Senator Cory Booker Calls for Cannabis Descheduling at D.C. Summit

At the recent Cannabis Capital & Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., Senator Cory Booker made a compelling case for the descheduling of cannabis, arguing that its current classification alongside drugs like heroin and methamphetamine is scientifically and socially indefensible. Speaking to an audience of CEOs, investors, and policy experts, Booker emphasized that justice begins with descheduling cannabis. His remarks were a focal point of the event, highlighting the ongoing debate over federal cannabis policy

The summit, organized by IgniteIt in partnership with the U.S. Cannabis Roundtable, served as a platform for industry leaders and policymakers to discuss the future of cannabis regulation in the United States. Booker, known for his long-standing advocacy for cannabis reform, did not mince words during his address. "The idea that heroin and meth are the same as cannabis defies all science and reality," he stated, calling the Schedule I classification of cannabis "absurd."

Booker also shared a memorable anecdote from the presidential debate stage, where he humorously critiqued then-presidential candidate Joe Biden's marijuana policy. "I still remember I was standing next to Joe Biden and I said, 'You know, Mr. Vice President, I looked at your marijuana laws that you’re putting forward in your campaign platform, and I have to say, respectfully, I think whoever wrote that platform plank must have been high when they did it,'" he recounted to laughter from the audience. This moment underscored his commitment to challenging outdated cannabis policies

Beyond the humor, Booker stressed a unifying theme in his speech, urging Americans to recognize common ground beyond political divides. He criticized the tribalism in U.S. politics, suggesting that it obscures shared concerns. "The truth is that we are a nation that has common pain, but our politics don’t serve us to come together around a common purpose," Booker explained. He positioned cannabis reform as an issue that transcends partisan lines, advocating for a collective approach to policy change

Booker's call for descheduling reflects broader industry and public sentiment, as more states move toward legalization and regulation of cannabis. His comments at the summit signal a potential shift in federal policy, as stakeholders increasingly push for reform. High Times plans to provide further analysis on the implications of Booker's remarks and the evolving landscape of cannabis legislation

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, the push for federal reform remains a critical issue. Events like the Cannabis Capital & Policy Summit provide a vital forum for discussions about the future of cannabis regulation. With influential voices like Booker advocating for change, the momentum for descheduling and broader cannabis reform appears to be gaining traction