Trump's Cannabis Reform: Mike Tyson, Weldon Angelos Say President Can Get It Done

As the cannabis industry continues to grow and gain mainstream acceptance, prominent figures like Mike Tyson and Weldon Angelos are optimistic about President Donald Trump's recent commitment to marijuana reforms. In an opinion piece published by Fox News, Tyson and Angelos expressed their support for Trump's pledges to reschedule marijuana, expand banking access for cannabis businesses, and grant clemency to those serving federal sentences for marijuana offenses.

Tyson, a renowned boxing champion and cannabis entrepreneur, and Angelos, a justice reform advocate who received a full presidential pardon for marijuana offenses, believe that Trump's commitments could mark a turning point for justice and economic opportunity in the cannabis industry. They argue that Trump's understanding of the issues at stake, including the potential for cannabis to drive innovation, wellness, and entrepreneurship, sets him apart from previous administrations.

However, the duo also criticized the limited progress made by President Joe Biden on cannabis reform. Despite campaigning on decriminalization and expunging records, Biden's actions have largely fallen short. His widely publicized misdemeanor pardons left thousands in federal prison, and his last-minute clemency wave largely bypassed marijuana offenders. Biden's administration also failed to reschedule marijuana or address banking access for cannabis businesses.

Tyson and Angelos commend Trump's history of action on cannabis reform, highlighting his willingness to act decisively and compassionately. Angelos benefited directly from Trump's administration when he received a full pardon in 2020 after serving 13 years of a 55-year sentence for marijuana offenses. Tyson, who has known Trump for decades, trusts his ability to deliver on promises and bring meaningful change to outdated cannabis laws.

Under current federal law, marijuana remains a Schedule I drug, classified alongside heroin. This designation prevents cannabis businesses from accessing banking services, forcing them to operate in cash and creating significant risks. Despite controlling Congress and the presidency for two years, Democrats failed to address these issues, leaving the cannabis industry and incarcerated individuals in limbo. Former-Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer promised for nearly two years that he would put the SAFE Banking Act to a vote of the full Senate but didn't do so before losing his position as Senate leader.

Biden did begin the process to reschedule marijuana, but DEA hearings set to start yesterday were cancelled by a judge, putting the issue on hold for the time being. Trump's recent support for rescheduling marijuana, expanding banking access, and granting clemency underscores his understanding of what's at stake. The cannabis industry is a multi-billion-dollar market employing hundreds of thousands of Americans and generating significant tax revenue, yet federal prohibition stifles its growth. At the same time, thousands remain incarcerated for marijuana-related offenses, often serving disproportionately harsh sentences for actions now legal in much of the country.

Tyson and Angelos agree that addressing these injustices is critical. They share Trump's view that it's time to "pass common sense laws, including safe banking," and ensure no one remains in prison for something now legal in many cases. Both Tyson and Angelos say they plan to continue lobbying Trump to accomplish these goals.

In conclusion, Mike Tyson and Weldon Angelos' optimism about President Trump's commitment to cannabis reform highlights the potential for meaningful change in the industry. While Biden's administration has made limited progress, Trump's pledges to reschedule marijuana, expand banking access, and grant clemency could significantly impact the cannabis industry's growth and stability in his second term. Strategic partnerships between influential figures like Tyson and Angelos can help accelerate reform efforts by leveraging celebrity influence, advocating for policy changes, bridging political divides, promoting economic opportunities and social equity, and encouraging investment and innovation. As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments and support policies that promote growth, stability, and social equity.