A fresh poll reveals most Americans no longer see marijuana as a big threat, just as President Trump weighs a key decision on easing federal rules. This shift in views could sway policy, but concerns linger about risks like gateway drug use.
Poll Shows Shifting Views on Marijuana Safety
A new survey by Rasmussen Reports, a firm known for its conservative leanings, finds that 51% of U.S. adults believe marijuana use is not dangerous. Only 16% call it very dangerous, while 24% say it’s not dangerous at all. The poll, released on September 26, 2025, comes at a pivotal time.
This marks a slight uptick in worry compared to past years, but the majority still downplays the risks. Experts say this reflects broader acceptance of cannabis in daily life.
The survey also dives into fears about marijuana leading to harder drugs. A solid 60% of respondents think using weed boosts the chance of trying more harmful substances.
Conducted online and by phone with 1,000 adults, the poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3%. It highlights how public opinion has evolved since states began legalizing pot.
Trump’s Role in the Rescheduling Debate
President Trump is now reviewing a proposal to shift marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under federal law. This move, started under Biden, would recognize medical benefits and cut some restrictions, but it stops short of full legalization.
Trump has shown openness to the idea, saying it could help the cannabis industry without going too far. Allies point out that rescheduling aligns with his “Make America Healthy Again” push by aiding research and patients.
If approved, this could open doors for more studies on weed’s effects, potentially reshaping laws nationwide.
Recent comments from Trump suggest he’s weighing input from various sides. The decision hangs in the balance as of late September 2025.
Advocates argue it would debank legal cannabis workers and curb black market sales. Critics, however, warn of increased youth access.
Broader Support for Cannabis Reform
Other polls echo this trend toward acceptance. An NBC News survey from August 2025 found just 27% of Americans think legalizing marijuana harms society. That’s down sharply from prior decades.
Gallup data shows Republican support for legalization hit 51% in 2022, a first for the party. Young men, a key Trump voter group, use cannabis more than others.
Here’s a quick look at key poll findings on marijuana views:
- 58% of Americans back full legalization, per a 2024 poll.
- 84% of conservatives support rescheduling, according to advocacy groups.
- 91% of public comments to the DOJ favored changing cannabis’s status.
These numbers show a growing consensus. Yet, prohibitionist groups like Smart Approaches to Marijuana claim most oppose rescheduling when told about downsides like kid-targeted ads.
A NuggMD survey in August 2025 found most cannabis users expect federal legalization by 2028. This optimism persists despite delays.
Impacts on Society and Policy Ahead
Rescheduling could boost the economy by taxing legal sales and funding programs. It might also reduce arrests for minor pot offenses, easing prison burdens.
On the flip side, some fear higher addiction rates or impaired driving. Studies from states like Colorado show mixed results: teen use hasn’t spiked, but emergency room visits for strong edibles have.
Public health experts urge balanced rules to protect kids while allowing adult access.
Congress is eyeing related bills, like hemp amendments in military spending. Nebraska just set medical marijuana rules, signaling state-level shifts.
As Trump decides, the debate pits freedom against safety. This could define his legacy on drug policy.
The push for change draws from real stories, like veterans using cannabis for pain instead of opioids. It touches everyday lives, from jobs in the industry to medical relief.
| Poll Source | Date | Key Finding |
|---|---|---|
| Rasmussen Reports | September 2025 | 51% say marijuana not dangerous |
| NBC News | August 2025 | 27% see legalization as bad for society |
| Gallup | 2022 | 51% Republicans support legalization |
| NuggMD | August 2025 | Most users expect federal legalization by 2028 |
This table sums up recent data driving the conversation.
America’s views on marijuana keep changing fast, fueled by science and personal tales.
This poll underlines a nation ready for reform, yet cautious about pitfalls. As Trump ponders rescheduling, it could spark real progress or deepen divides. The shift away from seeing weed as a top danger offers hope for smarter policies that balance health and liberty, stirring emotions from relief to concern among families and voters alike.
