Conservative groups are fighting against a crackdown on Zyn nicotine pouches by Democrats. Americans for Consumer Protection and Building America’s Future have joined forces to launch a campaign aimed at saving these pouches. The campaign started at the U.S. Open in North Carolina, where operatives with signs and promotional materials urged lawmakers to “Save Our Pouches.”
According to the nonprofits, nicotine pouches have been proven to help adult smokers transition to safer alternatives. They pointed to Sweden as an example, where traditional cigarette usage has nearly disappeared thanks to the availability of smoke-free alternatives like nicotine pouches. Rather than banning these products, they argue that they have helped reduce smoking rates among adults in Sweden.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer raised concerns about Zyn nicotine pouches earlier this year, leading to backlash from conservative groups. While Schumer did not call for an outright ban, he expressed worries about the popularity of Zyn among young people and called for an investigation into its marketing and health effects on children.
The “Save Our Pouches” campaign kicked off at the U.S. Open as part of a summer tour that will target similar sporting events across the country. The goal is to build opposition to a potential ban on nicotine pouches and engage low propensity conservatives ahead of the 2024 election. Events such as UFC 303, WWE SummerSlam, and NASCAR races are on the groups’ radar for future campaigns.
Conservative groups believe that the crackdown on Zyn is unwarranted and could limit choices for adult smokers looking for safer alternatives. They argue that banning nicotine pouches could reverse the progress made in reducing smoking rates and harm those who rely on these products. As the campaign continues, the groups hope to raise awareness and gather support to protect access to nicotine pouches for adults.