President Donald Trump is reportedly considering reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug under federal law, a move that could open the door to expanded medical research and loosen industry restrictions that have long hindered growth.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump discussed the idea during a recent $1-million-a-plate fundraiser at his New Jersey golf club, where attendees included Kim Rivers, CEO of Trulieve, one of the nation’s largest cannabis companies. Rivers urged the president to move forward with the change, arguing it would boost medical marijuana research and help the U.S. compete globally in the emerging cannabis industry.
While former President Joe Biden was also exploring a similar reclassification before losing to Trump in 2024, the idea stalled amid political gridlock and lack of bipartisan consensus. Trump’s renewed interest has drawn attention not only from industry leaders, but also from political observers noting the significant donations marijuana companies have funneled into Trump’s political groups.
Supporters say such a move could be a game-changer for medical research, allowing scientists more freedom to study marijuana’s potential health benefits without navigating the current bureaucratic red tape. It would also ease restrictions for financial institutions, making it easier for cannabis businesses to operate without relying solely on cash.
Trump, who last year endorsed a Florida ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana — a measure that narrowly missed the 60% threshold needed to pass — has shown a willingness to take on the issue, despite its controversial nature.
“All policy and legal requirements and implications are being considered,” White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said. “The only interest guiding the president’s policy decisions is what is in the best interest of the American people.”
If Trump proceeds, the reclassification would represent one of the most significant federal marijuana policy changes in decades, with the potential to reshape both the legal landscape and the broader national debate over cannabis.
The post Trump Weighs Easing Federal Restrictions on Marijuana appeared first on Real News Now.
About Author
