New Jersey causes stir by making smokers eligible for COVID vaccine - WJW FOX 8 News Cleveland

(NEXSTAR) — New Jersey made millions of people eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine, including smokers, a move that prompted gripes about them skipping to the front of the inoculation line.

The decision has prompted a backlash since it allows residents who smoke cigarettes to get the vaccine before some front-line workers, such as teachers and public transit employees.

Phil Murphy made people 65 and older and those 16 and older with medical conditions eligible to get the vaccine, beginning Thursday.

And there are 2 million smokers in New Jersey that fit into this category,” said the state’s health commissioner, Judith Persichilli at a Wednesday press conference with Gov.

Murphy responded to the backlash saying that the idea of smokers jumping the line is a “false narrative” and a “cheap shot,” according to The Star-Ledger.

I understand the optics here and that attacking folks who took up the habit of smoking and who are now addicted may be politically expedient,” Murphy said during his Friday address.

He also pointed out that New Jersey’s decision to add smokers to those eligible for vaccination was in accordance with federal guidelines.