Image credits - The New York Times
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Former President Donald J. Trump expressed a nuanced stance on a Florida ballot measure seeking to legalize recreational marijuana on Saturday. While he did not fully endorse the measure, Trump indicated his support for the initiative, known as Amendment 3, which is set to be voted on by Floridians. His comments highlight a notable divergence from Governor Ron DeSantis and other Republican leaders in the state, who are vocally opposed to the proposal.
“Whether people like it or not, this will happen through the approval of the Voters, so it should be done correctly,” Trump said in a post on his website, Truth Social. His worries about the possible effects on society were evident in his emphasis on the necessity of sensible legislation to outlaw marijuana usage in public places. Trump’s statements are consistent with his larger belief that, given that marijuana is allowed in other places, it shouldn’t be made illegal in Florida.
The former president’s statement is a cautious one, aiming to balance his position without alienating his base or those opposed to the measure. While Trump did not explicitly endorse Amendment 3, his comments suggest a preference for decriminalization over criminalization. “Someone should not be a criminal in Florida, when this is legal in so many other States,” he added.
Activists supporting Amendment 3 welcomed Trump’s comments, interpreting them as validation of their cause. Smart and Safe Florida, the organization behind the ballot measure, highlighted Trump’s alignment with their view that the state should end the arrest and incarceration of adults for simple possession of marijuana.
Polls show broad support for Amendment 3 among Florida voters, which may signal a split ticket in the upcoming election, where voters may support both Trump and the marijuana legalization measure. Despite opposition from prominent Republicans and significant financial contributions against the measure, including a $12 million donation from hedge fund manager Ken Griffin, the measure’s popularity suggests it has a strong chance of passing.
In addition to marijuana legalization, Trump has also commented on Amendment 4, another Florida ballot measure regarding abortion rights. His statements on both measures illustrate his complex position on state and federal issues, reflecting broader national debates on these contentious topics.