Republicans who wish to pay tribute to Charlie Kirk need to address the issues faced by a generation of young Americans targeted by the marijuana industry.
In his podcast from last year, Charlie discussed the marijuana industry and concluded that legalization, contrary to what advocates claim, could actually make communities more vulnerable. He suggested it would likely increase youth consumption, empower cartels, and contribute to a broader drug culture. Furthermore, he criticized the reasoning behind the Biden Harris administration’s push to reschedule marijuana.
The evidence is clear: THC is addictive and linked to serious mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, especially among young men. It also increases the risk of suicidality even for those who weren’t previously depressed. Studies show it is linked to lung disease and various forms of cancer, along with raising the risk of heart disease and even strokes. Recent findings suggest that cannabis users have a fourfold greater risk of developing diabetes, even when adjusting for other risk factors.
Marijuana seems to pose considerable risks, but there are those within the Republican Party who appear to support a questionable connection to its perceived benefits. Some even seek to legitimize the “Hemp” THC sector or offer federal tax incentives by reclassifying marijuana as less harmful.
As Charlie noted, the facts can be difficult to ignore, even if opinions shift. Public perception has been influenced by industry propaganda, yet many now see the issue more clearly. Recent Gallup polls indicate that the enthusiasm for marijuana has diminished from its peak a few years back, with many believing that its usage has adverse effects on both individuals and society. Republican strategists ought to be cautious about the shifting attitudes among young men, especially in light of recent elections where the Biden Harris administration’s approach to marijuana has tried to appeal to their interests.
Notably, there is a convergence of conservative leaders rallying around this issue. Charlie has gained noticeable praise from Tucker Carlson, who aligns closely with him on his stance regarding marijuana’s implications. The focus remains on curbing the influence of the marijuana market, raising questions around its increasing normalization.
There are alarming connections drawn between marijuana use and significant acts of violence in the U.S. For example, reports have surfaced attributing erratic behavior and violent actions of some shooters to marijuana consumption. As such, it cannot be dismissed when considering broader public safety concerns.
The unfortunate reality is that marijuana remains a significant point of contention, with its potential effects permeating deeper into various social issues. While we may not have all the answers today, continuing the conversation about the dangers of its use is essential for addressing American violence moving forward.
