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If they can't compete without government interference, is that a free market economy?

We don't have a free market economy. We have one where both the free market and the political market fight and find compromise on issues in the laws.

For example, my profession is based on the political. I am a CPA and CPA's came about because their was a need the market didn't serve. Good financial information needed to be available for investors and lenders. The market failed to provide this on their won so laws were passed to create the auditors and audits. Recently the structure that was established long ago is not working and it appears the political will use more of its power to control audits and auditors.

So, our system is not a pure economy system or a pure political drive system. Its a combination and the ideas and issues need to be won in both markets. Unfortunaltely for smokers they may have had a fighting chance in the economic market but after the associations bailed they have no hope. They lost both fronts.

In case you didn't notice, each year more of the "free market" becomes the political market. Where do you think thus trend line leads?

Also, define "safety." Or "Public Health." If these are undefined, and so far, useful in expanding Government powers, were is the limit? Is your home safe? I bet I can use modern equipment, which detects in the parts per billions, to find known cancer causing elements, chemicals and compounds. Should your house be torn down, or condemed? Have you knowingly raised children in such a environment? Do you want to confess now or after sentanceing?