One of the candidates for Governor of Oklahoma next year has some fresh ideas on how the state might address its massive budget shortfall, reports The Duncan Banner.

Last week at a Meet the Oklahoma Governor Candidate forum, Connie Johnson declared her support for the legalization of medical marijuana in the Sooner State.“

It’s a plant that God created,” she said.

Johnson also suggested that Oklahoma ought to invest more fully in the wind and solar industries, rather than keeping Oklahoma’s fortunes tied to the oil industry’s boom-and-bust cycle. Addressing health care, Johnson lamented that it can take just one injury or disease to bankrupt a family.

She added that she believes healthcare is a right. Johnson said her campaign remains focused on Oklahoma’s most vulnerable citizens, including the poor, the mentally ill, senior citizens and children.