Republican backing for legalizing cannabis in the U.S. has taken a sharp dive since Donald Trump returned to the White House, hitting its lowest point in a decade. A fresh Gallup poll reveals support among GOP voters dropped to just 40 percent this year, down from a peak of 55 percent in 2023. This shift raises big questions about the future of marijuana reform in a divided America. What’s driving this change, and what does it mean for everyday people?
The Gallup survey, carried out from October 1 to 16, 2025, polled 1,000 adults across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. It shows a clear trend: Republicans are turning away from legalization. In 2025, only 40 percent of Republicans favor making cannabis legal at the federal level, the lowest since 37 percent in 2015. This marks a 15-point fall in just two years.
Experts point to the Trump administration’s tough stance on drugs as a key factor. Trump has pushed hard against illegal substances, and many in his party now echo that view. The poll also found that overall American support for legalization stands at 64 percent, still a majority but down slightly from recent highs.
This isn’t just numbers on a page. For millions who use cannabis for pain relief or relaxation, it could mean tougher laws ahead. States like California and Colorado have thriving legal markets, but federal changes might shake things up.
One thing stands out. Younger Republicans under 35 show more support, around 50 percent, compared to older ones. That hints at a generational split within the party.
Trump’s Drug Policies Win Praise from Republicans
Republicans are giving high marks to Trump’s handling of illegal drugs. The poll shows 74 percent of GOP voters believe the administration has made real progress in fighting illicit drugs, a huge jump from just 12 percent who felt that way in 2023 under President Joe Biden.
This optimism ties directly to Trump’s actions. Since taking office in 2025, he has ramped up border security and cracked down on fentanyl and other hard drugs. Supporters say these moves are saving lives and curbing addiction.
But critics argue this hardline approach lumps cannabis in with more dangerous substances. Cannabis, often seen as less harmful, gets caught in the crossfire. Public health groups note that overdose deaths from opioids have dropped slightly this year, crediting stricter enforcement.
Take a look at how views have shifted over time:
- 2015: 37% Republican support for legalization
- 2023: 55% (all-time high)
- 2025: 40% (sharp decline)
This data, from Gallup’s ongoing tracking, highlights how political leadership sways opinions.
The change affects real lives. In states without legal weed, people risk arrests for possession. One user in Texas shared how federal uncertainty makes medical access harder, forcing reliance on black markets.
Broader Impacts on American Society
Beyond politics, this drop in support ripples through health and economy. Cannabis sales topped $30 billion last year in legal states, creating jobs and tax revenue. A federal pullback could slow that growth, hitting small businesses hard.
Health experts warn that viewing marijuana as a gateway drug ignores science. Studies from the American Medical Association show cannabis can help with chronic pain and anxiety, with lower addiction risks than alcohol or tobacco.
Yet, the poll reveals a partisan divide. Democrats hold steady at 87 percent support, while independents dipped to 70 percent. This gap could stall bipartisan efforts in Congress.
Why the shift? Some blame misinformation. Trump’s team has linked cannabis to crime waves, even as data shows no direct tie in legal states. Arrests for marijuana have fallen 80 percent where it’s allowed, per FBI stats.
Families dealing with addiction feel mixed. One parent in Ohio praised Trump’s drug war for keeping streets cleaner but worried it overlooks safe cannabis use.
What This Means for Future Reforms
Looking ahead, cannabis reform faces hurdles. Bills to reschedule marijuana federally sit in limbo, with the DEA holding off under Trump. Advocates push for change, arguing it would boost research and banking for the industry.
The poll also ties into bigger drug policy debates. With 74 percent of Republicans feeling positive about progress, Trump might double down on strict rules. This could clash with states’ rights, a core GOP value.
Voters in swing states like Michigan and Arizona, where weed is legal, might sway elections. Polls show mixed feelings: some want federal alignment, others fear overreach.
Experts predict slow change. “Trump’s base sees drugs as a threat,” said one analyst. “But public opinion evolves, and economics might win out.”
In everyday terms, this affects access to products like CBD oils, used by millions for wellness. Prices could rise if federal support wanes.
As America grapples with this shift, the divide highlights deeper tensions between freedom and control. Republicans once leaned toward states’ rights on cannabis, but Trump’s influence has flipped the script, leaving many wondering if legalization’s momentum will stall for good.
Maria Garcia is an award-winning author who excels in creating engaging cannabis-centric articles that captivate audiences. Her versatile writing style allows her to cover a wide range of topics within the cannabis space, from advocacy and social justice to product reviews and lifestyle features. Maria’s dedication to promoting education and awareness about cannabis shines through in her thoughtfully curated content that resonates with both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
