Texas Republican Fights to Allow Therapeutic Use of Psychedelics

U.S. Morgan Lutrell, a staunchly conservative Republican and former Navy SEAL, has taken an unexpected stand: advocating for the therapeutic use of psychedelics. Despite his traditional background, his experiences have driven him to support this treatment.

According to a report by the Dallas Morning News, Luttrell struggled with his return to civilian life after serving in the Army, saying receiving psychedelic treatment in Mexico saved his marriage and helped him cope with his hypervigilance. 

“It was like 20 years of therapy in three days,” he said. “It allows your mind to cope with systematic issues that you’ve repressed.”

Veterans often face severe challenges such as PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, and Lutrell believes therapeutic use of psychedelics could help improve veteran’s lives. However, he still opposes the recreational use of these substances.

Lutrell said he retired from the Navy after sustaining severe injuries in a training accident. Though he did not have PTSD, he struggled to adjust to civilian life.

After earning a master’s degree in applied cognition and neuroscience, Luttrell turned to psychedelic therapy on the advice of trusted fellow veterans.

His treatment involved Ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT, substances known for their intense psychological effects. The therapy helped Luttrell address deeply repressed issues and significantly improved his relationships with his family.

Lutrell is not the only Texas Republican to advocate for therapeutic use of psychedelics, fellow U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw of Humble has also worked on related legislation for years.

Luttrell and Crenshaw successfully included a provision in the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act to support research into using psychedelics for treating PTSD and brain injuries. Luttrell also supports increased funding for the Neurology Centers of Excellence and VA-funded research into psychedelic-assisted therapies.

Both Republicans have even worked with progressive Democrats like U.S. Rep  Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for legislation related to psychedelics. 

While the primary treatment for PTSD is psychotherapy, some kind of medication can be helpful to ease the process. Currently there are only three medications that are the most recommended for PTD treatment, the three of them antidepressants. However, there are other medications being tested for the behavioral disorder that could prove to be helpful and effective treatment.