Trump picks Detroit cannabis entrepreneur as special envoy to Iraq

• Trump added that Savaya was a key part of his reelection campaign in Michigan, helping "secure a record vote with Muslim Americans."

State of play: Savaya's local Leaf & Bud cannabis dispensary chain includes locations in Detroit, Center Line and Hazel Park.

• Savaya of Birmingham was born in Iraq and is part of Metro Detroit's Chaldean-American business community, per the Detroit News, and was congratulated on his selection by the Chaldean Center of Chicago.

What they're saying: Savaya thanked Trump on his Instagram Sunday, writing that he's "deeply humbled, honored and grateful" and will work to strengthen the two countries' partnership.

• Many other posts on Savaya's page feature him speaking to or posing with the president.

Context: Senate confirmation is needed for special envoys if they exercise significant authority under federal law, according to the Free Press, but they can also serve temporarily without confirmation.

Between the lines: A Detroit City Council member called out Savaya last year over what she described as an oversaturation of cannabis advertisements — including Leaf & Bud's billboards, flying plane banners and digital truck ads, per Crain's.

• A Leaf & Bud attorney told Crain's the company designs its ads not to appeal to minors, which was a top concern.