President Donald Trump has once again made headlines with his latest appointment, naming Detroit businessman Mark Savaya as the new special envoy to Iraq. The announcement came directly from Trump on his Truth Social account, where he praised Savaya’s deep understanding of U.S.–Iraq relations and his role in supporting the president’s 2024 campaign.
“I’m pleased to announce Mark Savaya will serve as Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq,” Trump wrote. “Mark’s insight into regional relationships will help advance the interests of the American people.” The move marks yet another instance of Trump rewarding loyal supporters with prominent government roles.
Savaya, best known as the founder of the Michigan-based marijuana dispensary chain Leaf and Bud, has been photographed with Trump several times. His appointment as special envoy raised eyebrows given his lack of prior government experience. Despite that, Trump highlighted Savaya’s campaign efforts, crediting him for helping secure record Muslim-American voter turnout in Michigan.
According to reports, Savaya’s company Leaf and Bud gained attention for its bold marketing on Detroit’s 8 Mile Road. Some of those campaigns led to local ordinances restricting billboard advertisements. While the company’s online presence has recently been scaled back, with several store closures and updates removing Savaya’s name, his connection to Trump appears to be stronger than ever.
Savaya expressed gratitude on Instagram, saying, “I am deeply humbled and honored that President Trump appointed me as Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq. Under President Trump’s leadership, I am committed to strengthening the U.S. Iraq partnership.” His remarks mirrored Trump’s consistent message of rebuilding global alliances through loyal and business-minded envoys.
While he has long opposed drug use, the president recently supported Florida’s ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana. Yet, he simultaneously pushed for harsher penalties for drug traffickers, showcasing Trump’s complex approach to law enforcement and reform.
Since retaking office, Trump has also ordered several military strikes against vessels allegedly transporting narcotics to the U.S., moves his administration claims are essential to national security. Appointing Savaya as special envoy to Iraq fits into this broader vision of using trusted allies to execute policy goals abroad.
As Trump continues to shape his administration, the selection of Mark Savaya as special envoy reflects both loyalty and strategy hallmarks of how Trump governs and rewards those who stand by him.
