Trump reportedly eyes reclassifying marijuana as less dangerous drug, Internet calls it 'bad idea'

Trump reportedly eyes reclassifying marijuana as less dangerous drug, Internet calls it 'bad idea'
Last year, Donald Trump endorsed a Florida ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana, but it ultimately fell short of the 60% voter approval needed to pass (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump is reportedly considering reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous substance under federal law—a decision that could significantly expand medical cannabis research and ease restrictions on the burgeoning marijuana industry.

According to a Wall Street Journal report citing sources familiar with the discussions, Trump raised the possibility during a $1-million-a-plate fundraiser at his New Jersey golf club earlier this month.

Trump reportedly weighing move to downgrade marijuana’s federal classification

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 14: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks he meets with President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador in the Oval Office of the White House on April 14, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump and Bukele were expected to discuss a range of bilateral issues including the detention of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia, who has been held in a prison in El Salvador since March 15. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)
President Donald Trump speaks he meets with President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador in the Oval Office of the White House on April 14, 2025 in Washington, DC (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

Among the fundraiser attendees was Kim Rivers, CEO of leading cannabis company Trulieve, who urged Donald Trump to push for the policy shift and broaden medical marijuana research, according to the report.

The Journal report noted that cannabis companies have funneled millions of dollars into Trump-aligned political groups and enlisted some of Washington’s most influential lobbyists and advisers with ties to the administration.

Last year, Trump endorsed a Florida ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana, but it ultimately fell short of the 60% voter approval needed to pass.

The idea of downgrading marijuana’s classification had also been under consideration by former President Joe Biden.

While no formal decision has been announced, the White House signaled that any changes will be approached carefully. “All policy and legal requirements and implications are being considered,” said White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson. “The only interest guiding the president’s policy decisions is what is in the best interest of the American people.”

Mixed reactions flood social media as Trump mulls marijuana reclassification

News that Donald Trump is weighing the possibility of reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug has triggered a wave of polarized reactions online, with some applauding the idea and others warning it could have negative consequences.

US President Donald Trump speaks to the media as he departs the White House on July 15, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump is traveling to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to speak at an artificial intelligence and energy summit. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
President Donald Trump speaks to the media as he departs the White House on July 15, 2025 in Washington, DC (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Several social media users expressed strong opposition, arguing that the move could encourage more use and worsen societal problems.

“It will help the drug dealers. No one goes to jail for a couple joints anymore… don’t do it,” one user urged.



 

“Foolish. Making consumption legal has promoted massive illegal production and dangerous players involved,” another warned.



 

Others described it as “Bad idea. Weed legalization was a mistake.”



 

Another user added, “Why? There’s no need for it. It’s a disgusting and horrific drug that can cause infertility.”



 

Not all reactions were negative. Some argued that marijuana should be treated similarly to other legal substances.

“A no brainer. Marijuana is no worse than alcohol,” one supporter wrote, while another commented, “Seriously, time to give the people a break."



 



 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online. 

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