Initiative endorsed by former two-term Republican Governor Gary Johnson

Former two-term Republican governor of New Mexico Gary Johnson has endorsed the initiative to regulate marijuana like alcohol in Colorado.  Gov. Johnson, a successful businessman who has been referred to as the "most fiscally conservative Governor" in the country, is an outspoken advocate for marijuana policy reform. He is currently seeking the Libertarian Party nomination for president.

Gov. Johnson announced his endorsement at a news conference with the campaign on February 17, at which time he discussed why he supports ending marijuana prohibition and regulating it like alcohol. In particular, he discussed his belief -- based on his personal experience -- that marijuana is far less harmful than alcohol. He also highlighted the importance of the Colorado initiative at the national level, telling Denver's NBC affiliate station:

"Coloradans have the chance to end marijuana prohibition for the entire country. There has to be a first, and Colorado has that opportunity. The more people talk about this, the more people understand this, the better the chance is for [marijuana prohibition] to end."