MPP’s Cannabis Policy Voter Guide

Despite 70% popular support for legalization, possession of a single joint remains a federal crime. Cannabis legalization hasn’t even gotten a vote in the Senate, where 60 votes are needed to overcome a filibuster. With 34 Senate seats on the ballot this year, November’s election is key to the prospects for federal reform for years to come.

Voters deserve to know where their candidates stand on federal legalization and other cannabis policies. This voter guide reviews U.S. Senate candidates’ public stances, responses to MPP’s survey questions, and — for incumbents and those holding other elected offices — whether they have supported cannabis policy bills. MPP has assigned a letter grade for each candidate based on their support for cannabis reform.

If you have additional information on candidates’ stances, let us know at info@mpp.org.

Arizona

U.S. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D) — A+ — Congressman Gallego supports the full legalization of marijuana. As a member of Congress, he has co-sponsored the MORE Act (federal legalization focused on equity), the SAFE Banking Act, and the Veterans Medical Marijuana Safe Harbor Act. He voted “yes” on the MORE Act, SAFE Banking Act, and Medical Marijuana Research Act. In 2022, Gallego tweeted that criminalizing marijuana has harmed communities of color and urged federal action to align with state decriminalization.

Kari Lake (R) — D- — Kari Lake has expressed opposition to marijuana legalization, including falsely claiming an education funding movement was “nothing more than a push to legalize pot” in 2018. Although she later apologized for the inaccuracy of that tweet, she has not evolved on cannabis legalization. Lake did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis decheduling and other cannabis policies.

Background: Arizona voters have legalized both medical and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

California

U.S. Rep Adam Schiff (D) — A — Congressman Schiff has been a vocal advocate for cannabis policy reform with a strong voting record in favor of cannabis-related legislation. He voted in favor of every cannabis policy reform bill, including the MORE Act (federal legalization with a focus on equity and expungement) and SAFE Banking. Schiff is an outspoken supporter of ending federal marijuana prohibition and prioritizing social justice reforms, particularly to address disproportionate incarceration of Black and Brown communities.

Steve Garvey (R) — incomplete — Garvey has not taken a clear stance on cannabis reform. While he has promoted CBD products for pain management, he has distanced himself from products containing THC. Garvey did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis decheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: California voters have legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use marijuana. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Connecticut

Sen. Chris Murphy (D) — A- — In a 2018 debate, Murphy said he supports the federal government stepping out of the way and declassifying cannabis to leave the issue up to the states. He also said he supports safe banking and has long supported medical cannabis. Sen. Murphy has co-sponsored the SAFE Banking Act and the CARERS Act. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Matthew Corey (R) — B+ — In a 2018 debate, Corey said he supports federal declassification and a states rights approach. He said his biggest concern is brain development for those under 25 and that he wants to see the results of it, and that he is interested in Colorado's legalization outcomes. Corey also said he supports medical cannabis and research. Corey did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Connecticut has legalized medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Delaware

U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D) — A — Congresswoman Blunt Rochester supports federal cannabis policy reform. She co-sponsored the MORE Act (to federally legalize cannabis with a focus on equity) and the SAFE Banking Act. She also sponsors the Clean Slate Act. Blunt Rochester has consistently voted in favor of the SAFE Banking Act, the MORE Act, and other cannabis policy reforms. In a statement on Instagram she highlighted the need to reverse the harmful impacts of marijuana criminalization.

Eric Hansen (R) — incomplete — We are unaware of Hansen making any public statements on cannabis reform, leaving his stance unclear. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis decheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: Delaware has legalized medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Florida

Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D) — A —Mucarsel-Powell is a strong supporter of cannabis policy reform. Mucarsel-Powell supports Florida's Amendment 3 to legalize adult-use marijuana for adults. As a member of Congress, she voted for the MORE Act (federal legalization focused on equity) and SAFE Banking Act. She responded “yes” to all four questions in MPP’s candidate survey, expressing support for legalizing cannabis at the federal level, the SAFER Banking Act, government-initiated expungement, and changing federal policy to stop denying employment to individuals for past cannabis use.

In a comment on MPP’s survey, Mucarsel-Powell said, "Here in Florida, Black farmers have been shut out of farming industries such as medical marijuana and have faced higher application fees for farming licenses. That’s unacceptable. In addition to supporting Florida’s Amendment 3 to legalize recreational marijuana for adults, I’ll use my platform to ensure that Black farmers in our state have equal access to grants to grow marijuana in our state."

Sen. Rick Scott (R) — F — With the exception of a CBD bill for those with seizures, Sen. Scott has consistently opposed cannabis policy reforms, including medical cannabis. When he was Florida’s governor, Scott attempted to ban smokable medical cannabis, a ban which was later deemed unconstitutional. He is voting against Florida's Amendment 3 to legalize adult-use marijuana for adults. His communications director said he likely opposes SAFE Banking. He told Ask a Pol he hasn’t looked at it.

Background: Florida voters enacted a constitutional amendment allowing medical cannabis, but the state does not have adult-use legalization or even decriminalization. Adult-use legalization is on the ballot on November 5, as Amendment 3. It requires 60% of the vote to pass.

Hawai’i

Sen. Mazie Hirono (D) — B+ — Sen. Hirono has advocated for the federal government to allow states to legalize and regulate cannabis without interference. She co-authored a letter in 2018 urging the federal government to respect state cannabis laws. She co-sponsors the SAFER Banking Act (2023). Sen. Hirono did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Bob McDermott (R) — F — As a former state representative, McDermott opposed decriminalization and a medical cannabis dispensaries bill. He voted “no” on a 2015 bill to allow medical cannabis dispensaries (HB 321), saying the 16 total dispensaries was too many. In 2019, he voted "no" on the paltry decriminalization bill, HB 1383, which applied to only three grams. McDermott did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement..

Background: Hawai’i has a medical cannabis law and an extremely limited decriminalization law. It has not enacted adult-use legalization.

Indiana

Valerie McCray (D) — A- — During a virtual town hall, Dr. McCray indicated support for cannabis legalization with a strong educational component (starting at around 35 minutes). She does not want people to be incarcerated for cannabis. McCray views cannabis as having significant therapeutic potential, especially for veterans dealing with PTSD and pain. She has some concerns about commercially available cannabis with additives, and about youth using cannabis. She also voiced concern about lacing and additives of unregulated cannabis.

U.S. Rep. Jim Banks (R) — D+ — As a member of Congress, Banks voted against the MORE Act (H.R.3617) in 2021, which provides for federal legalization with a focus on equity. He voted for SAFE Banking but against a 2019 appropriations rider to protect state legalization laws from federal interference. He cosponsored SAFE Banking in 2019 and the Clean Slate Act of 2021. Banks voted to reduce penalties for cannabis possession in 2013 during his tenure in the Indiana State Senate. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Indiana does not have a medical cannabis, decriminalization, or adult-use legalization law. People can still be arrested and incarcerated for possessing even a small amount of cannabis in the state — even for medical use.

Maine

Sen. Angus King (I) — A- — During a 2018 debate, King said he supports federal legalization. He co-sponsors the SAFE Banking Act. He told an interviewer he supports rescheduling but hasn’t thought through clemency for past convictions. King also cosponsored a 2018 bill for researching medical cannabis for veterans, stating, “Maine’s veterans have earned nothing less than our complete support.”  He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Eric Brakey (R) — A- — Former state Sen. Brakey supported Maine’s 2016 initiative to legalize adult-use marijuana, although he voted against an implementation bill. He sponsored legislation to allow medical marijuana access in hospitals. He voted for a bill to shield certain cannabis convictions, saying, "I think we’ve had people who have been unjustly incarcerated and had their lives destroyed by the war on drugs broadly, but also the war on cannabis specifically.”  He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

David Costello (D) – incomplete — To our knowledge, Costello has not made any public statements regarding cannabis policy reform. 

Background: Maine has legalized medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Maryland

Angela Alsobrooks (D) — A — During an October 10, 2024, debate, Alsobrooks said, “The people of Maryland have spoken on this issue and they legalized it here and I would vote to also do so on the federal level.” In 2019, Alsobrooks polled constituents on issues including legalization. She said, “I think the results are in line with what I think, and let me tell you what I think. ... I think most people believe that adults and what they do with marijuana is the business of that adult.” During her tenure as State’s Attorney, diversion programs for low-level drug offenders were implemented. We are not aware of any public comments from Alsobrooks on federal cannabis policy. She did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about federal cannabis policies.

Larry Hogan (R) — D- — During an October 10, 2024, debate, Larry Hogan said he would not vote to legalize cannabis on the federal level at this time. While he was governor, Hogan had a mixed record on cannabis policy — vetoing some reforms and allowing others to become law without his signature. Gov. Hogan did not take a position on Maryland’s 2022 voter referral to legalize cannabis. He did not sign or veto a 2023 bill to implement legalization after voters approved it, so it became law without his signature. In 2015, Hogan vetoed a modest bill (SB 517) to decriminalize cannabis paraphernalia. In 2017, he allowed a cannabis expungement bill (SB 949) to take effect without his signature, but in 2020 he vetoed a bill (HB 83) that would have shielded 200,000 people’s marijuana convictions from public view. Hogan did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about federal cannabis policies.

Background: Maryland has legalized medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Massachusetts

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D) — A+ — Sen. Warren supports federal legalization of marijuana and clearing records for non-violent cannabis offenses. She advocates for a comprehensive approach to cannabis policy that emphasizes social equity and addresses the harms caused by the War on Drugs. Warren co-sponsors the SAFER Banking and the CAO Act, which would deschedule cannabis at the federal level and provide for expungement. She highlights the importance of rectifying racial disparities in cannabis-related arrests.

John Deaton (R) — incomplete — Deaton opposes new taxes from cannabis, gambling, or other sources. He did not respond to MPP's candidate survey, missing the opportunity to get on the record about federal cannabis policies.

Background: Massachusetts has legalized medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Michigan

Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D) — A- — Congresswoman Slotkin supports medical marijuana and the federal descheduling of cannabis. She voted yes on the MORE Act (federal legalization focused on equity) and the Medical Marijuana Research Act. She also co-sponsors the SAFE Banking Act.

Mike Rogers (R) — F — As a member of Congress at the time, Rogers voted “no” on the bipartisan amendment to prevent federal funds from being used to interfere with state medical cannabis laws. Michigan had a medical cannabis law at the time (and still does). Rogers did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: Michigan voters legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Minnesota

Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D) — A- — Sen. Klobuchar supports the legalization of cannabis. She supports expungement of past records and expressed concern about disparities in enforcement. Klobuchar co-sponsored SAFER Banking (2023). Sen. Klobuchar has also voiced concern about cannabis being classified as a Schedule 1 drug, stressing that it impedes necessary research and reform efforts. She did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Royce White (R) — incomplete — To our knowledge, White has not made any public statements regarding cannabis policy reform. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: Minnesota has legalized medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Mississippi

Ty Pinkins (D) — incomplete — Pinkins advocates for criminal justice reform and equitable access to the justice system but has not addressed cannabis reform in public statements. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Sen. Roger Wicker (R) — F — Sen. Wicker supports federal prohibition on cannabis and has opposed amendments protecting state-legal medical marijuana programs, maintaining its illegal status at the federal level. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Mississippi legalized medical cannabis in 2022, and it has a quasi decriminalization law. Cannabis remains illegal for adults’ use.

Missouri

Lucas Kunce (D) — A- — Kunce supports federal marijuana legalization, highlighting benefits for veterans dealing with PTSD and access to banking for cannabis businesses.. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R) — D — Sen. Hawley opposes adult-use marijuana legalization, calling cannabis a "gateway drug" and legalization a “terrible policy.” He has opposed SAFE banking. He says he supports medical cannabis and in 2023 he voted to advance a bill on veterans and chronic pain. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Missouri has legalized medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Montana

Sen. Jon Tester (D) — B — In an interview with Ask a Pol, Sen. Tester said he supports rescheduling, which will also facilitate research. Sen. Tester cosponsored the SAFER Banking Act (2023) and sponsored legislation to research cannabis to benefit veterans. He has voted for SAFE banking and to protect state medical cannabis laws. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling and other issues.

Tim Sheehy (R) — incomplete — We could not find any public comments or positions on cannabis policy reform. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling and other issues.

Background: Montana voters legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Nebraska

Dan Osborn (I) — A- — Osborn’s platform on his website includes “Legalize Cannabis.” It says, “There is no reason for the federal government to ban medical cannabis. We waste tens of millions of dollars enforcing the prohibition of a plant with medicinal properties.” And “Our policy of cannabis prohibition has turned families and seniors seeking pain relief into criminals. It’s time to remove cannabis from Schedule I and stop wasting taxpayer dollars on putting people in prison for cannabis crimes." He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Sen. Deb Fischer (R) — F — Fischer is firmly opposed to the legalization of marijuana, and opposes states legalizing it despite federal prohibition. She proposed an appropriations rider to withhold Justice Department funding unless it monitored state legalization’s impacts on federal priorities. She did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Nebraska is one of only 12 states without a medical cannabis program, although two measures have been certified for the November ballot. It also does not have adult-use legalization, although it does have a decriminalization law.

Nevada

Sen. Jacky Rosen (D) — A+ — Rosen is a strong advocate for cannabis policy reform. Rosen responded “yes” to all four questions in MPP’s candidate survey, expressing support for legalizing cannabis at the federal level, the SAFER Banking Act, government-initiated expungement, and changing federal policy to stop denying employment to individuals for past cannabis use. She commented, “While cannabis has been regulated in our state since 2017, many Nevadans are still dealing with the effects of past low-level marijuana offenses. Having a record for something that is now legal in our state threatens Nevadans’ ability to get a job, apply for rental housing or a mortgage, and contribute to our state’s economy.

“I have been a strong advocate for federal cannabis reform. In the Senate, I introduced the HOPE Act, which would create a federal grant program to expunge or seal cannabis convictions in states where it has been legalized or decriminalized. I have also supported legally operating cannabis small businesses by introducing a bill that would ensure that they have equal access to Small Business Administration programs and by leading an annual letter to appropriators calling on them to open up SBA loan and entrepreneurship programs to state-legal cannabis businesses. I also am an original co-sponsor and strong supporter of the SAFER Banking Act, which would ensure legally operating cannabis businesses can access services like banking and insurance, helping to support these businesses, reduce incidents of crime, and improve public safety.”

Sam Brown (R) — incomplete — Brown has not publicly stated his stance on marijuana policy during his campaign. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: Nevada voters legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

New Jersey

U.S. Rep. Andy Kim (D) — A+ — Rep. Kim is a consistent supporter of cannabis policy reform. He cosponsors the MORE Act (federal legalization focused on equity) along with legislation aimed at expanding research on medical cannabis. He repeatedly voted in favor of cannabis policy reform, including the MORE Act and SAFE Banking.

Curtis Bashaw (R) — incomplete — Bashaw has not made any statements regarding cannabis reform on his campaign website or in public forums. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: New Jersey has legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

New Mexico

Sen. Martin Heinrich (D) — A+ — Sen. Heinrich called for cannabis legalization back in 2018, before New Mexico had legalized cannabis. He remains an advocate for federal marijuana legalization and highlights the social justice implications of current cannabis laws. He cosponsored the SAFER Banking Act (2023) and has consistently pushed for legalizing, taxing, and regulating marijuana, stating, "We've already legalized it in NM, it’s time to legalize it across the U.S."

Nella Domenici (R) — incomplete — We are not aware of any public comments from Domenici on cannabis policy. She did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: New Mexico legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

New York

Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D) — A — Sen. Gillibrand supports full marijuana legalization as a criminal justice issue, a health care issue, and an economic issue. She has co-sponsored the Marijuana Justice Act in 2018 (federal legalization with a focus on equity), the SAFER Banking Act, and the CAO Act. She stated, "Legalizing marijuana is a social justice issue and a moral issue that Congress needs to address."

Mike Sapraicone (R) — incomplete — We are not aware of any public comments from Sapraicone on cannabis policy. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: New York legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

North Dakota

Sen. Kevin Cramer (R) — B- — Sen. Cramer cosponsored the 2019 STATES Act (S. 1028), which would remove federal penalties from state-legal cannabis activities. He also co-sponsored the SAFER Banking Act (2023). Sen. Cramer supported medical marijuana when it was on the ballot but has opposed adult-use legalization. However, Cramer acknowledges that the current federal cannabis law is "clumsy" and supports leaving the issue up to states.

Katrina Christiansen (D) — incomplete — We are not aware of any public comments from Christiansen on cannabis policy. She did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: North Dakota voters legalized medical cannabis in 2016. Adult-use legalization is on the ballot on November 5, as Initiated Measure 5.

Ohio

Sen. Sherrod Brown (D) — A — Sen. Brown supports federal marijuana legalization and decriminalization. As chair of the Senate Banking Committee, he presided over the first committee vote on the SAFER Banking Act in 2023. Brown has consistently voiced support for cannabis reform, including voting for Ohio’s Issue 2 to legalize adult-use cannabis in 2023. Brown emphasizes the need for cannabis banking reform and reconciliation for the harm caused by the War on Drugs, particularly for marginalized communities. He expressed that “cannabis banking is just one part of the necessary conversation about marijuana policy.”

Bernie Moreno (R) — F — In October 2023, Moreno urged a "no" vote on Issue 2, the ballot measure to legalize cannabis for adults 21+ in Ohio. (The measure passed the following month with 57% of the vote.) On the poorly named “Restore Liberty” podcast, Moreno said, "I'm not an advocate that we need more ways for people to escape reality ..." Moreno also said, "we should be talking about how do we restore the moral center of our country that's going to get us back on track and not unleashing another gateway drug ..." He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling and other issues.

Background: Ohio legalized medical marijuana in 2016, and voters legalized adult-use cannabis in November 2023. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Pennsylvania

Sen. Bob Casey Jr. (D) — B — In 2021, Sen. Casey told a constituent he supports decriminalizing simple possession of cannabis. He sponsors the Clean Slate Act. He is not a cosponsor of the COA Act (federal legalization) or SAFER Banking. He told Ask a Polhe thinks rescheduling is a long time coming and that he supports safe banking. Sen. Casey said he’d have to see a bill on clemency. 

He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, but he offered this comment: "I support the [DEA’s] move to reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I substance to a Schedule III substance to allow its study for medical use, and I also support the decriminalization of recreational marijuana.

"We must also turn back the most damaging policies that have levied disproportionate penalties on cannabis users and overcriminalized minor drug offenses, which have fallen disproportionately on low-income individuals and people of color. I supported President Biden’s pardon of those convicted of federal crimes for cannabis possession and have also introduced federal legislation, the Clean Slate Act to seal the federal records of those arrested for possession and non-violent offenses associated with marijuana."

Background: Pennsylvania legalized medical marijuana in 2016, and the program has since expanded to include a wide range of qualifying conditions. While there is growing support for adult-use cannabis legalization, Pennsylvania has not legalized — or even decriminalized — adults’ use of cannabis. People can still be arrested and incarcerated for possessing even a small amount of cannabis in the commonwealth.

Rhode Island

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D) — B- — We are not aware of any comments from Sen. Whitehouse on federal descheduling, federal legalization, or safe banking. He is not a cosponsor of the COA Act (federal legalization) or SAFER Banking. Sen. Whitehouse believes that a strictly regulated cannabis system is necessary to prevent criminal activity, such as diversion to minors or cartels, and to ensure public safety. He has spoken in support of medical cannabis. Sen. Whitehouse did not respond to MPP’s survey.

Patricia Morgan (R) — D- — State Representative Morgan consistently voted against adult-use cannabis legalization in Rhode Island, and even decriminalization. She voted to allow medical cannabis. She did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Rhode Island legalized both medical cannabis and adult-use cannabis. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Tennessee

Gloria Johnson (D) — A — State Rep. Johnson is a longtime, vocal supporter of cannabis legalization, for both medical and adults’ use. She cosponsored medical cannabis legislation in 2014. In February 2024, she tweeted, “Voters overwhelmingly agree that it’s time for Tennessee and the federal government to lighten up and legalize marijuana for medicinal and recreational use!”

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R) — D- — Sen. Blackburn has been an obstacle to progress on even medical cannabis. In 2018 she said she is “open” to medical cannabis. However, she subsequently signed on to a letter opposing rescheduling cannabis to a Schedule III drug. Sen. Blackburn has voted against every positive cannabis policy amendment and bill, including opposing the Veterans Equal Access Amendment and opposing a rider that prohibits the Department of Justice for interfering with state medical cannabis laws.

Background: Tennessee is one of only 12 states without a medical cannabis program. Adult-use cannabis remains illegal. Tennessee does not even have a decriminalization law, meaning people are still incarcerated for possessing small amounts of cannabis.

Texas

U.S. Rep. Colin Allred (D) — A — As a member of Congress, Allred voted for the MORE Act (federal legalization focused on equity), SAFE Banking, and several other positive cannabis policy bills. He also cosponsors the SAFE Banking Act.

Sen. Ted Cruz (R) — D — Sen. Cruz opposes both legalization and medical cannabis use. He criticized even the modest step of rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III, which would finally acknowledge cannabis’ medical value. While Sen. Cruz has said during a 2018 debate cannabis policy should be left to the states, he has not sponsored any bills to do so. He also has not cosponsored SAFE Banking, nor has he expressed support for it. Sen. Cruz did not respond to MPP’s survey.

Background: Texas has strict cannabis laws. It has a limited medical program for low-THC cannabis extracts. Adult-use cannabis remains illegal. Texas does not even have a decriminalization law, meaning people can still be arrested and incarcerated for possessing even a small amount of cannabis in the state.

Utah

Caroline Gleich (D) — A- — Gleich responded “yes” to three of MPP’s survey questions, expressing support for legalizing cannabis at the federal level, the SAFER Banking Act, and changing federal policy to stop denying employment to individuals for past cannabis use. She replied “other” to MPP’s question on government initiated expungement, explaining, “I support expunging cannabis records for small scale cannabis users but not necessarily for large scale dealers or traffickers.”

U.S. Rep. John Curtis (R) — C — Congressman Curtis voted yes on the Medical Marijuana Research Act and the SAFE Banking Act, but no on the MORE Act (federal legalization with a focus on equity). According to KSL 5 TV, he said “I believe medical marijuana should be a state issue. The state doesn't have as much information as I'd like them to have. If you go too far, you accept some societal harms.” He did not respond to MPP’s survey.

Background: Utah legalized medical cannabis following the passage of Proposition 2 in 2018, which established a regulated medical marijuana program. Adult-use cannabis remains illegal in the state. Utah does not even have a decriminalization law, meaning people can still be arrested and incarcerated for possessing even a small amount of cannabis in the state.

Vermont

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I) — A+ — Sen. Sanders is a vocal advocate for nationwide marijuana legalization, with expungement. He cosponsored the SAFER Banking Act and the Marijuana Justice Act in 2018, a federal legalization bill that focused on equity.

Gerald Malloy (R) — incomplete — Malloy has not taken a public stance on cannabis policy reform. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: Vermont became the first state to legalize adult-use cannabis through legislative action in 2018. The legislature authorized regulated sales in October 2020. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

Virginia

Sen. Tim Kaine (D) — A — Sen. Kaine’s legislative actions demonstrate a strong commitment to reforming marijuana laws at the federal level. Sen. Kaine cosponsored the MORE Act (federal legalization with a focus on equity) in 2018, saying, “This bill makes commonsense reforms to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level so states can make their own decisions about what’s best for them and what’s best for their own local economies. This is also about easing the long injustice of laws that have disproportionately affected minority communities.” He is a cosponsor of the SAFER Banking Act.

Hung Cao (R) — D- — At a candidates forum in 2018, Cao claimed to support “states rights” on cannabis, but said he supports keeping cannabis federally illegal. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Virginia has legalized adults’ possession and home cultivation of cannabis in July 2021, but it does not have legal adult-use sales. Virginia also has a medical cannabis program.

Washington

Sen. Maria Cantwell (D) — A- — Sen. Cantwell supports states' rights regarding marijuana legalization. After Washington state voters legalized cannabis, in January 2013, she wrote then-Attorney General Eric Holder to ask that the Justice Department refrain from prosecuting individuals complying with the law. Cantwell also cosponsors the SAFER Banking Act (2023) which would ensure that licensed cannabis businesses are able to access banking and financial services.

Raul Garcia (R) — incomplete — We are unaware of any public comments from Dr. Garcia on cannabis policy. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Background: Washington was one of the first two states to legalize adult-use cannabis in 2012. It also has a medical cannabis law. However, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. Federal prohibition means medical cannabis patients, consumers, businesses, and workers still face legal risks and related challenges.

West Virginia

Glenn Elliott (D) — B — When asked about rescheduling during a debate, Elliott said he has met with people who benefit and it doesn’t make sense to criminalize cannabis since it doesn’t make people violent or have a lot of negative health impacts. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Jim Justice (R) — C — Gov. Justice supports medical cannabis. His position on legalization softened in 2021. He said he’s not a personal fan of legalization but would sign a bill and “the absolute crap” out of it. However, during a 2024 debate, when asked about his position on rescheduling he avoided a direct answer, mentioning the opioid crisis and that some argue cannabis is a gateway. Justice said, “I am a firm believer that we’ve got to be progressive in our thinking, but we’ve got way more important problems that we’ve got to deal with.” In 2019, Gov. Justice signed legislation to facilitate medical cannabis banking. He vetoed a 2019 bill allowing dispensary vertical integration. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: West Virginia has a medical cannabis program. Adult-use cannabis remains illegal in the state. West Virginia does not even have a decriminalization law, meaning people can still be arrested and incarcerated for possessing even a small amount of cannabis in the state.

Wisconsin

Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D) — A- — Sen. Baldwin has “long supported decriminalization of marijuana.” She consistently voted in favor of positive cannabis measures, including the Veterans Equal Access Amendment, the Protect State Medical Marijuana Programs Amendment, and SAFE Banking. Baldwin also cosponsors SAFER Banking. In 2005, as a member of Congress, she cosponsored the States' Rights to Medical Marijuana Act. She did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Eric Hovde (R) — C — Hovde opposes legalization of marijuana. He said he supports allowing medical use and decriminalization, but not what he calls “commercialization” — legal, regulated sales instead of prohibition. (Rolling Stone reports he also opposes commercial sales of alcohol.)

Background: Wisconsin does not have a medical cannabis, decriminalization, or adult-use legalization law. People can still be arrested and incarcerated for possessing even a small amount of cannabis in the state — even for medical use.

Wyoming

Scott Morrow (D) — incomplete — We are not aware of any public comments from Morrow on cannabis policy. He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey, which provided an opportunity to get on the record about cannabis descheduling, SAFE banking, federal employment protections, and expungement.

Sen. John Barrasso (R) — F — Sen. Barrasso has consistently opposed both medical and adult-use cannabis. In October 2024, he told Ask a Pol he opposes federal rescheduling and he opposed it as a state legislator. He said he opposes Wyoming “taking any action as well.” He did not respond to MPP’s candidate survey.

Background: Wyoming does not have a medical cannabis, decriminalization, or adult-use legalization law. People can still be arrested and incarcerated for possessing even a small amount of cannabis in the state — even for medical use.

Additional information: Be sure to also check out MPP’s voter guides to governor’s races, along with our New Hampshire and Hawai’i states legislative voter guides. Also check out NORML’s Smoke the Vote guide, which provides additional details on Senate candidates and information on down-ballot races. It was an excellent resource in compiling this guide as were Ask a Pol interviews and this compilation from Cannabis Business Times.