EXCLUSIVE: Congressmen Troy Carter And Dean Phillips At Benzinga Conference: Biden Needs To Lead On Legalization

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference kicked off Tuesday morning with packed conference rooms, packed hallways and attendees packed with ideas and enthusiasm as we head into what everyone seems to agree will be good times ahead for the burgeoning marijuana industry.

With nearly the entire country having voted on or legislated some form of legal cannabis, investors, entrepreneurs, advocates and analysts are discussing how to move toward a profitable and equitable industry. 

Politicians Speak

On one important panel moderated by Saphira Galoob of the Liaison Group, two Congressmen told panelists that politicians from both sides of the aisle are not beyond understanding and being convinced that cannabis legalization is reasonable, they just need more nudging. Well, some more than others, they agreed, but more lawmakers than think are open to hearing more on the topic unless they're blinded by "partisan bias."

"I tell my colleagues on each side of the aisle that this is a quintessential challenge where in we can work together," said Congressman Troy Carter (D), US Rep from Louisiana. "Cannabis is a medical issue as well as an opportunity to create a brand-new industry. I'm confident we're going to get there."

Rep. Dean Phillips (D) flipped his district in suburban Minneapolis in 2018 to Democratic control for the first time since 1960. This last November, Republicans essentially gave up on the seat. Phillips told the packed conference room that Biden has to take the lead on this issue and seemed perplexed that the president has not done that.

"He's being pushed. But anyone who has to be pushed to understand that cannabis should not be classified along with other dangerous drugs like heroin and cocaine needs much more education," Phillips said.

What's To Be Done?

Both congressmen encouraged people to show up, in person, in Washington DC, walk the halls of Congress and make their cases. 

"We're moved when you come to move us. Come to us in Washington, unified. Face time matters and the squeaky wheel get the grease, so show up and make yourselves heard," Phillips said. 

Carter agreed that it's time to convince lawmakers that cannabis is here to stay as a business and a health and wellness issue. "Even those you think won't agree with you on that topic today, speak to them and explain your concerns to both parties. We can convince them."

Benzinga photo: Troy Carter, Saphira Galoob, Dean Phillips