Former President Trump Weighs in on Florida Marijuana Legalization
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, currently campaigning for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, has voiced his opinion on Florida’s upcoming ballot measure to legalize marijuana. Speaking at a town hall meeting in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and later in a TruthSocial post, Trump addressed the contentious issue.
Trump expressed his expectation that Amendment 3, which would legalize personal amounts of marijuana for adults 21 and older in Florida, is likely to pass. However, he called on the state legislature to enact laws preventing public use of the drug.
“While I believe the ballot measure will pass, it’s crucial that we have responsible legislation in place to prohibit public use,” Trump stated, framing his stance as part of his “Make America Safe Again” agenda.
The former president argued that criminalizing marijuana wastes taxpayer dollars, but also highlighted concerns about fentanyl-laced marijuana and public safety. “We need to balance personal freedom with community well-being,” he added.
The Florida Supreme Court allowed the measure on the 2024 ballot in April, paving the way for voters to decide on the issue. If passed, Amendment 3 would permit adults to possess, purchase, and use marijuana products for personal use.
Trump’s comments on marijuana legalization come on the heels of a recent controversy surrounding his stance on another Florida ballot measure. His campaign had to clarify his position on a measure that would guarantee a constitutional right to abortion in the state.
Initially, Trump told NBC News that Florida’s current six-week abortion ban was “too short” and needed to be extended. These comments drew criticism from anti-abortion rights advocates, including Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America president Marjorie Dannenfelser.
In response to the backlash, Trump later clarified that he would vote “no” on the abortion rights ballot measure, reaffirming his commitment to the anti-abortion movement.
As the 2024 election approaches, Trump’s positions on these state-level ballot measures continue to shape the national political discourse and his campaign strategy.