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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin successfully campaigned against the legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida, leading to a significant drop in cannabis industry shares. The ballot measure known as Amendment 3 failed to garner the required 60% voter support, receiving 55.9% approval. DeSantis and Griffin's efforts to block legalization were supported by a substantial financial investment, resulting in a defeat for the cannabis industry in Florida. [Extracted from the article]

Florida voters rejected a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana, falling short of the 60% threshold required by Florida law. Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin led the anti-weed campaign, with DeSantis diverting state funds to defeat the measure. The cannabis industry, particularly Trulieve Cannabis Corp, invested heavily in the campaign, hoping to tap into a potential market of 2.7 million people. Despite efforts by DeSantis and Griffin, the fight over recreational marijuana in Florida brought together unlikely allies, including Donald Trump and Roger Stone supporting the measure. [Extracted from the article]

Florida voters rejected a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana, falling short of the 60% approval threshold required by Florida law. Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin led the opposition, with DeSantis diverting state funds to defeat the measure and Griffin donating $12 million. Despite efforts by advocates, including Trulieve Cannabis Corp., the measure failed, impacting the potential growth of the cannabis industry and national legalization efforts. The diverse range of supporters and opponents, including Donald Trump and John Morgan, highlighted the complex and divisive nature of the issue. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the clash in Florida over the legalization of recreational marijuana, with Governor Ron DeSantis and billionaire Ken Griffin leading the anti-cannabis campaign. The cannabis industry has poured $153 million into the ballot initiative known as Amendment 3, with strong support from figures like Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. The debate highlights concerns about public safety, crime, and the potential economic impact of legalizing marijuana in Florida. [Extracted from the article]

Uruguay, the first country to legalize marijuana, is facing challenges in building a successful cannabis industry. Despite its business-friendly environment and history of developing billion-dollar industries, Uruguay has seen an exodus of cannabis companies due to anemic sales, red tape, and miscalculations. Major producers and service providers have closed, and even Canada's Aurora Cannabis plans to shut down its Uruguayan operations. The country's strict regulations and focus on pharmaceutical-grade products have hindered the industry's growth. However, some companies, like Burey, have survived and are now looking to sell their products in South American countries where medical marijuana is legal, such as Brazil. [Extracted from the article]

Former President Donald Trump has expressed his support for marijuana legalization in Florida, a significant shift in his stance on the issue. Trump stated that legalization should be done in a lawful manner, and he praised Florida's approach to recreational use. This change in position is seen as an attempt to broaden his electoral base, particularly among younger voters. Trump also criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for her past record as a prosecutor, highlighting his own efforts to appeal to key Democratic voters. His stance on marijuana legalization in Florida puts him at odds with other conservatives, including Governor Ron DeSantis. [Extracted from the article]

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated the process of reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous substance, marking a significant shift in US drug policy. The DOJ has submitted a rulemaking notice to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, which will undergo a 60-day public comment period before a final decision is made by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Justice Department. President Joe Biden has expressed support for this move, stating that it is a step towards rectifying the negative impacts of marijuana prohibition. While this development aligns with the growing public support for marijuana legalization, it does not decriminalize the drug, and further steps are required for the reclassification to be finalized. [Extracted from the article]

Cannabis advocacy groups in Thailand are protesting against the government's plan to relist marijuana as a narcotic. Supporters gathered in Bangkok and other cities to rally against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's order to re-criminalize cannabis. The groups argue that the move would harm the nascent cannabis industry and the large community of weed growers. They also highlight the traditional medicinal and food uses of cannabis in Thai culture. Thailand decriminalized cannabis in 2022, but concerns about addiction and social impact led to the government's decision to restrict its use to medicines, cosmetics, and food. [Extracted from the article]

Alcohol distributors in the United States are selling canned drinks infused with THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, in an effort to counter declining alcohol sales. These drinks are made with THC derived from hemp, which contains less than 0.3% of the compound, making them legal under the 2018 Farm Bill. However, some lawmakers and regulated marijuana companies are concerned about the lack of regulation and potential risks associated with these drinks. State lawmakers in New York and Connecticut have already moved to ban high-potency THC drinks, and attorneys general from 20 states are lobbying for a review of the Farm Bill to allow states to ban such products. Despite the concerns, alcohol distributors are advocating for age restrictions, safety testing, and new taxes on the products to ensure their sustainability. The hemp industry is also benefiting from cooperation with alcohol distributors, as it helps increase consumer access to the drinks. The demand for hemp-derived THC drinks is growing, with even listed marijuana companies planning to add them to their product offerings. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic has sparked concerns of protests and lawsuits from dispensary owners who opened their businesses after the drug was decriminalized two years ago. The re-criminalization will also drive the cannabis trade underground. While cannabis for medical and health purposes will still be allowed, the move is seen as a blow to Thailand's emerging cannabis industry, which was intended to boost agricultural income and wellness tourism. The policy reversal is part of the ruling party's anti-drug campaign, and critics argue that it will have negative effects on legitimate cannabis businesses and workers. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's new health minister, Somsak Thepsuthin, has announced plans to review the country's cannabis policy, potentially reversing the decriminalization of marijuana. The ministry is seeking public opinion on how open Thailand should be to cannabis, considering whether it should be classified as a drug and how liberalized its use should be. This signals a shift in the country's cannabis liberalization efforts, which were aimed at boosting agricultural income and wellness tourism. The previous health minister had sought to ban recreational use of cannabis, but a bill to outlaw it has faced opposition and delays. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has also expressed a desire to restrict marijuana use to medical purposes. [Extracted from the article]

The US Justice Department has recommended reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, a decision that could benefit the legal marijuana industry by providing tax breaks. This reclassification would make it easier for patients and researchers to access cannabis for medical purposes without decriminalizing it. However, the production, distribution, and possession of marijuana for recreational use would still be illegal under federal law. The move comes almost 30 years after California legalized medical marijuana, and more than half of the US population now has access to marijuana under state laws. [Extracted from the article]

The US Justice Department has recommended reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, a decision that could benefit the legal marijuana industry by providing tax breaks. This reclassification would make it easier for patients and researchers to access cannabis for medical purposes without decriminalizing it. However, the production, distribution, and possession of marijuana for recreational use would still be illegal under federal law. The move comes almost 30 years after California legalized medical marijuana, and it has led to a surge in shares of cannabis-related companies. Senate Democrats have also announced plans to reintroduce legislation to end the federal cannabis prohibition. [Extracted from the article]

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is recommending that cannabis be reclassified as a less risky drug, potentially benefiting the legal marijuana industry by allowing it to access tax breaks. However, there are still several steps that need to be taken before marijuana can be removed from Schedule I, where it is currently listed alongside dangerous drugs like heroin, and placed on Schedule III, which is for less risky drugs with medical uses. This reclassification would make it easier for patients and researchers to access cannabis for medical purposes without decriminalizing it. The production, distribution, and possession of marijuana for recreational use would still be illegal under federal law. The move comes almost 30 years after California legalized medical marijuana, and more than half of the US population now has access to marijuana through state-by-state laws. While a majority of Americans believe marijuana should be decriminalized, it still lacks widespread support in Congress. The DEA's recommendation could be overturned if President Joe Biden loses the upcoming election to Donald Trump, as Republicans generally oppose rescheduling or decriminalizing marijuana. The move also comes as Congress considers changes to allow banking services for marijuana companies, although there are ongoing debates about how cannabis should be regulated and perceived by the public. Cannabis companies have praised the DEA's recommendation, but US authorities have yet to officially weigh in on the matter. Rescheduling marijuana would be a significant development for the legal cannabis industry, which generated around $35 billion in sales last year. [Extracted from the article]

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is recommending that cannabis be reclassified as a less risky drug, potentially benefiting the legal marijuana industry by allowing it to access tax breaks. The process of rescheduling marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III is still ongoing, but if enacted, it would make it easier for patients and researchers to access cannabis for medical purposes without decriminalizing it. The decision would not legalize recreational use of marijuana, which would remain illegal under federal law. The reclassification could bring a boost to the legal cannabis industry, which generated around $35 billion in sales last year. However, the move is not what the industry wanted, as cannabis companies have advocated for the drug to be descheduled altogether, allowing it to be sold like alcohol or cigarettes. The decision is unlikely to resolve ongoing debates about marijuana, which remains popular among young consumers. The status quo will largely remain unchanged, with 38 states allowing medical use and 24 states allowing recreational sales. Full federal legalization would be necessary for cannabis to be legal in states without existing cannabis programs. [Extracted from the article]

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is recommending that cannabis be reclassified as a less risky drug, potentially benefiting the legal marijuana industry by allowing it to access tax breaks. The process of rescheduling marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III is still ongoing, but this change would make it easier to access cannabis without decriminalizing it. The news of the recommendation caused a surge in the stock prices of cannabis-related companies. The reclassification would be a significant shift in drug laws and could help the legal cannabis industry compete with the illegal market. [Extracted from the article]

The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is recommending that cannabis be reclassified as a less risky drug, potentially benefiting the legal marijuana industry by allowing it to access tax breaks. The process of rescheduling marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III is still ongoing. While a majority of Americans support decriminalizing marijuana for recreational or medical use, this policy does not yet have widespread support in Congress. If marijuana is reclassified, it would be treated similarly to substances like ketamine and anabolic steroids, requiring prescriptions but not being federally prohibited. The decision would address concerns about making medical use easier and generating more tax revenue, while also countering worries about drug cartels and addictive high-potency forms of cannabis. [Extracted from the article]

Investors are showing increased interest in cheap marijuana stocks in anticipation of potential changes in US policy that could benefit the cannabis industry. Despite limited progress on regulatory reform, the industry has outperformed the broader market since October, with two funds and one index following the cannabis industry surpassing the S&P 500 Index. Investors are hopeful that the US Drug Enforcement Administration will reclassify cannabis as a controlled substance with medical benefits, which could lead to the removal of additional taxes and potential passage of the SAFE Banking Act. While the timing of these developments remains uncertain, cannabis bulls remain optimistic about the industry's future. [Extracted from the article]

Investors are showing increased interest in cheap marijuana stocks in anticipation of potential changes in US policy that could benefit the cannabis industry. Despite limited progress on regulatory reform, the industry has outperformed the broader market since October 2023. Several funds and an index tracking the cannabis industry have outperformed the S&P 500 Index in the last six months. Investors are hopeful that the US Drug Enforcement Administration will reclassify cannabis as a controlled substance with medical benefits, which could lead to the removal of additional taxes and potential legislative action. However, the timing of these changes remains uncertain. [Extracted from the article]

Investors in Germany's cannabis sector are hesitant to invest due to uncertainty surrounding the partial legalization of recreational cannabis on April 1. The bill has passed the lower house of parliament but may be delayed or blocked by the upper house. If the law is passed, it could open up a market worth almost $250 billion across Europe. However, executives in the cannabis sector are cautious as lawmakers continue to debate the new rules. The government's motivations for legalization include curbing the black market and ensuring safe, regulated products, but opposition centers around health concerns and increased burdens on law enforcement and healthcare. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's health minister has announced plans to ban recreational use of cannabis by the end of the year, which would threaten the thousands of marijuana shops and farms that have emerged since the country decriminalized cannabis two years ago. The proposed bill, which will outlaw recreational use of cannabis, will be reviewed by the cabinet next month and seeks to control cannabis as strictly as a drug. The ban could have devastating economic impacts, as the cannabis industry was expected to be worth $1.2 billion by 2025 and has created thousands of jobs. [Extracted from the article]

German lawmakers are set to approve legislation decriminalizing personal use of cannabis this week, with the law expected to take effect on April 1. The legislation would allow adults to possess up to 25 grams of cannabis, grow a maximum of three plants for personal use, and cultivate the drug as part of nonprofit cannabis clubs limited to 500 members. The move is seen as the first step towards broader marijuana legalization in Germany, although it has faced opposition from some lawmakers who argue it will harm young people's health and increase the burden on police. The government, however, believes the law will help curb the black market, tackle drug-related crime, and protect against contaminated products. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's health minister has announced plans to ban recreational use of cannabis by the end of the year. This move threatens the thousands of marijuana shops and farms that have emerged since the country decriminalized cannabis two years ago. The proposed bill, which will outlaw recreational use of cannabis, will be reviewed by the cabinet next month and seeks to control cannabis as strictly as a drug. While this ban may have devastating economic impacts on the nascent industry, the health minister believes it is necessary to prevent misuse and protect public health. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's health ministry is seeking approval from Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's cabinet to ban the recreational use of cannabis. This proposal comes as a reversal of a previous landmark legislation that decriminalized cannabis in 2022. The government aims to limit cannabis use to medical and health-related purposes, citing concerns over addiction. If approved, this draft bill would make Thailand the first country in Asia to ban recreational marijuana. [Extracted from the article]

The emerging US cannabis market is benefiting from the popularity of alcohol breaks like Dry January, as more drinkers, especially younger ones, view marijuana as a healthier alternative. Cannabis sellers are actively targeting January abstainers with new products and advertisements, and research shows that about a third of Americans under 25 who participate in the start-of-year detox use cannabis. Conversely, alcohol sales tend to decline in January and in places where cannabis is legalized. This trend may pose challenges for the liquor industry, especially as more US states consider legalizing recreational cannabis. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is proposing new legislation to ban the recreational use of cannabis, reversing a previous law that decriminalized the plant. The draft bill, published by the Health Ministry, would prohibit smoking and recreational use of cannabis and its extracts. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who came to power in May 2023, campaigned on restricting marijuana use to medical purposes due to concerns over addiction. The proposed bill would impose fines and jail time for those found using or selling cannabis for recreational purposes. The legislation also aims to tighten licensing rules for cannabis planting, sales, exports, and imports. The public and industry stakeholders have until January 23 to provide feedback on the bill before it is submitted to Parliament for approval. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is proposing a ban on the recreational use of cannabis and implementing strict penalties for offenders. The draft bill, published by the Health Ministry, aims to regulate the industry after an earlier bill failed to gain parliamentary support. Under the proposed legislation, smoking or using cannabis for recreational purposes will be prohibited, with fines of up to 60,000 baht ($1,720) for offenders. The government also plans to tighten licensing rules for cannabis cultivation, sales, exports, and imports. The public and industry stakeholders have until January 23 to provide feedback on the bill before it is submitted for approval. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand is proposing a ban on the recreational use of cannabis and implementing heavy penalties for offenders. The draft bill, published by Thailand's Health Ministry, aims to restrict the use of marijuana to medical and health purposes due to concerns over addiction. Those caught smoking cannabis for recreational purposes could face fines of up to 60,000 baht ($1,720), while the sale of cannabis or its extracts for recreational use would be prohibited. The government is seeking to address the regulatory vacuum created after marijuana was declassified as a narcotic in 2022, which led to the proliferation of over 6,000 dispensaries across the country. The public and cannabis industry stakeholders have until January 23 to provide feedback on the bill. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine's parliament has approved the legalization of medical cannabis in response to the increasing number of war veterans in need of treatment for injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. The legislation, which regulates the medical, scientific, and industrial use of cannabis, was passed with a majority vote. The move has gained support as the country continues to deal with the effects of Russia's invasion, with discussions focusing on the benefits of medical marijuana in treating severe pain and mental health issues. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is expected to sign the bill into law, which could take effect in the second half of 2024. However, there has been resistance from some political forces, who argue that legalization could lead to uncontrolled production and believe the matter should be decided by a referendum. The use of medical cannabis has been legalized in several US states, where it is believed to be effective in treating conditions such as chronic pain, depression, and PTSD, particularly among veterans. [Extracted from the article]

The stocks of cannabis companies are struggling despite the growing number of weed shops and the potential for drug reform in the 2024 presidential election. An index tracking marijuana-related companies has fallen over 15% this year. The industry faces challenges due to federal regulations, including heavy taxation and limited access to major stock exchanges. While there is hope for federal reform and the potential reclassification of marijuana, analysts believe that further legislation and federal legalization are necessary for the industry to thrive. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: CURA@CN; GTII@CN; ALLTOP; GEN; GOV; NORTHAM; POL; US; WORLD; WWTOP EN CURA@CN GTII@CN ALLTOP GEN GOV NORTHAM POL US WORLD WWTOP New York is ready to legalize recreational marijuana. The deal that legislative leaders brokered with Cuomo (D) would legalize cannabis use for adults 21 years old and up, and includes a 13% sales tax, 9% of which would go to the state and 4% to the localities, Krueger said. [Extracted from the article]

Thailand's new government is working to tighten regulations on the country's cannabis industry in order to prevent misuse of the plant. The revised draft bill includes measures to address loopholes that allow recreational use of marijuana, as well as new protocols for cultivation and criminal penalties. The move comes after the country saw a surge in the number of weed shops following the decriminalization of cannabis. The draft bill will undergo further reviews and stakeholder feedback before being finalized next month. [Extracted from the article]

The SAFE banking legislation could allow bigger institutions to get more comfortable with it. (Bloomberg) -- The Senate Banking Committee has scheduled marijuana banking legislation for a vote on Sept. 27, a much-anticipated move that would advance one of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's top priorities to the Senate floor. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- New York's cannabis regulator is expanding its licensing program for recreational marijuana, potentially paving the way for large public companies to enter a market dominated by illicit sellers and a few small entrepreneurs. Separately, New York's regulator said enforcement it's continuing to crack down on the illegal cannabis dispensaries that have undercut legal competitors. [Extracted from the article]

Separately, New York's regulator said enforcement is continuing to crack down on the illegal cannabis dispensaries that have undercut legal competitors. (Bloomberg) -- New York's cannabis regulator is expanding its licensing program for recreational marijuana to include more businesses and entrepreneurs. [Extracted from the article]

Assistant Secretary for Health Rachel Levine recommended to the Drug Enforcement Administration that cannabis be classified as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act, according to a letter viewed by Bloomberg News. (Bloomberg) -- Marijuana stocks surged on Wednesday after the Drug Enforcement Administration said it would review its classification of cannabis following a letter from the US Department of Health and Human Services that urged it to loosen rules on the substance. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- Marijuana-company stocks rose for a fourth consecutive day Friday, notching their best week since March 2020 on optimism that a US Drug Enforcement Administration review will result in a lower risk rating for the drug. A Schedule III rating that would put cannabis in the same category as testosterone and ketamine may also make researching the drug easier and could lead to it being removed from the controlled-substance category in the future, he added. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- The mayor of Denmark's capital has sent a public appeal to tourists and foreign students asking them to refrain from buying cannabis on Christiania's Pusher Street in a bid to stop the ongoing gang violence in Copenhagen's free town. Christiania is known for its open trade of cannabis, which is illegal in Denmark. "I would like to encourage not only Copenhageners, but also the hundreds of thousands of visiting tourists and the many new foreign students who have just moved to Copenhagen to stay away and refrain from buying weed or other drugs at Pusher Street", the mayor said. [Extracted from the article]

A Schedule III rating that would put cannabis in the same category as testosterone and ketamine may also make researching the drug easier and could lead to it being removed from the controlled-substance category in the future, he added. (Bloomberg) -- Marijuana-company stocks rose for a fourth consecutive day Friday and are on track for their best week since March 2020 on optimism that a US Drug Enforcement Administration review will result in a lower risk rating for the drug. [Extracted from the article]

Assistant Secretary for Health Rachel Levine recommended to the Drug Enforcement Agency that cannabis be classified as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act, according to a letter viewed by Bloomberg News. (Bloomberg) -- Marijuana stocks surged on Wednesday after the Drug Enforcement Agency said it would review its classification of cannabis following a letter from the US Department of Health and Human Services that urged it to loosen rules on the substance. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- Marijuana stocks surged on Wednesday after the Drug Enforcement Agency said it would review its classification of cannabis following a letter from the US Department of Health and Human Services that urged it to loosen rules on the substance. Rachel Levine, the assistant health and human secretary, recommended to the Drug Enforcement Agency that cannabis be classified as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act, according to a letter viewed by Bloomberg News. [Extracted from the article]

Rachel Levine, the assistant health and human secretary, recommended to the Drug Enforcement Agency that cannabis be classified as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act, according to a letter viewed by Bloomberg News. (Bloomberg) -- Marijuana stocks surged on Wednesday after the Drug Enforcement Agency said it would review its classification of cannabis after receiving a letter from the US Department of Health and Human Services urging them to loosen rules on the substance. [Extracted from the article]

The type of marijuana he was loading as many as five times a day into a discreet dab pen - similar in look to a vaping device - was a concentrate, 75% to 98% of which was THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, marijuana's psychoactive ingredient. And as cannabis taxes have grown - surpassing alcohol and tobacco in at least one state - the marijuana industry has increasing sway. (Bloomberg) -- In Pueblo, Colorado, teenager Noah had smoked marijuana before. [Extracted from the article]

Read more: High-Potency Pot Market Worth Billions Draws Regulator Scrutiny Germany, Europe's biggest medical market for cannabis, is one of the first major countries to move ahead with legalization plans. (Bloomberg) -- Germany's ruling coalition approved a scaled-back plan to decriminalize personal use of cannabis in a first step toward a potential broader legalization of pot in Europe's biggest economy. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- Germany's ruling coalition approved a scaled-back plan to decriminalize personal use of cannabis in a first step toward a potential broader legalization of pot in Europe's biggest economy. Prohibition Partners, a cannabis data firm, sees Germany's cannabis market growing to €2.1 billion ($2.3 billion) of annual sales by 2027. [Extracted from the article]

And as cannabis taxes have grown - surpassing alcohol and tobacco in at least one state - the marijuana industry has increasing sway. (Bloomberg) -- In Pueblo, Colorado, teenager Noah had smoked marijuana before. The type of marijuana he was loading as many as five times a day into a discreet dab pen - similar in look to a vaping device - was a concentrate, 75% to 98% of which was THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, marijuana's psychoactive ingredient. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- Ohio looks likely to vote on the legalization of recreational marijuana in November, in a move that could improve the legislative and financial prospects for the cannabis industry overall. "Ohio is the first of a potential three-headed tipping point", Todd Harrison, founding partner of cannabis investment fund CB1 Capital Management, said in a phone interview. [Extracted from the article]

Almost 38% of registered voters cast a ballot, according to state data, higher than the turnout for most primary elections when statewide seats are on the ballot. The question known as Issue 1, the only measure on the statewide special election ballot, was defeated by a margin of 57% to 43% with almost all of the vote counted, according to Ohio's secretary of state. [Extracted from the article]

The question known as Issue 1, the only measure on the statewide special election ballot, was defeated by a margin of 57% to 43% with almost all of the vote counted, according to Ohio's secretary of state. (Bloomberg) -- Ohio voters on Tuesday overwhelmingly rejected a measure seen as a test over abortion rights a year after the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- Ohio voters on Tuesday overwhelmingly rejected a measure seen as a test over abortion rights a year after the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade. The question known as Issue 1, the only measure on the statewide special election ballot, was defeated, according to the Associated Press, by a margin of 57% to 43% with about two-thirds of the vote counted. [Extracted from the article]