President Donald Trump is weighing reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III after cannabis industry executives urged action at a million-dollar fundraiser.
The petition potentially delivers massive benefits to an industry that has poured millions into political operations.
Story Snapshot
- Trump told donors at $1 million-per-plate Bedminster fundraiser he would “look at” marijuana rescheduling.
- The White House Chief of Staff compiled agency positions on moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III.
- Rescheduling would provide federal tax relief and expand research opportunities for cannabis companies.
- Cannabis industry executives, including Trulieve’s CEO, attended a fundraiser and urged policy changes.
High-Dollar Donor Access Drives Policy Consideration
President Trump signaled openness to marijuana rescheduling during an August 1 fundraiser at his Bedminster golf club, where attendees paid $1 million per plate for access.
Trulieve CEO Kim Rivers and other cannabis industry executives used the exclusive venue to lobby directly for federal policy changes.
The timing raises questions about whether major political donations are driving administrative priorities, as cannabis companies have contributed millions to Trump-aligned political groups while seeking regulatory relief.
Federal Agencies Compile Rescheduling Analysis
White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles has gathered positions from federal agencies, including HHS, DOJ, and DEA, on potential rescheduling.
The review continues work initiated under the Biden administration, but was left incomplete. White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson stated the president is weighing changes “in the best interest of the American people.” However, internal advisers remain divided on proceeding with the politically sensitive issue.
Schedule III Classification Would Unlock Tax Benefits
Moving marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III would provide immediate financial relief through federal tax code section 280E, allowing cannabis companies to deduct business expenses currently prohibited.
The change would also expand research opportunities and signal reduced federal hostility toward state-legal cannabis operations.
However, marijuana would remain federally controlled, and interstate commerce restrictions would persist without additional legislative action from Congress.
Political Calculations Behind Cannabis Policy Shift
Internal reporting suggests Trump views marijuana rescheduling as an “80-20” issue with broad public support, particularly among independent voters. The policy change could fulfill a campaign pledge while appealing to constituencies beyond his traditional base.
However, some advisers warn of potential backlash from prohibitionist groups and moral concerns about appearing to promote drug use, creating tension within the administration over the timing and scope of any announcement.
Report: Trump considers reclassifying marijuana as less dangerous drug: report
Trump is weighing whether to remove marijuana from the list of Schedule I controlled substances and make it a Schedule III drug.https://t.co/7lR1g8rR05
— The Truthful American (@TTA_NewsNetwork) August 11, 2025
The rescheduling decision represents a test of Trump’s willingness to challenge traditional conservative orthodoxy on drug policy while rewarding a politically active industry that has invested heavily in his political success.
Sources:
Fox Business: Trump considers reclassifying marijuana as less dangerous drug
UPI: Trump weighs reclassifying marijuana as less dangerous drug
Daily Beast: Trump considers giving big gift to marijuana enthusiasts
