President Donald Trump is stirring the pot with a possible change in federal marijuana policy, a decision that could reshape the cannabis industry while igniting a firestorm among his staunchest supporters.

According to Newsmax, Trump is weighing a reclassification of marijuana from its current Schedule I status, alongside drugs like heroin, to a lower category that acknowledges its medical potential. This shift, though not full legalization, could lift heavy tax burdens on cannabis businesses and open doors for expanded medical research.

At a recent donor gathering at his Bedminster, New Jersey, country club, Trump hinted at this pivot, admitting he’s heard positive reports about medical benefits but remains wary of negative side effects. Such a move would align with other unexpected policy shifts from his administration, including bans on food dyes and reduced animal testing, often seen as progressive causes.

Industry Pressure and Public Sentiment

Cannabis industry advocates have been relentless, pouring significant resources into lobbying efforts with million-dollar fundraising events to sway the president. Kevin Sabet, a former White House drug policy adviser, pointed out to Axios that these companies have spent “hundreds of millions of dollars” chasing tax advantages.

Public opinion seems to lean in their favor, with surveys from the Pew Research Center showing 88% of Americans support marijuana for medical or recreational use. Beau Kilmer from the RAND Drug Policy Research Center noted that even hemp-derived THC products are blurring traditional partisan divides on this issue.

Yet, reclassification isn’t a free pass to legalization; it would hand regulatory oversight to the Food and Drug Administration, a shift that could create enforcement headaches. Carnegie Mellon professor Jonathan Caulkins warned that while this would “officially recognize” medical uses, inconsistencies in product quality and standards remain a hurdle.

MAGA Base Splits Over Policy Shift

Within the MAGA movement, this potential change is cracking open deep divisions, as prominent voices lash out against loosening marijuana rules. Influencers like Charlie Kirk of Turning Point USA took to X, declaring, “I hope this doesn’t happen,” citing the drug’s pervasive presence in public spaces.

Matt Walsh of The Daily Wire scoffed, “no country of potheads has ever thrived,” while Jack Posobiec cautioned against normalizing cannabis in family-oriented settings. These critics argue it clashes with core values of diligence and traditional strength they hold dear.

Michael Knowles doubled down in comments to Axios, suggesting conservatives favor “traditional pleasures” like tobacco over what he dubbed the “liberal intoxicant of choice.” Their stance paints marijuana as a cultural slippery slope, undermining societal discipline.

Surprising Allies and Alternative Views

Not every MAGA-aligned figure is opposed; some see reclassification as fitting with a broader distrust of Big Pharma and a push for alternative health options. Influencer Rogan O’Handley argued it could aid veterans and weaken pharmaceutical giants’ grip on treatment options.

CJ Pearson, another pro-Trump commentator, praised the president’s openness as proof he’s “listening” to those who’ve seen firsthand medicinal benefits. This faction views the policy as a practical step, not a cultural betrayal.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a rare vocal supporter in Trump’s inner circle, has long advocated for legalization to enable vital research. His backing adds a layer of credibility to the argument for change, though it’s unclear how much sway he holds.

Trump’s Caution and Final Thoughts

Trump hasn’t committed yet, describing the issue as “very complicated” and pointing out that any decision remains “early” as of Monday. He expects more clarity in the coming weeks. His reluctance hints at a tricky balance between industry demands, public opinion, and the sharp disagreements among his supporters.

This debate goes beyond a single drug. It tests whether personal choice and medical progress can align with the traditional principles many in Trump’s base hold dear. Moving ahead could push away a key group that views marijuana as a step toward societal harm rather than a remedy.

Still, dismissing the strong public support and the possible relief for veterans or those with chronic pain might make the administration seem disconnected from pressing realities. Trump’s ultimate decision will likely do more than set policy; it could redefine the core of the movement he represents.