US criminal justice reform may progress at state level

Significance

The crowded field, which includes five former or current senators and six former or current governors (with another two to declare soon), will ensure that policies that can act as dividing lines will be given particular prominence. Criminal justice reform and drug policy, which have social salience and act as a drag on the economy, will be among the most discussed.

Impacts

• An increase in legalised marijuana will have international implications, as Canada and Mexico lose market share.
• This will additionally squeeze Mexican cartel profits, possibly destabilising the security situation in northern Mexico.
• However, it will not become a major US industry until financial obstacles are removed.