Former DEA Official Who Backs Marijuana as a “Gateway Drug” May Lead Agency Under Trump
A former deputy administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) who has expressed skepticism about marijuana’s potential benefits has been courted by Trump allies to potentially lead the agency. Jack Riley, who has described marijuana as a “gateway drug,” has also made comments indicating he doesn’t fully understand the DEA’s role in scheduling drugs.
Riley, who has been mentioned as a potential nominee to head the DEA, has a mixed record on marijuana issues. While he has expressed concerns about the drug’s potential risks, he has also suggested that rescheduling it could be a “positive” step.
In a recent interview, Riley said he believes marijuana is a “gateway drug” and that it can lead to the use of more dangerous substances. However, he also acknowledged that rescheduling it could help the DEA focus its resources on combating other drugs.
Riley’s views on marijuana are not universally accepted, and some advocates have expressed concerns about his potential leadership of the DEA. However, he has also made some comments that may be seen as more moderate, such as his suggestion that he believes there is a “big difference” between distribution and possession of marijuana.
Riley’s potential nomination to head the DEA comes as the agency is in the process of reviewing the scheduling of marijuana. The DEA has been tasked with making a recommendation to the Attorney General on whether to reschedule marijuana, which could have significant implications for the drug’s legal status.
Regardless of whether Riley is ultimately selected to lead the DEA, his views on marijuana are likely to be closely watched by advocates and stakeholders. The agency’s decision on the scheduling of marijuana is expected to have significant implications for the drug’s legal status and availability.
