Editorial Critique (should Texas legalize marijuana)

I just recently read an editorial in the Austin American Statesmen titled “Should Texas consider stakes for pot”.  The article seems to be written in response to the Marijuana Policy Project from Washington DC coming to Texas, with the goal of marijuana legalization in Texas.  The writer’s argument is that Texas should consider legalizing marijuana, or legalizing medical marijuana.

The writer starts the article by providing a couple of statistics to build a foundation that will support the overall argument, giving Gallup polls and Pew Research surveys statistics.  According to that %58 of American’s support the legalization of marijuana.  This was a great way to start the argument that Texas should legalize.  Strong evidence at the start of the argument will develop a sense of trust between the reader and the text.  Also having well known and reputable evidence like a Gallup poll will help reassure the reader that what they reading are true.

The article isn't directed at a certain demographic in particular, it is more of intended for all Texas citizens as it would affect them all.  The assumption is that the Texas legalization of marijuana would benefit all Texans.  The article offers evidence of benefits stemming from tax revenue and reduced punishment, if any, on those caught with the substance.

The article makes several points as to why Texas should legalize marijuana, all of them supported by evidence, but then it also provides some negative implication legalization would have.  It offers this implication with reputable supporting evidence.  This in fact strengthens the argument.  By giving an implication, the writer’s authenticity is preserved, and shows that it is not a biased article, and demonstrates a real pursuit of the issues of legalization.

The article concludes in a sort of neutral way, not calling or demanding for legalization, but asking that the issue be debated. This article was well written, provided a lot of supporting evidence, and clearly argued for the legalization of marijuana in Texas.