Key Point Summary โ Trump Delivers Gift For Weed Lovers
- Trump mulls downgrading marijuanaโs federal classification.
- Move comes after millions in donations from cannabis firms.
- Trulieve CEO attended $1M-per-seat fundraiser.
- Reclassification could massively boost pot industry profits.
- Public support for legalization reportedly near 80%.
- Trump claims he doesnโt use drugs, dislikes weed smell.
- Biden began reclassification process before leaving office.
High-Dollar Fundraiser Sparks Marijuana Buzz
President Donald Trump is weighing a move that could change Americaโs cannabis laws in a big way. Sources say heโs considering shifting marijuana to a less severe federal drug classificationโa step that could supercharge the multi-billion-dollar pot industry.
The timing is raising eyebrows. The talk comes just after Trumpโs campaign reportedly raked in millions from cannabis companies. One of the biggest names at his recent New Jersey golf club fundraiser was Kim Rivers, CEO of Trulieve, a major marijuana firm. Seats went for $1 million apiece, according to insiders.
From Heroinโs League To A Lower Tier?
Right now, the U.S. government still groups marijuana alongside heroin, LSD, and ecstasy as a Schedule 1 drugโthe most dangerous category. While 24 states allow recreational marijuana and 40 permit medical use, it remains illegal at the federal level.
If Trump gives the green light to reclassification, pot would be easier to buy and sell nationwide. It could also send profits soaring for cannabis companies that have already invested heavily in lobbying.
Playing To The 80 Percent Crowd
Trump, who says he doesnโt drink or use drugs, has often griped about marijuanaโs smell. Still, sources say heโs been shown polling dataโreportedly from Trulieveโclaiming 80 percent of independent voters support legalization or reclassification.
Thatโs the kind of โ80-20 cultural issueโ Trump likes to champion: policies backed by the overwhelming majority, which can energize his base and court swing voters. Insiders say heโs even acknowledged having friends in New York who use marijuana for pain relief.
A Well-Lobbied Leader
Since returning to the White House, Trump has been heavily courted by the cannabis industry. The Wall Street Journal reports that over $1 million has flowed into his political action committee from pot-linked donors.
Administration officials insist Trump hasnโt made up his mind. They stress he doesnโt personally support outright legalization, but heโs listening to arguments that reclassification could be a political win.
Biden Started The Process
In a twist, this potential shift didnโt originate with Trump. The Department of Health and Human Services began reviewing marijuanaโs classification under President Joe Biden. The process has not yet been completed, leaving Trump in the position to either push it forward or shut it down.
White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson told the Daily Beast that โall policy and legal requirements and implications are being consideredโ and insisted the presidentโs only guiding principle is โthe best interest of the American people.โ
Public Reaction Splits Down Familiar Lines
Supporters of cannabis reform are celebrating what they see as a rare opportunity for bipartisan progress. Industry leaders say reclassification would unlock research funding, reduce business costs, and create new jobs.
Critics, especially from conservative anti-drug groups, accuse Trump of letting big donors dictate policy. They warn that easier access could lead to more youth consumption and impaired driving.
Outlook: A Game-Changing Shift Or Political Smoke?
If Trump acts, it could be the most significant federal cannabis reform in decades. It would also hand him a potent talking point in swing states where marijuana reform polls well.
But with Trumpโs personal distaste for marijuana, and the fact that reclassification could alienate parts of his conservative base, the outcome is far from certain.
For now, the marijuana industry is watching closelyโand writing checksโhoping that Trumpโs next move will truly be a gift for weed lovers.