James Talarico, the Democratic challenger for Texas's U.S. Senate seat, told MS NOW this week he wants to work with President Donald Trump on federal marijuana legalization if he wins next month's election.
"It's a crime that doesn't hurt anybody," Talarico said during the interview, framing cannabis reform as an issue ripe for bipartisan cooperation.
The statement puts Talarico in the unusual position of a Democrat publicly seeking partnership with Trump on drug policy. While Trump has signaled openness to state-level cannabis programs and backed Florida's Amendment 3 legalization measure, he has not committed to comprehensive federal reform.
The Texas Factor
Talarico faces long odds in deep-red Texas, where Republicans have controlled both Senate seats since 1993. Current polling shows incumbent Senator Ted Cruz maintaining a comfortable lead, though Democrats have poured money into the race hoping to flip the seat.
Texas remains one of the most restrictive states for cannabis. The state allows a limited low-THC medical program, but possession of any amount of marijuana for recreational use is a criminal offense. A 2023 bill to decriminalize small amounts died in committee.
The Lone Star State has seen incremental movement on hemp-derived products. Last year, lawmakers moved to ban delta-8 THC and other intoxicating hemp cannabinoids, though enforcement has been inconsistent. Some Texas cities, including Austin and Dallas, have passed local ordinances deprioritizing marijuana possession arrests.
Cross-Party Cannabis Politics
Talarico's pitch for Trump collaboration reflects the complicated politics of federal cannabis reform. While recent polling shows roughly 70% of Americans support legalization, Congress has failed to pass comprehensive reform despite multiple attempts.
The SAFER Banking Act, which would give cannabis businesses access to traditional financial services, has stalled in the House after passing the Senate. Broader legalization bills have not advanced beyond committee hearings.
Trump's position on marijuana has evolved. During his first term, his Justice Department under Jeff Sessions rescinded Obama-era guidance that allowed state-legal cannabis programs to operate without federal interference. But Trump has recently backed state-level legalization efforts and pardoned some federal marijuana offenders.
What's Next
The November 5 election will determine whether Talarico gets the chance to pursue his proposed partnership. Even if elected, any cannabis legislation would need 60 votes in the Senate to overcome a filibuster.
The cannabis industry has watched Texas closely as a potential tipping point state. With nearly 30 million residents and a $2 trillion economy, a shift in Texas policy could accelerate federal reform. But the state's conservative legislature has shown little appetite for change, even as neighboring Oklahoma built a massive medical market and New Mexico launched adult-use sales.
Talarico's campaign did not respond to requests for additional details on his cannabis policy platform or timeline for potential legislation.
This article is based on original reporting by www.marijuanamoment.net.
