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Deputy PM Calls Smokers 'Heroes,' Faces Backlash

6/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour ignited controversy in London by labeling smokers as “fiscal heroes.” Critics slammed his remarks for downplaying addiction and the health toll of tobacco. In response, Seymour walked back his claim that the former government's smokefree policy was "quite evil," insisting that humor is essential in tackling the smoking debate.

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Story summary

New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour ignited controversy in London by labeling smokers as “fiscal heroes.” Critics slammed his remarks for downplaying addiction and the health toll of tobacco. In response, Seymour walked back his claim that the former government's smokefree policy was "quite evil," insisting that humor is essential in tackling the smoking debate.