There are many reasons that a voter might approve a given ballot initiative, but trying to start a fight with the federal government shouldn't be one of them. Consider Measure 80, a legislative Hail Mary even by the standards of our long and controversial history with the initiative process.

The measure would legalize the recreational production, possession and use of marijuana in Oregon. One might question whether the proponents of the Oregon Cannabis Tax Act had considered D.C.'s inevitable reaction, regardless of who wins in November. Then the obvious answer presents itself: That's exactly what proponents are counting on.

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