Biden Blasts Trump at NAACP Convention, Touts Dems’ Cannabis Reforms Amid Tight Race

Nevada – In his first campaign appearance since the attempted assassination of his opponent, President Joe Biden delivered a fierce critique of former President Donald Trump’s policies and rhetoric at the 115th NAACP National Convention on Tuesday. With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, Biden aimed to solidify support among Black voters, emphasizing the significant differences between his administration and Trump’s, particularly on the topic of cannabis reform.

In an effort to highlight his administration’s achievements and contrast them with Trump’s record, Biden spotlighted his actions on cannabis policy. These actions include mass pardons for federal cannabis offenses and the Justice Department’s ongoing proposal to reschedule marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act.

“By the way, we’re making sure that no one goes to jail for the mere use or possession of marijuana,” Biden told the convention attendees. “Their records should be expunged. It holds them back.” The president also proudly mentioned the administration’s steps to expunge previous cannabis convictions, signaling a commitment to decriminalization, though stopping short of full legalization.

Amid increasing concerns about his re-election prospects and leadership capabilities, especially following a contentious debate against Trump on June 27, Biden’s focus on cannabis reform serves to differentiate him from his opponent. The push for cannabis reform remains a central issue that Biden hopes will resonate with voters and highlight the progress made under his administration.

Trump’s Stance on Cannabis Reform

Former President Trump, who has been impeached twice, has largely remained distant from the cannabis reform debate, despite its growing prominence. During a National Rifle Association meeting in April, Trump attributed the rise in mass shootings to “genetically engineered” cannabis, rather than addressing the gun control issue. This stance illustrates his aloofness to the broader conversation on marijuana legalization.

Despite a recent Fox News poll indicating that nearly seven in ten American voters, including a majority of Republicans, support legalizing marijuana, Trump has scarcely addressed the issue. His running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, appears more open to the idea. After Ohio’s 2023 vote to legalize marijuana, Vance acknowledged the voters’ decision, suggesting a respect for state-level decisions on the matter. “The voters of Ohio have made their decisions known and we should respect that and allow it to be an Ohio issue,” he said.

Looking Ahead

As the election race tightens, Biden’s emphasis on cannabis reform and other progressive policies aims to galvanize his base and sway undecided voters. However, the unfulfilled promises from his 2020 campaign, including full marijuana legalization, continue to haunt his re-election bid. The upcoming months will be crucial as Biden navigates these challenges and attempts to secure a second term.

In Nevada, Biden’s remarks at the NAACP Convention underscore his strategic focus on key issues that resonate with critical voter demographics, while Trump’s ambiguous stance on cannabis reform may alienate a segment of the electorate that increasingly favors legalization. The political landscape remains fraught with uncertainty as both candidates vie for the nation’s highest office, each presenting starkly different visions for the future.