New Presidential Administration May Be Fueling Shifts in Cannabis Habits, Especially Among Young Female Users
A new poll suggests a significant number of cannabis consumers are adjusting their habits in response to political changes. According to The Harris Poll conducted on behalf of Royal Queen Seeds, 50% of cannabis consumers said they are using more cannabis since the start of President Donald Trump’s administration.
The poll surveyed 2,011 U.S. adults aged 21 and older between March 13–17, including 782 self-identified cannabis consumers. Of those, young female users aged 21–34 were the most likely to increase their intake, with 59% saying their usage has gone up since the new administration began.
Political Tensions and Trade Policies Are Creating Ripple Effects Across the Cannabis Market
While the poll did not ask participants to specify why their cannabis use increased, it coincides with heightened political anxiety and economic uncertainty. In April, new reciprocal tariffs introduced by the Trump administration impacted global trade—including the cannabis industry—with steep price hikes on overseas vape products. These changes could be driving some consumers to self-medicate or cope using cannabis.
Concerns Mount Over Product Safety as Consumers Question What’s Inside Dispensary Cannabis
The poll also found growing concern among cannabis users about the safety of commercial cannabis products. Over half (54%) of Americans surveyed believe that most cannabis sold in stores contains pesticides. Among cannabis consumers specifically, 62% expressed worry about not knowing exactly what’s in the products they consume.
Recent media reports of contaminated cannabis and product recalls in states like California and Michigan have further fueled public anxiety. A Los Angeles Times investigation found unsafe levels of pesticides in cannabis products last December, leading to increased scrutiny from both consumers and regulators.
Home Cultivation Gains Popularity as Consumers Seek Safer, Cheaper, and More Transparent Alternatives
With concerns about product quality rising, more cannabis users are turning to home cultivation. According to the poll, 32% of cannabis consumers who follow industry news say that reports about contamination make them more likely to grow their own cannabis.
Support for legal home growing is also rising—64% of respondents now believe all Americans should have the right to grow cannabis at home, up from 59% in 2024. Fifteen percent of consumers said they currently cultivate cannabis themselves, compared to 11% the previous year.
Royal Queen Seeds Highlights the Shift Toward DIY Cannabis Culture and Consumer Empowerment
“Home cultivation is becoming more than just a hobby—it’s a growing part of the cannabis experience,” said Shai Ramsahai, President of Royal Queen Seeds. “Consumers want transparency, quality, and control, and growing at home gives them exactly that.”
The survey also revealed financial motivations behind the trend. A full 76% of respondents said growing cannabis at home would save money compared to purchasing it from dispensaries. However, 58% expressed concern about potential legal risks—even in states where home growing is permitted.
“This isn’t just about growing a plant—it’s about growing trust,” Ramsahai added. “Consumers are turning inward toward soil, seed, and self. Home cultivation is becoming a form of wellness and empowerment.”
As Cannabis Use Rises, Political and Economic Shifts Could Be Driving a New Era in Consumer Behavior
Whether driven by political anxiety, economic pressure, or safety concerns, the survey findings show that cannabis use in the U.S. is evolving rapidly. The Trump administration’s policies may be indirectly fueling higher consumption, while simultaneously sparking a shift toward home cultivation and greater self-reliance among cannabis users.
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