In an unprecedented move that challenges the status quo within his party, former President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind a bill advocating for the legalization of marijuana in Florida. This endorsement starkly contrasts the positions held by key Florida Republicans.
The Washington Examiner reported that Trump has publicly supported Florida's Amendment 3, a measure aimed at legalizing possession of up to three ounces of marijuana, pitting him against prominent GOP figures in the state.
Donald Trump's endorsement came through a post on Truth Social where he expressed backing for Amendment 3.
This measure, if passed, would legalize the possession of up to three ounces of marijuana within the state of Florida.
Trump's stance is notably at odds with several GOP leaders in Florida including Governor Ron DeSantis, Senator Rick Scott, and even Representative Matt Gaetz who have all expressed opposing viewpoints. This has highlighted a significant rift within the party regarding the issue of marijuana legalization.
It's not the first time Trump has shown a more progressive stance on this issue compared to some of his Republican peers.
Back in 2018, he supported the STATES Act, which proposed that the power to legalize marijuana should rest at the state level. This act, however, was not passed during his presidency.
His continuous advocacy for more localized decision-making on this issue is seen as part of a broader personal belief system that appears to favor states' rights, particularly in terms of drug policy. The recent endorsement of Amendment 3 aligns with this pattern.
The Washington Examiner attempted to reach Trump’s campaign for comments on his current stance towards the STATES Act, but there was no response, indicating that Trump's recent declarations might be more about this specific state initiative rather than a national legislative priority.
Senator Joe Gruters, a former Florida Republican Party Chairman and now a GOP state senator, has sided with Trump on the issue. Gruters has emphasized the necessity for smart implementation to avoid issues that may arise from public consumption.
Conversely, Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Rick Scott have made their disapproval of Amendment 3 quite clear.
DeSantis criticized the proposed amendment as poor policy and bad constitutional law on social media platform X. He highlighted concerns that the amendment could potentially grant a market monopoly to a specific CEO who has heavily invested in the initiative.
Senator Scott, sharing his connection to the issue, mentioned he would vote against the amendment, citing his brother’s struggles with substance use that started with marijuana.
With Florida potentially becoming the 25th state to legalize marijuana, public opinion plays a crucial role.
Amendment 3 needs to gather 60% support to pass. However, a recent poll shows it just shy of that mark at 57% approval.
In line with his endorsement, Trump’s comments on Truth Social reflect both a pragmatic and humanitarian approach.
He argued that legalization at a personal level should prevent cases where people are arrested or die from the use of dangerous substances like fentanyl-laced marijuana.
Trump’s emphasis on the need to "make America SAFE again” ties his marijuana legalization support back to broader public safety issues.
Despite potential political risks, Trump's advocacy for Amendment 3 could redefine part of his legacy as he eyes broader and potentially more diverse support across the nation, considering the growing acceptance of marijuana legalization across various demographics and political affiliations.