Voting + Watch Party 101

Voting + Watch Party 101 

Seeds of Knowledge

Election Day is almost here! Learn how your vote can influence cannabis laws, get quick tips on registering to vote, and discover the best ways to enjoy election night with friends, snacks, and your favorite cannabis strains—no matter how the results turn out. 

Now is the time to partake in democracy. Voting is incredibly important. We encourage everyone to hit the polls on November 5^th. Your vote can help impact cannabis policies like rescheduling (let’s make this happen. Finally!), adult-use and federal legalization (you can still get arrested for cannabis in many states even if you bought it legally in another!), and expungement (no one should be imprisoned for non-violent cannabis related crimes!). Not to mention, your vote also impacts all the other policies that will help us build a more equal and inclusive society.  

We know the election can be stressful and sometimes confusing. It’s good to stay informed but balance is key. Taking breaks from the news and distracting yourself with friends, families, hobbies and cannabis can be helpful once you’ve cast your ballot. We’ve put together a guide with information on voter registration, cannabis on the ballot, and most importantly, how to make the most of election night. Hint: You’ll want plenty of potent product.  

Get the Seeds of Knowledge, then bring your smoke circle together and hit the polls on November 5^th.  

Pre-flight: Flower to the People

Your vote can have a significant impact on cannabis. All plant related policy goes through the state legislature, but it only gets there because citizens like us advocate and vote in favor of it. Look at grassroots movements like the Cannabis Buyers Club. Dennis Peron and company are proof that when enough votes and voices come together in support of cannabis, we can influence the government to legalize and protect the plant. The power of the people got Prop P passed. That led to the first legal dispensaries. Since then, voters have gotten additional states to legalize cannabis. By voting for candidates who recognize the health and community aspects of cannabis we can continue to make progress.  

Before you vote, there’s some things you’ll want to know.

Registering to Vote

Simply put, you can’t vote if you’re not registered.  

Who can register? All U.S. citizens over the age of 18 without felony charges or imprisonment (this is one reason why expungement for non-violent cannabis cases is so important). 

It’s easy to register. Really. You can do it right now from wherever you are. Even if you’ve got a pre-roll in hand. Full disclosure, I just sent in my registration online in 3 minutes while writing this blog post.  

• Step 1: Check if you’re already registered (you may have done this 4 years ago. Who can remember.)  
  • NOTE: If you’ve moved recently or had a name change, you’ll likely need to register again (good news: It’s still easy to do) 

CHECK IF YOU’RE REGISTERED TO VOTE HERE: https://www.usa.gov/confirm-voter-registration  

• Step 2: Register if you aren’t already 
  • Each state has its own rules but the links included below will sort that out for you.  
  • It’s pretty easy, especially if you can register online. You’ll submit the form faster than you can finish off a Big Dog.  

How to Register 

This changes state-to-state but in most places, you can register: 

• Online 
• By mail 
• In person at your local election office 

In most states, you can also register in person at your polling place on Election Day. But there are often lines, this takes more time, and you’ll need 2 forms of government issued ID. So, we recommend you register in advance. Everything’s a bit easier from the comfort of your own home, isn’t it?  

What You Need to Register

Again, this changes from state to state, but in most cases, you’ll need a:  

• state ID (like a license or state-issues photo ID)  
• last 4 digits of your social security number.  
• Current address and previous address 

REGISTER ONLINE HERE: https://vote.gov/  

For U.S. Citizens Abroad (including active military) 

The Federal Voting Assistance Program lets you register to vote and request an absentee ballot if you are a: 

• U.S. Citizen living outside the U.S. 
• Service member stationed abroad 
• Spouse or eligible family member of a service member stationed abroad 

REGISTER TO VOTE HERE: https://www.fvap.gov/fpca-privacy-notice  

Voter Registration Deadlines 

Every state has voter registration deadlines. In many states you have to register online, by mail, or in person at your local election office a full 30 days before the election on November 5^th.  

CHECK YOUR STATE DEADLINES HERE: https://www.vote.org/voter-registration-deadlines/  

If you miss the registration deadline, you can still register to vote and a cast a ballot at the same time during early voting or on Election Day. Simply go to your regular polling place or early voting site to register and vote.  

THE EASIEST WAY: TAKE A FEW MINUTES AND REGISTER ONLINE RIGHT NOW. Get it out of the way. If you’re reading this, we know you’re on a device already. Follow the link below: https://vote.gov/  

Cannabis on the Ballot

Cannabis Laws at the Federal Level 

The President, Senate and House of Representatives control cannabis legislation on a federal level. Without federal legalization, millions of Americans don’t have access to medical or recreational cannabis, citizens can be arrested or ticketed for cannabis use in many states regardless of where it was purchased, and taxes on products are inconsistent and higher in certain regions. So if this is an important issue for you, as it is for us, then we should all vote people into office who will decriminalize and legalize adult-use across the country. 

Cannabis Laws by State 

Election Day is not just about the president.  

Cannabis laws differ across the U.S., and your vote on November 5th could influence future changes. In states like California, Colorado, and Oregon, cannabis is fully legal for both medical and recreational use, offering residents broad access. Meanwhile, states like Texas and Idaho still prohibit all forms of cannabis, keeping the plant entirely illegal. Florida and New York have legalized medical cannabis, but recreational use remains off-limits. In places like Nevada and Massachusetts, both medical and recreational cannabis are allowed, giving voters a taste of what full legalization can offer.  

In total, medical cannabis is legal in 38 states. In about half those states it was passed through state legislation, in part due to a high demand from the people of that state for access to legal cannabis. BUT in the other states, medical cannabis was passed through the ballot initiative process – meaning voters like us got to vote in favor of cannabis on a ballot that will look very similar to the one you’ll see on November 5^th. 

As you prepare to head to the polls, remember that each state has its own approach to cannabis—and your vote is part of the movement toward a more unified and just approach to this important issue. 

You may think, “I live in a legal state. Why does this concern me?” Good question.  

1. Medical cannabis has helped improve the lives of millions of people. To name a few benefits, it can help relieve muscle and joint paint, induce appetite in patients, and decrease stress. Legalization of cannabis has also been proven to have a positive impact on decreasing opioid addiction. For these reasons alone, we believe everyone should have access to quality cannabis.  
2. Let’s say you buy some product at your local dispensary. Then you take a road trip to another state. If that state has not legalized cannabis, then you could be in big trouble. That’s BS. You bought it legally. But that’s just how it goes when the plant is not legal on a federal level.  
3. You know how good it can be. Easy access to hundreds of premium cannabis products. New strains, new products, new pieces. All at your fingertips. Don’t you think everyone should be able to experience that? Let’s reduce the stigma and elevate the culture by voting in favor of the plant. 

State Specific Measures Already Announced

There are a handful of states that have announce cannabis measures that will be voted on during the federal election.

For example, Florida voters will decide on a constitutional amendment permitting existing medical cannabis facilities to engage in adult-use marijuana sales. Because that ballot proposal is in the form of a constitutional amendment, it requires approval from 60 percent of registered Florida voters  to become law. A Fox News poll from June reported that 66 percent of Florida voters back the initiative. But that doesn’t always prove true on election day. Please, if you care about this issue, make sure you vote this November and alert any friends and family to make their voice heard.

The amendment would be mean adults 21 and up could possess up to 3 oz. of cannabis and would have access to a variety of products across the state.

• Learn more about the Florida initiative here: Florida Amendment 3

In North and South Dakota there will be a vote to legalize cannabis for recreational and personal use. This again would allow more people access to regulated and tested cannabis, with a majority in favor of passing the law.

• Learn more about the North Dakota initiative here: North Dakota Initiated Measure 5
• Learn more about the South Dakota initiative here: South Dakota Initiated Measure 29

Nebraska is looking to become the newest state to pass measures on the legalization of medical cannabis. We know how important this is. In states with access to legal cannabis there has been an increase in jobs, revenue, and perhaps most importantly, a decrease in the use of opioids.

• Learn more about the Nebraska initiative here: Nebraska Initiative 437

If you live in any of these states, make sure you read through and fill out the section of the ballot that includes the state amendments. These are often overlooked during the federal election, but no less important. Let’s continue to decrease stigma around the plant by increasing its access to millions of Americans.

What to look out for on the Ballot:

• If you don’t live in a legal state, you may get to vote on legalizing it 
• If you live in a medical only state, you may get to vote on adult-use 
• If you live in an adult-use state, you may get to vote on taxes or expungement 

You’ll also be voting on members of Congress, the House of Representatives, and any number of state offices. Check out some of these resources to know who stands for what where you live at https://www.cannabisvoter.info/. 

Learn more about cannabis laws in your state. 

On Election Day

Turn out, then burn one. 

1. Vote 
2. Bring your “I Voted” sticker to RISE for a discount on premium cannabis 

Sometimes lines can be long. Here are some ways to not got stuck or make the most of it: 

1. Make sure you are registered to vote beforehand 
2. Early voting (learn more here: https://www.vote.org/early-voting-calendar/)  
3. Vote by mail (learn more here: https://www.usa.gov/absentee-voting)  
4. Wake and bake AKA hit the polls as early in the day as possible 
5. Bring a book, your headphones or play some games on your phone 
6. Always keep a pen or some edibles on you just in case 

From Ballot Box to Hot Box

Once you’ve turned out, you can go home and burn one. Or two. Or three. It’s probably going to be a long night. Here’s how to make the most of it: 

1. Stock up on premium product for watching the results come in 

Unlike the election, this is something you have complete control over. There doesn’t need to be a consensus. You don’t have to wait on results. You can stroll right into your local RISE, grab all of your favorite products, and consume on your own time.  

• Pro tip: Place an order online when you’re in line at the polling place. It’s a good use of time and it’ll save you time with easy pick-up at RISE. 

Oh, there will also be plenty of deals leading up to the election, with a special promo on Election Day itself. Make sure you keep that “I Voted” sticker with you when you show up to RISE.  

2. Snacks, snacks and more snacks 

Voting doesn’t close until 8 pm in most states. And then they have to count all of them up. It takes way longer than you remember. Oh well. Just make sure you’ve got enough sustenance to carry through the night.  

You’ll want a bit of everything. Personally, I go through a progression after I consume. It goes savory, then salty, then I cap the night with some sweets. Here are some suggestions: 

• Hot Dogs - Remember when one-time candidate, Mitt Romney, said his favorite meat was hot dogs? We’re not saying that’s a bad choice. But we can all admit that’s a weird way to phrase it.  
• Burritos – For all the cannabis lovers who roll their own. Just take that skill and replicate it with a tortilla.  
• Charcuterie – If you really think about it, the different types of cheese and meats are basically strains. We have our favorites, but it’s nice to sprinkle in options for everyone.  

Are these not whetting your appetite? You’re in luck, we got so many cannabis recipes to choose from! 

3. Invite some friends and family over to watch with you 

We’re all in this together. Mostly. If it gets tense, you can just bring out more product.  

• Pro tip: Smoke breaks. They used to be all the rage in 90s. People used to get a break every hour to stop work and step outside. Any time you feel things are getting too stressful, just take a smoke break and reset.  

4. Have a distraction 

It’s a lot of waiting around for results. Try not to stress yourself out by just staring at the news all night. There’s plenty of ways to lighten the mood. 

• a. Music 

Beats and buds. Now that’s a presidential ticket we could all get behind. Music and cannabis can help regulate mood, while offering a distraction. And we got just the thing. Check out our specialized playlists and find the perfect combination of your favorite cannabis strains and music. 

• b. Movies 

Watching the news can be exhausting. Especially on election night. If you don’t want to watch all the infographics, talking heads and speculation, here are some election adjacent films and TV Shows that have our vote: 

COMEDIES

• Election (1999) – starring Reese Witherspoon and Matthew Broderick, this dark comedy satirizes politics through the lens of a high-school student body election. 
• Napoleon Dynamite (2004) – Vote Pedro. Smoke pre-rolls.  
• Long Shot (2019) – Cannabis legend, Seth Rogen, stars alongside Charlize Theron in this romantic comedy about a free-spirited journalist who begins a romance with his former babysitter and current candidate for President.  
• Others: Wag the Dog (1997), Head of State (2003), The Campaign (2012).  

THRILLER/DRAMA 

• The Manchurian Candidate (1962 or 2004) – brainwashing, conspiracy theories, political violence and great performances. This is just a movie, please try to remember that. 
• Blow Out (1981) – A movie sound effects technician (John Travolta is maybe his best  ever performance) accidentally records an assassination involving a presidential hopeful. As he tries to uncover the conspiracy, he finds himself in over his head.  
• Frost/Nixon (2008) – A dramatic retelling of the post-Watergate television interviews between a British talk-show presenter and former President Richard Nixon.Thanks, Dick, for being a fascinating subject for film and TV. 
• Others: Good Night, and Good Luck (2005), The Ides of March (2011), Lincoln (2012),  

DOCUMENTARIES 

• Stop Making Sense (1984) – Election night coverage is all about talking heads on TV. So why not watch The Talking Heads on TV in what many say is the best concert film ever made. Remember what we were saying about music and cannabis? 
• The War Room (1993) – a fly-on-the-wall style inside look at Bill Clinton’s 1992 run for President highlighting the behind the scenes political strategy required to run a successful campaign. 
• Boys State (2020) and Girls State (2024) – This is a fascinating look at the summer camps and leadership programs designed for high-schoolers looking to break into American politics. Famous Alumni include 4 presidents, NBA Legend Michael Jordan, and Rocker Jon Bon Jovi.  
• Others: 13^th (2016), Weiner (2016), Navalny (2022) 

THE ROBERT REDFORD DOUBLE FEATURE 

• The Candidate (1972) –This comedy/drama focuses on a candidates run for senate and shows how an idealistic and inexperienced politician can become trapped by the media circus.  
• All the President’s Men (1976) –  This drama, which plays more like a crime thriller was nominated for eight Oscars, winning four, and set the blueprint for modern classics like Zodiac and Spotlight. (Thanks, Dick, again. Your political corruption and sourness led to a deep well of content.)  

The Results are in

The people have spoken. Time to smoke-n.  

If your candidate wins: Sativa 

Celebrate good times, come on! You’ll be excited, feeling energetic. Probably very, very, very relieved. Lean into the positive vibes with any sativa product. A little Sour Diesel to gas you up. Perhaps L’Orange with a cherry on top. Or maybe pay tribute to one of the most renowned cannabis activists with Jack Herer. Either way you’ll be uplifted higher and higher as you celebrate an historic win.  

If your candidate loses: Indica 

Pain relief and anxiety control. That’s what you need. Truly, this will feel disheartening and scary even. That’s understandable. Unfortunately, in the moment, there’s nothing you can really do. Feel it if you need to and know that an indica strain can help calm you down and take your mind off of things.   

If you don't care: Shame on you. Just kidding. The choice is yours. Consume whatever your heart desires.  

This election is very important. Every election is basically the most important election up to that point in history. We hope you care enough to vote. After that, do whatever you need to do to enjoy life. Here’s a list of some of our favorite products. Hopefully some of them spark your fancy. 

RYTHM Live Resin Cartridge 

Why You’ll Like It: Election night can be intense, and this cartridge is a reliable go-to when you need something smooth and steady. The RYTHM Live Resin Cartridge captures the essence of the plant with full-spectrum flavor, giving you a satisfying hit that keeps you in the moment without overwhelming your senses. It’s a nice way to stay engaged as you watch the results come in. 

Great For: Keeping focused and alert, especially when things start heating up. 

incredibles Watermelon Smash Gummies 

Why You’ll Like It: Sometimes, a little sweetness goes a long way. These incredibles Watermelon Smash Gummies are just the thing to take the edge off while adding a refreshing twist to your evening. The light, balanced high is perfect for those moments when you need to relax but still want to stay tuned in to what’s happening. 

Great For: Enjoying a mellow vibe as you settle in for a long night of results. 

Dr. Solomon's Doze Tincture 

Why You’ll Like It: If the stress of the evening starts to weigh on you, Dr. Solomon’s Doze Tincture is a great option to help you unwind. With easy-to-control dosing, you can take just enough to calm your nerves without going overboard. It’s a simple way to stay relaxed and steady, no matter how the night plays out. 

Great For: Keeping things chill during those more stressful moments. 

Dogwalkers 5 Pack Mini Show Dogs Infused Pre-Rolls 

Why You’ll Like It: Election night is better with good company, and these Dogwalkers Mini Show Dogs Infused Pre-Rolls Lare perfect for sharing. Each pre-roll is small but packs a punch, making them ideal for passing around as you discuss the latest updates or just unwind together. 

Great For: Sharing with friends or keeping handy for quick, satisfying breaks throughout the night. 

&Shine 14g Flower 

Why You’ll Like It: If you’re planning to settle in for the whole night, &Shine 14g Flower gives you plenty to work with. It’s a solid, dependable option that’s perfect for rolling your own or packing a bowl, and with this much on hand, you’ll be set no matter how long the night lasts. 

Great For: Making sure you’ve got enough to get through a long evening of results. 

Pro Tip: Consider CBD 
Election night can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially as the results start rolling in. If you're looking for a way to stay calm and centered without the high, CBD might be worth exploring. It's all about balance—helping you keep your cool even when things get a little tense. A little CBD can go a long way in making the night feel a bit more manageable, no matter what the results bring. 

One Final Hit

We covered a lot. Here’s the too high; didn’t read summary: 

1. Register to vote 
2. Know who, what and how to vote in your state 
3. Go vote 
4. Bring your “I voted” sticker to RISE on Election Day for a discount on cannabis 
5. Stock up and make the most of it  

Every election is important. It’s our time to cultivate change. No matter who you’re voting for, or what you’re hoping for just remember – Cannabis brings people together. Light up and unite. You in?