Same as today, so that's not a compelling reason. As mentioned by someone else, Obama did make some overtures that allowed the party to feel out the base's reac

Same as today, so that's not a compelling reason. As mentioned by someone else, Obama did make some overtures that allowed the party to feel out the base's reactions. Legalization was always going to be a process. Right now, I believe this is typical (D) politicking. I think it's likely that this is something like...Biden needs a positive press to boost for both his approval rating and visibility within his base, for the next election cycle, with a minor symbolic gesture. Obama never needed to do that.