In recent news, former President Donald Trump reiterated that he will commit to protecting flavored vaping products if he is re-elected in 2024. This statement has garnered widespread attention, especially amid intensifying discussions around the vaping industry and public health. Trump stated on his Truth Social account, “I saved Flavored Vaping in 2019, and it greatly helped people get off smoking. I raised the age to 21, keeping it away from the ‘kids.’ Kamala and Joe want everything banned, killing small businesses all over the country. I’ll save Vaping again.”
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In November 2019, Trump met with public health groups, tobacco industry CEOs, and vaping advocates. His proposal banned the sale of all sweet and fruity flavored e-cigarettes and pods within 30 days but allowed gas stations and convenience stores to continue selling menthol cartridges and vapes, according to Politico. Additionally, it permitted vape shops to sell a broad range of e-cigarette liquids suitable for so-called open-tank vaping systems, which are typically used by adults.
Free market advocates and small business owners in the vaping industry supported this proposal, while anti-tobacco advocates criticized Trump for appeasing these interests. Matthew Myers, President of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, stated at the time, “It is a capitulation to both Juul and vape shops and gives a green light to the e-cigarette industry to continue targeting and addicting kids with flavored products.”
As California’s Attorney General, Vice President Kamala Harris supported a bill aimed at keeping electronic cigarettes away from minors.
Trump noted on social media that his efforts to save flavored vaping are considered beneficial for smokers looking to quit, and he raised the minimum purchase age to 21 to protect minors from electronic cigarettes. He criticized current President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris for wanting to impose a total ban on these products, arguing that such actions would devastate small businesses.
Although Trump implemented limited restrictions on flavored vaping during his presidency, he eventually allowed gas stations and convenience stores to continue selling menthol products while permitting vape shops to offer a wide range of e-liquid for open-tank systems. This policy received support from many small business owners, but faced strong opposition from anti-tobacco advocates who believed it would increase youth access to flavored products.
As one of the key topics leading up to the 2024 election, the future of flavored vaping remains uncertain. Trump’s renewed commitment reflects his support for small businesses and reignites broader discussions regarding public health, youth smoking, and the ethical responsibilities of the vaping industry.
Regardless of the viewpoints of supporters and opponents, this debate will continue to influence policymaking and spark conversations between the political sphere and the public. As the election approaches, it will be important to observe how Trump’s stance on flavored vaping may impact his voter base and shape larger policy directions.
For more information and insights on vaping, please visit our website at vapen.co.