Weldon Shares Insider Thoughts On Trump And Cannabis
On our latest Trade To Black podcast, Shadd Dales and Anthony Varrell welcome back Weldon Angelos, one of the most influential voices in US cannabis reform. Weldon is a man with rare access to President Donald Trump and his inner circle and not just another advocate.
After serving 13 years of a 55-year federal prison sentence for selling cannabis, Weldon was granted clemency under the Obama administration and has since made it his mission to free others serving excessive sentences for non-violent cannabis offenses. His organization, Mission Green, is working directly with the Trump administration to push for clemency, rescheduling, and broader reform. We explore the recent political activity, including DEA Administrator Terrence Cole’s narrow confirmation and Congressman Brian Mast co-sponsoring the States Reform Act.
Weldon takes us inside his recent White House meeting and shares what he believes the Trump administration will do on cannabis reform—including whether more White House meetings are coming soon. Will Trump’s team truly own this issue? What’s the real potential for rescheduling in a second Trump term? Weldon also talks about his work with Mike Tyson, and why their push for reform is gaining momentum among major MAGA influencers. If you care about US cannabis reform—this is the conversation to watch.
Angelos revealed ongoing White House engagement with cannabis advocates, including a recent event with the Black Conservative Federation, Mike Tyson, and Ricky Williams. He believes rescheduling to Schedule III is the most realistic near-term outcome, acting as a catalyst for broader reforms. He acknowledged that while descheduling remains the long-term goal, rescheduling is a necessary first step toward bipartisan support and eventual Congressional action.
The conversation touched on behind-the-scenes influences within Trump’s circle, with Angelos naming figures like Bruce Lavelle and Kim Rivers, but noting some internal resistance. He also emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships and upcoming efforts to coordinate an Oval Office visit with prominent athletes to sway Trump directly.
