Vice President Kamala Harris targets young male voters by championing cannabis legalization as a core part of her campaign strategy.
At a Glance
- Harris aims to legalize marijuana to attract young voters, particularly young Black men.
- Her campaign addresses systemic legal injustices and promotes social justice reform.
- The adult entertainment industry supports Harris’s campaign against conservative threats.
- “Opportunity Agenda” includes loans and initiatives for Black entrepreneurs and cryptocurrency protection.
Focus on Cannabis Legalization
Kamala Harris and her running mate, Governor Tim Walz, are using marijuana legalization to draw in young voters. Harris’s campaign is centered on addressing legal injustices that have historically impacted Black men. She frames cannabis reform as a social justice movement, appealing to young Americans dedicated to systemic change.
The Harris campaign has also received unexpected backing from the adult entertainment industry, which sees her as supportive against perceived conservative threats. The campaign underscores the importance of economic opportunities and societal change that resonate with young men. Efforts to legalize marijuana resonate broadly, with 61% of Black men in favor, according to a 2022 Pew Research survey.
Addressing Broader Socioeconomic Issues
Harris has launched the “Opportunity Agenda” designed to empower Black men, including the legalizing of marijuana and supporting cryptocurrency interests. According to Harris’s campaign, this initiative aims to “break down unjust legal barriers” and ensure fair access to cannabis industry growth for Black men.
Her economic plan includes one million loans for Black “entrepreneurs” and investment in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program for Black male teachers. Harris faces hurdles with Black male voters, whose support has shown signs of decline. This strategy is aimed at creating substantial economic opportunities for these communities.
Kamala Harris has pledged to legalise recreational marijuana and create "forgivable" loans in a bid to win black men's votes after Barack Obama said some "aren't feeling the idea of having a woman as President". https://t.co/401u02JzMk
— Toby Young (@toadmeister) October 14, 2024
Challenges and Criticism
The Harris campaign emphasizes the need for change, but critics argue that promoting substance use and pornography won’t resolve social issues. Concerns persist about the rising dropout rate among American men and its economic impact. Nobel economist Angus Deaton, who has expressed concerns about open borders, underscores the challenges of inequality.
While the Trump campaign also seeks to win over the Black voter base, they focus on pro-cannabis policies. However, Harris hopes her comprehensive approach, balancing economic and societal reforms, will resonate with young voters eager for change.
Sources:
- Kamala Harris Offers Legal Weed to Win Younger Male Voters
- Kamala Harris wants to legalise marijuana and ensure Crypto protections for Black men