Science Weekly Strange trip: why Trump is backing psychedelics
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May 12, 2026 A deep dive into a new executive order fast-tracking psychedelic drug research and access. Conversations cover veterans' advocacy driving reform and why ibogaine became central. Discussion of political timing, media influence on policy, and who might profit from commercialising these treatments.
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White House Fast Tracks Psychedelic Research
- President Trump signed an executive order to fast-track psychedelic research and access, spotlighting ibogaine as a key drug.
- The Oval Office photo included Joe Rogan, veterans' advocates, and a congressman who sought psychedelics for war trauma, signaling political backing.
Veterans Drive Psychedelic Advocacy
- Veterans have become the primary advocates pushing psychedelics into mainstream policy conversations.
- They argue psychedelics can relieve PTSD and TBI where existing treatments often fail or cause addiction, gaining Republican lawmakers' attention.
Ibogaine Spotlight Despite Limited Evidence
- Ibogaine is less studied than psilocybin or MDMA but is highlighted by the order for TBI and veteran use.
- Thousands of veterans have traveled to Mexico to access ibogaine after a small Stanford Nature study reported symptom improvements.