How donors, access and polls led Trump to reclassify marijuana

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that eases federal restrictions on marijuana, paving the way for a Medicare pilot program covering CBD. This move marks a significant victory for the cannabis industry, which has been pushing for policy changes through a combination of traditional lobbying, political donations, and data-driven messaging.

The industry’s efforts have been led by a group of key players, including Howard Kessler, a billionaire and longtime friend of the president, Kim Rivers, the CEO of cannabis giant Trulieve, and Tony Fabrizio, Trump’s pollster. These individuals have worked together to reframe the debate around marijuana, shifting the focus from a social issue to a pro-business policy.

The Key Players Behind the Policy Shift

Kessler, a pioneer in the affinity credit card industry, has been a friend of Trump’s since at least 2005. He has been advocating for the medical benefits of cannabis for seniors since 2019, founding The Commonwealth Project to advance the cause. Kessler’s influence on the president has been significant, with Trump sharing a Commonwealth Project video on social media and citing the importance of CBD coverage for seniors.

Rivers, the CEO of Trulieve, has also played a crucial role in shaping the administration’s policy on marijuana. She has cultivated a close relationship with the Trump administration, particularly through her connection with the president’s chief of staff, Susie Wiles. Rivers has emphasized the need for safe, regulated, and tested cannabis products, and has interpreted the White House’s language as a signal that the administration intends to rein in the chaotic market rather than expand it unchecked.

The Industry’s Lobbying Efforts

The cannabis industry has invested heavily in lobbying efforts, with Trulieve donating $750,000 to Trump’s inauguration committee and $250,000 to his MAGA Inc. super PAC. The company has also spent over $100 million on a Florida ballot initiative to legalize recreational cannabis for adults over 21. While the initiative failed, the industry’s efforts have helped to shift the debate around marijuana and pave the way for future policy changes.

Fabrizio, Trump’s pollster, has also played a key role in shaping the administration’s policy on marijuana. His firm has conducted polls showing broad voter support for loosening restrictions on cannabis, and has highlighted the potential benefits of rescheduling the drug. Fabrizio’s son, AJ, is also a vocal advocate for the cannabis industry, and has spoken publicly about the benefits of medical marijuana in treating his own epilepsy.

The Future of Cannabis Policy

The signing of the executive order marks a significant step forward for the cannabis industry, and paves the way for future policy changes. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, it is likely that we will see further shifts in the debate around marijuana, with a focus on safe, regulated, and tested products. With the support of key players like Kessler, Rivers, and Fabrizio, the industry is poised to make significant strides in the coming years, and to play an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s cannabis policy.