In a surprising turn of events, Tucker Carlson, the former top host at Fox News, is preparing to launch a new line of nicotine pouches called Alp this coming November. This move places him in direct competition with the well-known brand Zyn, which he has frequently praised. However, Carlson’s entry into the nicotine pouch market has sparked regulatory concerns and reignited a cultural debate about the potential health benefits versus the risks these products might pose to children.

Carlson has previously been vocal about his admiration for Zyn, even referring to himself as an unofficial spokesperson for the brand. Yet, after making some negative comments about Zyn last year, he faced backlash from its manufacturer, Philip Morris International. In a recent interview, a visibly frustrated Carlson revealed his decision to venture into the tobacco industry himself.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Carlson contends that Zyn primarily appeals to a liberal and female audience, noting that some employees of Philip Morris have contributed to Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris. He suggests this has created a disconnect between the company and its conservative consumers.

In response, Philip Morris released a statement criticizing Carlson’s position. “Carlson wants to turn Zyn into a political football to further his business interests, which is frustrating,” the spokesperson said, insisting that Zyn enjoys bipartisan support and its user base includes both Democrats and Republicans.

As Carlson gears up for the launch of Alp, Neil Patel, co-founder of the Tucker Carlson Network, assured that the new brand will adhere to federal regulations but did not confirm if they have sought FDA approval.

Interestingly, Zyn has often been portrayed as a brand favored by the right. Back in October, Carlson humorously noted on his podcast that “Zyn is actually a powerful tool for reviving male vitality.” Shortly after, his representatives approached Philip Morris to propose a partnership with Zyn.

However, Philip Morris rejected the proposal and responded to Carlson’s podcast comments, stating, “While we understand that may be Carlson’s viewpoint or joke, those comments lack scientific foundation. Given Carlson’s prominence and influence, these remarks could exacerbate misunderstandings and misuse of our products.”

Carlson expressed his exasperation, clarifying, “I certainly wasn’t making a medical declaration about their product. I was just joking. So I thought: I want to create a product that isn’t controlled by humorless ‘left-wing drones.'”

Philip Morris has also made it clear that it will not contribute to presidential candidates. According to data from the nonpartisan organization Open Secrets, Match North America, the company behind Zyn, has channeled more funding to the Republican Party than to Democrats through its political action committee.