Full Breakdown
Mike Tyson Praises Trump's Cannabis Executive Order
12/19/2025, 10:57:36 PM
Executive Order Reschedules Cannabis
On Thursday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug under Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations. This significant change eases restrictions on the purchase and sale of cannabis and facilitates further research into its medical benefits. Previously categorized alongside drugs such as heroin and LSD, marijuana is now grouped with substances like Tylenol with codeine and anabolic steroids, which are deemed to have a "moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence."
Boxing legend Mike Tyson, a prominent advocate for cannabis reform, publicly praised the decision, stating it reflects a modern approach to outdated policies. Tyson emphasized that this reclassification could lead to the acknowledgment of over 500,000 existing jobs in the cannabis industry. He expressed gratitude to Trump, asserting that the decision supports American workers and families.
Tyson's Advocacy for Cannabis Reform
Tyson has been a vocal supporter of cannabis reform, previously leading a coalition of athletes, including Kevin Durant and Dez Bryant, who lobbied the White House for changes in federal cannabis policies. Their letter called for the rescheduling of cannabis, clemency for individuals convicted of nonviolent marijuana offenses, and the elimination of discriminatory banking practices affecting the cannabis industry. Tyson noted that rescheduling cannabis was the "most important" goal outlined in their advocacy efforts.
Reflecting on past administrations, Tyson expressed disappointment in how former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden approached cannabis reform, contrasting this with his optimism regarding Trump's administration. He stated, "We have a different president now, so we're talking to him. So, it seems a lot different to talk to President Trump than it did with the other guys."
Criticism of Past Administrations
Tyson's remarks highlight a broader sentiment among advocates who feel let down by previous administrations' handling of cannabis issues. He articulated his hope that Trump's administration would take a more favorable stance on cannabis reform, particularly regarding clemency for nonviolent offenders.
Official Statements & Responses
Tyson's advocacy is rooted in personal experience, as he has previously mentioned that his decision to participate in fights has been influenced by his use of cannabis. He stated, "Without cannabis, I'm getting too involved in my feelings. With cannabis, I'm very objective." Tyson's relationship with Trump dates back to the 1980s, and while he respects Trump's stance against drug use, he remains hopeful for further reforms.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Thank you [President Trump] for rescheduling cannabis. This decision reflects listening to people across the country and taking a practical step toward modernizing outdated policies. It supports American workers, families, and businesses, and allows over 500,000 existing jobs to finally be counted,” — Mike Tyson, Boxing Legend
- “It was a letdown,” Tyson said of Obama and Biden's handling. “We have a different president now, so we're talking to him.” — Mike Tyson, Boxing Legend
What's Next
As the cannabis industry anticipates the implications of this executive order, advocates like Tyson continue to push for further reforms, including federal legalization and clemency for those affected by past marijuana laws. The ongoing dialogue surrounding cannabis reform remains a focal point for many stakeholders across the political spectrum.
