US Senator: "McDonald's More Dangerous Than Cannabis"

Liz Filmer
23 Apr 2026

In a political landscape where complex legal debates often overshadow discussions about cannabis reform, Senator Cory Booker has taken a more straightforward approach to highlight the hypocrisy of prohibition. During a recent conversation about the need to end the federal criminalisation of cannabis, Booker made a bold statement that quickly gained traction on social media: "If you look at the public health data, marijuana is objectively safer than McDonald's fries."


How Does This Assertion Challenge Public Perception?

This assertion is more than just a provocative remark; it draws attention to a system that allows and promotes ultra-processed foods—known to cause serious health issues such as metabolic diseases, obesity, and cardiovascular problems—while still classifying cannabis as one of the most dangerous substances.

What Are the Real Impacts of Cannabis Prohibition?

According to Booker, the real harm does not stem from cannabis itself, but rather from the disproportionate legal consequences that particularly affect marginalised communities. He pointed out the paradox where a bag of chips is "legal and deadly," yet possessing cannabis can lead to imprisonment.

Is There a Need for a Change in Cannabis Laws?

Booker emphasised that, while there is no intention to outlaw fast food, it's time to align cannabis laws with scientific and statistical evidence. Despite prohibitionist rhetoric, there have been virtually no deaths directly caused by cannabis use, compared to the thousands of fatalities linked to unhealthy eating habits and the abuse of legal substances like alcohol and tobacco.

What Does This Mean for Future Legalisation Efforts?

Although this position might seem extreme, it reflects a growing sentiment among progressive lawmakers: legalising cannabis is not just about individual freedom; it is also a common-sense necessity to stop wasting public resources on pursuing a plant that, in Booker's words, is less risky than ordering a "large" meal at a fast food restaurant.

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Liz Filmer