Cannabis News
Why You Shouldn’t Vote for Kamala Harris Just Because of Her Position on Cannabis- Banana in the Tailpipe, Again?
Why you shouldn’t base your vote on Harris’ Cannabis Stance
As a long-time observer of the political circus, I’ve seen my fair share of grand promises and lackluster deliveries. It’s an age-old dance: politicians, with their eyes on the prize, will say just about anything to secure your vote. They’ll promise the moon, the stars, and a side of universal healthcare, only to serve up a watered-down version of their campaign pledges once in office. It’s not necessarily malicious; it’s just the nature of the beast we call politics.
Now, with Biden stepping aside and rumors swirling about his health, all eyes are on Kamala Harris as the potential next Democratic presidential candidate. I’ve been hearing a lot of chatter, especially in cannabis circles, about throwing support behind Harris if she promises to legalize weed. And I get it, I really do. Cannabis reform is a critical issue for many of us.
But here’s where I need to pump the brakes and offer a word of caution: basing your vote on a single issue, especially one as prone to political flip-flopping as cannabis legalization, is a risky game. Remember the Biden-Harris ticket’s promises of criminal justice reform? How many people actually walked free from cannabis possession charges? The answer might disappoint you.
Before you pin all your hopes on Harris’s cannabis stance, let’s take a closer look at her history with the issue and why political promises, especially when it comes to weed, should be taken with a hefty dose of skepticism. After all, in the world of politics, today’s firm stance could be tomorrow’s convenient pivot.
As we dive deep into Kamala Harris’s political career, it’s a tale of evolving stances and convenient shifts that mirror the changing tides of public opinion on cannabis. Let’s start at the beginning, shall we?
During her tenure as California’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2017, Harris oversaw the conviction of nearly 2,000 people on marijuana-related charges. That’s right, the same woman now championing cannabis reform was once responsible for putting people behind bars for the very thing she now supports legalizing. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly political winds can change – or how quickly politicians can change with them.
Fast forward to the 2020 Democratic primaries, and we see a different Harris. Despite her initial buzz as a top contender, her campaign fizzled out faster than a poorly rolled joint. She dropped out before the Iowa caucuses, trailing far behind other candidates. It was a humbling experience that likely prompted some serious strategizing about her political future.
Then came the VP selection. Suddenly, Harris found herself on a ticket with Joe Biden, a man who had built much of his early career on being tough on drugs. It’s worth noting that Biden, too, has done some impressive political gymnastics on this issue. From being a key architect of punitive drug laws to now pardoning federal marijuana possession convictions, Biden’s evolution mirrors Harris’s own pivot.
As a Senator, Harris did introduce pro-cannabis legislation. The Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act was a step in the right direction, aiming to decriminalize marijuana at the federal level. But let’s be real – introducing a bill is a far cry from getting it passed, especially when you’re no longer in the legislative branch.
Recently, Harris has been vocal about cannabis reform. She’s called for speeding up the reclassification of marijuana and has stated that “nobody should have to go to jail for smoking weed.” It’s a far cry from her days as AG, isn’t it?
But here’s where the rubber meets the road – or should I say, where the joint meets the lips. Despite all the big talk from the Biden-Harris administration about reform, what we’ve actually seen is disappointingly little. In four years, with a Democratic majority, they’ve failed to pass any significant cannabis legislation. Instead, we’re left with a proposal to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III – a move that feels more like a bone thrown to Big Pharma than true reform for the people.
And now, with the rescinding of the Chevron Doctrine, even this watered-down attempt at reform is likely to be tied up in legal battles for years. It’s a bureaucratic nightmare that does little to address the real issues faced by cannabis users and those imprisoned for marijuana offenses.
Here’s the kicker – this isn’t even the reform that most cannabis advocates want. We’re not looking for a slight shuffling of bureaucratic categories. We want full descheduling. We want cannabis treated like the plant it is, not a controlled substance. Anything short of that is just maintaining the status quo with a slightly friendlier face.
So, when we look at Harris’s cannabis stance, let’s not forget this context. It’s a stance that has conveniently evolved with public opinion, but still falls short of meaningful change. It’s a reminder that in politics, what’s promised on the campaign trail often bears little resemblance to what’s delivered in office.
As someone who’s been around the political block a few times, I’ve seen far too many people fall into the trap of single-issue voting. It’s understandable – we all have causes close to our hearts, issues that ignite our passions. For some, it’s cannabis legalization; for others, it might be gun rights or abortion. But here’s the hard truth: voting based on a single issue is like buying a car solely because you like its color.
Politicians, my friends, don’t exist in a vacuum. They’re part of a larger system, a complex web of party politics, special interests, and power dynamics. When you vote for a candidate based on their stance on cannabis, you’re not just getting their weed policy – you’re getting the whole package. And let me tell you, that package often includes a lot of things you might not be so keen on.
Take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Both major parties, despite their apparent differences, often align on issues that directly impact our daily lives. They’re both pro-war, pro-big pharma, pro-big banks. They might squabble over social issues, but when it comes to the core economic and foreign policies that shape our world, they’re often two sides of the same coin.
This is why we desperately need more diversity in our political system. The two-party structure is a relic that’s long outlived its usefulness. It pits American against American, reducing complex issues to simplistic “us vs. them” narratives. It’s a system that thrives on division, not unity.
But here’s where I really want you to pay attention: if you want to see real change, start local. National elections might get all the glitz and glamour, but the nitty-gritty work of democracy happens in your town halls, your city councils, your state legislatures. That’s where policies that directly affect your daily life are hammered out. Want to see cannabis reform? Start by engaging with your local government.
The folks in Washington? They’re in a different world. They’re surrounded by lobbyists, insulated from the day-to-day struggles of average Americans. They’re more likely to hear the concerns of a pharmaceutical CEO than those of a small-time cannabis grower or a patient seeking alternative medicine.
So here’s my advice: break free from party loyalty. Look at the facts, examine the principles behind the policies. Most importantly, judge politicians not just by their words, but by their actions. How often do they follow through on their promises? How consistent are they in their principles?
Critical thinking is key here. Don’t just swallow what the media or the politicians are feeding you. Question everything. Analyze. Compare. And remember, your vote is precious – it’s your voice in this democracy. Don’t give it away based on a single issue or a catchy slogan.
In the end, politics is about the big picture. It’s about the kind of society we want to live in, the values we want to uphold. So the next time you’re in that voting booth, think beyond the single issue. Look at the whole cake, not just the cherry on top. Your future – our future – depends on it.
KAMALA ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…
Cannabis News
Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.
The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation
Federal vs. State Laws
Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.
Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry
Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:
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Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.
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Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.
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Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.
Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform
Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.
Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.
The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
Current Regulatory Challenges
The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:
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Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.
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Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.
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Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.
Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation
Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.
In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:
1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.
2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.
3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.
Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.
Implications of Proposed Reforms
Economic Impact
The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:
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Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.
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Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.
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Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.
Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Social Justice Considerations
Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:
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Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.
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Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.
Political Landscape
The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.
Conclusion
Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.
TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…
TRUMP 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
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