January 1, Legal Weed Brings Unexpected Harm to Youth

Wyatt’s Take

• No civilization has tried today’s potent THC products until now.
• Western teens are dying more from suicide and drugs—legal weed plays a part.
• Legalization failed to get rid of black markets and created new problems.

We’ve never before seen societies experiment with strong commercial THC products like we do today. While alcohol has always been around, legal marijuana is something new, and most countries in Asia aren’t taking the same risk.

Recent studies show life expectancy has mostly bounced back post-pandemic, but young people in the West are dying more, often from substance use or suicide. Traffic deaths among young folks remain high, and new research out of Ohio found that 42% of dead drivers had THC in their system—far higher than average use rates.

Some say THC stays in the body for weeks, but the levels found were five to ten times the legal limit. Marijuana increases the likelihood of alcohol abuse and addiction, with a higher daily use and addiction rate than drinking.

Marijuana isn’t just “as bad” as alcohol—in many ways, it’s worse. Reports now link THC to suicidality, and rates of youth suicide and schizophrenia tied to marijuana use are climbing. Studies show smoke increases cancer risks, and heart attack risk is up for young users regardless of how it’s taken.

Legal weed costs government budgets a lot, too. In Colorado, each tax dollar gained from sales ends up costing roughly $4.50 to address weed’s negative effects—not exactly a good deal.

The black market hasn’t gone away. Pot products just got stronger, and unregulated sales flourish. The idea that legalizing weed will fix these problems has failed every time so far—legalization just means more of both good and bad flooding the market.

Some say it’s about freedom, but marijuana weakens personal responsibility—the building block for strong families and communities. Legalization only helps the drug industry and undercuts the future. Even as Democrats try to lure young voters with promises of free weed, conservative values stand firmer with young men.

Recent tragedies involving violence and drug abuse show how deep the problem goes. Changing minds isn’t easy, but the facts are clear. Conservatives shouldn’t just mourn what’s lost—they should lead by example.

Our country’s future depends on choices that strengthen—not undermine—its young people. Let’s stand up for Middle America and what’s right for the next generation.

Wyatt Matters

This debate goes straight to the heart of what matters most in our communities—protecting families, helping neighbors, and passing on solid values to our kids. Legal weed might promise freedom, but it’s come at a high cost for the people who keep this country running.

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