Former President Donald Trump has expressed support for reducing federal restrictions on marijuana, aligning himself with the Biden administration’s ongoing efforts to reclassify the drug. In a recent social media post, Trump announced he would vote “yes” on a Florida ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana for adults, and he endorsed moving marijuana to a Schedule III drug classification, which would allow for more research and tax benefits for the industry.
This marks the first time Trump has formally backed easing federal marijuana laws, a shift from his previous administration’s stance, which included a crackdown on marijuana led by former Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Trump emphasized the need for “common sense laws,” including ensuring that state-legal cannabis companies have access to banking services and supporting states’ rights to manage their own marijuana regulations.
Currently, 24 states and the District of Columbia have legalized recreational marijuana. Biden’s administration has endorsed a Justice Department proposal to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III substance, which would place it in the same category as drugs like ketamine and anabolic steroids. This reclassification would allow cannabis businesses to claim federal tax deductions and open the door for financial institutions to serve the marijuana industry.
Trump’s statement represents a significant shift in the Republican landscape, as prominent figures in the party have historically opposed easing marijuana restrictions. However, his support for the Florida measure and marijuana reform reflects growing bipartisan interest in cannabis policy, as well as the popularity of the issue among voters across party lines.
Some critics, such as Kevin Sabet of Smart Approaches to Marijuana, have dismissed Trump’s position as an election-year strategy, pointing out that many Republican leaders remain opposed to such reforms. Nevertheless, Trump’s support signals a potential turning point in the national conversation on cannabis, as it brings both major parties closer to significant marijuana policy changes.
