A significant rift has emerged between Republican voters and their elected representatives in the United States Senate over the legalisation of marijuana, according to an exclusive new poll.
Voter Sentiment vs. Senate Leadership
The survey, conducted by JL Partners for the Daily Mail earlier this month, reveals that 51 percent of Republican voters support legalising cannabis. This places them broadly in line with national sentiment, where 53 percent of all respondents back the move, and close to the 62 percent support found among Democrats.
This public opinion stands in stark contrast to the actions of nearly half of the Senate Republican leadership. Despite the clear voter preference, a bloc of 22 Republican senators, led by North Carolina's Ted Budd, publicly challenged President Donald Trump's recent executive action on the substance.
Trump's 'Common Sense' Move Meets Resistance
On December 18, 2025, President Trump signed an order to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I drug to the less restrictive Schedule III category. This shift, intended primarily to facilitate medical research, was hailed by Trump as an act of "common sense," influenced by appeals from people suffering from conditions like cancer-related pain.
However, he was careful to clarify that the order "doesn't legalize marijuana in any way, shape or form" and does not sanction recreational use, reiterating his personal opposition to illegal drug use.
The political and market reaction was immediate. Marijuana business stocks spiked on Wall Street following the announcement. Yet, just days later, Senator Budd's coalition, which included powerful figures like Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, sent a letter urging the President to reconsider.
The Demographic Divide and Political Fallout
The JL Partners poll, which surveyed 1,000 registered voters online on December 20 and 21, uncovered notable demographic splits. Support was highest among men (58%) and the key 30-49 age demographic, where 61% favoured legalisation. Backing among women stood at 50%.
The senators' letter argued that evidence shows marijuana is harmful, warning of potential damage to "brain health" and "permanent IQ loss." They contended that growing the cannabis industry is at odds with economic growth and healthy lifestyles.
This clash highlights a growing disconnect between the Republican base and its congressional leadership on a evolving social issue, with voters appearing more progressive than their representatives on the future of cannabis policy in America.
