Former President Donald J. Trump recently met with officials from the vaping industry at Mar-a-Lago to discuss loosening regulations and express his support for the embattled e-cigarette sector. The Vapor Technology Association has been quietly sending mailers to voters in battleground states warning against Democratic efforts to regulate vaping.
As Mr. Trump seeks donations for his 2024 campaign, he has courted various industries, including crypto, oil, and gas. His stance on cryptocurrencies shifted from skepticism to support, resulting in significant donations. He has promised to make America the “crypto capital of the planet,” garnering millions from industry leaders.
Additionally, Mr. Trump has aligned himself with the tobacco industry, which has contributed heavily to his super PAC. Cigarette makers, facing a proposed ban on menthol cigarettes, have sought Mr. Trump’s support. He has also expressed a new position on marijuana, endorsing a major legalization measure in Florida.
Billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Yass have also come out in support of Mr. Trump’s campaign. Musk has invested $118 million in a super PAC and campaigned for the former president, while Yass has lobbied for school choice legislation in Pennsylvania that Mr. Trump has endorsed. Mr. Trump has promised to appoint Musk to lead an audit of the government if elected.
Supporters of Mr. Trump have praised his willingness to advocate for their industries and causes. However, critics have raised concerns about conflicts of interest and the implication of his policies being influenced by campaign donations. As the former president looks to secure funding for his campaign, his alliances with various industries raise questions about the role of money in politics.
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