Final answer:
As of a 2019 Pew Research Center study, 67% of Americans supported the legalization of marijuana, which suggests a majority of respondents likely support legalization. Hence, 61% (option b) is the closest answer to this trend.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question you've asked is related to the legalization of marijuana and public opinion towards this matter. As of the data from a 2019 Pew Research Center study, 67% of Americans favored the legalization of marijuana, highlighting a significant shift in public opinion over the years. Previously, the majority opinion was in favor of retaining the drug's illegal status, with only 12% support in 1969 as found in a Gallup poll. The changing views are attributed to a more informed understanding of marijuana's effects and the awareness of racial disparities in the enforcement of marijuana possession laws.
With 42 states and the District of Columbia legalizing marijuana use to varying degrees, and public support for decriminalization and legalization growing, it is clear that the majority of respondents would likely support the legalization. Hence, out of the options provided, 61% (option b) is the reasonable estimate that aligns with the upward trend seen in public opinion by 2019.