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

The DOJ requested a federal court pause a lawsuit against the DEA’s marijuana rescheduling process after hearings were canceled.

OSHA and NIOSH officials discussed cannabis workers’ allergen exposure in a webinar focused on reducing risks in marijuana businesses.

The U.S. Cannabis Roundtable merges two groups to represent the cannabis industry to Congress and the Trump Administration.

US NEWS

Supreme Court upholds TikTok ban unless ByteDance sells; enforcement delayed, future depends on President-elect Trump’s stance and actions.

Polar vortex brings extreme cold to US, affecting 120 million with subzero temperatures, especially in Northern Plains and Midwest.

Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted appointed to Senate, replacing JD Vance; Trump’s inaugural ceremony has been relocated indoors due to freezing temperatures.

Biden commutes sentences of 2,500 nonviolent offenders, breaking records for largest clemency actions in US presidential history.

WORLD NEWS

Israel’s cabinet approves Gaza ceasefire deal; includes hostage exchange facilitated by US, Egypt, Qatar, beginning tomorrow.

Russia and Iran sign partnership agreement strengthening ties amidst U.S. tensions, addressing mutual security concerns and escalating geopolitical influence.

Chinese President Xi skips Trump inauguration, sends vice president, signaling willingness for dialogue while avoiding direct confrontation.

SPORTS

Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki signs with Dodgers, joining star-studded roster. He boasts elite pitches and immense MLB potential.

Jimmy Butler returns post-suspension amid Miami Heat trade drama, emphasizing his focus on basketball despite unresolved trade demands.

CFP unlikely to change 2025 playoff format despite debates over seeding structure. Current system prioritizes conference champions for byes.

POP CULTURE

Joan Plowright, celebrated British actress and Tony winner, dies at 95, leaving a legacy of theater, film, and accolades.

Actors, directors mourn David Lynch, hailing him as visionary artist and mentor who revolutionized cinema, inspiring generations worldwide.

Blake Lively, Justin Baldoni feud escalates; lawsuits allege harassment, retaliation, and dramatic “Game of Thrones” references complicate narrative.

BUSINESS

Chinese companies in Monterrey’s industrial parks prepare for potential U.S. tariffs under Trump, weighing options to sustain operations and growth.

SpaceX’s Starship explosion, caused by likely fuel leak, prompts FAA grounding; Blue Origin advances in private space race competition.

MBA graduates, even from top schools like Harvard, face rising unemployment as companies cut hiring, exploring alternative career paths instead.

Quote of the Day:

“The power to question is the basis of all human progress.”

- Indira Gandhi

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