Florida Poll Shows Majority Support for Cannabis Legalization

Florida Poll Shows Majority Support for Cannabis Legalization Initiative, But Just Short of Passage Requirement

A new Florida poll indicates that a majority of voters support the marijuana legalization initiative set to appear on the ballot this November. However, the results suggest that the measure may fall short of the 60 percent approval needed to pass in the state.

With fewer than 70 days until Election Day, the survey from Public Policy Polling (PPP) reveals that 57 percent of registered voters favor the proposal, while 34 percent oppose it. The poll, conducted from August 21-22 with 837 Florida registered voters, has a margin of error of +/- 3.4 percentage points, highlighting how tight the measure’s chances of approval are.

Mixed Poll Results and Support Across Demographics

The PPP survey is one of several recent polls examining the prospects of the marijuana initiative. Another pair of polls published this month similarly found majority support, but only one showed the initiative meeting the 60 percent threshold required to pass a constitutional amendment in Florida.

One recent poll suggested that Amendment 3 could surpass the threshold, showing 64 percent support among voters, with majority backing across every demographic surveyed. Even a poll commissioned by the opposition campaign, Vote No On 3, found the same level of support.

Political Reactions and Campaign Dynamics

The legalization effort has sparked varied reactions among Florida’s political leaders. Some, like Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL), co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, are optimistic, predicting the measure will pass. However, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), a pro-legalization congressman, opposes it—not because of marijuana itself, but because he believes reform should be enacted through legislation, not as a constitutional amendment.

Meanwhile, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (R) is actively opposing the measure, arguing it would create a monopoly on recreational cannabis without allowing home cultivation. This month, a top staffer for DeSantis criticized Amendment 3 for lacking a home grow provision, which supporters say was excluded due to the state’s single-subject restriction on ballot initiatives.

High-Stakes Opposition and Endorsements

The opposition to the legalization measure has seen significant financial backing. A hedge fund billionaire recently pledged $20 million against Amendment 3, with $12 million going directly to the Vote No on 3 campaign. Meanwhile, endorsements for the initiative continue to grow, with support from a mix of lawmakers, unions, and local officials, including Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan (D) and several state senators from both parties.

However, powerful opposition remains. The Florida Police Chiefs Association and the Florida Sheriffs Association have publicly opposed the measure, citing concerns about increased youth use, impaired driving, and illicit operations. Their claims, largely dismissed by legalization advocates, have nevertheless bolstered anti-legalization sentiment.

The Future of Florida’s Legalization Effort

With high-profile battles between supporters and opponents, the Florida marijuana legalization campaign faces a turbulent path ahead. The measure’s fate will likely hinge on whether voter turnout and persuasion efforts can boost support above the critical 60 percent mark needed for approval. Advocates remain hopeful that growing public support for cannabis reform will carry Amendment 3 to victory in November.