DeSantis Rules Out Cannabis Legalization in Presidential Agenda

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a potential candidate for the 2024 presidential election, has confirmed that he will not prioritize the legalization of cannabis if he becomes president, reports Business Insider. While he has supported medical marijuana in Florida, he has expressed concerns about broader legalization and its potential impact on youth access to cannabis.

DeSantis says that cannabis has become more potent over time, although advocates for decriminalization argue that it should be regulated and labeled like alcohol to ensure responsible consumption.

“We have too many people using drugs in this country right now,” DeSantis said, according to Business Insider. “I think it hurts our workforce readiness, I think it hurts people’s ability to prosper in life.”

While DeSantis has taken steps to advance medical cannabis access in Florida, his record on the issue is mixed. As a congressman, he voted in favor of protecting state cannabis programs from federal interference but voted against legislation allowing doctors to recommend cannabis to patients.