Voters uphold Denver's ban on flavored tobacco sales

• The opposition group Citizen Power conceded shortly before 9pm.

Why it matters: The outcome in Denver's most expensive race marks a major victory for health and community advocates who say the law keeps products designed to lure kids out of reach for children.

By the numbers: Votes to retain the ban led by a dominant 72%, compared to 28% who wanted to repeal it, based on unofficial results at midnight from Denver Elections Division.

Catch up quick: The Denver City Council approved the ban in 2024 with a supermajority, blocking the sale of most flavored tobacco products across the city.

• The measure faced swift backlash from small businesses and tobacco retailers, who pushed the issue onto the ballot.

What they're saying: "This will ensure the health and successful paths for many kids across Denver for years to come," Jodi Radke, regional director of Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, which backed the measure, told us.

• Radke thanked billionaire Michael Bloomberg, who donated $5 million to support the ban.

The other side: A statement from Citizen Power said Denver could lose up to $13 million annually in sales tax revenue to neighboring cities, while nearly 100 family-owned businesses could close due to the ban.

Context: Supporters, including physicians and public health groups, argued the law could curb youth addiction and limit exposure to toxic chemicals such as lead and formaldehyde.

• Kevin Flynn, the lone council member to vote no in 2024, said the ban wouldn't work and unfairly restricted adults from buying legal products.

Follow the money: The Cigarette Store and Swisher International poured in a fraction of Bloomberg's total to repeal the ban.

• The nearly $6.5 million raised for the referendum made it the most expensive municipal race in Denver.