The Florida gubernatorial race is heating up, with Governor Ron DeSantis leading the charge against two proposed amendments to the state Constitution: one legalizing recreational marijuana (Amendment 3) and another enshrining abortion rights (Amendment 4). Despite DeSantis’s vigorous campaign against these measures, recent polls suggest that both amendments are poised for passage.
A Florida Atlantic University poll released on Tuesday found that 60% of voters favor the marijuana legalization initiative, while 58% support the amendment safeguarding abortion rights. This strong public support has prompted DeSantis to launch a last-ditch effort to rally opposition, utilizing state funds to finance a barrage of ads and speeches denouncing the amendments.
DeSantis’s strategy has been met with criticism, particularly concerning his use of opioid settlement funds to fuel his anti-cannabis campaign. Daniel Smith, a University of Florida political scientist, remarked, “We have never seen a governor direct state agencies to aggressively oppose a ballot measure that has qualified for the ballot.” This tactic has raised concerns about the misuse of public funds and the politicization of state agencies.
DeSantis’s efforts have not been limited to the traditional realm of campaigning. Several media outlets have reported that his anti-abortion tactics have become increasingly unsettling for advocates. Reports have emerged of individuals who signed petitions in support of the abortion rights amendment being questioned by law enforcement about their involvement. The Florida Office of Election Crimes and Security has opened over 40 investigations into petition gatherers, including Isaac Menasche, who was visited by plainclothes officers and questioned about his signature. This aggressive approach has been seen as an attempt to intimidate supporters and deter further participation in the initiative.
Despite the challenges, supporters of the marijuana legalization amendment remain optimistic. Kim Rivers, CEO of Trulieve Cannabis Corp., told Politico that the campaign for Amendment 3 is the culmination of years of advocacy to bring cannabis legalization to Florida. She believes that public sentiment has shifted in favor of legalization, stating, “I think the tide of sentiment has shifted. And I think that, candidly, Florida is ready for it.”
With early voting underway, the outcome of these amendments remains uncertain. DeSantis’s relentless efforts to sway public opinion have created a high-stakes battle, while the persistent public support for both measures adds a layer of complexity. The upcoming election will determine not only the future of these crucial issues in Florida but also the extent to which a governor can utilize state resources to influence the outcome of ballot initiatives.
