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Green Party's Polanski Advocates Drug Legalization Reform

2/1/2026

Summary

Story summary

Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party, reiterated support for regulated drug legalization in a BBC interview.
He says current policies disproportionately affect young Black and Brown people through racialized illegal drug use.
Polanski calls Keir Starmer's comments hypocritical, noting politicians have admitted drug use while backing harsh penalties.
He favors a public health approach, arguing the war on drugs drives use underground and increases danger.

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Story summary

Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party, reiterated support for regulated drug legalization in a BBC interview.
He says current policies disproportionately affect young Black and Brown people through racialized illegal drug use.
Polanski calls Keir Starmer's comments hypocritical, noting politicians have admitted drug use while backing harsh penalties.
He favors a public health approach, arguing the war on drugs drives use underground and increases danger.