GOP Rep. Lawler says it would be ‘wrong’ for Trump to reclassify marijuana

OG article by Max Rego

December 16, 2025

Republican Representative Mike Lawler from New York declared on Monday that it would be incorrect for President Trump to proceed with reclassifying marijuana, deeming the action ill-advised. During an interview with Blake Burman on NewsNation’s “The Hill,” Lawler characterized marijuana as a gateway drug, arguing that the majority of people who progress to harder substances start with marijuana. He stressed that rescheduling the substance is unwise given the ongoing national challenges with substance use disorders, and he firmly opposes such a move. President Trump has signaled his consideration of reclassifying cannabis to a less dangerous category, building on the Biden administration's earlier efforts to shift it to Schedule III, which remained unfinished before Biden's departure from office. Marijuana has been listed as a Schedule I drug since 1971, grouped with substances like heroin, methamphetamines, and LSD, which the DEA considers to have no accepted medical use. In contrast, Schedule III encompasses drugs such as ketamine, viewed as having moderate to low potential for dependence. Lawler pointed out the dramatic rise in THC concentration levels, from around 5% in the 1990s to 15-20% currently, as reported by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board. Long-term marijuana use has been associated with various health concerns, including respiratory problems, mental health issues, gastrointestinal complications, and elevated risks of cancers in the head, neck, or throat, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Early initiation of use also heightens the likelihood of developing cannabis use disorder. Despite marijuana being legalized for medical purposes in 42 states and the District of Columbia, and for recreational use in 24 states, Lawler maintains his stance against reclassification. His comments reflect broader debates within the Republican Party and among policymakers regarding drug policy reform amid evolving public attitudes and state-level legalizations. The potential reclassification could open doors to more research and regulated medical applications, but opponents like Lawler argue it undermines efforts to combat addiction and public health risks. As discussions continue, the outcome could significantly impact federal drug enforcement, industry regulations, and societal perceptions of cannabis.