Florida Republicans React to Trump’s Marijuana Amendment Endorsement

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has remained silent regarding Donald Trump's endorsement of Amendment 3, a cannabis legalization ballot set for a vote in November. DeSantis has expressed concerns about the potential challenges in regulating public marijuana consumption if the amendment passes, highlighting that many voters may not fully understand the implications of the initiative. His comments reflect a broader skepticism among some Florida Republicans about the amendment's lack of controls. Local GOP chair David Biddle has publicly urged voters to reject Amendment 3, arguing that recreational marijuana has led to negative outcomes in other states, including increased crime and homelessness. This sentiment is echoed by DeSantis's chief of staff, James Uthmeier, who criticized former GOP colleague Joe Gruters for supporting the amendment without adequate regulations. Uthmeier's remarks suggest a rift within the party regarding the issue of marijuana legalization. Trump's endorsement has sparked controversy, with some party members viewing it as a distraction from other pressing issues, such as the abortion ban repeal. Jenna Ellis, a Trump attorney, described the endorsement as a public relations move rather than a genuine commitment to cannabis reform. This internal conflict among Florida Republicans highlights the complexities of the cannabis debate in the state. As the November vote approaches, the divide within the Republican Party over Amendment 3 may influence voter sentiment and turnout. The outcome could have significant implications for Florida's approach to cannabis regulation and the broader national conversation on marijuana legalization.