Former President Donald Trump has announced his support for a Florida ballot measure that would legalize marijuana possession, putting him at odds with Governor Ron DeSantis and a major Republican donor.

According to Daily Mail Online, Trump revealed his position on his Truth Social platform, stating he will vote in favor of Amendment 3 this November.

The proposed amendment would allow adults in Florida to possess up to three ounces of marijuana. Trump's endorsement of the measure marks a significant departure from the stance of other prominent Republicans in the state, including Governor DeSantis and billionaire donor Ken Griffin.

Trump's Stance On Marijuana Legalization In Florida

Trump expressed his belief that it's time to end unnecessary arrests for small amounts of marijuana possession. He emphasized the need for smart regulations and access to safe, tested products for adults.

In his statement on Truth Social, Trump said:

As I have previously stated, I believe it is time to end needless arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use. We must also implement smart regulations, while providing access for adults, to safe, tested product.

The former president also outlined his plans if re-elected, including focusing on research into medical uses of marijuana and working with Congress on safe banking laws for state-authorized marijuana companies.

Opposition From DeSantis And Republican Donor

Governor Ron DeSantis has been vocal in his opposition to the marijuana legalization measure. Earlier this summer, DeSantis criticized the proposal, focusing on what he described as the "putrid" odor of marijuana in places where it has been legalized.

DeSantis argued that marijuana legalization has negatively impacted quality of life in other jurisdictions.

He cited examples from cities like Denver, Los Angeles, and New York, claiming that the smell of marijuana has become pervasive in these areas.

Ken Griffin, a hedge fund billionaire and significant Republican donor, has also come out strongly against the measure. Griffin has pledged $12 million to oppose Amendment 3, calling it "a terrible plan to create the nation's most expansive and destructive marijuana laws."

Potential Political Implications Of Trump's Decision

Trump's support for the marijuana legalization measure could have significant political implications, particularly in his relationship with Governor DeSantis and potential donors like Griffin.

This move puts Trump at odds with DeSantis, who has been seen as a potential rival for the Republican presidential nomination. It also highlights a growing divide within the Republican party on the issue of marijuana legalization.

Griffin, who has not yet made any contributions to Trump's campaign, criticized the amendment in an op-ed. He argued that it would create a monopoly for large marijuana dispensaries and permit marijuana use in public areas throughout Florida.

Trump's Broader Stance On Marijuana Policy

Trump's support for the Florida measure aligns with his previous statements on marijuana policy. He has consistently advocated for states' rights to determine their own marijuana laws.

If re-elected, Trump says he would work to reschedule marijuana as a Schedule 3 drug, which could potentially ease restrictions on research and medical use. He also expressed support for safe banking laws for state-authorized marijuana companies.

This stance on marijuana policy could potentially set Trump apart from some of his Republican colleagues, positioning him as more moderate on this issue.

In summary, Trump's endorsement of the Florida marijuana legalization measure has created a notable split within the Republican party in the state.

His support for Amendment 3 contrasts sharply with the positions of Governor Ron DeSantis and donor Ken Griffin. This decision could have significant implications for the upcoming election and the broader debate on marijuana policy within the Republican party.