Report: Walsh Willing To Take Lead In Pot Fight

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh says he's willing to take the lead in the effort to fight the legalization of recreational marijuana in Massachusetts.

Walsh, a recovering alcoholic and a passionate advocate for those struggling with drug addiction, tells The Boston Globe "it would be a mistake to legalize marijuana," saying people with serious addictions to destructive drugs often start by smoking pot.

Advocates for legalizing marijuana hope to get a ballot question approved to put to voters in November 2016. Polls have shown that most Massachusetts citizens support legalization.

Gov. Charlie Baker, Attorney General Maura Healey, and Suffolk District Attorney Daniel Conley all oppose legalization.

Matt Simon, New England political director for the Marijuana Policy Project, which is involved in the push for legalization in Massachusetts, says Walsh is "in denial."