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:

During a discussion about the January 6 Capitol insurrection, Donald Trump criticized President Biden’s administration, saying, “On Jan 6 we had a great border, we were energy independent, we were respected all over the world. Then he comes in and we are one of the most stupid people across the world.” In response, Biden stated that no president in US history has ever spoken like that.

Concerns arose from voters about President Biden’s debate performance, with some considering efforts for him to drop out. Despite initial intentions to vote against Trump, many expressed fears of a Trump victory due to Biden’s perceived weaknesses. The debate heightened worries among Democrats and independents about Biden’s ability to secure reelection.

CANNABIS

IRS advises marijuana businesses they can’t take federal tax deductions under 280E until rescheduling is finalized. This impacts financial operations, stressing the need for legislative clarity on cannabis regulation.

Maryland Governor launches a marijuana workforce development program aimed at helping those criminalized over cannabis. The initiative focuses on providing job opportunities and support to affected individuals.

New York dispensary launches an ‘illegal cannabis buyback’ program, offering discounts to encourage consumers to switch to the legal market. This initiative aims to combat unlicensed cannabis sales.

US NEWS

A summer wave of Covid-19 has hit the US, leading to increased cases and hospitalizations. Health officials urge vaccinations and precautions to curb the spread and protect vulnerable populations.

Severe Midwest flooding claims three lives, including Kyle Kreykes in Iowa. High water delayed search efforts. President Biden declared a disaster. Other fatalities involved flooding in Iowa’s Little Sioux River and South Dakota.

A dozen Red Rocks Amphitheater employees reported seeing a massive UFO on June 5. The dark metallic disk hovered silently before disappearing. Witnesses unanimously confirmed the sighting during post-concert cleanup.

Astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore face delayed ISS return due to technical issues on Boeing’s Starliner. NASA extends the mission to 90 days to diagnose problems, contrasting SpaceX’s success.

WORLD NEWS

Over 100 same-sex couples married in a group ceremony during Mexico City’s Pride Month celebrations. The event, featuring 147 couples, underscores their ongoing fight for equal rights and highlights Mexico City’s progressive stance.

Iranians vote in snap presidential elections. Hard-liner Saeed Jalili leads, followed by reformist Masoud Pezeshkian. Neither has over 50% of votes, potentially leading to a July 5 runoff. Four candidates vie post-Raisi’s fatal crash.

A powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck southern Peru, causing significant tremors but posing no tsunami risk. Authorities are assessing damage and potential casualties, while residents brace for aftershocks.

SPORTS

The NHL draft in Las Vegas was a spectacle with surprises like Beckett Sennecke going third and Celine Dion’s appearance. San Jose, Montreal, and Minnesota made standout picks; Philadelphia and Chicago had questionable choices.​

Prom photos of Jazz rookie Kyle Filipowski and Caitlin Hutchinson resurfaced amid concerns over their age difference and Filipowski’s family estrangement, reportedly influencing his slide to the second round in the NBA draft.

Atlanta traded Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans for Dyson Daniels, E.J. Liddell, Larry Nance Jr., and first-round picks in 2025 and 2027. This trade impacts the Western Conference, with New Orleans aiming to improve their standings. The Hawks will reset with Young and Risacher.

Bronny James will wear No. 9 in his rookie year with the Los Angeles Lakers. Drafted No. 55 overall, he joins his father, LeBron James, creating the first active father-son duo in NBA history. James, after a season at USC, begins his Lakers journey in the California Classic Summer League on July 6.

POP CULTURE

A judge has once again refused to dismiss the indictment against Alec Baldwin. The actor faces charges related to a fatal shooting on the set of the film “Rust.” The decision means the case will proceed in court.

Ben Affleck moved all his belongings out of the shared mansion with Jennifer Lopez while she was in Europe.

Dolly Parton humorously pretends not to know Ryan Reynolds while promoting “Welcome to Wrexham.” She recognizes Rob McElhenney, referencing his “It’s Always Sunny” character, in a playful video highlighting her Welsh ancestry.

BUSINESS

Nike shares fell 20%, erasing $28B in market value, after forecasting a 10% sales decline this quarter due to weaker sales in China. Fiscal 2025 sales are also expected to drop.

Trump Media stock surged and then tumbled following President Biden’s disastrous debate performance.

Warren Buffett, 93, will leave his wealth to a new charitable trust overseen by his three children, ending posthumous donations to the Gates Foundation. He trusts his children’s values for distribution.

Quote of the Day:

"To safeguard democracy the people must have a keen sense of independence, self-respect, and their oneness."

-Mohandas K. Gandhi

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