Quarles endorses legalizing medical marijuana in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Republican Ryan Quarles has endorsed legalizing medical marijuana in Kentucky. He’s pledging to help navigate the proposal past legislative resistance if he’s elected governor. Quarles said Tuesday that it’s time to pass a “responsible” medical marijuana bill to benefit patients. Quarles’ stand on the long-running issue comes as Republican candidates are trying to separate themselves from a crowded field in the GOP primary for governor. Quarles is in his second term as state agriculture commissioner. He’s among a dozen candidates vying for the GOP gubernatorial nomination in the May primary. Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear is seeking reelection.