Florida voters reject abortion rights and marijuana legalization measures

Voters in Florida have rejected two significant ballot measures aimed at protecting abortion rights and legalizing recreational marijuana. Both measures failed to achieve the required 60 percent support, meaning the state's strict six-week abortion ban will remain in effect. The abortion measure sought to prevent laws restricting access before a fetus is viable, while the marijuana proposal would have allowed adults to possess up to three ounces for personal use. The outcome is seen as a victory for Governor Ron DeSantis, who campaigned against both initiatives. This election also saw increased public interest in the presidential race, particularly regarding Joe Biden's withdrawal from the campaign earlier this year. His absence from the election festivities has drawn attention amid ongoing political tensions.