Leftists are often criticized for demanding that others “follow the science” while ignoring it themselves when it contradicts their political beliefs. President Joe Biden is being accused of doing just that when it comes to marijuana. He is being accused of sacrificing facts for the sake of appeasing supporters of marijuana legalization.
The Drug Enforcement Administration recently announced plans to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug, meaning it would be considered less dangerous with reduced penalties for its use. This decision is seen as a move to gain support from young voters and other demographics that are in favor of marijuana legalization.
However, research shows that marijuana use has serious health risks, including impairment of cognition, brain damage, increase in depression and suicidality, and heightened risk of heart attacks and strokes. It has also been linked to negative effects on childhood and adolescent health, as well as an increase in car crashes, gang activity, and violent crime.
Despite claims that marijuana is not addictive and has medicinal benefits, studies have shown that it can be highly addictive, contribute to the onset of schizophrenia, and act as a gateway to harder drugs. Increased use of marijuana for medical purposes has even been associated with higher opioid mortality rates.
Critics argue that the DEA’s decision to reclassify marijuana is a ploy for votes and urge for public policy to move away from greater acceptance of marijuana. They call for people to consider the scientific evidence and voice their opposition to the reclassification.
