Marijuana Takes On A New Role In Presidential Campaigns

Marijuana used to be a taboo subject rarely discussed by high-level politicians.

Presidential candidates were careful to downplay their involvement with the drug and the topic of legalization was virtually off-limits. However, this year's race marks a major shift in the way both the public and the candidates view the drug.

Toeing The Line

Many candidates are hesitant to take a hard-line on marijuana legalization as voters remain divided on the subject. When asked about her position, Hillary Clinton said she wants to wait to see how things play out in Colorado before making any major changes at a federal level.

Republican candidates Jeb Bush, Ted Cruz and Rick Perry have indicated that legalization across the entire nation is a bad idea, but they maintain that states should have the ability to decide for themselves whether of not to allow the drug.

Related Link: Marijuana's Environmental Impact Especially Evident In California

Paul Seeks Green Backing

Others, like Senator Rand Paul have painted themselves as full-on supporters of the push toward marijuana legalization. Paul became the first and only candidate to raise campaign funds through donations from the marijuana industry in June when he appeared at that Cannabis Business Summit in Denver.

Change Starts In Washington

The fact that marijuana executives may have access to Washington is seen by many as a major step forward by supporters of full-scale legalization. Marijuana has never before played such an integral role in political campaigns, and next year's election could put the legalization issue front and center at the White House.