Fact Check: "77% of Utahns back the state's medical cannabis program."
What We Know
Recent polling data indicates that 77% of Utah residents support the state's medical cannabis program. This statistic comes from a poll conducted by the Deseret News and the Hinckley Institute of Politics, which surveyed 805 registered voters from May 16 to May 21, 2025. The poll has a margin of error of ±3.5 percentage points. In addition to the strong support for medical cannabis, the survey also found that 53% of Utahns favor legalizing recreational marijuana (Deseret News) [source-2].
The medical cannabis program in Utah was established following a ballot initiative in 2018, which allowed the use of cannabis for various health conditions. As of May 2025, over 101,200 residents hold active medical cannabis cards, primarily for conditions like persistent pain, PTSD, and cancer (Deseret News) [source-2].
Analysis
The claim that 77% of Utahns back the state's medical cannabis program is substantiated by the Deseret News/Hinckley Institute poll, which is a reputable source known for conducting surveys on public opinion in Utah. The methodology of the poll, which included a significant sample size of 805 registered voters, lends credibility to the findings. The margin of error is also within an acceptable range for public opinion polling.
Critically, the poll reflects a broader trend in public opinion regarding cannabis in Utah, where support for medical cannabis has remained strong since its legalization. This is further corroborated by historical data showing a shift in attitudes toward cannabis use in the state. For instance, a previous poll in 2016 indicated that only 22% of Utahns supported legalizing recreational marijuana, highlighting a significant change in public sentiment over the years (Deseret News) [source-2].
While there are concerns among certain groups regarding the implications of medical cannabis potentially leading to recreational legalization, the current data indicates a clear majority support the existing medical program. This is echoed by statements from state lawmakers who express a commitment to maintaining the medical program while opposing recreational use (Deseret News) [source-2].
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that 77% of Utahns back the state's medical cannabis program is accurate based on reliable polling data. The Deseret News/Hinckley Institute poll provides strong evidence supporting this statistic, and the context surrounding the medical cannabis program in Utah further validates the claim. The overwhelming support reflects a significant shift in public opinion and a solid backing for the medical cannabis initiative established in 2018.
