Trump Appoints Veteran DEA Official Terrance Cole as Agency’s New Chief to ‘Make America Safe Again’

Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump has officially appointed Terrance Cole, a former 22-year veteran of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Virginia public safety administrator, as the agency’s new chief.

Trump announced the decision on Tuesday afternoon in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes and ensuring national safety.

“Together, we will save lives and MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN,” Trump declared in the post, signaling a renewed focus on aggressive drug enforcement policies.

A Veteran Enforcer with a Tough-on-Drugs Stance

Cole’s appointment marks a return to a more traditional, hardline approach to drug enforcement, in line with Trump’s previous anti-drug policies. With over two decades of experience in the DEA, Cole has been involved in high-profile drug busts and has played a role in shaping federal narcotics enforcement policies. Most recently, he served as a public safety administrator in Virginia, working on strategies to combat the opioid crisis and violent drug-related crimes.

His nomination is seen as a move to reinvigorate the agency’s war on drugs at a time when the country faces increasing concerns over fentanyl trafficking, the expansion of illicit drug markets, and the rise of synthetic opioids.

A Shift in Federal Drug Policy?

Cole’s appointment has sparked discussions on the potential shift in federal drug policy, particularly regarding cannabis regulation. The new DEA chief has previously expressed skepticism toward marijuana legalization, aligning with the traditional DEA stance that classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug—alongside heroin and LSD.

Under the Biden administration, there was growing momentum toward decriminalization and possible rescheduling of cannabis. However, with Trump’s new appointment, policy experts speculate that a reversal of those efforts could be on the horizon. The administration’s stance on cannabis regulation remains unclear, but Cole’s background suggests a continued strict approach to drug enforcement.

Reactions from Lawmakers and Advocacy Groups

Cole’s appointment has drawn mixed reactions from lawmakers, law enforcement officials, and advocacy groups.

Supporters, particularly those from conservative and law enforcement backgrounds, have praised the decision, viewing Cole as an experienced leader who will take decisive action against the nation’s growing drug crisis. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) applauded the appointment, stating, “Terrance Cole is the right man for the job. The opioid crisis is killing thousands of Americans every year, and we need a leader who will take this issue seriously.”

However, cannabis industry advocates and criminal justice reform groups have voiced concerns, fearing that Cole’s appointment signals a return to outdated and punitive drug policies. The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) released a statement warning that “a renewed war on drugs under Cole’s leadership could undermine the progress made in cannabis policy reform and criminal justice equity.”

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the DEA?

As Cole assumes leadership of the DEA, all eyes will be on how he tackles key drug policy issues. His stance on fentanyl trafficking, opioid crisis management, and the regulation of emerging synthetic drugs will be closely scrutinized.

While Trump’s administration promises a renewed commitment to national safety, critics argue that harsher enforcement alone may not be the solution to America’s complex drug problems. The coming months will reveal whether Cole’s leadership will bring meaningful change—or simply reignite old debates over America’s war on drugs.