Donald Trump has thrown his weight behind a Florida initiative that would legalize up to three ounces of marijuana for adult use.
This move sees him at odds with Governor Ron DeSantis and a key billionaire donor, both vocal opponents of the amendment.
Trump’s Drug Policy Pivot
In a notable departure from his previous cautions about drug risks, Trump is now championing a measure that starkly contrasts his earlier stance.
Amid a fierce national debate on drug policies, his backing signals a major shift.
Trump Declares Support on Truth Social
Taking to his own platform, Truth Social, Trump made his stance clear: “As I have previously stated, I believe it is time to end needless arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use.”
This announcement is a watershed in his drug policy approach.
Trump’s Bold Statement for November Vote
Diving deeper into his pro-marijuana stance, Trump announced, “As a Floridian, I will be voting YES on Amendment 3 this November.”
He added, “As President, we will continue to focus on research to unlock the medical uses of marijuana to a Schedule 3 drug, and work with Congress to pass common sense laws, including safe banking for state authorized companies.”
DeSantis’ Strong Stand Against Legalization
Governor Ron DeSantis has not shied away from expressing his disdain for the marijuana legalization measure, particularly criticizing the odor in areas where it is legal, which he describes as “putrid.”
His firm opposition demonstrates the contentious nature of the amendment.
DeSantis on the Unpleasant Realities of Legalization
Governor DeSantis has voiced disbelief at the “pungent odor” experienced in locales where marijuana is legal.
His remarks reflect his firsthand observations from cities that have adopted similar measures, which he believes detract from the quality of life.
The Smell of Change in Major Cities
DeSantis expanded on his earlier comments, noting the changes in cities like Denver, Colorado, Los Angeles, and New York City.
He shared insights from former New York residents, saying, “They used to have, you know, an apartment somewhere and it used to [smell differently]. Now, what does it reek of? It reeks of marijuana.”
Trump’s Opposition to Florida’s Abortion Amendment
On another front, Trump has voiced opposition to an amendment seeking to expand abortion access in Florida.
This marks another area of divergence from DeSantis, who has endorsed stricter abortion measures.
Billionaire Ken Griffin Joins the Fray
Ken Griffin, a billionaire investor, has stepped up as a formidable opponent of the marijuana amendment, injecting $12 million to thwart it.
He labeled the measure “a terrible plan to create the nation’s most expansive and destructive marijuana laws.”
Griffin Critiques the Amendment
Griffin’s concerns are stark.
He said, “Passage of Amendment 3 would create a monopoly for large marijuana dispensaries and permit pot use in public and private areas throughout Florida. That will help no one other than special interests— and it will hurt us all, especially through more dangerous roads, a higher risk of addiction among our youth, and an increase in crime.”
The Money Behind the Opposition
Despite his strong opposition to the marijuana measure, Griffin has not contributed financially to Trump’s campaign efforts.
He has chosen instead to support other Republican initiatives, indicating his strategic political preferences.
A Divided Republican Stance on Key Issues
The debate over marijuana legalization and abortion rights has laid bare deep divisions within the Republican Party.
With figures like Trump and DeSantis at odds, these issues highlight the varied strategies and beliefs within the party as they navigate significant social and legal questions.
