A recent poll indicates that a significant majority of North Carolina adults are in favor of legalizing marijuana for both recreational and medical purposes.
The survey, conducted by SurveyUSA for WRAL and WSOC, reveals that 63% of respondents support the legalization of recreational marijuana, while only 26 percent oppose it, and 11 percent remain undecided.
The poll highlights broad bipartisan support for recreational marijuana legalization, with 73% of Democrats, 52% of Republicans, and 65% of independents expressing their approval.
Support for legalization spans age groups, though those aged 65 and older are divided, with 42% in favor and 42% against. Notably, opposition to legalization does not exceed 44 percent in any demographic subgroup, indicating a clear majority in favor of the reform.
In terms of medical cannabis, support is even stronger, with 74% of respondents advocating for its legalization. Only 15% oppose it, and 11% are unsure. The backing for medical marijuana spans party lines as well, with 83% of Democrats, 65% of Republicans, and 75% of independents in favor. This reform also enjoys support across all age groups, including those over 65, underscoring its widespread acceptance.
Ken Alper, president of SurveyUSA, suggests that North Carolina voters have seen what other states have done with marijuana legalization and are now more comfortable with the idea than they were a decade or two ago. A separate poll released last month by Elon University corroborates these findings, showing similar support for both medical and recreational marijuana, as well as a desire to keep THC-infused hemp products like seltzers and gummies legal.
The latest survey included interviews with 900 North Carolina adults and was conducted between October 7 and 11.
The poll’s timing coincides with ongoing discussions within a North Carolina government commission tasked with recommending a transition from strict cannabis prohibition to a regulated system. The North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis, convened by Governor Josh Stein, has been holding a series of meetings focused on various aspects of marijuana reform.
Recently, the council’s Market and Regulatory Subcommittee explored a model in which the state would control the retail channel while private businesses would handle cultivation, manufacturing, and wholesale distribution. Governor Stein continues to urge the GOP-controlled legislature to push for comprehensive marijuana reform.
In August, he called on lawmakers to legalize and regulate cannabis in a manner that prioritizes the safety of children. Meanwhile, the legislature is considering a bill aimed at regulating the hemp THC market, which has been described as a “Wild West” environment in North Carolina.
Despite the governor’s push for broader cannabis legalization, GOP legislative leaders have shown more interest in addressing the narrower issue of hemp regulation. A bill recently approved by the Senate seeks to limit hemp and kratom products, now awaiting action in the House.
Efforts to legalize medical cannabis have been ongoing in North Carolina for several legislative sessions, with the Senate approving multiple proposals while the House has been more resistant. However, the Senate president pro tempore has indicated that there may be renewed interest in medical marijuana legislation following the Trump administration’s recent decision to reschedule cannabis at the federal level.
As public support for marijuana legalization continues to grow, the coming months may prove pivotal for cannabis reform in North Carolina.
