One Spanish Politician Calls Cannabis 'The Most Dangerous Of Drugs' While Another Defends It, Pushes Tougher Alcohol Laws

By Lucía Tedesco via El Planteo, adapted for Benzinga

Amid Spain's efforts to regulate medicinal cannabis, a political clash has emerged between Isabel Díaz Ayuso, the President of the Community of Madrid, and Mónica García, the Minister of Health. This conflict, reflecting broader global debates on cannabis, offers insights and parallels to similar discussions in the United States.

During the latest Mental Health Prevention Day, Ayuso voiced strong opposition to cannabis, calling it "the most dangerous of drugs." In response, García extended an invitation to Ayuso to learn about her project restricting tobacco and alcohol use among minors.

In a ceremony honoring healthcare professionals for their crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, García defended her stance against Ayuso's criticisms. "I think she's confusing the terms. Medicinal cannabis has all the scientific evidence we need, all the scientific support that's needed. From the Ministry of Health, we will continue to support it," García declared, according to Cáñamo magazine.

García clarified that her proposal focuses on the therapeutic use of cannabis, backed by medical studies, and does not aim to legalize recreational use. Meanwhile, Ayuso seeks to further restrict access to cannabis derivatives in the Community of Madrid.

García challenged Ayuso to support her comprehensive plan to combat smoking and alcohol use, emphasizing the need for joint action to address public health issues affecting minors. "Let's hope that she defends the protection of minors' physical and mental health with the same fervor she uses to criticize the Spanish Government," García remarked.

The Health Ministry's message is clear: public health should be a field of consensus and collaboration. Ayuso's response to this invitation will reveal whether these leaders can transcend political disputes and work together for a shared cause.

Photos: PP Comunidad de Madrid, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons // Bruno Thevenim, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons // Edited in Canva by El Planteo

This article is from an external unpaid contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.