Fact Check: 53% of Utahns support legalizing recreational marijuana.

Fact Check: "53% of Utahns support legalizing recreational marijuana."

What We Know

A recent poll conducted by the Deseret News and the Hinckley Institute of Politics indicates that 53% of registered voters in Utah support legalizing recreational marijuana. This figure represents a significant increase from a previous poll conducted in April 2023, where only 40% expressed support for legalization (Deseret News). The survey included responses from 805 registered voters and highlights a growing trend in public opinion regarding marijuana policy in a state traditionally opposed to such reforms. Notably, medical marijuana has been legal in Utah since 2018, with 77% of respondents supporting the existing medical cannabis program (Deseret News).

Analysis

The claim that 53% of Utahns support legalizing recreational marijuana is substantiated by the recent polling data. The Deseret News/Hinckley Institute poll is a credible source, as it is conducted by a reputable news organization in collaboration with a respected political institute. The methodology involved surveying a substantial sample size of 805 registered voters, which enhances the reliability of the findings.

Additionally, other polls corroborate the trend of increasing support for marijuana legalization in Utah. For instance, a poll by Noble Predictive Insights reported that 52% of Utahns favor legalization, which aligns closely with the 53% figure from the Deseret News poll (ABC4). This consistency across different polls suggests a genuine shift in public sentiment.

However, it is important to note that despite this growing support, Utah's legislative body has historically been resistant to legalizing recreational marijuana, often citing concerns over public health and safety (Deseret News). This resistance may impact the actual implementation of legalization, even if public opinion continues to favor it.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that 53% of Utahns support legalizing recreational marijuana is accurate based on recent polling data from a reliable source. The increase in support reflects a significant shift in public opinion, although legislative action remains uncertain.

Fact Check: 53% of Utahns support legalizing recreational marijuana.