New Hampshire Rep. Maggie Goodlander Backs Federal Cannabis Legalization in Primary Debate

In a New Hampshire Democratic primary debate, incumbent Rep. Maggie Goodlander said she would support federal cannabis legalization, arguing law enforcement should focus on pressing community issues like the opioid crisis. Her opponent, state Rep. Paige Beauchemin, also backed legalization but stressed implementation should prioritize small businesses and those harmed by prohibition.

Rep. Maggie Goodlander (D-NH) said during a WMUR debate that she would back federal cannabis legalization, stating that law enforcement resources should be directed toward the most pressing community challenges. She noted that for too long the focus has been on the wrong offenders, and highlighted the opioid crisis as a top killer in communities.

Her primary challenger, state Rep. Paige Beauchemin, agreed on federal legalization but emphasized that a national retail market should be implemented in a way that focuses on small businesses. Beauchemin said it is silly to allow alcohol but not cannabis, and argued that those previously punished under prohibition should have the opportunity to run cannabis businesses rather than large corporations taking over.

The state's primary elections were underway at the time of the report. A University of New Hampshire Survey Center poll gave Goodlander the edge with 59% support compared to Beauchemin's 19%.