Kamala Harris hinted at marijuana legalization during her recent appearance on the “All the Smoke” podcast on Monday. Hosts and former NBA stars Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes interviewed Harris ahead of the upcoming presidential election. Among other relevant subjects, the vice president also addressed her racial identity in relation to Donald Trump’s comments directed at her and the significance of mental health awareness.
Kamala Harris signals marijuana legalization on ‘All the Smoke’ podcast
When asked about her views on cannabis, Kamala Harris said that she strongly feels “people should not be going to jail for smoking weed.” Harris further commented, “We know historically what that is meant and who has gone to jail. Second, I just think we have come to a point where we have to understand that we need to legalize it [marijuana].” She also emphasized the importance of putting a stop to “criminalizing this behavior.”
Kamala Harris seems to be taking a more drastic step in favor of marijuana legalization than Joe Biden‘s administration. This is the first time Harris, who is now the Democratic nominee for this year’s presidential election, has publicly spoken on the matter. Previously, the Biden administration initiated a strategy to reinstate marijuana as a less harmful drug albeit the president refrained from advocating for complete legalization.
Harris made the above comments in a 45-minute-long “All the Smoke” podcast episode. Hosts Stephen Jackson and Matt Barnes interviewed her on several matters, including her racial identity and her methods to remain mentally healthy. She urged everyone not to “read the comments” and to find certain stress-relieving hobbies. The 59-year-old revealed that her stress-relieving hobby is cooking, which she considers “a productive use of time.”
Besides the marijuana conversation, Kamala Harris also had a crisp and clear response while addressing Donald Trump’s allegations. In July, Trump had accused her of shifting her racial identity over the years. On this, Harris said, “I’m really clear about who I am and if anyone else is not, they need to go through their own level of therapy. That’s not my issue.” She added that when it comes to breaking barriers, she feels “a great sense of responsibility.”
If elected, Kamala Harris will become the first Black woman to ever hold office. The presidential election will take place on November 5.
