In a striking political maneuver, former President Donald Trump has endorsed a controversial initiative to legalize marijuana in Florida.

According to Daily Mail, Trump's endorsement puts him at odds with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and prominent GOP donor Ken Griffin, both of whom oppose the measure.Donald Trump announced his backing of a Florida ballot measure that, if passed, would allow adults to possess up to three ounces of marijuana. He declared his support via his Truth Social platform, following a problematic statement against a Florida abortion amendment.

Trump's Stance Conflicts With His Past Views

This move is in direct contradiction to Trump’s historically stringent views on the risks associated with drugs and alcohol. In his post, Trump emphasized the necessity to "end needless arrests and incarcerations of adults for small amounts of marijuana for personal use" and called for "smart regulations" to ensure access to "safe, tested products."

"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," Trump articulated in his post.

DeSantis and Griffin Strongly Oppose the Measure

The proposed legislation has also faced strong opposition from Governor Ron DeSantis and Ken Griffin. DeSantis has expressed concerns about the negative impacts of legalized marijuana in other states, noting a "pungent odor" that affects the quality of life in cities like New York City, Denver, and Los Angeles.

"He said he 'could not believe the pungent odor' in places where it was legal, arguing, 'It has not been good for quality of life,'" quoted DeSantis. He further lamented the transformation of these cities, highlighting the strong smell of marijuana that now characterizes them.

Billionaire Donor Predicts Negative Outcomes

Ken Griffin, a billionaire and potential Trump supporter, has voiced his disapproval of the measure, arguing it would benefit large marijuana dispensaries and lead to increased public and private consumption, potentially exacerbating societal issues such as addiction and crime.

"Passage of Amendment 3 would create a monopoly for large marijuana dispensaries and permit pot use in public and private areas throughout Florida. That will help no one other than special interests— and it will hurt us all, especially through more dangerous roads, a higher risk of addiction among our youth, and an increase in crime," Griffin stated.

Financial Impact and Campaign Contributions

Despite Griffin's opposition, he has committed $12 million to fight against the marijuana legalization measure. Interestingly, he has not contributed to Trump's campaign, highlighting a rift between his financial interests and political loyalties.

Trump, identifying himself as a Floridian, expressed his personal stake in the matter, committing to vote "YES on Amendment 3 this November." He also hinted at broader reforms should he return to the presidency, focusing on medical uses of marijuana and supporting state rights to regulate the drug.

Trump's Vision for Marijuana Legislation

"As a Floridian, I will be voting YES on Amendment 3 this November. As President, we will continue to focus on research to unlock the medical uses of marijuana as a Schedule 3 drug, and work with Congress to pass common-sense laws, including safe banking for state-authorized companies, and supporting states rights to pass marijuana laws, like in Florida, that work so well for their citizens," Trump announced.

With the November elections approaching, this endorsement could redefine Trump's political relationships and impact his alignment with key figures within the Republican Party.