Western Reader
Former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are conflicting over a proposed ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana in Florida. With the upcoming decision on Amendment 3 in November 2024, Trump has expressed strong support for the measure, in contrast to DeSantis’ opposition.
Trump publicly endorsed the amendment on Truth Social, stating his intention to vote “yes” for legalizing marijuana possession and use for adults aged 21 and above. He argued that arrests for small amounts of marijuana should cease and emphasized the importance of well-thought-out regulations for safe access to cannabis products.
It’s a FACT: Marijuana is safer than alcohol.
Let’s end the prohibition this November #YesOn3 pic.twitter.com/MEy3tYuU4m— Smart & Safe Florida (@SmartandSafeFl) September 18, 2024
If passed, Amendment 3 would allow adults to possess up to three ounces of marijuana and authorize state-licensed companies to cultivate and sell cannabis. The initiative has gained momentum, with polling indicating it may surpass the necessary 60% voter approval threshold to become law. In a state where Republicans outnumber Democrats by 1 million registered voters, Trump’s support could influence conservative voters who have traditionally opposed legalization.
On the other hand, DeSantis strongly opposes the initiative, alleging it favors what he refers to as a “weed cartel,” pointing to major companies like Trulieve, the state’s largest medical marijuana operator, which has been a significant funder of the campaign. DeSantis has voiced concerns about public safety, warning that the amendment could lead to widespread public marijuana use and hinder the state’s ability to regulate the industry.
Florida will legalize cannabis aka marijuana, by voting yes on amendment 3. A rejection of unfounded smears, and a return to policies that are consistent with 161 years of U.S. history. pic.twitter.com/0gWWgP16Xh
— EightOne Nine1 (@EightOne91) September 20, 2024
The clash over marijuana legalization exacerbates the political divide between Trump and DeSantis, which was evident during the 2024 Republican presidential primaries. While most state Republicans support DeSantis, Trump’s endorsement of Amendment 3 has put conservative lawmakers and voters in a challenging position. State Sen. Joe Gruters, a former chair of the Florida Republican Party and a Trump ally, is among the few GOP legislators openly supporting the measure.
The discussion on marijuana legalization in Florida is part of a broader national discourse as the acceptance of cannabis legalization grows across the country. A recent Gallup poll revealed that 70% of Americans back legalization, indicating shifting perspectives on the matter. Trump’s approval of the Florida measure aligns with his federal stance, where he has advocated for reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug to facilitate medical research without full nationwide legalization.
For DeSantis, the stakes are high. His opposition to Amendment 3 mirrors his larger political strategy of maintaining a tough approach on law and order, which he believes resonates with his base. DeSantis has consistently cautioned that legalizing marijuana would negatively impact Florida’s communities, drawing parallels to what he views as the failed policies of states like California and Colorado.
The final decision on Amendment 3 rests with Florida voters in November. With Trump’s endorsement significantly boosting the pro-legalization campaign and DeSantis standing firm in opposition, the marijuana measure has become a pivotal battleground in Florida politics. The extent to which Trump’s influence can sway conservative voters remains uncertain, but the outcome could have broader national implications, shaping the future of marijuana policy in the U.S.
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