ALBAWABA - US President Donald Trump recently appointed MAGA internet personality Mark Savaya as the new US Special Envoy to Iraq.
Mark Savaya, who has been an avid supporter of Trump's campaign during the 2024 Presidential Elections and has appeared has numerous photos with the president, took to his official Instagram to announce the news.
Trump announced Savaya's appointment as the new US Special Envoy to Iraq via Truth Social on Sunday and wrote, "I’m pleased to announce Mark Savaya will serve as Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq," Trump contiued, "Mark’s deep understanding of the Iraq-U.S. relationship, and his connections in the region, will help advance the interests of the American people."
He added, "Mark was a key player in my campaign in Michigan, where he, and others, helped secure a record vote with Muslim Americans. Congratulations, Mark!"
In response, Savaya took to his official Instagram and wrote, "I am deeply humbled, honored, and grateful to President Donald J. Trump for appointing me as Special Envoy to the Republic of Iraq."
He further outlined, "I am committed to strengthening the U.S.–Iraq partnership under President Trump’s leadership and guidance. Thank you, Mr. President."
Does Mark Savaya run marijuana shops? Trump's new envoy to Iraq sparks debate
However, while many congratulated the Michigan-based businessman on the appointment, reports revealed that Savaya is the owner of multiple marijuana dispensaries called 'Leaf and Bud', which can be found across Detroit, prompting speculations among Iraqi and US citizens.
According to Bridge Detroit, Savaya's 'Leaf and Bud' marijuana dispensaries are best known for their "obnoxious advertisements."
Locals claimed in the report that marijuana-themed advertisements were taking over billboards across Detroit, with many of their children exposed to them.
According to The Independent, Leaf and Bud's official website has removed references to products with Savaya's name on them, such as a line of products dubbed "The Mark Savaya Collection."
While Mark Savaya is an American businessman, several reports claim that his family is of Chaldean descent and immigrated from Iraq to the US in the 1990s.
