Ohio voters’ decision to legalize recreational marijuana has once again surfaced the topic in Indiana, and it could be an issue in Hoosiers’ election of a new governor in 2024.
Legalization is regularly proposed in the Indiana legislature but has never advanced, even as Republicans start to hop on board. Gov. Eric Holcomb has maintained that he opposes legalization because of marijuana’s federal designation as a Schedule 1 drug.
But Indiana will elect a replacement for Holcomb in a year. A new governor could change the tone at the Statehouse on marijuana or maintain the status quo. IndyStar asked each of the many candidates what their positions are, and what they’d consider supporting as governor.
U.S. Sen. Mike Braun declined to comment, but in the past has said he recognizes the benefits of medical marijuana while recreational legalization is a question for future generations. Jamie Reitenour did not respond. Here’s what the other candidates said:
Republican Brad Chambers: Undecided
Brad Chambers, the former president of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, said he hasn’t spent too much time on the issue but wouldn’t close the door on it.
“As we hear more about the potential of reclassification at the federal level, I think we should evaluate the potential positive and negative impacts, learn from what other states have experienced, and determine the best path forward for a healthy and successful Indiana,” he said.
Republican Suzanne Crouch: Opposed
“My family’s…
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