President-elect Donald Trump’s unexpected pick of Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida as U.S. attorney general has sparked debate, but the marijuana industry sees opportunity. Gaetz resigned from his seat after the announcement, just days before the House Ethics Committee was set to release a report on allegations of sexual misconduct, illicit drug use, and other issues, which he has denied.
Gaetz is a long-time advocate for cannabis reform, having sponsored the first legislation to legalize medical marijuana in Florida and continuing to push for reforms in Congress. He has also proposed ending cannabis testing in the military and was the sole Republican co-sponsor of the MORE Act, which would have removed marijuana from the federal list of controlled substances and expunged some marijuana-related criminal records.
The marijuana community is optimistic about Gaetz’s appointment, citing his pro-cannabis stance. “Rep. Matt Gaetz is one of the most pro-cannabis Republicans on Capitol Hill,” said David Culver, senior vice president of public affairs at the U.S. Cannabis Council. “By tapping him to serve as the nation’s top law enforcement officer, President-elect Trump is signaling his commitment to make good on his campaign promises around cannabis reform.”
Gaetz’s appointment has also sparked excitement among marijuana industry leaders, who hope he will issue updated guidance on how federal prosecutors can enforce drug laws without interfering with states’ marijuana markets. The industry is also hopeful that Gaetz will work to pass the SAFE Banking Act and finalize the reclassification of marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug.
Social media reaction to the announcement has been mixed, with some praising Gaetz’s pro-cannabis stance and others criticizing his appointment. Marijuana-focused reporter Natalie Fertig wrote, “I cannot understate how big this is for the weed world.” Meanwhile, Minnesota NORML, a marijuana advocacy group, called on Gaetz to delist marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act, saying it should be treated like alcohol.
The appointment of Gaetz as U.S. attorney general has sparked debate and raised questions about his qualifications and the potential impact on the country’s drug laws. However, for the marijuana industry, the news is seen as a positive sign that the Trump administration may be willing to take steps to reform cannabis laws and regulations.
