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

President Trump withdraws Ed Martin’s U.S. Attorney nomination after Martin sent a threat letter to a DC cannabis dispensary.

A new federal study finds cannabis use before drinking significantly reduces alcohol intake, suggesting cannabis may substitute alcohol for some.

Fast-acting cannabis gummies, though a small market share, command premium prices, faster sales, and attract consumer demand for rapid effects.

THC drinks surge in popularity, but uncertain regulations, state patchwork, and potential federal crackdowns threaten the industry’s future.

US NEWS

The US and UK announced a major trade framework, cutting tariffs on cars, steel, aluminum, and easing select agricultural barriers.

FDA approves three natural dyes, shifting away from synthetic additives; broader phase-out of artificial dyes planned by 2027.

Trump proposes cutting China tariffs to 80%, aiming to ease tensions ahead of major US-China trade talks in Switzerland.

Former Supreme Court Justice David Souter, known for liberal rulings and Bush v. Gore dissent, dies at 85 in New Hampshire.

Newark Airport radar screens briefly went dark Friday due to a Philadelphia telecom outage, marking the second incident this month.

WORLD NEWS

Chicago-born Cardinal Robert Prevost, a former missionary in Peru and head of the Vatican’s Bishops office, was elected Pope Leo XIV yesterday. As the first U.S. pope, he faces both global praise and scrutiny over past clergy abuse handling.

India and Pakistan escalate military conflict after Kashmir attack; both launch retaliatory strikes, civilians killed, global mediation urged.

European leaders meet Zelensky in Kyiv, urging Russia to accept a 30-day ceasefire; U.S. threatens sanctions if Moscow stalls.

SPORTS

Banged-up Cavs rally behind Mitchell’s 43 points and returning starters to win Game 3; Nuggets outlast Thunder in OT despite Jokic’s struggles.

Football legend Nick Saban will co-chair a presidential commission focused on college athletics, addressing athlete payment and related issues.

Utah’s hockey team officially becomes the “Mammoth” after fan voting, honoring Ice Age history and debuting a tusked mountain logo.

The Pittsburgh Pirates fired manager Derek Shelton after a 12-26 start, promoting bench coach Don Kelly to lead the struggling team.

The Dallas Cowboys traded third- and fifth-round picks to acquire Steelers wide receiver George Pickens, boosting Dak Prescott’s offense.

POP CULTURE

Universal Music Group moves to dismiss Drake’s defamation lawsuit, denying claims they harmed his reputation by promoting Lamar’s diss.

Taylor Swift subpoenaed in $400M Baldoni-Lively case, though her involvement was limited to licensing one song for the film.

Several Les Misérables cast members will boycott the June 11 Kennedy Center show for Trump; others will donate wages.

BUSINESS

Lyft shares surged 28% after beating Q1 estimates, expanding its $750M buyback, and reporting strong growth in bookings.

Bill Gates warns Musk’s USAID cuts will cause millions of deaths, calling global health slashing a catastrophic mistake harming the world’s poorest.

US and China begin Geneva talks to ease trade war; tariffs, inflation, and economic strains drive urgency despite low deal expectations.

Quote of the Day:

“An effort made for the happiness of others lifts above ourselves.”

- Lydia M. Child

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