Elizabeth Warren Urges Elon Musk to Cut Federal Marijuana Enforcement Spending Through New DOGE Agency

Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) is urging Elon Musk, chair of the Trump administration’s newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), to slash federal spending on marijuana enforcement. Warren argues that reducing these expenditures could yield significant savings for the federal government, all while aligning enforcement practices with the growing number of states that have legalized cannabis.

A $2 Trillion Proposal

In a letter to Musk, Warren outlined her vision for DOGE’s agenda, targeting areas of excessive government spending. Her recommendations, which include cutting cannabis enforcement budgets, promise potential savings of up to $2 trillion over the next decade.

One glaring issue Warren raised is the discrepancy between federal and state cannabis policies. She noted that nearly half of U.S. states have legalized recreational marijuana, yet federal arrests for marijuana possession remain a significant portion of all drug possession arrests.

“Federal arrests for marijuana possession account for roughly a quarter of all drug possession arrests, even though federal sentences for such cases are rare,” Warren wrote, emphasizing the financial and operational inefficiencies.

DEA and CBP in the Spotlight

Warren’s letter also singled out the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for their continued efforts to raid legal cannabis businesses and seize marijuana plants in states where such operations are lawful.

“These actions unnecessarily drain federal resources,” Warren stated, referencing reports that the DEA eradicated over 5.7 million marijuana plants in 2022. She criticized the agency for failing to release updated arrest and seizure data in 2024, calling the lack of transparency concerning.

CBP hasn’t escaped scrutiny either. The agency is currently embroiled in a legal battle with New Mexico-based cannabis businesses, accused of unconstitutional seizures of state-regulated marijuana products and detaining industry workers at checkpoints.

Warren urged DOGE to recommend that the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security deprioritize costly enforcement actions in jurisdictions where cannabis activity is legal.

Marijuana Reform and Federal Leadership

Warren’s push comes as the Trump administration continues to shape its federal policy on marijuana. She has been proactive in addressing key figures in the administration, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s nominee for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Warren recently pressed Kennedy to clarify his stance on marijuana legalization amid the ongoing debate over rescheduling cannabis at the federal level.

Advocates are also watching leadership changes at the DEA closely. Derek Maltz, acting DEA administrator, has drawn criticism for perpetuating outdated ideas about cannabis, such as the “gateway drug” theory. He has even linked marijuana use to school shootings in public comments.

Meanwhile, another contender for DEA leadership, Jack Riley, has similarly voiced anti-cannabis views, further complicating the federal reform landscape.

A Rocky Road to Rescheduling

The rescheduling of cannabis remains a contentious issue. Administrative hearings on the proposal have been delayed, largely due to procedural challenges. Pro-reform witnesses successfully appealed for a postponement, citing allegations of improper communication between the DEA and rescheduling opponents.

Trump’s pick for U.S. attorney general, Pam Bondi, has also avoided taking a clear position on marijuana policy, including rescheduling and federal enforcement guidelines. Bondi’s ambiguity adds to the uncertainty surrounding the administration’s approach.

Balancing Reform and Federalism

Warren’s advocacy for reduced federal marijuana enforcement aligns with broader calls for fiscal responsibility and respect for state-level legalization. The senator has highlighted the inefficiencies of pursuing cannabis-related arrests and seizures in jurisdictions where such activities are lawful.

By urging Musk and DOGE to prioritize smarter spending and policy alignment, Warren is spotlighting the intersection of financial prudence and cannabis reform. Whether the administration takes these recommendations seriously remains to be seen, but the conversation underscores the evolving dynamics of marijuana policy in the U.S.

By Benjamin Parker

Benjamin Parker is a seasoned senior content writer specializing in the CBD niche at CBD Strains Only. With a wealth of experience and expertise in the field, Benjamin is dedicated to providing readers with comprehensive and insightful content on all things CBD-related. His in-depth knowledge and passion for the benefits of CBD shine through in his articles, offering readers a deeper understanding of the industry and its potential for promoting health and wellness.

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