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

Rep. Andy Harris says his hemp ban bill is “carefully drafted” and isn’t worried about Senate pushback, despite confusion over its scope.

The FDA’s plan to add “Cannabinoid Hemp Products” (like CBD) to health event reporting forms is now under White House review.

Oregon activists are gearing up to submit signatures for a 2026 ballot initiative to legalize cannabis social lounges statewide.

Oklahoma study finds counties with many cannabis growers saw 20% higher home value increases post-legalization than nearby prohibition states.

US NEWS

Supreme Court ends term with rulings on injunctions, LGBTQ+ books, porn laws, healthcare access, rural internet, and Louisiana redistricting.

Trump halts Canada trade talks over digital tax, threatens tariffs as $3B cost hits U.S. firms; Canada yet to respond.

Mudslide floods West Virginia Turnpike, stranding thousands overnight without rerouting or info; state vows changes after public outrage.

9th New Orleans jail escapee recaptured peacefully; only convicted double murderer Derrick Groves remains at large, with $50K reward offered.

WORLD NEWS

Norway royal Marius Høiby charged with rape, assault, and harm involving multiple victims; he denies most allegations amid investigation.

Huge Tehran crowds mourn 60 killed in Israeli strikes, as Iran vows revenge, tensions rise, and ceasefire with Israel holds—barely.

Russia masses 110,000 troops near Pokrovsk as Ukraine holds ground; city remains key to Donetsk, despite yearlong assault efforts.

Ecuador recaptures drug lord “Fito” Macías in luxury villa with hidden bunker after 18-month manhunt; extradition to U.S. pending.

SPORTS

The 2025 NBA Draft saw Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper headline a class full of surprises, bold trades, and value picks. Miami impressed, Brooklyn sparked a youth movement, and Flagg emerged as the early favorite for Rookie of the Year honors.

The Islanders took Matthew Schaefer No. 1 in the 2025 NHL Draft, honoring his late mother. Misa, Frondell, and Hagens followed.

Naz Reid plans to re-sign with the Timberwolves on a 5-year, $125M deal. He averaged 14.2 PPG and 39.5% from three.

POP CULTURE

Lalo Schifrin, Grammy-winning composer of the iconic “Mission: Impossible” theme, dies at 93 from pneumonia complications after legendary career.

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez held a star-studded, secretive Venetian wedding weekend with designer fashion, celebrity guests, protests, and performances.

Denis Villeneuve will direct the next James Bond film, marking a major shift as Amazon MGM Studios takes creative control.

BUSINESS

Core inflation rose 2.7% in May, exceeding expectations and keeping pressure on the Fed’s 2% inflation target.

Scientists uncover how squids use reflectin proteins to shift transparency, potentially revolutionizing camouflage, smart fabrics, and optical tech.

US consumer spending dipped 0.1% in May, with inflation rising and auto sales plunging. Tariff fears and economic uncertainty continue to pressure households, while incomes and savings fall—raising concerns about a potential slowdown or recession.

Quote of the Day:

“Our knowledge is a little island in a great ocean of nonknowledge.”

-Isaac Bashevis Singer

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