Florida’s upcoming ballot measures on marijuana legalization and abortion rights are facing intense opposition from Governor Ron DeSantis, who is utilizing state funds to push against both initiatives. Despite this, recent polls suggest both amendments are on track for passage.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has vehemently criticized Amendment 4, a proposed state constitutional amendment that would enshrine abortion rights. DeSantis argues the amendment is a ‘bait and switch,’ claiming it weakens parental rights and creates loopholes for late-term abortions. The amendment, which has sparked intense debate in the state, is facing strong opposition from DeSantis and other pro-life advocates.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis finds himself in a political tug-of-war with a former ally, Jeff Roe, over the legalization of recreational marijuana. The battle, centered around Amendment 3 on the 2024 ballot, pits DeSantis’ conservative agenda against a growing tide of public support for cannabis legalization. The outcome could significantly reshape Florida’s political and social landscape.
Florida’s Amendment 3, aiming to legalize recreational marijuana, faces scrutiny as Governor Ron DeSantis opposes the amendment and draws flak for refusing to extend the voter registration deadline during Hurricane Milton evacuations. Meanwhile, cannabis companies brace for the storm’s impact.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has denied receiving calls from Vice President Kamala Harris in the wake of Hurricane Helene, despite numerous reports suggesting otherwise. DeSantis claimed ignorance of Harris’s calls, while Harris criticized the politicization of emergency situations. This incident adds to the existing tensions between the two political figures.
A campaign event hosted by the Ron DeSantis-affiliated Florida Freedom Fund, aimed at opposing Florida’s cannabis and abortion amendments, ended up losing money. The group spent over $115,000 on a luxury Georgia resort while raising only $41,000, highlighting their financial struggles. Meanwhile, the pro-cannabis campaign, Amendment 3, has amassed a record-breaking $90.44 million in contributions, with Trulieve Cannabis Corp being the major donor. DeSantis has criticized Trulieve, calling it a monopoly seeking to dominate the cannabis market.
A heated exchange on social media has erupted between a senior staffer for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the CEO of Trulieve Cannabis Corp, the state’s largest medical marijuana company, over the proposed cannabis legalization initiative, Amendment 3. The dispute centers around the amendment’s lack of provisions for home cultivation of cannabis, a feature DeSantis’ staffer criticizes as indicative of corporate greed, while the cannabis CEO argues it was excluded due to legal limitations.
A federal judge has permanently blocked a portion of Florida’s ‘Stop Woke Act’ that prohibited race-related training in private workplaces, deeming it a violation of the First Amendment. The law, pushed by Governor Ron DeSantis, aimed to ban critical race theory training in workplaces and education, but the judge ruled that the workplace provision was unconstitutional. This decision comes after a previous preliminary injunction and a subsequent ruling from the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals upholding the initial ruling.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s efforts to deter illegal immigration have resulted in a significant decrease in Medicaid spending for immigrants in the state. Following the implementation of a law requiring hospitals to collect data on the healthcare costs of undocumented immigrants, Florida’s Emergency Medical Assistance program spending has dropped by over 50%. DeSantis’s policies, which include banning ‘sanctuary’ jurisdictions, increasing border enforcement, and transporting migrants to other states, have drawn criticism from immigration advocates who argue they are cruel and anti-immigrant. However, DeSantis maintains that these measures are necessary to protect Florida’s resources and deter illegal immigration.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is looking to extend her winning streak as the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face off against the Florida Panthers for the Stanley Cup. Smith said she’s taking suggestions for her third playoff hockey bet, this time with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. The governor’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the possible wager. So far, the United Conservative Party premier is 2-for-2 on her playoff gambles with counterparts in British Columbia and Texas. British Columbia Premier David Eby made good on his losing wager Monday, two weeks after the Vancouver Canucks were ousted by the Oilers in the second round. Game 1 of the best-of-seven series against the Panthers goes Saturday in Sunrise, Fla.
