In a surprising turn of events, an investigation has revealed the alleged connections between key figures in the medical marijuana industry and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Despite his claims of 'draining the swamp,' DeSantis is facing scrutiny for his ties to the billion-dollar marijuana industry in the state.
The investigation discovered that one of the leading medical marijuana companies, Trulieve, contributed a hefty $50,000 to the Florida GOP, assisting in financing DeSantis' campaign ads. Interestingly, Trulieve experienced record profits shortly after DeSantis signed the bill legalizing smokeable medical marijuana. The company attributed its success to the introduction of smokeable flower, which accounted for a significant portion of its sales in Florida.
It has been revealed that Florida entrepreneur Jason Perizzolo, a former hand surgeon turned marijuana specialist, co-hosted fundraisers for DeSantis at his luxurious lakeside home near Orlando. This event took place just weeks before the 2018 election. Perizzolo's attorney insists that marijuana legislation was never discussed with DeSantis during these gatherings.
Another prominent figure at the fundraising party was Congressman Matt Gaetz, who had previously introduced Florida's first marijuana law during his time as a state lawmaker in 2014. Additionally, former Florida State Representative Halsey Beshears, whose family's tree farm later joined other nurseries to form Trulieve, was also present. All three individuals have ties to Florida's lucrative marijuana industry.
Lev Parnas, an associate of President Donald Trump and Rudy Giuliani, claimed that DeSantis sought his help during his 2018 gubernatorial campaign. Parnas asserts that DeSantis approached him at Trump Hotel, expressing his need for Trump's endorsement. Parnas, who was interested in entering the marijuana industry in Florida at the time, stated that DeSantis underwent a sudden shift in his stance on cannabis and assured him that he wouldn't hinder its legalization.
DeSantis ultimately received Trump's endorsement, and Parnas donated a substantial $50,000 to his campaign. After his victory, DeSantis hugged and congratulated Parnas, indicating a connection between the two.
Since DeSantis assumed office, the medical marijuana industry in Florida has seen tremendous growth. On his first day as governor, the state had fewer than 100 dispensaries, but now there are nearly 600, serving over 800,000 Floridians. The industry has become an estimated $1.8 billion market in the state.
Although DeSantis returned Parnas' donation following the investigation, he has refused to address the details or the nature of their interactions. The Trump campaign and Giuliani declined to comment as well, leaving unanswered questions about Parnas' claim of his involvement in securing Trump's endorsement for DeSantis.
As the smoke begins to clear surrounding these alleged connections, the spotlight remains on Governor DeSantis, raising concerns about whether his campaign promises to 'drain the swamp' were truly fulfilled or if a different kind of swamp was merely replaced.
