President Trump expressed support for reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, during a $1 million-a-plate fundraiser at his New Jersey golf club.
Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and LSD, indicating a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, which is controversial due to its recognized medical benefits and legalization in 40 states for medical use and 24 for recreational use.
Trump’s comments, reiterated in a private meeting with House lawmakers where he stated, “We’ll be moving forward soon with rescheduling marijuana,” mark a shift from his historical opposition, citing personal concerns about addiction. The proposed reclassification to Schedule III would ease restrictions, allow tax breaks for cannabis businesses, and expand medical research, benefiting the multibillion-dollar industry. Cannabis industry leaders, like Trulieve CEO Kim Rivers, who attended the fundraiser, urged Trump to support this change, reflecting significant industry backing with millions donated to his political groups.
Positive reactions came from cannabis advocates and executives, with the U.S. Cannabis Council noting it as a historic alignment with Democratic opponent Kamala Harris, potentially making cannabis policy less divisive in the 2024 election.
However, some conservatives and anti-legalization groups, like Smart Approaches to Marijuana, oppose the move, arguing it lacks sufficient data and could normalize drug use. Critics, including some in the industry, express skepticism due to Trump’s appointment of Michael S. Maltz as DEA administrator, who has opposed rescheduling, casting doubt on whether the process will advance.
Posts on X reflect mixed sentiments, with some praising the reform as a “freedom gesture” to appeal to younger and libertarian voters, while others see it as a political maneuver. Despite Trump’s campaign promises, the rescheduling process remains paused by a DEA judge, leaving uncertainty about whether his administration will act decisively.
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