During Florida's last election cycle, a ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana garnered significant support, backed by millions from Trulieve and billionaire John Morgan's 'For the People' campaign. Opponents faced a daunting challenge, akin to David versus Goliath. However, Governor Ron DeSantis, widely respected in Florida, actively opposed the measure. His influence resonated with voters, leading to the initiative's failure to pass. Reflecting on states where recreational marijuana is now legal, I believe Floridians made the right decision for our state's future.
In DC today, a couple was sitting outside a restaurant smoking weed. It’s such a potent, persistent, obnoxious odor. It spanned almost the entire block — we couldn’t get away from it.
— Marina Medvin 🇺🇸 (@MarinaMedvin) August 31, 2025
I don’t want that sh!t around my kids. When you engage in an activity that takes up so much…
To me, marijuana smoke has a pungent, skunk-like odor. I'm grateful that Florida's beaches and springs remain free of this smell, thanks to the rejection of recreational marijuana legalization. I recognize marijuana's medical benefits—my dear friend used it to manage nausea during chemotherapy, and I fully support access for those who need it for health reasons. However, I don't want to encounter its strong smell in public spaces. If the odor of cigarettes was enough to restrict smoking in public areas, the same standard should apply to marijuana.
In DC today, a couple was sitting outside a restaurant wearing Bath&Body works. It’s such a potent, persistent, obnoxious odor. It spanned almost the entire block — we couldn’t get away from it.
— DarnTootin (@DarnTootins) August 31, 2025
I don’t want that sh!t around my kids. When you engage in an activity that takes up… https://t.co/5ltTPzyFCT
I've spent plenty of time in Bath and Body Works and bought way too many products, but there is not one of their scents capable of wafting up a street and lingering for hours. There is no comparing the two.
Why did everyone have a hissy fit about secondhand cigarette smoke but now weed smoke is ok? https://t.co/RBcSb2AuT5
— pam estey (@EsteyPam) August 31, 2025
Precisely.
No one talks about the effects of second-hand weed smoke the same way they talked about it with cigarettes. Worst decision ever to legalize it. https://t.co/RATNIPo5d6
— Elaine Jackson (@ejacks424) August 31, 2025
100% Same in NYC. https://t.co/OVhYTRWiza
— Helen Gordon (@dojochik) August 31, 2025
I had to change my hotel room at the Marriott in DC three times two years ago because of the nasty weed smell. It’s been a real problem in doors and out doors.
— The Real Parents of Loudoun County (@RealLOCOParents) August 31, 2025
It actually is my family's right to not have to breathe that. Not to mention that THC WILL give you a contact high: Imagine how bad that is for kids.
— Sour Patch Lyds ن (@sourpatchlyds) August 31, 2025
I understand the push to legalize recreational marijuana, driven by compassion for those who benefit from it medically. In Florida, obtaining a medical marijuana card is already straightforward for those in need. However, there must be limits to widespread legalization. States considering recreational use should learn from those where it's already legal, as the consequences can be significant. Once Pandora's box is opened, there's no turning back.
