Former President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed a Florida ballot measure, Amendment 3, which seeks to legalize recreational marijuana. In a recent post on his Truth Social platform, Trump voiced his support for ending unnecessary arrests and incarcerations related to small amounts of marijuana for personal use. He emphasized the need for smart regulations and access to safe, tested products, signaling his intention to vote “YES” on the measure this November.
Trump also highlighted that his administration would focus on advancing research into marijuana’s medical uses and work with Congress to pass legislation supporting safe banking for state-authorized marijuana businesses. He expressed support for states like Florida that implement marijuana laws benefiting their residents and noted his intention to address public use of marijuana through legislative measures.
Trump Endorses Florida Ballot Measure for Recreational Marijuana, Shifting from Past Opposition
The ballot measure, if passed, would allow Florida residents over the age of 21 to possess, buy, and consume marijuana recreationally. While medical marijuana is already legal in the state, the measure marks a significant expansion of marijuana rights. Trump’s stance on the issue contrasts with the views of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and many congressional Republicans, who generally oppose such reforms.
In the past, Trump has offered mixed messages about marijuana legalization. While he has expressed support for medicinal marijuana and stated that states should decide their own policies, his administration had previously taken actions against recreational marijuana use, including reversing a policy that minimized federal prosecution of marijuana cases in legal states.
In response to Trump’s support for the ballot measure, Harris campaign spokesperson Joseph Costello criticized him for inconsistent positions on marijuana reform.
Costello pointed out that Trump’s administration had a record of opposing marijuana reforms, contrasting his current endorsement with past actions that undermined state legalization efforts. Additionally, Trump’s recent fluctuating stance on another Florida ballot measure regarding abortion access further illustrates the shifting nature of his positions on contentious issues.
