Trump Advocates Hemp-Derived CBD, Sparking Cannabis Reclassification Speculation

Donald Trump has taken to social media to advocate for the health benefits of hemp-derived CBD, potentially reigniting discussions on the reclassification of marijuana. In a recent video posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump emphasized the advantages of cannabis and proposed that including CBD in Medicare could represent the “most important senior health initiative of the century.”

The nearly three-minute video, produced by The Commonwealth Project, integrates a clip from Fox News, which discusses the economic advantages of legalizing medical marijuana. The report estimates that full integration of cannabis into the healthcare system could yield savings of approximately $64 billion annually. This video describes the 2018 Farm Bill as a “groundbreaking” step toward modernizing healthcare through cannabis inclusion. This legislation, introduced during Trump’s first term, legalized hemp with up to 0.3 percent THC at the federal level.

Speculation regarding Trump’s potential push to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous substance may gain traction following his video post. According to a report from The Daily Beast, Trump expressed interest in reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule III drug in August. He has also discussed easing federal marijuana restrictions during his current presidential campaign.

The video elaborates on the reasons why hemp-derived CBD should be included in health coverage, highlighting the endocannabinoid system. This system is described as crucial for maintaining the harmony among different bodily systems, akin to a conductor leading an orchestra. The video asserts that medical experts recognize and study the endocannabinoid system, noting that its effectiveness diminishes with age, leading to various health challenges.

The narration claims that conventional medical practices often involve prescribing “dangerous and addictive” pharmaceuticals, while alternative lifestyle remedies yield only “fractional” improvements. It positions hemp-derived CBD as a transformative option, suggesting that its use can expedite the restoration of the endocannabinoid system. The video asserts that restoring this system can lead to reduced pain, improved sleep, and decreased stress, while also potentially slowing disease progression.

Notably, the video mentions that around 20 percent of older adults use CBD for conditions such as pain, arthritis, cancer symptoms, and Alzheimer’s disease. A report by The Guardian indicates that seniors aged 65 and older in the United States are increasingly turning to cannabis for medical purposes more than any other age group. However, the video cautions that many doctors are “not equipped to provide guidance” on cannabis use.

Trump’s advocacy for hemp-derived CBD represents a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about cannabis legalization and its place in healthcare. As discussions surrounding potential reclassification continue, this video may play a pivotal role in shaping public perception and legislative action in the coming months.