Trump Names New DEA Leader Who Links Marijuana Use to Suicide Risk and Schizophrenia
President Donald Trump has nominated Terrance Cole to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), a move that has raised concerns among marijuana advocates. Cole, a 21-year veteran of the DEA and current secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security in Virginia, has a “just say no” stance on marijuana and has linked its use to higher suicide risk and schizophrenia.
In a LinkedIn post, Cole stated his opposition to marijuana use, using hashtags such as #justsayno and #notlegal4distribution. He has also shared articles linking high THC content in cannabis to increased problems with memory and learning, as well as a study finding higher suicide risks linked to marijuana and alcohol use in high school.
Cole’s views on marijuana are at odds with the Biden administration’s proposal to reschedule the drug, which would move it from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA administrator is typically responsible for signing off on drug scheduling moves, but in this case, the cannabis proposed rule was signed by then-Attorney General Merrick Garland.
Cole’s nomination has been met with criticism from marijuana advocates, who are concerned about the potential impact on the ongoing rescheduling process. The DEA has delayed administrative hearings on the proposal, citing allegations of improper communications between the agency and rescheduling opponents.
Trump’s previous choice for DEA administrator, Hillsborough County, Florida Sheriff Chad Chronister, withdrew from consideration last month amid scrutiny from conservative lawmakers over his record on COVID-related public safety enforcement actions.
The nomination of Cole to lead the DEA is seen as a setback for marijuana reform efforts, which have been stalled in recent years. The DEA administrator plays a crucial role in shaping the agency’s policies and enforcement actions, and Cole’s views on marijuana are likely to influence the agency’s approach to the drug.
In related news, Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has said he will defer to the DEA on marijuana rescheduling if confirmed. Kennedy has previously called for cannabis legalization, but has also expressed concerns about the potential risks associated with marijuana use.
