DeSantis Concedes Marijuana Legalization’s Popularity in Florida Despite Opposition

OG Article By Kyle Jaeger

October 14, 2025

Governor admits majority voter support for cannabis initiative he helped defeat, calling it “morally right” to block “dangerous stuff.”

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) acknowledged at a Pennsylvania Family Institute event that a 2024 marijuana legalization ballot measure was “somewhat popular,” with more voters agreeing with it than his prohibitionist stance. Despite majority support, Amendment 3 failed to reach the 60% threshold for constitutional amendments, amid $150 million in proponent spending.

DeSantis claimed the measure would enshrine a “constitutional right” to possess and smoke cannabis publicly, benefiting one company (Trulieve). He criticized “misleading language” and state Supreme Court approval, using his platform to oppose it as harmful to the state and youth.

Opposition Efforts and Outcome

DeSantis barnstormed Florida, raising funds for anti-cannabis ads. He described modern marijuana as “really dangerous,” unlike “Woodstock” era. Florida became the first state to defeat both cannabis and abortion initiatives in the same election, against $280 million total spending.

Opposition included Florida Police Chiefs and Sheriffs Associations.

Ongoing Reform Efforts

Advocates from Smart & Safe Florida are pursuing a revised 2026 initiative, collecting over 75% of required signatures. Changes prohibit public smoking/vaping and defer consumption rules to legislature.

DeSantis predicts state Supreme Court rejection. Polls show strong bipartisan support (67% overall), though some surveys indicate insufficient for 60% threshold.

A GOP-led bill restricts future ballot initiatives, potentially hindering 2026 efforts.