Rolling out the news you want

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

CANNABIS

Trump hosted Marc Fogel at Congress speech but did not mention marijuana, despite Fogel’s recent release from Russian imprisonment over medical cannabis.

Pennsylvania AG Dave Sunday warns of marijuana legalization risks as GOP leaders express doubts about the reform’s chances this session.

New NuggMD poll finds two-thirds of marijuana consumers reducing cannabis spending due to broader economic inflation.

US NEWS

President Trump’s address highlighted his immigration crackdown, defended tariffs despite stock market concerns, and maintained a pause on Ukraine aid. He adopted a taunting tone toward Democrats, praised Elon Musk, and claimed a mandate for change. His remarks on tariffs received a lukewarm Republican response, while Democratic Rep. Al Green protested and was removed from the chamber.

The U.S. Supreme Court hears Mexico’s lawsuit against gunmakers, alleging complicity in cartel trafficking, potentially challenging industry legal protections.

Strong winds and dry conditions threaten to worsen wildfires in the Carolinas, with South Carolina’s Carolina Forest Fire growing to 2,000 acres.

WORLD NEWS

BlackRock-led group acquires majority stakes in key Panama Canal ports, strengthening U.S. trade influence amid China-related concerns.

Zelenskyy agrees to minerals deal with US, proposes releasing Russian POWs, halting strikes on Russia, and establishing a maritime truce.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the strongest storm to threaten Australia’s east coast in 50 years, is expected to make landfall near Brisbane Friday. Authorities warn of dangerous storm surges, flooding, and destructive winds, urging residents to prepare and evacuate vulnerable areas.

The US rejected an Arab-backed Gaza reconstruction plan, favoring its own vision, which involves expelling Palestinian residents and redeveloping the area.

SPORTS

The Philadelphia Eagles signed Saquon Barkley to a two-year, $41.2M extension, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history.

LeBron James becomes the first NBA player to surpass 50,000 combined points in regular season and playoffs, solidifying his legendary status.

Kyrie Irving is out for the season with a torn ACL, ending his stellar campaign and dealing a major blow to Dallas.

POP CULTURE

The 2025 Academy Awards drew 19.69 million viewers on ABC and Hulu, marking the highest viewership since 2020.

The 97th Academy Awards saw Anora win five Oscars, including Best Picture. Conan O’Brien’s hosting mixed humor and sincerity, addressing wildfires and politics. Zoe Saldaña and the No Other Land team gave powerful speeches. A Wicked performance and James Bond tribute highlighted the night.

Authorities misidentified Gene Hackman’s deceased dog while investigating his and his wife’s deaths; toxicology reports are pending to determine the cause.

Dolly Parton reflects on her nearly 60-year marriage to Carl Dean, celebrating their deep bond, humor, and his preference for privacy.

BUSINESS

US stock markets close lower; S&P 500 erases postelection gains amid investor concerns over US tariffs. Dow drops 670 points as Trump’s tariffs spark global trade retaliation; Target and Best Buy warn of imminent price hikes.

Uber expands driverless Waymo rideshares to Austin, Texas, its fourth market after Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

Best Buy shares drop 13% as CEO warns of tariff-driven price hikes; Target CEO expects higher costs for fruits and vegetables.

Quote of the Day:

“It is easier to prevent bad habits than to break them.”

- Benjamin Franklin

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