An investigation into fatal driver incidents in Ohio revealed that 42 percent of those drivers tested positive for THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana. Advocates for cannabis pointed out that THC can remain detectable in the body for up to a month post-consumption. Yet, statistics show that only 16 percent of the population has used marijuana in the past 30 days, while the THC levels recorded in these drivers were significantly above the legal limit—often 5 to 10 times higher.
Interestingly, a recent global report on life expectancy highlighted a concerning trend: teenagers and young adults in Western countries are facing rising mortality rates mainly due to suicide and drug-related issues. Alcohol is part of the equation, but marijuana is contributing to increased alcohol consumption as well.
Users of marijuana are reportedly five times more likely to develop alcohol issues, with up to 40 percent of them using it daily. Around 30 percent of these daily users fit the criteria for addiction—much higher than for those who primarily drink alcohol. Suggesting that alcohol acts as justification for marijuana use or its legalization seems rather simplistic.
There’s a noteworthy distinction between alcohol and marijuana. Throughout history, various civilizations have utilized alcohol, but no culture has engaged in the widespread commercialization and legalization of THC products like we’re witnessing today in the West. One might wonder, why haven’t Asian countries followed suit? Even though THC products are illegal in the U.S., they’re still being promoted here.
Moreover, THC usage has been linked to increased suicidal thoughts, even in individuals without pre-existing depression. Since the legalization of cannabis in various states, suicide rates have risen sharply. There’s a link between THC and conditions like schizophrenia, adding to the multitude of problems associated with its use. Some individuals have noted their confusion regarding their behavior, even mentioning a desire to quit using THC to stop violent impulses.
Marijuana can also lead to cancer, similar to smoking cigarettes. Users experience increased risks for heart attacks, strokes, and have a significantly greater likelihood of developing diabetes. The notion that marijuana will improve public health seems, frankly, misguided.
Additionally, the negative impact on academic performance and motivation is well-documented, and the financial burden cannabis places on government budgets is staggering—one conservative estimate from Colorado suggested the costs could reach into the billions, with substantial tax losses alongside what’s collected from marijuana sales.
There’s a lack of compelling conservative arguments for legalizing marijuana. Even the libertarian perspective has substantial weaknesses because it fails to consider that drugs like THC can undermine the personal responsibility that libertarianism values. Ironically, those who might advocate for drug culture could be the very ones working against the foundational beliefs of their ideology.
The hope that legalized marijuana would create a “safe, regulated” product while erasing the black market has proven incorrect. In fact, many legal THC products are now far more potent than traditional variants, and the black market is still thriving, despite the regulations meant to control it. Suggesting that legalizing marijuana would solve these issues is like trying to fix one problem by inadvertently creating another.
Furthermore, the Biden administration’s possible rescheduling of marijuana sales may inadvertently boost this controversial industry, providing it with tax incentives and marketing advantages. This move could adversely affect young voters, particularly young males, despite previous outreach efforts from Democrats.
Charlie Kirk has emphasized the need for honesty regarding the THC industry, noting that Republicans shouldn’t fall behind Democrats in the drug culture debate. Public sentiment is shifting against marijuana, suggesting a changing tide that should not be ignored.
Kirk believes that while minds can change, facts remain constant. Conservative figures should take note of his approach and actively advocate for truth regarding marijuana’s impact on society and the future of the nation.
