Rolling out the news you want

Welcome to the BLUNT Newsletter, your direct access to pop culture that is short and to the point.

Summer begins with the solstice, the year’s longest day, as Earth tilts, positioning the Northern Hemisphere closest to the sun.

CANNABIS

Despite legalization gains, most cannabis justice bills failed in 2025, leaving many with records or imprisoned, advocates warn.

California dedicates $30 million in cannabis tax revenue to fund research on public health, sustainability, consumer trends, and policy.

GOP Senator Bernie Moreno delays marijuana banking bill discussions until fall, frustrating advocates pushing for cannabis industry financial access reforms.

US NEWS

Judge orders release of Columbia alum Mahmoud Khalil, blocking deportation over activism but allowing case on green card fraud to continue.

Karen Read acquitted of murder but faces civil suit, probation, financial strain, and ongoing public debate over John O’Keefe’s death.

Kari Lake enforces Trump’s order, slashing Voice of America staff, sparking backlash over silencing global U.S. journalism and democratic messaging.

Minnesota lawmaker murder suspect Vance Boelter was a “prepper” with weapons, cash, and targets; wife not charged but investigated.

WORLD NEWS

A massive U.S. heat dome brings extreme temperatures to 170 million people; UK and France also face early heat waves.

Iran refuses nuclear diplomacy under Israeli attacks as both nations exchange strikes; European leaders meet in Geneva seeking peaceful resolution.

UK lawmakers approve bill allowing assisted death for terminally ill adults; measure advances to House of Lords for further review.

Pope Leo urges tech leaders to prioritize human dignity and ethical AI development during Vatican-hosted conference on artificial intelligence governance.

SPORTS

Flamengo beats Chelsea 3-1 in electric Club World Cup clash, showcasing FIFA’s vision for next year’s U.S.-hosted World Cup.

Caitlin Clark leads WNBA All-Star voting, followed by Napheesa Collier; fan voting continues through June 28 ahead of July game.

Brewers rookie Jacob Misiorowski flirts with perfection, allowing first hit in 7th inning of dominant second career MLB start.

Dodgers criticized for silence as federal agents appear outside stadium amid Trump immigration raids; team pledges $1M immigrant aid.

POP CULTURE

Megan Thee Stallion surprises “Love Island USA” villa, promoting swimsuit line and bringing signature energy, drama, and “Hot Girl Summer” vibes.

Chris Brown pleads not guilty in UK court to assault and weapon charges from 2023 nightclub incident; trial set for 2026.

Producer reveals Betty White and Bea Arthur feuded off-camera during Golden Girls, potentially ending the show after seven successful seasons.

BUSINESS

World’s largest, highest-resolution digital camera to release first images Monday, capturing southern sky for decade-long space survey in Chile.

Cybercriminal group Scattered Spider breaches Aflac, stealing sensitive data in growing hacking spree targeting major U.S. insurance companies.

AI platform OhChat creates digital celebrity avatars like Katie Price’s “Jordan,” raising ethical concerns over intimacy, exploitation, and emotional dependency.

Telegram founder Pavel Durov pledges estate to over 100 biological children, delaying inheritance to encourage independence and equality.

Quote of the Day:

“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”

- Edith Wharton

That's all for now! We hope you enjoyed this edition of the BLUNT Newsletter. Have a fantastic rest of your day!