North Carolina Survey Showed Support for Marijuana

A new Elon University survey revealed that most North Carolinians support legalizing cannabis.

Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a geometric cannabis leaf on a crate, representing North Carolina cannabis policy shift. — A recent Elon University survey found that 75% of North Carolina residents support legalizing medical marijuana, while over half back recreational use. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should states move toward legalizing recreational marijuana for adult use?

A public opinion survey conducted by Elon University found that 75% of North Carolinians support legalizing medical marijuana. Additionally, more than 50% of state residents expressed support for the legalization of recreational marijuana.

Why it matters

The North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis has recommended that the state move toward establishing a regulated adult-use market to replace prohibition.

Support for medical marijuana includes 89% of Democrats and 57% of Republicans. For recreational use, support stands at 74% among Democrats and 33% among Republicans.

The players

Elon University

This private university conducts academic research and public opinion surveys on various social and political issues in the state.

North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis

This state advisory body is tasked with evaluating cannabis policies and recommending potential regulatory frameworks.

The details

The findings were published as the state grapples with shifting policies on cannabis. The Advisory Council on Cannabis held recent discussions to reach a consensus on replacing existing prohibitions with a framework for legal access and state regulations.

Earlier this year, the Advisory Council on Cannabis recommended marijuana market regulations.
September 2026 saw the publication of the Elon University survey results regarding marijuana support.

Deeper Dive

The study indicates that public sentiment has shifted against the status quo of the North Carolina state marijuana prohibition statute.

Residents may see increased legislative debate regarding the availability of medical and recreational cannabis in the state. The survey results could influence future policy decisions that change how residents access these substances.

The takeaway

Public support for cannabis reform has become a significant factor in North Carolina policy discussions. Stakeholders should monitor upcoming legislative sessions for potential shifts in legal frameworks.