A recent scientific poll conducted in South Dakota by South Dakota News Watch and the Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota revealed that a majority of registered voters in the state oppose the legalization of recreational marijuana. According to the survey of 500 voters, 52% are against the initiative, compared to 42% who support it, with 7% undecided.
The level of opposition is consistent with previous defeats of similar measures in the state, such as the 2022 election when recreational marijuana was voted against by a margin of 52% to 47%. However, the level of support has dropped in the latest poll, creating a significant deficit at a critical time as ballot measure committees prepare for the November 2024 election.
Supporters of legalization, led by South Dakotans for Better Marijuana Laws, believe that the level of support among voters is higher than indicated in the poll, pointing to past victories for marijuana-related initiatives. Despite this, various groups, including the South Dakota Republican Party and Catholic leaders, have voiced their opposition to the measure.
The survey also showed that Republicans in the state are largely against the initiative, with 68% opposing it, compared to 24% of Democrats and 45% of non-affiliated voters. The campaign to fight against the legalization of recreational marijuana, led by Protecting South Dakota Kids, will be active in the upcoming election as well.
Overall, the debate over the legalization of recreational marijuana continues in South Dakota, with various stakeholders making their voices heard as the state prepares for the upcoming election.
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Photo credit www.sdnewswatch.org