This is a gift to republicans if they run with it.
Step 1. Introduce simple decriminalization legislation at fed and state levels.
Step 2. Add expungement for “simple possession”
Step 3. Run ads with a younger joe calling for drug possessors to be thrown in prison forever
Step 4. Win the elections and take all that sweet weed lobbying cash to fill the party coffers.
Perfect, and use it as a launch pad for a return to 'smaller less intrusive' government'. Perhaps even start pressing for enforcement of the commerce clause.
Er, never mind. Clearing I'm on drugs to even think this might happen.