Meet Anthony Clark, a US congressional candidate running for Illinois’ 7th District. What sets him apart? He openly uses cannabis. In this interview, Clark discusses his decision to use cannabis and how it ties into his mission for political change.
If you think that an open cannabis user wouldn’t be a US congressional candidate – think again.
It’s not often you see someone running for political power who looks or acts like you, but Anthony Clark is hoping to help change that while running as a candidate for Chicago’s 7th District.
Clark doesn’t hide the fact that he uses cannabis; he’s incredibly open about it during his campaign and the reason we chatted with him about that decision.
How and why does a US congressional candidate use cannabis alongside his campaign? Read on for all the tea!
Fun fact: Abraham Lincoln represented the 7th district before being elected president, though the area he represented now lies within Illinois’ 18th congressional district.
Cannabis Laws in the United States
Cannabis has always been a controversial topic in the United States, and its prohibition has had a lasting impact on the nation’s policies. However, progress has been made in recent years. California was the first state to legalize medical cannabis in 1996, followed by other states such as Oregon, Colorado, and Washington. Most recently, Illinois joined the list of states that have legalized both medical and recreational cannabis.
Despite these advancements, federal laws and stigmas surrounding cannabis still create obstacles. Clark aims to combat these challenges as he runs for Congress.
Meet Anthony Clark: US Congressional Candidate
Anthony Clark is not your typical political candidate. He describes himself as someone who is tired of the status quo and wants to bring about real change. His dedication to making a difference led him to receive the Villager of the Year award from his community in 2017. In 2018, he ran for the United States House of Representatives with the Justice Democrats, a progressive movement.
Although he was not successful in securing a seat in the 2018 election, Clark continues to fight for his mission. He is running once again as a US congressional candidate in this year’s November election. Clark is passionate about various issues, including criminal justice reform and education reform.
Bringing Change to Chicago’s 7th District
Clark’s decision to run for Congress stems from his observations regarding wealth disparity in his community. He has witnessed firsthand how little has changed for marginalized groups despite promises of progress. Clark believes that real change begins with addressing the root causes of these issues and implementing comprehensive, interconnected solutions.
“Years had gone by since I left high school and fundamentally nothing had changed. Nothing had changed for black people, brown people, poor people, people in the struggle. Things are getting worse.” Anthony Clark (US Congressional Candidate; Illinois District 7.)
By running for Congress, Clark seeks to not only fight for change on a grassroots level but also make a lasting impact through policy reform.
Why Cannabis is Important to a US Congressional Candidate
Clark’s personal experiences have shaped his stance on cannabis. As a victim of gun violence, a military veteran with PTSD, and someone suffering from Bechet’s disease, he has found relief through cannabis. By openly discussing his use of cannabis, Clark hopes to inspire others to explore alternative forms of treatment and break free from the stigma surrounding this plant.
Through his advocacy work, Clark has seen the positive impact cannabis can have on individuals dealing with various health conditions. He has even helped individuals transition from addictive opioids to cannabis as a form of pain relief. Personally, cannabis has allowed Clark to reduce his reliance on medication and manage his health conditions more effectively.
Clark believes that cannabis has the potential to address the opioid crisis and bring relief to individuals struggling with mental health issues and chronic pain.
Educating Others on Cannabis Use as a US Congressional Candidate
As an open cannabis user, Clark takes it upon himself to educate others about the benefits of cannabis. He engages in conversations with individuals who have never considered cannabis as a form of medicine or remedy. By sharing his personal experiences and the positive impact cannabis has had on his life, Clark hopes to inspire others to explore the potential benefits of this plant.
Clark’s efforts have not only helped patients access medical cannabis but have also influenced the perception of cannabis within his community. He has become a positive role model, demonstrating that cannabis use can be responsible and beneficial.
Thoughts on the Legal Cannabis Industry
Clark recognizes the importance of addressing the racial and economic disparities that have plagued the cannabis industry. He believes that the tax revenue from the legal cannabis industry should be used to support black and brown communities that have been disproportionately affected by the war on drugs. By redirecting funds towards these communities, he hopes to combat the ongoing inequality within the industry.
The Reaction to a US Congressional Candidate Who Uses Cannabis
Not surprisingly, Clark has faced backlash for his open cannabis use. Some individuals have reported him to the police and his employers, attempting to discredit his campaign. However, Clark remains unfazed by the criticism and continues to advocate for his beliefs.
Clark’s resilience and determination to challenge the norm make him a unique candidate in the political landscape. He strives to be a positive image for cannabis users and is committed to eliminating the stigma surrounding cannabis.
As the November election approaches, Anthony Clark continues to inspire others with his bold voice and dedication to creating meaningful change.
FAQs
1. What is Anthony Clark’s political affiliation?
Anthony Clark is associated with the Justice Democrats, a progressive movement.
2. How has cannabis helped Anthony Clark?
Cannabis has provided relief for Anthony Clark’s health conditions, including Bechet’s disease and PTSD. It has allowed him to reduce his reliance on medication and manage his symptoms more effectively.
3. How does Anthony Clark educate others about cannabis?
Anthony Clark engages in conversations with individuals who may not have considered cannabis as a form of medicine or remedy. He shares his personal experiences and the positive impact cannabis has had on his life to inspire others to explore its potential benefits.
4. What is Anthony Clark’s stance on the legal cannabis industry?
Anthony Clark believes that tax revenue from the legal cannabis industry should be used to support black and brown communities that have been disproportionately affected by the war on drugs. He aims to address racial and economic disparities within the industry.
5. How has Anthony Clark responded to backlash regarding his cannabis use?
Despite facing criticism and attempts to discredit him, Anthony Clark remains steadfast in his beliefs and continues to advocate for his campaign and the benefits of cannabis use.
