ABSTRACT
In the past several decades, American society has become increasingly concerned about the regulation of tobacco. Utilizing Associated Press articles published from January, 1993 to August, 1994 related to tobacco and smoking, this exploratory analysis examines the role of the print media in the process of “banning” tobacco use in the United States. Attention is given to how the media reports and identifies alliances, endorsements, and power alignments. Policy implications for the criminal justice system are discussed. This analysis indicates that there is a particular bias in the media which favors the regulation of cigarette smoking.