The latest Vanderbilt University poll reveals a clear majority of Tennesseans now back the legalization of recreational marijuana, highlighting a growing disconnect between public opinion and state lawmakers.
Conducted between November 18 and December 4, the survey found that 63% of registered voters support full legalization, including 53% of Republicans and 78% of Democrats.
This significant shift in public sentiment comes as Tennessee remains one of the few states without any form of legalized recreational or medical marijuana (24 states have legalized recreational marijuana, while 39 have legalized marijuana medicinally).
The poll, which surveyed 995 registered voters, also highlighted Tennesseans’ broader frustrations with the legislature’s reluctance to act on popular issues. While the GOP supermajority in the state has resisted marijuana reform, the consistent public demand for legalization suggests it could become a key issue in future elections.
The findings are part of a broader trend nationwide, as more states move to legalize marijuana and public support continues to grow. Multiple nationwide polls released this year, including one from Gallup and one from Fox News, show support for legalization to be between 67% and 69%.
