Vice President Kamala Harris made it quite clear in a light-hearted manner where she stands on the use of marijuana edibles as a stress reliever while on the campaign trail.
During a stop in Michigan on Monday, former news anchor Maria Shriver mentioned to the Democratic nominee that many people were feeling increasingly anxious as the election approached. Shriver explained that individuals were turning to activities like meditation, yoga, or even consuming gummies to cope, before asking Harris how she personally dealt with stress.
Harris responded with a firm but humorous remark, saying she was not eating gummies, which drew laughter and applause from the crowd.
Shriver then made it clear that Harris had answered that part of the question.
However, Harris admitted to feeling the tension as her contest against former President Donald Trump neared, confessing that she often found herself waking up in the middle of the night. She added that working out every morning was essential to her, emphasising the importance of maintaining balance for both mind and body.
Despite her personal stance, Harris is not opposed to the legalisation of marijuana. Just last week, she had pledged her support for federal legalisation.
Michigan is one of several states where recreational marijuana has been legalised.
Harris has called for the national legalisation of recreational marijuana, with a focus on ensuring that Black entrepreneurs can participate in the cannabis industry. Her campaign emphasised that Harris would work to ensure Black men – who have long been disproportionately targeted for marijuana use – have access to the wealth and job opportunities arising from the growing market. This stance marks a sharp departure from previous policies. Recently, President Joe Biden’s administration has sought to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug.