Former U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) official Derek Maltz has been appointed as the acting administrator of the agency, taking the reins amid politically charged discussions surrounding marijuana rescheduling and the intensified battle against drug cartels.
On January 21, 2024, the Trump administration announced Maltz's interim appointment, filling the role previously held by Anne Milgram, who left the agency only days before. Maltz, having dedicated 28 years to the DEA before his retirement in 2014, previously served as the special agent in charge of the agency’s Special Operations Division, where he was responsible for coordinating high-stakes drug enforcement operations.
Maltz assumes leadership of the DEA at a pivotal moment as the agency grapples with the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) proposed rule to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. This change, if successful, would significantly alter the legal standing of marijuana, making it less regulated and more accessible than it is at present.
Interestingly, Maltz has expressed skepticism about the rescheduling process. After initial steps by the DOJ to pursue this change, Maltz remarked, “It’s crystal clear to me, the Justice Department hijacked the rescheduling process, placing politics above public safety,” according to the Associated Press. His comments highlight the complicated interplay between law enforcement objectives and political motives, with many within the agency wary of how the rescheduling may be scientifically and politically managed.
The impact of Maltz’s appointment is amplified by the fact he has been vocal on the need for strong actions against drug cartels, particularly those exacerbated by the current opioid crisis. The fentanyl epidemic—which has been linked directly to drug cartels from Mexico—has killed hundreds of thousands of Americans over recent years, prompting urgent calls for decisive actions from law enforcement.
Texas Republican U.S. Representative Chip Roy praised Maltz’s selection, stating he is “an outstanding choice” for the role, especially during challenging times steeped with drug-related fatalities. Roy, who introduced legislation targeting Mexican cartels as terrorist organizations, believes Maltz brings the necessary experience and credibility needed as the U.S. continues its battle against these transnational criminal groups.
Throughout his career, Maltz has advocated for more rigorous measures against drug cartels, often referring to them as “narco-terrorists.” His tenure at the DEA saw him leading operations resulting in the capture of high-profile criminals, including Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman. His commitment to counter-narcotics efforts has positioned him as both a law enforcement leader and public advocate against the devastating impact of drugs on American communities.
Despite the political turbulence surrounding marijuana rescheduling, where the timeline has become convoluted and uncertain, Maltz’s focus as acting administrator is clear: to prioritize public safety and the fight against drugs. The hearing originally scheduled to commence to debate the merits of rescheduling cannabis was recently delayed. It was intended to assess the proposed rule to move cannabis to Schedule III; yet, political challenges threaten to derail these discussions entirely.
The Trump administration sends mixed messages about marijuana, paralleling rhetoric focusing on law enforcement’s drug enforcement capabilities. President Trump mentioned his support for reducing cannabis' regulatory status, whereas comments from Maltz indicate he grapples with layers of bureaucracy—the divide between science-driven decision-making and political maneuvering.
Notably, the debates around marijuana rescheduling are reflective of wider cultural conversations about drug policy reform across the U.S. Proponents argue marijuana’s medical benefits merit reclassification, citing studies indicating its therapeutic uses. Opponents—including some within law enforcement—worry about the ramifications of such changes and whether it could lead to increased public safety concerns.
For Maltz, transitioning back to the helm of the DEA brings expectations of reasserting the agency’s focus on establishing order amid growing disorder. His goals apparently include building partnerships across various levels of law enforcement which he believes are central to combating the narcotic terrorism emanated from cartels.
“I promise to lead the men and women of DEA with integrity and grit,” Maltz stated, emphasizing his steadfast commitment to tackling the pressing threat of drug trafficking. His leadership will undoubtedly face challenges as the department navigates complex legal systems and political pressures surrounding drug classification.
With Derek Maltz leading the DEA at this tumultuous time, the agency’s approach to major issues like marijuana rescheduling and punishing drug trafficking may see significant developments. His deep-rooted experience and hard-hitting focus on public safety could direct future actions as the administration confronts drug-related challenges head-on.
Whether he will steer the agency toward effective resolutions or become entangled in political struggles remains to be seen, but for now, his leadership is poised to play a decisive role during one of the most consequential periods for U.S. drug enforcement.