A recent survey from the University of North Florida (UNF) reveals that a significant majority of Florida voters now support the legalization of cannabis. The poll found that 67% of respondents favor legalizing cannabis for adult use, with strong support across party lines. Among those surveyed, 82% of Democrats, 66% of independents, and 55% of Republicans expressed approval for reform.
The results highlight a growing trend of bipartisan backing for cannabis legalization, even as previous efforts to enact such a policy have fallen short of the necessary threshold for success. In November 2024, the Smart & Safe Florida campaign’s legalization proposal received majority support but failed to meet the 60% supermajority required for a constitutional amendment under Florida law.
A Growing Shift in Public Opinion about Cannabis in Florida
Florida has long been a battleground for cannabis policy, with medical marijuana already legalized in the state through a successful 2016 ballot initiative. However, full adult-use legalization has proven more challenging. While the 2024 Smart & Safe Florida initiative garnered 56% approval, it still fell short of the threshold required for enactment.
The recent UNF poll indicates that support for adult-use legalization is not only stable but growing, with a clear path toward reaching the 60% supermajority requirement in future elections. Advocates are now looking to 2026 as their next opportunity to push the issue forward.
A Renewed Effort for Cannabis Legalization in Florida in 2026
Following the narrow failure of the 2024 measure, pro-cannabis groups are gearing up for another attempt at the ballot box. Many advocates believe that the momentum is on their side, as evidenced by the consistent increase in public support for legalization over the past decade.
Unlike previous years, the latest data suggests that Republican support for cannabis reform has grown substantially, with 55% of GOP voters now in favor. This shift is crucial in a state like Florida, where conservative voters have historically been a significant obstacle to marijuana reform efforts. The national conversation about rescheduling vs descheduling cannabis has also played into more public awareness.
One potential game-changer in the 2024 campaign was former President Donald Trump’s endorsement of the legalization measure. Trump’s public support signaled a broader acceptance of marijuana policy changes within Republican circles, reflecting a national trend toward bipartisan agreement on the issue. While the endorsement was not enough to secure the required votes in 2024, it may contribute to a stronger showing in 2026.
Challenges and Strategies Moving Forward for Florida in Cannabis Advocacy
Despite the growing support for cannabis reform, advocates face significant challenges in getting a new measure across the finish line. Florida’s 60% threshold for constitutional amendments remains a high bar, requiring widespread bipartisan backing and a well-coordinated campaign effort.
Opposition from influential political figures and law enforcement groups has historically played a role in suppressing marijuana legalization efforts. Critics argue that legalization could lead to increased substance abuse and impaired driving incidents. However, proponents counter that regulated cannabis markets in other states have demonstrated economic benefits, including tax revenue generation and job creation, without substantial negative social impacts.
To increase their chances of success in 2026, cannabis advocates are focusing on public education and outreach efforts. By addressing concerns about safety, regulation, and economic benefits, they hope to persuade undecided voters and strengthen bipartisan support.
A Hopeful Outlook for Cannabis Legalization
As Florida prepares for another potential cannabis legalization vote in 2026, the latest polling data offers strong reasons for optimism. With 67% of voters already in favor, the pathway to surpassing the 60% threshold appears more achievable than in previous years. The shifting attitudes among Republicans, combined with bipartisan momentum, suggest that Florida may soon join the growing list of states that have embraced legal marijuana.
The upcoming campaign will likely focus on refining messaging, engaging grassroots supporters, and securing endorsements from key political figures to ensure success. If the current trends hold, 2026 could be the year that Florida voters finally legalize adult-use cannabis and reshape the state’s marijuana policies for the future.
