CNN 5 Things One Thing: Psychedelics in the Trump Era: From Counterculture...to Conservative?
Jul 27, 2025
Jane C. Hu, a science journalist and writer of The Microdose newsletter, dives into the surprising embrace of psychedelics by Republicans like Rick Perry. They discuss the cultural evolution of these substances from 1960s counterculture to mainstream therapeutic possibilities. Hu explores bipartisan support for psychedelic treatments and the potential implications of political figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on research progress. They also delve into challenges in clinical studies and the shifting perceptions surrounding psychedelics as alternatives for mental health treatments.
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Rick Perry Advocates Psychedelics
- Rick Perry, a former Texas governor and Republican, publicly advocated for psychedelic therapies in 2023 at a MAPS conference.
- Perry helped promote government-funded studies on psychedelics despite the GOP's prior anti-drug stance.
Psychedelics' Cultural Shift
- Psychedelics' history in the U.S. is marked by 1960s counterculture linked to Timothy Leary.
- The war on drugs and cultural backlash paused psychedelic research till recent bipartisan acceptance shifted perspectives.
Bipartisan Support Grows
- Bipartisan support, fueled by veterans' healing stories, is driving renewed interest and funding for psychedelic therapies.
- Republicans' advocacy changes psychedelics' image from a liberal counterculture symbol to a broader medical cause.