Trump Administration Sees Marijuana As A ‘Hazard,’ Federal Prosecutor Says, Drawing Criticism From Lawmakers And Advocates

OG article by Kyle Jaeger

November 18, 2025

A federal prosecutor in Wyoming announced that the Trump administration views marijuana as a public safety "hazard," committing to strict enforcement of possession on federal lands despite state legalization. U.S. Attorney Darin Smith rescinded Biden-era guidance deprioritizing minor cannabis cases, drawing sharp criticism from lawmakers and advocates. Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) argued that simple possession poses no threat and urged federal alignment with states, descheduling, and stigma reduction. Advocates from the Marijuana Policy Project and NORML called the focus on low-level offenses wasteful, especially amid greater security threats, and noted public opposition to prosecuting personal use in legalized states. This policy shift coincides with President Trump's signing of a bill banning intoxicating hemp-derived THC products and his promises to address marijuana rescheduling promptly. The administration has provided limited commentary, creating uncertainty as it balances campaign pledges against federal interference with state autonomy and potential support for medical reform. Critics highlight the contradiction in prioritizing minor cannabis possession while overlooking broader criminal justice reforms Trump previously endorsed.