According to media reports citing informed sources on Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Marty Makary over the weekend, accusing him of moving too slowly in approving flavored e-cigarettes and nicotine products.

Trump inquired with advisors through multiple phone calls and White House meetings about the importance of flavored e-cigarettes to young MAGA voters. Advisors described Makary as an "obstacle" to the president's e-cigarette agenda and informed Trump that Makary had previously defied White House wishes by refusing to approve mint, mango, and blueberry flavored products from Los Angeles-based manufacturer Glas.

The FDA has banned the sale of flavored e-cigarette cartridges since 2020, currently permitting only 41 tobacco or menthol-flavored products to be sold. During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised to "save" the e-cigarette industry, and this pressure marks a 180-degree shift in his policy stance compared to his first term.

Reports indicate that Trump and Makary have communicated about the policy shift, and Makary is considering adopting a more open attitude toward approving flavored products. However, he has consistently expressed concerns about the unique appeal of fruit and candy flavors to teenagers. It remains unclear whether a final decision has been made.

Following the news, Turning Point Brands rose 3.2%, British American Tobacco increased 1.7%, while Philip Morris and Altria narrowed their early session losses.