John,

Last weekend, the New York Times published a damning admission from Richard Nixon, the architect of the failed war on drugs: he knew he was lying about the dangers of cannabis. While this provides vindication for those of us who have fought for legalization, it is a devastating admission for a devastating policy that has ruined millions of lives for more than 50 years.

Luckily, it is never too late to do the right thing. And in state after state, voters are making clear where they stand.

24 states have legalized marijuana use for adults over 21. Despite Republicans like Gov. Ron DeSantis' efforts to block and denounce marijuana legalization in Florida, the tide is turning on this issue, and Florida can be the next state to join the wave. In April, Florida's Supreme Court issued a ruling that allows voters to decide whether or not to legalize the adult use of marijuana. Florida already took a huge step by passing medical marijuana – now it's time to treat it the same way we do tobacco and alcohol.

Vice President Kamala Harris has long been on the right side of ending the failed war on drugs. I was pleased to work with her on the only comprehensive cannabis reform to pass either chamber of Congress. While we have always enjoyed bipartisan support, it should be a powerful signal to the rest of the Republican party when even Donald Trump can get on board. This underscores the irrefutable evidence that the tide has turned and is further proof of what is possible to get done this Congress.

I have worked to end the failed war on drugs for decades. I hope you will join me in support for these ballot initiatives. When we show up in droves this November, we will vote our values, protect the heart of democracy, and advance the issue of freedom.

Courage,

Earl