicans and Republican leaners are less supportive, with 55% in favor of legalization and 44% opposed.

Majorities of Millennials (those born between 1981 and 1997), Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) and Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) say the use of marijuana should be legal. Members of the Silent Generation (born between 1928 and 1945) continue to be the least supportive of legalization: Only 35% favor legalizing marijuana, while 64% are opposed.

[TexasTowelie]

61. None of that information supports the position that people are more likely to vote for a

Democrat over a Republican if legislation is passed or an executive order is signed. I see minimal impact on any elections related to this one issue.

[AntivaxHunters]

65. People vote for who best represents them

And can you show me anything which says decriminalizing weed loses votes? No because it doesn't exist.

Welcome to the HeadCount's Cannabis Voter Project that lists candidates policies on weed https://www.cannabisvoter.info/

Also....

CNN-- Legal weed won big in the election https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/06/business/cannabis-election-win/index.html

[H2O Man]

81. Respectfully disagree.

It's very popular with young people, and absolutely motivates them to vote.

[dclarston13]

4. Cuz he old.

[Hekate]

36. Not funny at all

[Cha]

45. Stop Being an Ageist.

Focus!
Please Fight to Save Our Democracy💙 in 2022 & 2024!

[BannonsLiver]

166. "Cuz he old."

God help this country if this is our level of discourse. I guess any form of intelligible convo is quickly becoming out of style, replaced by sentences like “Cuz he old.”

The world LAUGHS at us.

[dclarston13]

261. Allow me to elaborate

First the original post was meant as a joke, but I forgot the punchline.
What I meant is that many people from President Biden's Generation have strong views regarding drugs in general. So his motivation to legalize any drugs is probably much lower than someone like Beto. Thats all I meant.

[Snarkoleptic]

8. Bob Marley had it right- Legalize It.

[Just A Box Of Rain]

10. It is Peter Tosh

[Caribbeans]

60. So did the Feds at one time - 80 years ago

wouldn't you know it was because of war

One of the worst things the Feds ever did was make the most useful plant on the planet illegal. Then they spread it around, to Japan for example.

Despicable. Really too bad those who gifted this nightmare upon us all can't be prosecuted - hard.

[Arazi]

9. +1 million

For the young voters, it matters.

It’s an easy no-brainer way to collect some portion of the younger voters AND some percentage of older voters sick of having to illegally hit up their kids (or grandkids) for some of their illegal stash

[JI7]

20. One has nothing to do with the other

If you care about this issue then focus on changing it but stop with the bs about how it has anything to do with elections.

[NNadir]

22. I question why, in the face of all the exigent problems before the world, this one matters.

I have very little patience for the idea that a recreational drug is all that important.

Personally I abhor the use of pot; which is not the same as saying I want people to go to prison for using it, but really in a time when the country is threatened, and, in fact, the planet is threatened with severe environmental degradation, is it that important.

Isn't there some other thing to bitch about?

[Hekate]

27. Reading thru this thread I get a strong whiff of bothsiderism, among other garbage....

It’s really aggravating.

[womanofthehills]

63. People are anxious about paying bills, higher rent, food, gas , covid

Marijuana takes down their anxiety. I don’t get why anyone would abhor use of a drug that helps so many. Maybe where you live makes a big difference - everyone I know in NM is into marijuana.

As far as environmental degradation, maybe peace talks need to start happening to prevent European countries from starting up their coal plants and big corporations need to be held accountable. In NM, we produce more wind power than any other state. So why are we reopening coal plants? Because PNM is selling our wind power to the states west of us for money.

[AntivaxHunters]

105. Thank you

Very well said

[inthewind21]

171. Ahhh

The "everyone I know" argument. And "everyone I know" will not vote for Trump so don't worry! How'd that work out?

[Calculating]

206. Yes, it is important to people who want it legal

Cannabis being illegal is completely unjustified, corrupt and based on racism. This is literal low hanging fruit here, legalize it and win a lot of support from younger demographics. There's no reason why we can't legalize cannabis and deal with the other important stuff at the same time. Also why do you hate the use of it? Do you similarly hate alcohol?

[NNadir]

210. This rote response is tiresome.

If I announce that brain cancer is bad for you, do I need to discuss and defend breast cancer?

I think it's trivializing serious issues like racism by saying that the desire to get high has any importance in connection with it.

In fact I'd say that one would need to be high to state that making pot laws go away would alleviate or eliminate racism.

It won't happen.

[Calculating]

215. You know how many black people are persecuted over cannabis?

Racism was literally the reason for it being made illegal, it was a way to go after black people, Mexicans, and anyone outside of the mainstream. Again, why are you even against it? It's a better and safer alternative to alcohol. God knows we need something to take the edge off lately with the disastrous state of our world. I'm 33 and fully expect to die in a nuclear war caused by climate change and resource scarcity at some point.

[Doc Sportello]

229. It probably matters to those incarcerated for pot offenses

In fact, Biden addressed that in the campaign but has not acted on it. Perhaps you think they are just bitching and shouldn't be listened to.

[NNadir]

236. I don't believe that anyone should be in prison for drug abuse, unless, of course, they kill...

...someone while doing dangerous things while high, only one example of which would be driving stoned, drunk or otherwise wasted.

On the other hand, this is quite the opposite of applauding drug abuse or pretending it's "normal" or NORML or something to be encouraged as if it were innocuous and without consequence.

Objecting to people being in prison for possession of drugs however is not the same as saying that this issue is the most exigent before humanity, or to imply that the President of the United States should focus his attention on it in the face of the other issues on this planet which should need no enumeration.

I'm an old man. I came of age in the era of sex, drugs and rock and roll. I certainly knew my share of stoners.

My generation is leaving a largely destroyed world. I have had no problem with my generation making love, as love not just faceless sex, but the rest of it strikes me as pure self indulgence. We are/were without a doubt, the most self indulgent generation ever to have inhabited this country. We should have and have had better things to whine about than the importance of getting high.

In short, we should have been more.

I will be dead soon enough, and what I think surely doesn't matter, but that said, that's my opinion, anyway.

I think history will not forgive us, nor should it.

[Takket]

33. " all signs continue to indicate that his party will be pulverized this fall. "

Bullshit.

I quit reading right there.

[PortTack]

44. Trashing this OP!

[Ohio Joe]

49. I smoke a lot of weed...

But this is not very high on the priority list for me.

[iemanja]

51. The central issue of our time

Who cares about democracy, abortion rights, voting rights. What really matters is getting high.

I can't think of anything I care less about.

[AntivaxHunters]

56. It's not only about getting high

And it's nice to know you don't care about people like me who have to use weed for pain management because we can't use opioids due to prior addiction.
Thanks....

[iemanja]

59. This is about recreational marijuana, not medicinal

which is already legal in most states. There are only four states where marijuana is fully illegal, and you don't need Biden to wave a magic wand to change state law. Nice try, but no sale.

https://disa.com/map-of-marijuana-legality-by-state

[AntivaxHunters]

62. Wrong

It's about both.
Your positioning here is awful. Right now I can be arrested for crossing state lines with weed.
Do you want more voters or not? Because decriminalizing weed is one way to get more voters. So why exactly are you against this?

[iemanja]

64. This is guaranteed to lose voters

There is a habit of people to believe themselves the barometer of all things political, and they rarely are.

[AntivaxHunters]

67. lol Decriminalizing weed will NOT lose voters

Where are you getting this from? lol

Quite the opposite.

CNN - Legal weed won big in the election
https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/06/business/cannabis-election-win/index.html

[iemanja]

70. We are talking about a federal election

not state elections. If you have some evidence that legalizing weed will make voters more likely to support Biden, then provide it.

[ripcord]

82. So what you are saying is that campaign promises don't matter after you get elected

[iemanja]

88. No, but how do you propose he decriminalize marijuana

absent congressional approval?

However, all campaign promises are not a priority for me, and this one isn't. I'm far more concerned about voting rights and abortion rights (which weren't promises per se but crucial issues that have since arisen). Your priorities are obviously different, which is your right. Just don't expect everyone to feel the same way.

[ripcord]

93. It doesn't require congressional approval

That is one way to go about it but it can also be rescheduled by the D.E.A which is under the Justice Department, guess who appoints the Attorney General who oversees the Justice Department and by default the D.E.A.?

https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/LSB/LSB10655

[iemanja]

192. I guess you'll just have to vote Republican

given how upset you are about it. I won't be doing that.

[AntivaxHunters]

106. Show me evidence that says it doesn't motivate voters

I showed you it does. Now you're wanting to move goal posts.
So how about it.
Show us all please where it says it hurts GOTV. You won't because you can't. It doesn't exist.
Even a majority of REPUBLICAN VOTERS support legalization.
Are you really wanting the Republican Party to be out front on a popular issues that a massive majority of American's support? Because that certainly harms us come elections, a hell of a lot.

[iemanja]

196. Are you seriously arguing that the stoner MAGATS

are going to suddenly vote Democrat if Biden magically legalizes or decriminalizes marijuana? Because that is some bullshit. You've shown people like weed. You haven't shown that it will motivate them to vote for a particular party or change their party vote. That would require it to be a top one or two issue for voters--and it would depend on voters voting based on issues, which they don't (Poly Sci research shows as much).

Your suggestion that the Republican party would be out front on legalizing drugs is laughable.

No, I don't have evidence to prove a negative. And as I started this discussion off, I don't give a shit about the issue. You can't force me to care about something that I don't. You aren't going to argue me into trashing the president because people can't get high, or to put it over voting rights, equal rights, and abortion rights.

[Sky Jewels]

97. No.

This is not 1982. The vast majority wants legal weed. The issue does indeed motivate a lot of people to vote.

[inthewind21]

174. You're using it now

So did and so DO I, for pain. Why is this the hill you want to die on when clearly, by your own admission, legal or not, your still using it? And newsflash, weed isn't the ONLY solution for alternative pain management. It's just the one YOU prefer. So stop with the pity party of "you don't care about me". THIS is the reason we're in this mess in the first place. ME ME ME and I want it RIGHT NOW, or i'll take my ball and go home! How's that worked out so far?

[ripcord]

54. Legal cannabis and students loans are becoming pipe dreams

But during the elections The President specifically said getting these things done were reasons to support him. I'm sorry but I am old fashioned and expect people to keep their promises or at the very least make a serious attempt at it.

[iemanja]

66. I'd like to see some evidence the President promised to legalize pot

because I never heard it. Also, as for student loans, he said congress should consider forgiving loans of $10k or less. He never promised blanket forgiveness.

[AntivaxHunters]

69. Here's a video

from POTUS Biden during his campaign

[iemanja]

72. Ok, tell me this

How can he change federal law without the authorization of congress?

[Lordquinton]

87. Hey, bring those goal posts back here!

At least admit defeat first before changing the subject.

[iemanja]

89. What am I supposed to admit defeat about?

I asked for evidence that he promised to legalize pot. Of course he didn't, but he did promise to decriminalize it. Now you don't seem to care if it's possible to do or not, so what are you complaining about?

My fundamental position was and remains that I don't give a shit about this issue. My priorities are not defeated because someone posted a campaign ad.

[Lordquinton]

103. Oh, it's the semantic game now

Yeah, some people, a lot of people actually, do care about this issue, and insulting and bullying the people you want support from doesn't help you to get them to support you. Perhaps you should reflect why you "don't give a shit" about the issue of PoC being disproportionally imprisoned for minor cannabis offences and how that impacts communities.

[betsuni]

111. ...

[inthewind21]

175. And there it is

"Yeah, some people, a lot of people actually, do care about this issue, and insulting and bullying the people you want support from doesn't help you to get them to support you. Pperhaps you should reflect why you "don't give a shit" about the issue of PoC being disproportionally imprisoned for minor cannabis offences and how that impacts communities.

2016 anyone. I mean that worked out awesome!

[iemanja]

188. Talk about twisting words

I care about mass incarceration. What I don't care about is if people are able to get high recreationally anywhere where it isn't already legal or decriminalized, which is in many states.
That comment about my not caring about racist mass incarceration is a dishonest one. It shows you have no intention of arguing in good faith.

You have every right to work to change the law at the state level. You don't have to wait for the President to bestow it upon you, especially when the legal means by which he could do so aren't at all clear.

So yeah, democracy, voting rights, and abortion rights matter more to me than recreational marijuana. Imagine that.

[AntivaxHunters]

109. As you were shown above

https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/LSB/LSB10655

Also, are you aware that the House has already passed a bill to decriminalize weed?
You're very much behind the 8 ball on this issue. A massive majority of voters support this and it's not close.
This is bipartisanship which doesn't come at the expense of the working class & poor. How often can you say THAT happens because it rarely ever does.

[iemanja]

194. That doesn't address the question of how it becomes law

Because we have another legislative body called the senate. And we have something called the filibuster. So you're pissed at Biden because the Senate won't approve the House bill? Is that it?

I'll fully admit to being "behind the 8 ball" on the issue. One doesn't tend to research what they don't care about.

[herding cats]

58. Right?!

Fuck the war on our local and global Democacy.

The War on women and gay rights to be fucking humans who live their own damn lives how they choose.

The war in Ukraine and the deaths and destruction there.

The global economy and the inflation eating at all of us.

Pay attention to my niche issue right this damn minute!! Which will still be dealt with on a state level even after it's legalized federally.

Sure, dude. This seems top tier. Nothing else is taking place here ATM. I get it.

[Calculating]

216. You know it's possible to multitask and pick the low hanging fruit

...

[LT Barclay]

71. I would say a lot has to do with support from the LE and intelligence communities

A lot of money flows into the war on drugs.

Plus it fuels the consistent right wing mantra of Democrats are soft on (fill in the blank).

[yaesu]

73. It make sense to do it, economic sense. Growers could start using banks instead of buying up

property keeping the prices out of reach for everyone else just to launder the money. Its time to do this. Make a hell of a lot more sense than letting the repukes rich tax gut go on.

[questionseverything]

80. Good point

[inthewind21]

176. May I suggest

You take a look at what ACTUALLY has to happen when it is legalized. It's nowhere near the cut and dry utopia you seem to think it is.

[yaesu]

179. lol, whatever nt

[YoshidaYui]

75. I will

smoke to that!

[JoeOtterbein]

86. And I'll....

...vape double back at ya! (we can't legally "smoke" medical cannabis here in PA, we have to vape it)

[BannonsLiver]

164. Boo hoo.

[AdamGG]

77. It's a win/win

Biden can say that he's still leaving it up to the states' discretion, but that it's time to remove the federal law over something that 20 states have chosen to legalize.

Keeping marijuana as a federal schedule 1 controlled substance, the same as heroin, is ridiculous. Biden is polling in the 30's and this is just the kind of thing which would give him a bounce. He could speak about it in a very clear, common sense way and the majority agrees with this.

[questionseverything]

248. Taking it off schedule 1 would be so easy

And build so much good energy

I don’t understand why he won’t grab the low hanging fruit

[SunImp]

263. It would definitely give us a boost

We need to keep up the pressure on Dem politicians and repug ones who can be convinced to vote in favor for this

[questionseverything]

264. To take it off the schedule 1 list doesn't require a vote

The president could sign an eo telling the dea to reschedule mj as a level 5 drug….if the whoever at the dea refuse, he has every right to fire them

Then the dea would have plenty of time to chase heroin, coke and meth dealers (as they should)

[Major Nikon]

78. It's not as simple as waving a magic wand

Biden isn't doing it for the same reason Obama didn't do it. The President doesn't have unilateral power to deschedule a schedule 1 drug, and even if he could influence the process there's no guarantee it wouldn't just move to a lower schedule and almost certainly remain illegal indefinitely at the federal level.

The far better remedy lies with congress. So the real question that should be asked is why isn't congress moving forward a bill? The answer is because it's not politically important enough.

[AdamGG]

99. If it's something that would be popular, then it's politically important

This is a high profile social issue that gets a lot of press. The timing now would be perfect to come out and make the Democrats the party of federally decriminalizing weed before the midterms.

It shifts the focus away from inflation and gas prices and things that Biden in actuality has no blame for, but that bring him down in the polls. If the Democratic party passed this through the House and Senate and Biden signed it into law on Oct. 10th, we would get a bump in the polls.

How can something be more politically important than that? And, it's the right thing to do. Currently, in California and Colorado and Massachusetts, all the people that are legally buying and selling pot are breaking federal law. It would be a positive position that would gain us desperately needed positive press to remove this hypocrisy and not have the government making criminals out of otherwise law abiding citizens.

[Major Nikon]

269. That's a question for Congress

All it would take is a bill to pass both houses and get signed by Biden. The fact this isn’t even seriously considered should be telling.

[questionseverything]

249. He can direct the dea to schedule mj correctly at level 5

[Major Nikon]

268. The Controlled Substances Act says he can't

He can direct HHS to reconsider the current classification, but he doesn’t have the power to unilaterally change the law or reschedule any drug.

[H2O Man]

79. Recommended.

I agree.

[Steve Canuck]

84. Take it from the Canadian, legalized weed is huge.

A federal drop on weed would create a massive industry. In the few short years its been out, theres practically a cannabis shop next to every liquor store. In 2021, weed is a 4.4 billion dollar industry, and expected to grow to 8.8 by 2027.

The amount of jobs and wealth generated in the U.S. would be insane, so insane that, if a Republican president, tried to kill it all, he'd likely be a one term president, political suicide.

This is a no brainer, the more time that cannabis is legal in the states, the bigger and more positive impact it will have, and the greater contrast it will create for dems vs repubs.

[FoxNewsSucks]

85. Legalize it now.

Nothing more need be said.

[iemanja]

90. How do you propose he do that?

FYI, he promised to decriminalize it, not legalize it.

[ripcord]

96. Have the D.E.A. reschedule it

[AdamGG]

101. Can this be done as executive action without Congress?

I'm unsure how this works. If so, then I believe it's a no brainer. It would let Biden be seen doing something strong and positive. He could clearly point out that it still leaves the decision about legality up to the individual states, but the federal government would be respecting the decision of those states that did choose to legalize.

[Major Nikon]

270. No

The President can’t change a signed law.

[iemanja]

183. By what legal means?

[ripcord]

184. It can be rescheduled by Congress or the DEA

That is according to the Controlled Substances Act.

[iemanja]

198. How can Biden do that?

That after all is the point of the OP: criticizing Biden because he hasn't decriminalized weed.
You might have noticed that voting rights and BBB didn't pass. What makes weed more important as a legislative priority to the extent it would break the filibuster or get 60 votes? And if it hasn't already, what can Biden do to change that?

I don't know what you are thinking of in regard to the DEA. Are you suggesting that Biden can reschedule drugs without congressional authority?

[questionseverything]

265. Yes he can

The dea is under Biden’s control, he has the responsibility to direct them

[Major Nikon]

271. It doesn't work that way

The President can appoint agency heads and department secretaries with the consent of the Senate. Beyond that it’s up to them, but even if he appointed someone willing to do it, they would still have to justify their decision via the rule making process which can and almost certainly would be challenged in court.

Again we get back to Biden can’t just wave a magic wand and make it happen. There’s a lot more to it.

[AdamGG]

273. It would probably be easier to get through the House/Senate than voting rights

The Republicans aren't going to pass voting rights because they know that if the game's not rigged, they lose. But, lots of their redneck constituents smoke weed too.

[betsuni]

95. A politician saying "I'll work to" do something isn't But Daddy Promised I Hate Daddy material.

What a horrible article. Is everyone five years old?

[brooklynite]

107. Perhaps it's not the top issue in his mind; or on that of the voters?

If you’re not going to vote because Abby den won’t let you get high pegally, maybe your priorities need to be re.evaluated.

[Act_of_Reparation]

232. Legalization seems rather popular.

https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/04/16/americans-overwhelmingly-say-marijuana-should-be-legal-for-recreational-or-medical-use/

As to whether it should be a priority given the circumstances... I mean, I don't think the Red Hot Chili Peppers should be a popular band, but here we both are.

[questionseverything]

267. So we shouldn't expect campaign promises to be kept unless they make the top of some imaginary list?

[brooklynite]

272. When did Biden or Pelosi or Schumer promise to legalize marijuana?

[Emile]

108. Come on Joe, it's on the DEMOCRATIC PLATFORM!

[Violet_Crumble]

110. Maybe because he's busy trying to end the war on democracy?

Just throwing it out there...

[Emile]

113. Is Joe on the Jan 6 committee?

[Violet_Crumble]

114. Are you for real?

I think prioritisation may not be a strong point here....

[Emile]

117. Yes, I just pinched myself, I am real! Prioritisation is

another excuse for not doing something that should have been done many years ago!

[Violet_Crumble]

119. Yeah, but I think there may be a few far higher priorities...

Two just off the top of my head:

1. Stopping the US from sinking into being an authoritarian regime
2. Reproductive rights for women


There's a few more. A solution to the Israel/Palestine conflict, perhaps? Maybe even the invasion of Ukraine? Or China flexing its muscles and threatening Canadian and Australian warships in the South China Sea?

A serious question here. In how many US states is it illegal to possess marijuana? Where I am (not in the US) it's decriminalized and it seems to work pretty well. I don't really see what difference there is between decriminalisation and making it totally lega...

[Emile]

123. We been hearing excuses for how many years? Please,

it's time to legalize it nation wide. NO MORE EXCUSES! It's on the Democratic platform and it's what the majority of Democratic voters want!

[AntivaxHunters]

125. Same excuse used for decades to block progress

for every issue imaginable.

The ERA, universal healthcare, wages, student loan debt, climate, ending forever wars, on and on.
And it's a huge reason why we lag behind the rest of the rest of the world outside of anything military, mass incarceration, student loan and medical debt, where we're at the top of the charts in.

It's time to get shit done. No more excuses.

[betsuni]

128. Since when is not having the votes an "excuse"?

What are you talking about?

[Emile]

132. What?

[betsuni]

133. Not. Having. The. Votes. Not. Having. Large. Democratic. Majorities.

[Emile]

135. What?

[betsuni]

138. You see, when a party doesn't have enough votes, legislature can't get passed.

[Emile]

139. Excuses

[betsuni]

141. ...

[ripcord]

155. It can be rescheduled by the DEA, Congress isn't needed

Read the Controlled Substance Act and stop making false statements.

[Calculating]

213. Exactly

All Biden needs to do is order the dea to reschedule cannabis from schedule 1. The dea is a federal agency under control of the executive branch.

[Violet_Crumble]

130. What's the huge reason you lag behind the rest of the world?

Sorry. I'm tired and probs not reading as well as I normally can. I know the reason why the US lags behind the rest of the world on just about everything worthwhile, and it's nothing to do with whether weed is legal or not. It's to do with how the society views themselves and feels a collective responsibility to each other. It's about a state where large corporations aren't regulated and are able to use workers as basically slave labour for short term gain, yet those workers are peddled propaganda that tell them that even though they don't earn enough to even put a roof over their heads and there's no parental leave, no annual leave, no universal healthcare, the US is far superior to socialist countries elsewhere.

I agree with you. There's so much shit to be done in the US that I wouldn't know where to start. But when I'm doing my to-do list of how to drag the US up to the standard of other countries, legalising weed's going to be down at about 20th position. It's not because it shouldn't happen or it's a bad thing, it's just because without a few other things happening first it's not going to happen at all....

[PatSeg]

189. Well said

[questionseverything]

266. Tell that to the 100,000 kids in foster care because their parents are in prison

Costing taxpayers tens of thousands of dollars per convict because

Some

Privileged

Person

Doesn’t think they are important

[AdamGG]

250. They're not mutually exclusive. Recategorizing weed from being a schedule 1 controlled substance

is a slam dunk and will boost Biden's poll numbers. Package it with being pro-choice and push the theme that we're the rational party of common sense battling fundamentalist maniacs.

[Celerity]

118. Simple. He is still an anti-weed drug warrior at heart. Everyone knew that when they voted for him.

When they tell you who they are, believe them.

Hard to believe anyone is shocked by this.


Biden Opposes Marijuana Legalization Because He’s From The ‘Reefer Madness Generation,’ Neil deGrasse Tyson Says

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/biden-opposes-marijuana-legalization-because-hes-from-the-reefer-madness-generation-neil-degrasse-tyson-says/

Neil deGrasse Tyson isn’t necessarily surprised that President Joe Biden is opposed to legalizing marijuana. He is, after all, part of the “Reefer Madness generation,” the astrophysicist said.

During a recent episode of his podcast StarTalk, Tyson brought on Harvard University neuroscientist Staci Gruber to talk about the intersection of cannabis science, policy and sports. They discussed why athletic leagues have largely opted to ban marijuana use—a rule that led to the widely criticized Olympics suspension of U.S. runner Sha’Carri Richardson this summer, for example.

Link to tweet

To understand the sports ban, it’s important to look at the broader origins of marijuana prohibition in the U.S., Gruber said. Despite the historic use of cannabis as a medicine, it was banned and demonized during during a period of hysteria driven by the 1936 propaganda film “Reefer Madness,” when the nation “really fell under this spell” that marijuana was dangerous and warranted criminalization. While many myths about cannabis have been debunked and there’s a growing scientific literature demonstrating its therapeutic value, the government—and sports associations—have stalled on enacting reform that reflects that reality.

StarTalk co-host Chuck Nice pointed out that while Biden has emphasized the need to follow the science when it comes to the coronavirus pandemic, the same can’t be said with respect to his marijuana policy position. The president remains opposed to federally legalizing cannabis. Tyson said that makes sense “because he’s the Reefer Madness generation—that’s why, that’s why.” Biden was born just six years after the cannabis propaganda movie came out.

snip

[Violet_Crumble]

145. Reefer Madness!

For some strange reason that was the first video I ever watched back when I first got the internet. And then I rushed off to send an email to the Spice Girls dictated by my 4 year old. Good times...

https://tubitv.com/movies/536572/reefer-madness-in-color

[Celerity]

147. Sweden has not been Tubi-blessed, lol

[Violet_Crumble]

148. Found it on YouTube!

That's so annoying when things get geoblocked

[Celerity]

149. +1000

[LymphocyteLover]

227. I didn't know this when I voted for him

IMO if Congress passes a bill legalizing or decriminalizing pot, he will sign it

[Celerity]

234. Decriminalising yes, he would sign, but not at all sure on full legalisation.

As far as not knowing, all one had to do was look at his multi-decade record.

Biden, once a warrior in the ‘war on drugs,’ may slowly retreat

The president-elect has reluctantly embraced decriminalizing marijuana, but he could struggle to change laws.

January 11, 2021

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2021/01/11/biden-war-on-drugs/

President-elect Joe Biden built part of his political career on being known as a fighter in the “war on drugs,” supporting legislation as a senator that set harsh penalties for some drug offenses. But as president, Biden could potentially oversee broad changes in federal drug policy, including how the government and law enforcement agencies view drug addiction and treatment and classify the use of marijuana.

Biden will take office at a time when the nation’s attitudes about drugs, particularly the legalization or decriminalization of marijuana, appear to be one area where there is relative, and growing, bipartisan unity. In an election that was otherwise defined by stark political differences, voters in both red states and blue states — Arizona, Montana, New Jersey and South Dakota — supported ballot initiatives to legalize the personal use of marijuana, while Mississippi voters legalized it for medicinal use. Along with earlier action by state legislatures or voters, 15 states have legalized marijuana, while 36 others have approved some form of medicinal marijuana use, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

snip

But marijuana remains illegal under federal law, leaving users and suppliers vulnerable to prosecution even in places where the drug is otherwise legally sold and used. The nation’s growing cannabis industry also faces hurdles in transporting its products across state lines and accessing the country’s federally regulated banking system.

During his primary campaign, Biden was one of the few Democratic candidates who did not support federal legalization of marijuana for recreational use, citing concerns that it could be a “gateway drug.” But during the general-election campaign, he softened his stance, saying that the drug should be decriminalized and that individual states should decide whether to legalize it for recreational use. As the general-election campaign progressed, Kamala D. Harris, Biden’s running mate and a former prosecutor, also advocated for the decriminalization of marijuana despite past opposition to legalizing it. During the October vice-presidential debate, Harris said a Biden-Harris administration “will decriminalize marijuana, and we will expunge the records of those who have been convicted of marijuana” crimes.

snip

[superpatriotman]

122. Has anyone given a clear answer yet?

Because it’s a very easy bureaucratic fix to a racist, anti-poor injustice.

Just do it, Joe.

[Emile]

127. Just excuses.

[betsuni]

129. How so? Since when have Democrats had very large supermajorities?

And no, Obama didn't. Four months and ten days for a bare minimum filibuster proof 60 votes.

[Emile]

131. What?

[Violet_Crumble]

134. Betsuni is referring to the filibuster...

Even if there was a great urge to pass legislation, there's not the votes to get it passed....

[betsuni]

136. Not. Having. The. Votes.

[Emile]

137. What?

[betsuni]

140. It's the way the government works.

[Emile]

142. It is called an excuse!

[betsuni]

143. How does a party get legislature passed without enough votes?

Republicans couldn't repeal the ACA because they didn't have enough votes. What does "excuse" mean?

[Emile]

144. Still making excuses!

https://www.democraticunderground.com/100216923430

[betsuni]

146. ...

[Emile]

150. Why did you post that?

[betsuni]

151. ...

[Emile]

152. You tube videos will not play on my outdated tablet.

What's this one about?

[betsuni]

154. What?

[inthewind21]

177. What?

[lapucelle]

205. What?

[Calculating]

217. He can do it at the executive level

...

[Emile]

156. I fully support President Biden, but a little

reminder of what is on the democratic platform is for the good of the party. Some are calling it bashing and I don't get it.

[inthewind21]

180. What?

[MineralMan]

161. I suspect it's because he has lots of truly important shit to deal with.

Meanwhile more and more states are legalizing recreational use or expanding their medical use laws. Some, of course, are not doing that.

Bottom line is that there are far more important things for President Biden to be dealing with. I suggest we let him deal with those things and work in our own states on legalization.

Finally, I do not believe that this issue will be the deciding one in either election. Nope.

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

173. Excactly

I live in a state which legalized pot 9 years ago.

As such I see many more issues of national importance.

[Calculating]

219. Yeah

Because you've got yours. What about those of us in red states who would like to see a bit of progress on the issue?

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

231. I got mine?

Been nearly thirty years since I smoked pot.

Though I did vote to legalize it there are higher priorities in my opinion.

[Emile]

221. So democrats in red states can go pound sand because

your blue state legalized it nine years ago. Thanks for your support.

[MineralMan]

223. Not my blue state of Minnesota.

Elect more Democrats!

GOTV!

[PatSeg]

187. Yep, it's called priorities

And Biden's got 'em.

Who on earth is so shallow at this critical time in history to believe that federal legalization of marijuana should be a high priority? Being President is truly a thankless job.

[Calculating]

218. It needs to be fixed at the federal level though

How will it make sense when probably 2/3 of states have it legal and the federal government still keeps it illegal schedule 1? What about those of us stuck in non legal states that use the federal law as an excuse to keep it illegal? I can't just move to another state, I have a job and stuff.

[MineralMan]

222. The answer to that and to everything else is

to elect more Democrats, both in Congress, and in state legislatures and local offices. If we do that, you'll get what you want with regard to cannabis and everything else.

Simple.

GOTV!

[Peacetrain]

162. Of all the things in the world to hard focus on.. this is not one of them

Seriously..

[Calculating]

220. So it just never gets fixed?

Cannabis prohibition is a corrupt racist abomination.

[48656c6c6f20]

163. I think he can squeeze it in between

The fucking world is burning and I'm so poor I can't buy groceries. But definatley before the world is going to end because we're still using fossil fuels.
And remember he's giving out free Heroin according to the right, so there's that

[Mysterian]

165. Rational drug laws?

Too much to ask for, apparently.

[Demsrule86]

170. Trashing...I am sure if we make enough noise about this,

we could siphon off enough Democratic votes to allow the GOP to win the midterms...voters are demoralized and seem to believe that nothing will ever help in my experience. And like all articles negative to the president or Democrats it has been shared extensively. Of course, Republicans will immediately legalize weed They will likely also make abortion illegal in all states, end Medicare and Medicaid and impose a fascist government ultimately.

I mean with such enormous majorities(50 50) it should have been done by now. Seriously, this post should be self-deleted. It serves no purpose other than to turn voters against a Democratic president. And honestly, the lack of support for our leaders is why we can't have nice things like decent health insurance and perhaps in the end a Republic.
it surely will not encourage our voters ahead of the midterm. Of course, being but a mere woman with three daughters, I have more pressing issues than the legalization of weed. I am concerned with civil rights for women which includes but is not limited to abortion rights and contraception. In fact, one can get weed in Ohio legally. In any case, I find this post reprehensible and thus will trash it. Have fun and all bashing Biden ahead of the midterms.

[USALiberal]

172. Should be a low priority, many others more important

[Mysterian]

254. Justice a low priority?

There should be no higher priority than justice for the people.

[Calculating]

195. No idea why, it's absolutely maddening

Such easy low hanging fruit to make our country better and win support from young people.

[LymphocyteLover]

228. I think if Congress passes a bill legalizing or decriminalizing pot, he will sign it

Congress is the problem

[57sneirno]

199. He is likely working on it, but from behind the curtain.

Kamala is also an enthusiast, so we should all relax. It will happen.

[RANDYWILDMAN]

225. Like in Oregon, no worries here

They do need to relax the federal laws, so Weed can have banks involved and get credit. As a cash only business they are a target for robbery.

[gulliver]

238. If you show disrespect for President Biden, it encourages disrespect for him.

His name shouldn't be appearing in a "Why the Hell..." sentence. It's rude and diminishing of him.

[Voltaire2]

240. This generation of Democrats leaders

Basically learned their political mindset in the 80’s and 90’s and generally cannot adjust.

This issue has been sitting there for a long time, it s popular across political tribes, and the Democratic Party refuses to own it and use it.

It’s just stupid at this point.

[treestar]

244. Where's the bill from Congress that he is failing to sign?

This is pure Biden bashing.

[867-5309.]

246. He doesn't need a bill

He can deschedule cannabis from Schedule I and pardon every federal prisoner serving time for non-violent weed offenses himself.

[treestar]

257. What are his reasons for not doing that?

If there is a reason. Maybe it has to do with consideration of all voters, rather than a small minority for whom THIS is the issue they stake their life on?

[867-5309.]

259. That's a damn good question

He campaigned on it.

In a campaign ad that hit YouTube seven days before the 2020 election, Biden said, “As president, I’ll work to reform the criminal justice system, improve community policing, decriminalize marijuana, and automatically expunge all prior marijuana convictions.”

And it's popular

According to a Gallup poll last fall, 68 percent of Americans said that they wanted to go beyond Biden’s promise. They want full federal legalization of the recreational use of marijuana by adults. The kinds of big dramatic steps in that direction that Biden promised would be attention-grabbing and base-mobilizing (it has 83 percent support among Democrats)—but best of all it wouldn’t even be a potent issue for mobilizing conservative voters.

[Emile]

255. Biden bashing Biden

[treestar]

258. So how is he not doing that?

Or maybe it's lower on the list of priorities right now?

[Emile]

260. When do you think he'll move it up? In his

second term? Or never? He did promise it and it's not bashing to remind him of his campaign promise.

[ecstatic]

247. I agree. End the war NOW, fire Garland, and hire a

liberal black woman as the replacement AG. She'll know what to do.

BTW, I say this as someone who HATES smoke and never inhaled (despite people trying to force me to). I also have some cousins who I believe developed severe mental problems from (contaminated??) marijuana. If it were legalized, people would no longer have to risk their lives by consuming unregulated street products. And then there's the prison industrial complex / mass incarceration issue that might potentially be addressed as well. A win win.

[budkin]

262. Careful, this post will get deleted

You can't criticize Biden!

[AdamGG]

274. For all of you who posted that this issue isn't politically important, that it's a low priority...

Look at the response that a thread on this topic gets. If the Democrats could change federal marijuana laws it would get huge press and everyone would be talking about it. It's a made to order issue to change the narrative and get positive press and a bounce in the polls.

[JoeOtterbein]

275. +1000! nt

[JI7]

277. If it was a big issue than Beto O'Rourke would have won the nomination . Also he IS running for

Governor . If you claim it's a big issue then he should win easily .

[AdamGG]

279. Who was the last 3 term Congressman to win the Democratic Presidential nomination?

Your point isn't serious. That one issue isn't going to supersede all other factors about a candidate. That doesn't mean it's not a winning issue and also, Beto running as a candidate that supports that issue isn't the same as Biden being the one that actually accomplishes it.

[Emile]

278. +2000