Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States. There are some public officials and leaders who have spoken out on this issue including the vice president of the United States Joe Biden, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, Ben Carson a retired neurosurgeon. Joe Biden is influential being the vice president and has always taken a hard line against marijuana. He has also spoken in favor of reducing enforcement on sentencing of marijuana related offences. Ben Carson being a renowned neurosurgeon has expressed some support for the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes because of its proven benefits (Metts et.al. 180). Hillary Clinton who is also running for presidency supports legal access to medicinal marijuana and wants more input to be put on its research to best understand the benefits.
There are some interest groups that have taken position on marijuana use like the Pharmaceutical corporations who would like to keep it illegal, because they know that it has medicinal value and if legalized, it would be a cheaper means hence replacing some of their drugs (Fang 15). Since marijuana also creates an effect on a person like alcohol, alcohol corporations are fighting off its legalization because it will increase competition. The revenue from waging war on drugs has become a significant source of financial support for the police unions with drug seizures which have become a significant supplement to the budget.
Marijuana was initially used for its medicinal value for things like labor pains, nausea and rheumatism. However, through its constant use it leads to addiction. Also, since it is usually used by smoking, the resulting effect is strong, which is why many people end up using it just to get high, and not to help with pain for their medical conditions (Bardes and Paul 17).
Works Cited
Bardes, Diana M., and Paul A. Green. "Getting Out Of The Weeds: Medical Marijuana And The Workplace. (Cover Story)." Benefits Magazine 52.10 (2015): 16-19. Business Source Complete. Web. 15 May 2016.
Fang, Lee. "The Anti-Pot Lobby’s Big Bankroll. (Cover Story)." Nation 299.3/4 (2014): 12-18. Academic Search Premier. Web. 15 May 2016.
Metts, Julius, et al. "Medical Marijuana: A Treatment Worth Trying?." Journal Of Family Practice 65.3 (2016): 178-185. Academic Search Premier. Web. 15 May 2016.
