A report circulating this week claims that Walmart will begin selling marijuana in Colorado and Washington. Is this true or false?
The article is fake.
It comes from the “satirical” fake news website National Report. The story has been circulated and debated among internet users who were unaware that the story is not real. In the fake post we read:
This September, the world’s largest retailer may also become America’s biggest drug dealer, after Walmart revealed on Monday their plans to begin selling marijuana in stores in both Colorado and Washington State, where recreational marijuana has been legalized.
The realistic-sounding story cites a non-existent press release, with “quotes” from Walmart officials.
About National Report
National Report has a disclaimer which clearly states that the website produces satirical content. The disclaimer – which has been removed on at least one occasion – reads:
*DISCLAIMER: National Report is a news and political satire web publication, which may or may not use real names, often in semi-real or mostly fictitious ways. All news articles contained within National Report are fiction, and presumably fake news. Any resemblance to the truth is purely coincidental . The views expressed by writers on this site are theirs alone and are not reflective of the fine journalistic and editorial integrity of National Report. Advice given is NOT to be construed as professional. If you are in need of professional help (and you may be if you are on this page), please consult a professional. National Report is intended for a mature audience and not for children under the age of 18.
Even respected journalists have been fooled by fake news reports such as this. Earlier this month, Kirsten Powers tweeted another fake National Report article about the state of Kansas blocking the TV show Cosmos.
Bottom Line
Walmart did not announce plans to sell weed in Colorado and Washington. The report comes from a fake news website, and it is not corroborated by any reputable news organization.
Source: Walmart to Sell Marijuana in Colorado, Washington (National Report)