Marijuana Amendment Didn't Pass. But It Got More Than 50%. Why Did That Happen?
Ballot Initiative Lost, but Still a Sign of Progress
South Dakota voters rejected a ballot measure that would have legalized recreational marijuana in the state. The measure failed by a margin of 45% to 55%. This is despite the fact that polls leading up to the election showed the measure had majority support. So what happened?
Reason 1: Conservative Voters Turnout
One possible explanation is that conservative voters turned out in higher numbers than expected. These voters are typically opposed to marijuana legalization, and their votes may have tipped the scales against the measure.
Another possible explanation is that supporters of the measure were overconfident. They may have believed that the measure would pass easily and did not put in the effort to get out the vote. As a result, they may have lost support from voters who were not as enthusiastic about the measure.
Reason 2: Misinformation Campaign
Opponents of the measure ran a well-funded misinformation campaign. They claimed that the measure would lead to increased crime and drug use. These claims may have scared voters who were otherwise in favor of legalization.
Reason 3: Competing Ballot Initiatives
The marijuana legalization measure was one of several high-profile ballot initiatives on the ballot in South Dakota this year. This may have led to voter confusion and may have caused some voters to cast their ballots against all of the measures.
