This messaging implies that tobacco is a sanctioned and accepted part of our lives. This is incorrect. Tobacco-related disease kills an estimated 500,000 Americans each year. Yet this business is promoting the use of tobacco. They are a significant part of the problem.
Tobacco is big money.
The industry has purchased their way into our lives. They contribute heavily to political campaigns. They are active lobbyists both in Washington, D.C. and in Santa Fe. They threaten litigation against cities and states whenever enlightened leaders attempt to restrict their activities. In essence, they have purchased their way into our lives.