Cannabis advocates are expressing frustration over the lack of clarity regarding federal cannabis reform under the Trump administration. Despite some hopeful signs, such as the appointment of a cannabis supporter as drug czar and marijuana-funded ads running in key locations, the future remains uncertain.
Former journalist Sara Carter has been appointed to lead the Office of National Drug Control Policy. In a social media post, President Trump praised her reporting on the “Fentanyl and Opioid Crisis.” Carter has described medical marijuana as “fantastic” and has indicated that she would support federal cannabis legalization, provided the industry is “monitored,” according to a report from Marijuana Moment.
However, there is a significant contrast between Carter’s views and those of other Trump appointees. For example, Attorney General Pam Bondi has opposed medical marijuana legalization in Florida, and Terrance Cole, who is set to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, has also taken a hard stance. While Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has shown some support for marijuana reform, he has tempered his position since joining the administration.
Carter’s past support for cannabis reform may not have much impact on policy, as her role as drug czar legally prohibits her from advocating for rescheduling or legalization of marijuana, which is classified as a Schedule I narcotic. The uncertainty surrounding her appointment leaves many in the cannabis industry questioning what it might mean for their interests.
Since Trump assumed office in January, the administration has largely remained silent on cannabis issues. Although there was an attempt to include the SAFE Banking Act in an omnibus spending bill in December, it was not successful. Trump had previously expressed support for federal marijuana rescheduling and even backed a Florida ballot measure for recreational marijuana, which ultimately failed.
The rescheduling process, which could lead to significant tax savings for the U.S. marijuana industry, has been stalled for months. Recently, a White House spokesperson stated that “no action is being considered at this time” regarding marijuana reform, and Trump’s social media post about Carter did not reference cannabis.
In response to the prevailing uncertainty, the American Rights and Reform PAC has launched TV ads targeting both Biden and Canada, areas that Trump frequently criticizes. The PAC has invested over $1 million in these ads, which will be aired in Washington, D.C., and the West Palm Beach area, where Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort is located. Curaleaf Holdings has reportedly provided assistance for this ad campaign.
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