Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump has decided to swim against the Republican tide in Florida by backing a measure that seeks to legalize recreational marijuana. This newfound support for Amendment 3 has caused quite the stir among GOP loyalists, many of whom are staunchly opposed to any loosening of marijuana laws. The amendment would allow those aged 21 and over to rain down clouds of leafy goodness upon Florida, as it paves the way for possession, purchase, and consumption of marijuana products.
In typical Trump fashion, he was not shy about his support. He made a late-night announcement on his social media platform, calling for “smart regulations” and safe access to marijuana products. This is quite the change from the Republican establishment, which has rallied against the amendment. With a requirement of at least a 60% majority to pass on November 5, Amendment 3 could lead to Florida becoming the latest state where legal “420” celebrations run rampant.
While Trump attempts to champion the cause with the rhetoric of ending needless arrests over small amounts of marijuana, the reaction from Florida’s leadership is anything but enthusiastic. Governor Ron DeSantis, Senator Rick Scott, and the Republican Party of Florida have all publicly denounced the amendment. They paint a picture of a state overrun with marijuana, likening it to the chaos seen in states like Colorado and California. With rhetoric sharper than a well-honed knife, they argue that passing this amendment is a surefire way to ruin the Sunshine State.
The opposition isn’t without its allies. Vote No on 3 has taken a hard stance against the measure, asserting that it would essentially make marijuana regulation impossible and open the floodgates to an increase in local dispensaries and consumption. The group warns that Florida will inevitably descend into a fog of pot smoke, with the smell wafting through neighborhoods as dispensaries pop up like weeds in a well-watered garden. Their stark warning is clear: the health and safety of Floridians hang in the balance if Amendment 3 passes.
Trump confirms he will vote ‘yes’ on Florida marijuana ballot measure https://t.co/1iTdqX7yeH
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) September 9, 2024
Interestingly enough, the driving force behind the support for this amendment is Smart and Safe Florida, bolstered by none other than Democratic donor John Morgan. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already boiling pot of political drama. State Senator Joe Gruters, one of the few Republicans in favor, argues that a regulated market would keep things in check and generate much-needed revenue. But with Amendment 4 — which seeks to enshrine abortion rights — also on the ballot, Florida voters will have their hands full deciding which path to take.
As it stands, the polls suggest that Amendment 3 could just muscle its way through with a comfortable 63.6% approval, while Amendment 4 is floundering at a mere 54.6%. It remains to be seen if Trump’s late endorsement will create a significant ripple effect or simply pay lip service to an issue that is decidedly more complicated than it seems. Only time will tell if the voters of Florida will take the bait or tell Trump to keep his opinion on the backburner as they navigate the complexities of their state’s future.
