Sen. Rand Paul is emphasizing the federal government deferring more power to the states.
“I don’t want my guns registered in Washington or my marriage,” the Kentucky Republican and potential 2016 told CNN’s Peter Hamby after a speech at the College of Charleston.
Paul, who often tries to reach young people with his less-government ideas, suggested states should be making the decisions on issues such as drug legalization and same-sex marriage.
Paul hedged when asked if, as president, he would allow a state to legalize a hard drug like cocaine or heroin.
“My position has not been for legalization, my position has been for less criminalization and more fair adjudication for people that are caught in this, and that kids who make youthful mistakes should get a second chance,” he said.
Paul said he favors traditional marriage laws, but states should determine their own. “It is a local issue and always has been,” he said.
Paul also hinted at Republicans needing to change their views on certain issues. “Society’s changing,” he said.
A RealClearPolitics average of polls has Paul leading New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush in the potential 2016 GOP presidential field by just half a point.
