US Cannabis Industry ‘Thrilled’ at Choice of Pro-Cannabis Democratic VP Candidate Tim Walz
Kamala Harris Picks Cannabis Advocate Tim Walz as Running Mate for Historic 2024 Campaign.
Despite the 60-year-old political veteran appearing popular with voters, with past polling suggesting higher approval ratings than his Republican counterpart, JD Vance, Walz is a relative unknown in the US.
The two-term Governor of Minessota has, however, built somewhat of a following on the online left for his action on passing progressive policies, not least in regards to cannabis.
With Biden’s administration setting the stage for cannabis reform to play an important role in this election campaign, his outspoken support of cannabis reform means this is the first time in history that two pro-reform candidates have shared the same ballot.
In light of this historic choice, the cannabis industry has reacted with widespread support and positivity in regards to Walz.
Co-CEO and Co- Founder of the cannabis distributor Nabis, Vince Ning, said: “Much of the industry is going to benefit from Kamala Harris’ running mate pick of Governor Tim Walz, who has a long history of supporting cannabis reform and in 2023 signed the bill legalizing the recreational cannabis market in Minnesota.
“At Nabis, we are particularly encouraged by how Minnesota has regulated the hemp market by limiting synthetic cannabinoids to categories like edibles and topicals while creating a ceiling on dosage. By supporting the regulated cannabis market first and foremost, the Walz administration is supporting safe access to clean and tested cannabis for the public while expanding opportunities for the licensed businesses operating in Minnesota.
“This pairing of Harris and Walz marks the first time both candidates of a major party presidential ticket are pro-cannabis reform, which we hope indicates that rescheduling, safe banking, and further destigmatization are not only possible but are quickly becoming inevitable.”
Blunt Strategies’ Partner and Principal, Leili Fatehi, mirrored this sentiment, stating: “We are thrilled to learn that Vice President Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.
“Governor Walz has championed justice and equity throughout his tenure. Under his leadership, Minnesota achieved a historically progressive policy agenda, including a nation-leading framework for cannabis legalization.
“His ability to understand and address the sensibilities of voters in middle America is unparalleled. He recognized that Minnesotans were ready for, and would embrace, a progressive, justice-oriented, and anti-monopolistic approach to cannabis legalization. This vision and foresight are precisely what we need as federal policy undergoes the significant changes we anticipate.
“Governor Walz has demonstrated a deep commitment to creating a fair and equitable cannabis market in Minnesota, and we are confident that his leadership will help guide national cannabis policy toward a more inclusive and just framework. His ability to navigate complex issues and bring about meaningful change will be invaluable as we work toward comprehensive federal cannabis reform.”
David Culver, SVP of Public Affairs for US Cannabis Council, added: “Kamala Harris’ selection of Governor Tim Walz as her running mate is a historic milestone for cannabis reform. For the first time, there will be a pro-legalization major party ticket.
“The US Cannabis Council is confident that a Harris Administration would continue to build on the recent progress made by the Biden Administration toward ending federal cannabis prohibition and addressing the societal impacts of the drug war.”
VP of External Affairs and Deputy General Counsel for Dutchie, Bryan Barash continued: “Governor Walz has been an outspoken advocate of cannabis legalization in Minnesota, and with Vice President Harris, they are the first explicitly pro-legalization major party presidential ticket.
“We are encouraged by this pick and hope that, if elected, Harris and Walz will continue the progress already made towards ending federal prohibition and supporting a safe and regulated legal market. Cannabis reform is on voters’ minds this election cycle, and we look forward to hearing more from Harris and Walz about what they will do to advance cannabis reform if elected.”
