Increase in public support for Marijuana Legalization

A recent Gallup poll reports that over 58% of the American public is in favor of legalization of marijuana, almost a 30% increase from 2001. While the public may have shifted their alignment, the issue is still split at the partisian level. Not surprisingly, 65% of Democrats support the movement, while the Republican party is at a mere 35%.

"The results follow some major victories for pro-legalization forces. Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize the recreational use of marijuana last year, and the Justice Department announced in August it would not challenge the laws."