Trump, who called for 'strict punishment on drugs,' now supports adult recreational marijuana use

Former U.S. Republican presidential candidate and ex-President Donald Trump expressed support for legalizing the personal use of marijuana for adults as a means of relaxation. Amid the Biden administration's stance on marijuana legalization, Trump's shift to a more favorable position is seen as a move to court younger voters with less than two months remaining before the presidential election.

On the 8th (local time), Trump stated on his Truth Social account, "I believe it is time to end unnecessary arrests and detentions for personal small amounts of marijuana use." He also emphasized that he would vote in favor of the November Florida state referendum to legalize the purchase or possession of up to 3 ounces (85g) of marijuana for adults aged 21 and over.

The Biden administration's policy is not to punish simple possession or use of marijuana. In contrast, during his campaign, Trump frequently cited China’s strict drug policies, including the death penalty for drug traffickers, to demonstrate his commitment to eradicating drugs. Trump's change in stance on marijuana legalization is interpreted as a strategic move to appeal to younger voters ahead of the November election.

Currently, marijuana is legalized in some form in about 40 U.S. states, but it remains classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance alongside heroin, LSD, and ecstasy, recognized as having a high potential for abuse. Additionally, it is designated as a Schedule 1 drug, meaning medical use is not permitted. The Biden administration is pursuing efforts to reclassify marijuana to Schedule 3, alongside ketamine (an anesthetic) and testosterone (a male hormone), to open the door for medical use.

Trump stated that if he returns to the White House, he would conduct research to ease restrictions on medical marijuana use and work with Congress to ensure that states, like Florida, have the right to legislate marijuana legalization.

Meanwhile, stocks of related companies rose following Trump's supportive remarks on marijuana legalization. On the New York Stock Exchange, Tilray's stock closed at $1.70 on the 9th, up 4.94%.