Ohio party chairmen disagree on pot and Kasich presidential run

COLUMBUS (AP) — The leaders of Ohio’s Republican and Democratic parties are split on the legalization of marijuana and the strength of a potential presidential run by Gov. John Kasich.

Newly elected Democratic Chairman David Pepper predicts marijuana will be legal in the state in five years and politicians should be proactive in addressing the issue to protect Ohio interests.

Republican Chairman Matt Borges gave support to some type of medical marijuana legislation but said legalizing marijuana for recreational use must be prevented.

Borges said Kasich, a fellow Republican, would make a great president, while Pepper said Kasich would have to govern much differently than he has in Ohio.

The two chairmen appeared side-by-side today for the first time at the Ohio Newspaper Association’s annual convention in Columbus.