Marijuana legalization has growing bipartisan support in the United States. While nearly a third of states have legalized the drug for recreational or medical use, it remains a Schedule I drug (the highest and most dangerous categorization) at the federal level. Other Schedule 1 drugs include methamphetamine and heroin.

Most Democratic leaders support legalization or, at a minimum, decriminalization, meaning no one should be behind bars for using. Different states have taken different approaches to the issue of legalization, with some enacting laws that benefit communities targeted by the war on drugs. These laws are an attempt to correct past injustices, with lawmakers admitting that harsh enforcement surrounding marijuana, common practice for decades, has destroyed the lives of individuals, families and communities.

The public reacted much more quickly on the issue of legalization than did leaders in Washington, and both parties took note.

Trump softens his stance on marijuana legalization

The Trump campaign has identified a group of voters made up primarily of young men who are detached from politics but attracted to the Republican candidate’s tough-guy persona. Many within this group have very different policies than the Republican Party’s traditional base, and Donald Trump’s push for legalization shows he is reaching out to these voters. In early September, Trump posted on Social truth that “it is time to end the unnecessary arrests and incarceration of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use.” The candidate also mentioned that he would support “smart regulation” to ensure adults have access “to safe (and) tested products.” Trump votes in Florida, and this year voters will determine whether marijuana will be legalized for recreational use via the Amendment 3 referendum; he said he would vote “yes” on the ballot measure.

As with the abortion issue, Trump believes it should be up to states to decide whether to reclassify the drug from I to III, which would place it alongside drugs like testosterone, codeine and ketamine painkillers.

Kamala Harris promises to legalize marijuana at the federal level

The Harris campaign website provides no information on the candidate’s position on marijuana legalization. However, during her campaign interventions, she indicated her position on the issue. Additionally, as part of her outreach efforts to Black men, she promised to “legalize recreational marijuana and create opportunities for Black Americans to succeed in this new industry.”

Neither campaign has released legislation explaining how they will proceed with legalization and what powers would be left to states versus the federal government.