Trump Opponent Vivek Ramaswamy Favors Federal Marijuana Legalization, Is Polling Third Behind Ron DeSantis

Vivek Ramaswamy (R) a presidential primary candidate said he supports the federal legalization of cannabis and would allow veterans with PTSD to use certain psychedelics. 

His campaign denied a Fox News story noting that he supports decriminalizing “certain hard drugs” although he recently said that broader reform would be an important part of broader strategy. 

“Vivek is in favor of federal legalization of marijuana,” his campaign said on Monday reported Marijuana Moment (MM). 

“The current state-level ‘legalization’ farce contributes to the culture of lawbreaking. It’s literally against the law. For us to pretend otherwise only undermines the rule of law in this country,” said the 37-year-old biotech scientist multimillionaire who has no political experience. 

Despite painting himself as the victim of a Fox News smear, noted MM, Ramaswamy did not specify which portions of the report, if any, were inaccurate.

But he did post his views on social media. “I support decriminalizing ayahuasca & ketamine for veterans suffering from PTSD, to prevent the epidemic of fentanyl & suicide.”

More planted trash. I support decriminalizing ayahuasca & ketamine for veterans suffering from PTSD, to prevent the epidemic of fentanyl & suicide. It’s pathetic that Establishment candidates are using lies as a substitute for a message. When you strike the swamp, the swamp… https://t.co/NHrQ2lxadb

— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) August 15, 2023

Who Is Vivek Ramaswamy? 

Ramaswamy, who is running third in the polls behind Ron DeSantis (Trump is first), was referred to by the New York Times as “Trumpism squared.” Slate noted that he is the candidate who has gained the most ground in the polls during these months of Trump indictments because he is the most pro-Trump candidate in the running.

"The entire proposal of his candidacy is something like an insurance policy for the die-hards: If Trump is somehow cowed into not running because he’s in a prison cell or too hard up, only Ramaswamy can be trusted to pardon Trump on all charges on Day 1, carry out his wishes, and punish his captors," wrote Slate.

What Are Other GOP Candidates Saying About Cannabis Legalization?

Trump called weed a “pretty popular thing” among voters, but he still contends that drug dealers should get the death penalty 

Ron DeSantis said legalizing weed would not be on his agenda if elected. 

Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christi said in June that if elected he would “partially end” the war on drugs.

Former VP Mike Pence is a lifelong drug warrior and does not entertain the idea of even gradual reform.