It’s not just Trump, the nation is moving right

Published November 7, 2024 12:00am ET



President Donald Trump is a generational political talent, and nothing should detract from his historic comeback win Tuesday. But those who believe the election was all about Trump and his charisma should pay attention to the outcomes of ballot measures, which reveal an electorate that rejects the leftward lurch of the era initiated and presided over by President Barack Obama. There is a clear signal of a desire to return to better, more conservative policy.

Efforts to normalize recreational drug use yet further failed in Massachusetts, Florida, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Florida’s Amendment 3, which would have legalized recreational marijuana use, secured a majority of the vote but it failed to reach the 60% threshold needed to amend the state’s constitution. Ballot measures in both Dakotas, which also would have legalized recreational marijuana use in those states, were rejected by a solid majority of voters. In Massachusetts, voters decided against legalizing the recreational use of psychedelic drugs, including psilocybin and psilocin.

Already a print subscriber? Click here to login/register your account

Trusted reporting.Unlimited access.

Subscribe for full access to Washington Examiner coverage, expert political analysis, and subscriber-only journalism.

Get Unlimited Access

Already a member? Log in

Cancel anytime.