Despite campaign statements suggesting support for marijuana reform, recent reports indicate uncertainty about the Trump administration’s position on rescheduling marijuana under federal law. An unnamed White House official reportedly told CNN that “no action is being considered,” casting doubt among cannabis reform advocates and industry stakeholders.
This uncertainty coincides with a new $1 million advertising campaign by the pro-legalization American Rights and Reform PAC (formerly Legalize America), targeting areas frequented by Trump, including Washington D.C. and near his Mar-a-Lago residence. Major multistate cannabis operators, notably Cresco Labs and Curaleaf Holdings, fund the PAC, alongside contributions from the U.S. Cannabis Roundtable.
Trump’s recent administration appointments have further raised questions about potential marijuana reforms. DEA head nominee Terrance Cole is an outspoken opponent of cannabis legalization, and newly appointed Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated he will defer marijuana policy decisions to the DEA while emphasizing adherence to scientific research.
Additionally, the administration’s proposed cuts to university research budgets threaten to undermine ongoing academic research into cannabis.
Overall, despite initial enthusiasm following Trump’s public statements on marijuana, recent developments and appointments suggest uncertainty about federal marijuana policy progress in the near future.
