Trump Appoints Michigan Marijuana Entrepreneur Mark Savaya As Iraq Special Envoy

President Donald Trump has appointed Mark Savaya, a Michigan-based cannabis businessman and founder of the Leaf and Bud dispensary chain, as the special envoy to Iraq. Trump highlighted Savaya's role in helping secure a record vote among Muslim Americans during the 2024 campaign in Michigan, emphasizing his understanding of the Iraq-U.S. relationship and regional connections. Despite his business success, Savaya has no prior government experience, and his company has faced local controversies over aggressive advertising practices. The Leaf and Bud website recently removed references to Savaya, including his namesake product line, amid reports of some store closures. The Chaldean community, to which Savaya belongs, praised the appointment as recognition of leadership and commitment to strengthening ties with Iraq. Savaya has also been identified as an Instagram influencer and has been photographed with President Trump multiple times.