Positive perception of the landmark legislation is highest among Westerners
The most prominent leaf in Canada is usually of the maple-variety but in recent weeks, another leaf has captured the attention of the nation. America’s northern neighbor legalized recreational marijuana on June 21st and became the second nation to do so after Uruguay. As the first G-7 nation to pass such a landmark legislation, Canada’s new law will be carefully scrutinized around the world for its impact on the nation.
A new poll from YouGov Omnibus finds that nearly two in five Americans (38%) say that the new law will have a positive effect on Canada’s future. Less than a quarter (24%) say that legalization will negatively affect the nation and a fifth (20%) say it will have no effect.
Positive perception of Canada’s legalization of marijuana is highest among those who live in the West (41%). This comes as little surprise, given that six states in this region have legalized both recreational and medical marijuana.
By party affiliation, nearly one in two Republicans (49%) believe that legalization will have a negative impact on Canada’s future. One in three independents (36%) and one in two Democrats (50%) hold that the matter will have a positive effect, the leading response for both parties.
Optimism for Canada’s new legislation appears to increase with income level. Starting with those who earn less than $40,000 a year, 36% have a positive perception of the law. That figure increases to 38% when those who earn $40,000 to $80,000 are asked and culminates at 41% when those who earn over $80,000 are examined.
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