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 Donald Trump appointed Alice Marie Johnson, a former clemency recipient, as the new “pardon czar” to oversee future clemency efforts. Johnson, an advocate for criminal justice reform, will recommend cases for presidential pardons. This move coincides with broader debates on drug policy and marijuana rescheduling under the administration.

New Hampshire House passes bill removing cannabis possession from criminal statutes without establishing a regulated legal market.

New poll shows 70% of Pennsylvania voters support marijuana legalization, with bipartisan backing and preference for immediate legislative action.

US NEWS

Judge delays Eric Adams’ trial, appoints independent counsel to argue against DOJ’s dismissal request amid ongoing corruption case developments.

DOJ investigates UnitedHealth for potential Medicare fraud, alleging inflated diagnoses for extra payments; company’s shares dropped 7% following the news.

LGBTQ+ identification among U.S. adults increased to 9.3% in 2024, up from 7.6% in 2023, according to recent data.

WORLD NEWS

Germany’s snap election will reshape leadership, with economic stagnation, immigration, and climate policy driving a tight race among major parties.

Hadi Matar convicted of attempted murder for 2022 stabbing of Salman Rushdie, faces up to 25 years in prison.

Ukraine and U.S. close to agreement granting mineral rights as compensation for military aid in ongoing defense against Russia’s invasion.

SPORTS

New York Yankees end 49-year beard ban, now allowing well-groomed facial hair for players and staff, breaking tradition from 1976.

Michigan secures Dusty May with a multiyear deal, removing him from Indiana’s coaching search after a strong debut season.

James Gladstone joins Jaguars as GM, partnering with new head coach Liam Coen to rebuild the roster and strengthen Jacksonville’s future.

Vikings open to re-signing Sam Darnold but unlikely to use franchise tag, as JJ McCarthy remains their long-term quarterback plan.

POP CULTURE

Soul legend Jerry “Ice Man” Butler dies at 85, remembered for The Impressions, solo hits, and decades of public service.

Hunter Schafer addresses passport gender marker change, emphasizing it does not affect her identity but raises concerns for trans travelers.

Voletta Wallace, mother of Notorious B.I.G. and guardian of his legacy, dies at 78 after a lifetime preserving her son’s memory.

James Bond franchise transitions to Amazon MGM Studios, sparking speculation on the next 007, with Idris Elba, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and others considered.

BUSINESS

Celsius shares jump 30% after acquiring Alani Nutrition for $1.8B, reflecting growing demand for functional drinks in the beverage industry.

The Associated Press sues Trump officials, alleging First Amendment violations after reporters were banned from White House and presidential events.

Apple unveils iPhone 16e, a budget-friendly smartphone featuring Apple Intelligence, Face ID, and a power-efficient 5G modem for $599.

Quote of the Day:

“It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.”

- Sir Edmund Hillary

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