Rolling out the news you want

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

Quick Hit:

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump clashed in Philadelphia, marking their first and only scheduled in-person debate of the 2024 election. Moderated by ABC’s David Muir and Linsey Davis, the debate covered topics like the economy, immigration, and foreign policy, featuring sharp exchanges and personal jabs. What did they talk about?

CANNABIS

Over 60% of patients with rheumatic conditions are substituting cannabis for medications like NSAIDs, opioids, sleep aids, and muscle relaxants.

A study found Oregon's drug decriminalization did not increase fatal drug overdose rates in the two years after implementation.

Treasurer Deborah Goldberg fired Cannabis Control Commission Chair Shannon O’Brien for “gross misconduct” and inability to fulfill her duties, following extensive review.

US NEWS

The U.S. commemorates the 23rd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks today, honoring victims with memorials, including the Tribute in Light in NYC.

SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn launched from Kennedy Space Center, aiming to break records and conduct the first civilian spacewalk on Thursday.

Tropical Storm Francine has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane and is expected to make landfall in Louisiana today as a Category 2 hurricane. Storm surge warnings are also in effect for parts of Texas as the hurricane approaches.

NASA approves the launch of the Europa Clipper mission to search for signs of life on Jupiter’s moon Europa, potentially launching October 10.

WORLD NEWS

Israeli airstrikes targeted a humanitarian zone in Gaza, killing at least 19 people and wounding 60 others, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry. Israel stated the strikes aimed at senior militants responsible for the October 7 attacks.

Ukraine launched 140 drones targeting inland Russia, including Moscow, in the largest attack of its kind, killing one woman and causing building fires.

Artillery attack in southeastern Sudan kills 21, injures 70+. Attack follows failed peace talks; Sudan government rejects international peacekeepers.

SPORTS

Mauricio Pochettino named head coach of U.S. men’s soccer team, replacing Gregg Berhalter after his June departure following six years.

NFL reviewing sexual assault allegations against Browns QB Deshaun Watson, filed in a civil lawsuit Monday, prompting further investigation.

Tiger Woods and PGA Tour officials met with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) members to discuss a potential $1B investment.

Tyreek Hill demands the firing of Miami-Dade officer Danny Torres, claiming excessive force during a traffic stop incident Sunday.

POP CULTURE

Taylor Swift endorses Kamala Harris, citing her leadership and advocacy for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ issues, and combating misinformation.

Sean "Diddy" Combs ordered to pay $100M over 1997 party sexual assault allegations in a recent court ruling against him.

"Saturday Night Live" adds new cast members Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline for its 50th season, as Chloe Troast exits.

James Earl Jones, the legendary actor known for his commanding presence on stage and screen and his iconic voice work as Darth Vader in "Star Wars," passed away at 93. His remarkable career spanned decades, earning him numerous accolades, including Tony, Emmy, Grammy, and Oscar awards.

BUSINESS

US stock markets closed mixed: S&P 500 up 0.5%, Dow down 0.2%, and Nasdaq up 0.8%. Oil prices fell over 3%, reaching their lowest levels since 2021, following OPEC’s report lowering growth forecasts for 2024 and 2025.

Southwest Airlines chairman and six board directors will exit following pressure from Elliott Investment Management, which holds a 10% stake. Elliott blames the board for Southwest's stock dropping over 50% in the past three years.

The FAA is investigating a ground collision involving Delta Air Lines aircraft at Atlanta's airport. No injuries were reported.

The Federal Reserve proposed new rules that would reduce by about half the amount of extra capital banks are required to hold, aiming to address concerns about potential litigation. These updated rules, developed in response to the 2008 financial crisis, will be finalized in the coming months.

Quote of the Day:

“One cannot and must not try to erase the past merely because it does not fit the present.”

-Golda Meir

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