Herman Cain is Trying to Garner Ron Paul Votes with Weed

While on the campaign trail in Ubandale, Iowa, Herman Cain was asked about the heated issue of medical marijuana and his thoughts regarding the federal government's role. "If states want to legalize medical marijuana, I think that's a state's right." Herman went on to say "Because one of my overriding approaches to looking at all of these issues - most of them belong at the state, because when you do something federally ... you try to force one-size-fits-all."

While support for legalizing marijuana among Americans has grown to the point of sparking far reaching discussions, Mr. Cain, three months earlier, refused to talk about the issue when confronted during the Ames Straw Poll. The video, available on YouTube, clearly shows Cain avoiding the question while fleeing an inquisitive voter.

It begs the question- Is the 'Cain Train' about to derail? While many people believe Cain is attempting to gain some of the Libertarian vote concerning this issue, others wonder how it will play out with his strong base of Christian conservatives, of which many believe marijuana is a horrible drug that leads to moral indiscretions and widespread abuse.

According to David Stevens, CEO of the Christian Medical Association, "Medical marijuana is "unnecessary" and legalizing it will worsen drug problems, lead to increased adolescent usage, and increase family problems." Pat Robertson, 700 club founder, expressed a differing view with regard to the impact of continued marijuana criminalization. Robertson went on to say "We're locking up people that have taken a couple puffs of marijuana and next thing you know they've got 10 years with mandatory sentences. These judges just say, they throw up their hands and say nothing we can do with these mandatory sentences. We've got to take a look at what we're considering crimes and that's one of 'em. "

Clearly, there is some division among prominent Christian leaders on the subject. Both Robertson and Mr. Sevens believe that marijuana is a detriment to society, but they disagree on the proper way to handle the perceived problem. While it's hard to say what percentage of Cain's Christian supporters share Robertson's views, it may be safe to say there will be some fall out over the subject. How much fall out will remain to be seen.

Meanwhile, a great deal of Paul supporters believe Cain's newfound stance is a desperate attempt to chip away at the Texas congressman's loyal subscribers that vehemently defend state's rights issues. Many libertarians believe that Cain's "9-9-9" plan, more specifically the added national sales tax, badly detracts from any appeal Cain might have with them.


Cain has had several gaffes under his belt, in addition to accusations of sexual harassment. Questions about his lack of knowledge concerning foreign policy, health care issues and sensitivity towards the American Muslim community are also weighing heavy on the minds of conservative voters.