In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen presents a compelling array of stories that showcase progress and innovation in the fight for democracy and social justice. We kick off with a landmark decision by the Democratic National Committee, which has taken a crucial step toward combating dark money in presidential primary elections. This unanimous resolution aims to create enforceable strategies to limit corporate spending, a significant win for campaign finance reform advocates.
Next, we turn our attention to Missouri, where a groundbreaking telehealth initiative is expanding access to forensic exams for sexual assault survivors at hospitals statewide. This innovative program ensures that compassionate support is readily available, empowering survivors while enhancing the collection of crucial forensic evidence.
We also discuss the potential pitfalls of Texas Republicans' newly approved congressional redistricting plan, which may inadvertently create competitive districts that could jeopardize their electoral prospects. This situation highlights the complexities and unintended consequences of partisan gerrymandering.
In a significant move for child welfare, Missouri has officially banned marriages under the age of 18, closing a loophole that allowed minors to marry with parental consent. This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the harmful impacts of child marriage, aiming to protect youth from premature adult commitments.
Listeners will appreciate a listener-suggested segment on the historic No Kings Day protests, which mobilized millions across the country in a powerful show of resistance against authoritarianism and harmful policies. This grassroots movement emphasizes the strength of collective action in shaping political discourse.
Lastly, we highlight Oregon's ambitious recycling reforms, which place the responsibility for packaging waste on companies and aim to create a more accessible recycling system for residents. This initiative not only targets waste reduction but also promotes environmental sustainability.
Join us for this episode filled with stories of hope, activism, and the belief that positive change is possible in America! If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
More about today's stories:
https://www.commondreams.org/news/dnc-dark-money-resolution
https://khqa.com/newsletter-daily/missouri-provides-more-support-for-hospitals-to-help-sexual-assault-victims-department-of-health-and-senior-services-womens-health-avenues-advocates-safevt-forensic-exams-telehealth-justice-for-survivors-act-rape-justice
https://www.rawstory.com/texas-redistricting-2673907393/
https://www.ky3.com/2025/09/22/missouri-closes-underage-marriage-loophole/
https://wagingnonviolence.org/2025/09/new-data-shows-no-kings-was-one-of-the-largest-days-of-protest-in-us-history/
https://www.dailykos.com/story/2025/9/20/2339393/-The-party-s-over-for-Elon-Musk
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Next, we turn our attention to Missouri, where a groundbreaking telehealth initiative is expanding access to forensic exams for sexual assault survivors at hospitals statewide. This innovative program ensures that compassionate support is readily available, empowering survivors while enhancing the collection of crucial forensic evidence.
We also discuss the potential pitfalls of Texas Republicans' newly approved congressional redistricting plan, which may inadvertently create competitive districts that could jeopardize their electoral prospects. This situation highlights the complexities and unintended consequences of partisan gerrymandering.
In a significant move for child welfare, Missouri has officially banned marriages under the age of 18, closing a loophole that allowed minors to marry with parental consent. This legislation reflects a growing recognition of the harmful impacts of child marriage, aiming to protect youth from premature adult commitments.
Listeners will appreciate a listener-suggested segment on the historic No Kings Day protests, which mobilized millions across the country in a powerful show of resistance against authoritarianism and harmful policies. This grassroots movement emphasizes the strength of collective action in shaping political discourse.
Lastly, we highlight Oregon's ambitious recycling reforms, which place the responsibility for packaging waste on companies and aim to create a more accessible recycling system for residents. This initiative not only targets waste reduction but also promotes environmental sustainability.
Join us for this episode filled with stories of hope, activism, and the belief that positive change is possible in America! If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
More about today's stories:
https://www.commondreams.org/news/dnc-dark-money-resolution
https://khqa.com/newsletter-daily/missouri-provides-more-support-for-hospitals-to-help-sexual-assault-victims-department-of-health-and-senior-services-womens-health-avenues-advocates-safevt-forensic-exams-telehealth-justice-for-survivors-act-rape-justice
https://www.rawstory.com/texas-redistricting-2673907393/
https://www.ky3.com/2025/09/22/missouri-closes-underage-marriage-loophole/
https://wagingnonviolence.org/2025/09/new-data-shows-no-kings-was-one-of-the-largest-days-of-protest-in-us-history/
https://www.dailykos.com/story/2025/9/20/2339393/-The-party-s-over-for-Elon-Musk
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Beowulf Frocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:26):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us. I know
they do me, and I'm sure if you follow events
like I do, you'll read or hear about them today.
All the bad news makes it easy to lose sight
of hope, and that's exactly why it's vital to highlight
(00:47):
the positive progressive wins happening every day in the United
States of America. To help us spread the positivity. If
you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on
Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast platform of choice. It
helps more lefties like you hear more good news stories
and stay positive and motivated for the days ahead. Now,
(01:10):
let's get to some good news headlines designed to brighten
your day. After a decade of persistent advocacy by progressives,
the Democratic National Committee has taken a step toward curbing
the corrosive influence of dark money in presidential primary elections.
The DNC Resolutions Panel unanimously approved a measure introduced by
(01:33):
Chair Ken Martin aimed at creating enforceable strategies to eliminate
unlimited corporate and dark money spending in the twenty twenty
eight presidential primary process. This marks a significant break from
past reluctance to even allow a vote on limiting dark money.
Larry Cohen, a longtime campaign finance reform advocate and board
(01:54):
member of Our Revolution, ailed the move as a victory
decades in the making. He explained that unchecked corporate spending
and funds from shadowy groups have repeatedly undermined progressive candidates,
citing out millions of dollars from political action committees like
APEX United Democracy Project helped defeat key Progressive Democrats such
(02:18):
as Jamal Bowman and Corey Bush during recent primaries. The
resolution embodies a clear intent by the party leadership to
finally tackle these damaging forces head on. Although the measure
is currently a resolution of intent rather than a binding
policy shift, it signals a renewed commitment to change as
part of its roadmap. The DNC will establish a dedicated
(02:41):
committee next year, tasked with producing specific, actionable recommendations by
twenty twenty six. Proposed solutions include candidates signing the People's
Pledge to offset outside spending and broader legislative reforms aimed
at reclaiming the democratic process from the strength hold of
hidden money. Advocacy leaders are hopeful that this initiative will
(03:03):
strengthen grassroots voices and level the playing field for fair competition.
Despite these promising developments, challenges remain as corporate and wealthy
interests continue to funnel unprecedented sums into elections, exploiting Supreme
Court rulings like Citizens United to Buy Influence. Progressives are
(03:24):
urging elected officials at all levels to adopt rules that
limit these toxic funds and calling on the DNC to
follow through on its promises with real, enforceable actions that
will transform the electoral landscape ahead of the twenty twenty
eight presidential cycle. This historic resolution is a hopeful turning
point for those committed to a transparent and equitable democratic process.
(03:49):
This is a first step. DNC, keep going. This needs
to happen if you want to win. Missouri has launched
a roundbreaking program to expand access to forensic exams for
sexual assault survivors at hospitals statewide, ensuring compassionate support is
(04:10):
always available no matter where survivors seek care. The Sexual
Assault Forensic Exams via Telehealth Network connects bedside nurses with
trained forensic nurses via twenty four to seven telehealth, guiding
them step by step through exams to provide proficient, trauma
informed care. This initiative, in the wake of the twenty
(04:33):
twenty Justice for Survivors Act, makes Missouri the first state
to mandate access to telehealth forensic exam services in all hospitals. Previously,
many survivors faced barriers such as traveling long distances to
find a hospital with trained forensic nurses, a hurdle that
(04:55):
discouraged some from pursuing exams and justice. Kelly Hendrick, as
an outreach coordinator, emphasized how important it is to eliminate
these obstacles so survivors feel supported and empowered, rather than
abandoned or silenced. The new telehealth network respects survivors privacy,
giving them full control over the process, including the choice
(05:18):
to appear on camera during the exam. State officials exect
the program to have a lasting impact, not only improving
the quality of care, but also increasing the collection of
crucial forensic evidence, leading to more successful prosecutions and stronger
community safety. Sarah Erhard Read, Chief of Women's Health, that
(05:39):
the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services expressed the
hope that this innovation would hold more offenders accountable and
ultimately make Missouri communities safer. Alongside the telehealth service, community
advocates are continuing outreach, counseling, and legal support for survivors,
(06:00):
affirming that healing is ongoing and multi dimensional. Even with
some local shelter closures, these advocates remain committed to standing
with survivors every step of the way. Missouri's program sets
an example of how innovation, legislation, and advocacy can work
together to ensure justice and care for victims of sexual violence.
(06:25):
Before we get back to the news, I want to
tell you about an important podcast called This Week Again,
hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a humorous look at
politics and current events one week at a time. It's
a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast that drops every
Sunday and in my opinion is the largest single repository
(06:48):
of creatively insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini and
Orange Julius Caesar are just the beginning. So if you
want to recap of the week and you want a
laugh into the bargain, listen to This Week Again with
Suzanne Posel on this platform or wherever you listen to podcasts.
That's This Week Again with Suzanne Posel, s U S
(07:10):
A n N E pose e L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat.
Texas republicans newly approved congressional redistricting plan has sparked significant
concerns within GOP circles about the potential risks it poses
to their twenty twenty six electoral prospects. While the map
(07:34):
was designed to secure five additional House seats by reshaping
districts in their favor, some Republican lawmakers and political analysts
now worry the plan may have unintended consequences by creating
a larger number of competitive districts than anticipated instead of
solidifying safe seats. The map's mix of dark and light
(07:57):
red districts threatens to make up to ten districts competitive,
potentially putting Republican control at greater risk if political wins shift.
This uncertainty has led to buyer's remorse among some Republican insiders,
who fear the aggressive gerrymandering may backfire. The creation of
(08:19):
districts that are not overwhelmingly Republican could expose incumbents to
harder primary challenges and competitive general elections, complicating the party's
efforts to maintain a congressional majority. The tense political atmosphere
and fierce partisan battles around redistricting, including the Democratic walkout
(08:39):
and Republican's unprecedented use of civil arrest warrants to force
lawmakers back, highlight the stakes and deep divisions the map
has ignited. Legal challenges are certain to follow, as civil
rights organizations accuse the state of engaging in racial jerymandering
designed to dilute the voter strength of black and Latino communities.
(09:03):
Critics argue the map undermines the principles of fair representation
and compliance with the Voting Rights Act, with Democrats promising
to fight in court to protect minority voters. These challenges
could further complicate the political landscape ahead of the midterms.
The raised concerns underscore the complexity and potential unintended fallout
(09:27):
of partisan redistricting efforts. What was intended as a political
win may prove a double edged sword, introducing instability and
unpredictability for Republicans in what is already expected to be
a politically volatile midterm cycle. The evolving situation in Texas
reflects broader national battles over redistricting and electoral fairness, with
(09:50):
both parties preparing strategies for an increasingly combative redistricting arms race.
Missouri has taken a major step forward in protecting children
by closing the loophole that allowed miners to marry with
parental consent, effectively banning all marriages under the age of
eighteen starting this month. Previously, Missouri law permitted sixteen and
(10:16):
seventeen year olds to marry if their parents approved and
their spouse was under twenty one. This change aligns Missouri
with fifteen other states that have eliminated underage marriage, recognizing
the lifelong harm such unions can cause. The legislation, championed
by former state Senator Holly Thompson Raider, who herself was
(10:37):
married at fifteen to escape an abusive household, reflects deep
concern over the vulnerabilities of children forced or pushed into
adult commitments before they are ready. Research cited during the
bill's passage shows that child marriages are correlated with higher
dropout rates, lower college completion, increased poverty, and elevated risk
(10:59):
of domestic violence. Raider emphasized that children are not mature
enough to make such life altering decisions, and the law
offers essential protections for their futures. The bill passed with
bipartisan support and little opposition, a testament to growing awareness
the child marriage is a harmful practice inconsistent with protecting
(11:20):
youth welfare. It also closes the dangerous gaps and previous
laws that allowed early marriage, even with minimal judicial oversight.
The move is part of a broader national shift to
end child marriage as a human rights abuse. By banning
marriage before eighteen without exception, Missouri is safeguarding young people
from coercion, premature loss of childhood, and legal entrapments that
(11:45):
have historically trapped thousands, especially girls, in abusive and life
disrupting marriages. This landmark law echoes a clear message every
child deserves the right to grow up free from forced
adult responsibilities and to make their own choices as adults.
Up next, a listener suggested story back in a minute,
(12:10):
and now A listener suggested story from Kevin in Albuquerque,
New Mexico. No King's Day, held on June fourteenth, twenty
twenty five, stands out as one of the largest single
days of protest in US history, and was likely the
second largest demonstration since Donald Trump first took office in
twenty seventeen. Data compiled by the Crowd Counting Consortium estimated
(12:34):
that between two and four point eight million people participated
nationwide in over two thousand, one hundred and fifty events,
with total attendance possibly reaching four to six million, roughly
one point two to one point eight percent of the
US population. The protests spanned an extraordinary geographic range, with
(12:57):
events occurring in large cities, small town and virtually every
corner of the country, reflecting widespread and sustained opposition to
the Trump administration's policies. No Kings Day's scale rivals the
twenty seventeen Women's March, which drew between three point two
and five point three million protesters across six hundred fifty locations,
(13:20):
but No Kings was held in more than triple the
number of locations. This expansive dispersal of actions indicates a
grassroots movement that has grown in both reach and intensity
since earlier protests against Trump. Participants ranged widely from young
activists to elders making their first appearance at a protest,
(13:42):
all united and rejecting authoritarianism, family separation policies, and other
administration policies perceived as harmful to democracy and marginalized communities.
The protests provided not only a visible rebuke of Trump's
second term, but also a platform for org organizers and
activists to help build durable political networks. In cities like Durango, Colorado,
(14:06):
action tables were set up to help protesters engage beyond
the streets, encouraging writings, lawmakers, and other forms of civic participation.
Despite concerns about threats of violence and isolated incidents, these
protests remained overwhelmingly peaceful, showcasing the power of mass mobilization
driven by a commitment to justice and democratic values. Ultimately,
(14:30):
No King's Day is a landmark moment in contemporary US activism,
a vibrant reminder of the resilience and scope of opposition
movements that continue to challenge authoritarian tendencies. Its scale and
sustained energy underscore the critical role of public protest and
shaping political discourse and pushing for meaningful change. Thanks so
(14:53):
much for that story, Kevin. If you have thoughts, ideas,
or more good news to share, we'd love to hear
from you. Call or message us at two zero two
six five six six two seven to one, drop us
a line at Beowulf at two squared Media Productions dot com,
or send it to us at good News for Lefties
on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. Elon. Musk has put
(15:18):
his plans to launch the America Party on hold, shifting
his focus back to his struggling business ventures and political alliances.
According to multiple reports and sources close to the Tesla CEO,
despite being enthusiastic about creating a third political force earlier
in the year, Musk has expressed concern that forming a
(15:41):
new party could alienate key Republican figures he seeks to
maintain relationships with, so you know, commerce comes first. Apparently.
Musk's sudden change in direction marks a significant retreat from
his July claims that the America Party would contest several
congressions races and disrupt the entrenched two party system. Polling
(16:03):
data has consistently shown little popular support for the new party,
with most voters favoring the Democrats or Republicans and a
mere fraction indicating any enthusiasm for Musk's venture. Further complicating
the effort, Musk's team has yet to establish the necessary infrastructure,
such as securing ballot access in key states or building
(16:23):
a campaign organization, with some planned organizational meetings reportedly canceled.
While Musk is not completely ruled out reviving the America
Party effort, the general consensus among political observers is that
the initiative faces steep challenges and is unlikely to gain
significant traction. For now, Musk appears to be recalibrating his
(16:44):
political ambitions and waiting to see how the twenty twenty
six mid terms unfold before making a final decision on
re entering the political arena with a new party. And
that's it for today's edition of Good News for Lefties.
Remember if these stories in your outlook, please help us
spread the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
(17:07):
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team, Rosabel Heine and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm bailable Frockland,
weird name good news for lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (17:41):
Are you tired of the same old, boring political chatter.
Are you craving some smart, insightful, and hilarious takes on
the day's news, Then get ready for America's original sexy liberals,
Stephanie Miller. She's now delivering her signature blend of politics
and pop culture five days a week in podcast form.
Speaker 3 (17:56):
Dive into the day's headlines with Stephanie Miller Out of
the Gate an unwarned with hilarious conversations on Stephanie Miller's
Happy Hour podcast. Don't miss a single laugh or incredible moment.
Subscribe to Stephanie Miller Out of the Gate and Stephanie
Miller's Happy Hour podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stephanie Miller dot com,
or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (18:15):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
Oregon has launched one of the country's most ambitious recycling reforms,
putting the responsibility for packaging waste back onto companies and
creating a simpler, more accessible system for residents across the state.
(18:35):
Just one month into the new Plastic Pollution and Recycling
Modernization Act Oregon is already laying the groundwork for uniform
curbside recycling, new collection sites, and major infrastructure upgrades that
will make recycling easier for families and more resilient statewide.
At the heart of the law is extended producer responsibility,
(18:57):
requiring corporations that profit from packaging to help fund the
collection and reuse of those materials. The program is expected
to channel more than one hundred eighty five million dollars
into recycling upgrades, supporting material recovery facilities and insulating local
systems from the volatile ups and downs of global recycling markets.
(19:19):
By twenty twenty seven, every Oregon household from Portland to
the most rural towns will be able to recycle the
same set of materials with consistent access. For communities that
previously had no curbside programs, such as Pendleton, this change
is transformative. The rollout will bring one hundred new recycling trucks,
(19:41):
one hundred fifty thousand household carts, and one hundred forty
expanded drop off points statewide. Advocates say these investments will
not only reduce waste, but also help cut greenhouse gas emissions,
while bringing Oregon closer to a circular economy where materials
are recycled and rep purposed instead of ending up in landfills.
(20:03):
Even with legal challenges from national industry groups, Oregon remains
committed to pushing forward. Environmental leaders frame the new law
as a model for other states, with California and Minnesota
already following Oregon's lead. For Oregonians, the shift represents a
tangible step towards a cleaner, farer system, one where the
(20:25):
burden no longer falls solely on households and where recycling
becomes a shared responsibility for everyone, shaping the products we use.
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Beowulf Frocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists,
(00:26):
and anyone who believes in making America a better place
for everyone. Today's troubling headlines often overwhelm us. I know
they do me, and I'm sure if you follow events
like I do, you'll read or hear about them today.
All the bad news makes it easy to lose sight
of hope, and that's exactly why it's vital to highlight
(00:47):
the positive progressive wins happening every day in the United
States of America. To help us spread the positivity. If
you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on
Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast platform of choice. It
helps more lefties like you hear more good news stories
and stay positive and motivated for the days ahead. Now,
(01:10):
let's get to some good news headlines designed to brighten
your day. After a decade of persistent advocacy by progressives,
the Democratic National Committee has taken a step toward curbing
the corrosive influence of dark money in presidential primary elections.
The DNC Resolutions Panel unanimously approved a measure introduced by
(01:33):
Chair Ken Martin aimed at creating enforceable strategies to eliminate
unlimited corporate and dark money spending in the twenty twenty
eight presidential primary process. This marks a significant break from
past reluctance to even allow a vote on limiting dark money.
Larry Cohen, a longtime campaign finance reform advocate and board
(01:54):
member of Our Revolution, ailed the move as a victory
decades in the making. He explained that unchecked corporate spending
and funds from shadowy groups have repeatedly undermined progressive candidates,
citing out millions of dollars from political action committees like
APEX United Democracy Project helped defeat key Progressive Democrats such
(02:18):
as Jamal Bowman and Corey Bush during recent primaries. The
resolution embodies a clear intent by the party leadership to
finally tackle these damaging forces head on. Although the measure
is currently a resolution of intent rather than a binding
policy shift, it signals a renewed commitment to change as
part of its roadmap. The DNC will establish a dedicated
(02:41):
committee next year, tasked with producing specific, actionable recommendations by
twenty twenty six. Proposed solutions include candidates signing the People's
Pledge to offset outside spending and broader legislative reforms aimed
at reclaiming the democratic process from the strength hold of
hidden money. Advocacy leaders are hopeful that this initiative will
(03:03):
strengthen grassroots voices and level the playing field for fair competition.
Despite these promising developments, challenges remain as corporate and wealthy
interests continue to funnel unprecedented sums into elections, exploiting Supreme
Court rulings like Citizens United to Buy Influence. Progressives are
(03:24):
urging elected officials at all levels to adopt rules that
limit these toxic funds and calling on the DNC to
follow through on its promises with real, enforceable actions that
will transform the electoral landscape ahead of the twenty twenty
eight presidential cycle. This historic resolution is a hopeful turning
point for those committed to a transparent and equitable democratic process.
(03:49):
This is a first step. DNC, keep going. This needs
to happen if you want to win. Missouri has launched
a roundbreaking program to expand access to forensic exams for
sexual assault survivors at hospitals statewide, ensuring compassionate support is
(04:10):
always available no matter where survivors seek care. The Sexual
Assault Forensic Exams via Telehealth Network connects bedside nurses with
trained forensic nurses via twenty four to seven telehealth, guiding
them step by step through exams to provide proficient, trauma
informed care. This initiative, in the wake of the twenty
(04:33):
twenty Justice for Survivors Act, makes Missouri the first state
to mandate access to telehealth forensic exam services in all hospitals. Previously,
many survivors faced barriers such as traveling long distances to
find a hospital with trained forensic nurses, a hurdle that
(04:55):
discouraged some from pursuing exams and justice. Kelly Hendrick, as
an outreach coordinator, emphasized how important it is to eliminate
these obstacles so survivors feel supported and empowered, rather than
abandoned or silenced. The new telehealth network respects survivors privacy,
giving them full control over the process, including the choice
(05:18):
to appear on camera during the exam. State officials exect
the program to have a lasting impact, not only improving
the quality of care, but also increasing the collection of
crucial forensic evidence, leading to more successful prosecutions and stronger
community safety. Sarah Erhard Read, Chief of Women's Health, that
(05:39):
the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services expressed the
hope that this innovation would hold more offenders accountable and
ultimately make Missouri communities safer. Alongside the telehealth service, community
advocates are continuing outreach, counseling, and legal support for survivors,
(06:00):
affirming that healing is ongoing and multi dimensional. Even with
some local shelter closures, these advocates remain committed to standing
with survivors every step of the way. Missouri's program sets
an example of how innovation, legislation, and advocacy can work
together to ensure justice and care for victims of sexual violence.
(06:25):
Before we get back to the news, I want to
tell you about an important podcast called This Week Again,
hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a humorous look at
politics and current events one week at a time. It's
a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast that drops every
Sunday and in my opinion is the largest single repository
(06:48):
of creatively insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini and
Orange Julius Caesar are just the beginning. So if you
want to recap of the week and you want a
laugh into the bargain, listen to This Week Again with
Suzanne Posel on this platform or wherever you listen to podcasts.
That's This Week Again with Suzanne Posel, s U S
(07:10):
A n N E pose e L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat.
Texas republicans newly approved congressional redistricting plan has sparked significant
concerns within GOP circles about the potential risks it poses
to their twenty twenty six electoral prospects. While the map
(07:34):
was designed to secure five additional House seats by reshaping
districts in their favor, some Republican lawmakers and political analysts
now worry the plan may have unintended consequences by creating
a larger number of competitive districts than anticipated instead of
solidifying safe seats. The map's mix of dark and light
(07:57):
red districts threatens to make up to ten districts competitive,
potentially putting Republican control at greater risk if political wins shift.
This uncertainty has led to buyer's remorse among some Republican insiders,
who fear the aggressive gerrymandering may backfire. The creation of
(08:19):
districts that are not overwhelmingly Republican could expose incumbents to
harder primary challenges and competitive general elections, complicating the party's
efforts to maintain a congressional majority. The tense political atmosphere
and fierce partisan battles around redistricting, including the Democratic walkout
(08:39):
and Republican's unprecedented use of civil arrest warrants to force
lawmakers back, highlight the stakes and deep divisions the map
has ignited. Legal challenges are certain to follow, as civil
rights organizations accuse the state of engaging in racial jerymandering
designed to dilute the voter strength of black and Latino communities.
(09:03):
Critics argue the map undermines the principles of fair representation
and compliance with the Voting Rights Act, with Democrats promising
to fight in court to protect minority voters. These challenges
could further complicate the political landscape ahead of the midterms.
The raised concerns underscore the complexity and potential unintended fallout
(09:27):
of partisan redistricting efforts. What was intended as a political
win may prove a double edged sword, introducing instability and
unpredictability for Republicans in what is already expected to be
a politically volatile midterm cycle. The evolving situation in Texas
reflects broader national battles over redistricting and electoral fairness, with
(09:50):
both parties preparing strategies for an increasingly combative redistricting arms race.
Missouri has taken a major step forward in protecting children
by closing the loophole that allowed miners to marry with
parental consent, effectively banning all marriages under the age of
eighteen starting this month. Previously, Missouri law permitted sixteen and
(10:16):
seventeen year olds to marry if their parents approved and
their spouse was under twenty one. This change aligns Missouri
with fifteen other states that have eliminated underage marriage, recognizing
the lifelong harm such unions can cause. The legislation, championed
by former state Senator Holly Thompson Raider, who herself was
(10:37):
married at fifteen to escape an abusive household, reflects deep
concern over the vulnerabilities of children forced or pushed into
adult commitments before they are ready. Research cited during the
bill's passage shows that child marriages are correlated with higher
dropout rates, lower college completion, increased poverty, and elevated risk
(10:59):
of domestic violence. Raider emphasized that children are not mature
enough to make such life altering decisions, and the law
offers essential protections for their futures. The bill passed with
bipartisan support and little opposition, a testament to growing awareness
the child marriage is a harmful practice inconsistent with protecting
(11:20):
youth welfare. It also closes the dangerous gaps and previous
laws that allowed early marriage, even with minimal judicial oversight.
The move is part of a broader national shift to
end child marriage as a human rights abuse. By banning
marriage before eighteen without exception, Missouri is safeguarding young people
from coercion, premature loss of childhood, and legal entrapments that
(11:45):
have historically trapped thousands, especially girls, in abusive and life
disrupting marriages. This landmark law echoes a clear message every
child deserves the right to grow up free from forced
adult responsibilities and to make their own choices as adults.
Up next, a listener suggested story back in a minute,
(12:10):
and now A listener suggested story from Kevin in Albuquerque,
New Mexico. No King's Day, held on June fourteenth, twenty
twenty five, stands out as one of the largest single
days of protest in US history, and was likely the
second largest demonstration since Donald Trump first took office in
twenty seventeen. Data compiled by the Crowd Counting Consortium estimated
(12:34):
that between two and four point eight million people participated
nationwide in over two thousand, one hundred and fifty events,
with total attendance possibly reaching four to six million, roughly
one point two to one point eight percent of the
US population. The protests spanned an extraordinary geographic range, with
(12:57):
events occurring in large cities, small town and virtually every
corner of the country, reflecting widespread and sustained opposition to
the Trump administration's policies. No Kings Day's scale rivals the
twenty seventeen Women's March, which drew between three point two
and five point three million protesters across six hundred fifty locations,
(13:20):
but No Kings was held in more than triple the
number of locations. This expansive dispersal of actions indicates a
grassroots movement that has grown in both reach and intensity
since earlier protests against Trump. Participants ranged widely from young
activists to elders making their first appearance at a protest,
(13:42):
all united and rejecting authoritarianism, family separation policies, and other
administration policies perceived as harmful to democracy and marginalized communities.
The protests provided not only a visible rebuke of Trump's
second term, but also a platform for org organizers and
activists to help build durable political networks. In cities like Durango, Colorado,
(14:06):
action tables were set up to help protesters engage beyond
the streets, encouraging writings, lawmakers, and other forms of civic participation.
Despite concerns about threats of violence and isolated incidents, these
protests remained overwhelmingly peaceful, showcasing the power of mass mobilization
driven by a commitment to justice and democratic values. Ultimately,
(14:30):
No King's Day is a landmark moment in contemporary US activism,
a vibrant reminder of the resilience and scope of opposition
movements that continue to challenge authoritarian tendencies. Its scale and
sustained energy underscore the critical role of public protest and
shaping political discourse and pushing for meaningful change. Thanks so
(14:53):
much for that story, Kevin. If you have thoughts, ideas,
or more good news to share, we'd love to hear
from you. Call or message us at two zero two
six five six six two seven to one, drop us
a line at Beowulf at two squared Media Productions dot com,
or send it to us at good News for Lefties
on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. Elon. Musk has put
(15:18):
his plans to launch the America Party on hold, shifting
his focus back to his struggling business ventures and political alliances.
According to multiple reports and sources close to the Tesla CEO,
despite being enthusiastic about creating a third political force earlier
in the year, Musk has expressed concern that forming a
(15:41):
new party could alienate key Republican figures he seeks to
maintain relationships with, so you know, commerce comes first. Apparently.
Musk's sudden change in direction marks a significant retreat from
his July claims that the America Party would contest several
congressions races and disrupt the entrenched two party system. Polling
(16:03):
data has consistently shown little popular support for the new party,
with most voters favoring the Democrats or Republicans and a
mere fraction indicating any enthusiasm for Musk's venture. Further complicating
the effort, Musk's team has yet to establish the necessary infrastructure,
such as securing ballot access in key states or building
(16:23):
a campaign organization, with some planned organizational meetings reportedly canceled.
While Musk is not completely ruled out reviving the America
Party effort, the general consensus among political observers is that
the initiative faces steep challenges and is unlikely to gain
significant traction. For now, Musk appears to be recalibrating his
(16:44):
political ambitions and waiting to see how the twenty twenty
six mid terms unfold before making a final decision on
re entering the political arena with a new party. And
that's it for today's edition of Good News for Lefties.
Remember if these stories in your outlook, please help us
spread the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
(17:07):
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team, Rosabel Heine and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm bailable Frockland,
weird name good news for lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (17:41):
Are you tired of the same old, boring political chatter.
Are you craving some smart, insightful, and hilarious takes on
the day's news, Then get ready for America's original sexy liberals,
Stephanie Miller. She's now delivering her signature blend of politics
and pop culture five days a week in podcast form.
Speaker 3 (17:56):
Dive into the day's headlines with Stephanie Miller Out of
the Gate an unwarned with hilarious conversations on Stephanie Miller's
Happy Hour podcast. Don't miss a single laugh or incredible moment.
Subscribe to Stephanie Miller Out of the Gate and Stephanie
Miller's Happy Hour podcast on Apple Podcasts, Stephanie Miller dot com,
or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (18:15):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
Oregon has launched one of the country's most ambitious recycling reforms,
putting the responsibility for packaging waste back onto companies and
creating a simpler, more accessible system for residents across the state.
(18:35):
Just one month into the new Plastic Pollution and Recycling
Modernization Act Oregon is already laying the groundwork for uniform
curbside recycling, new collection sites, and major infrastructure upgrades that
will make recycling easier for families and more resilient statewide.
At the heart of the law is extended producer responsibility,
(18:57):
requiring corporations that profit from packaging to help fund the
collection and reuse of those materials. The program is expected
to channel more than one hundred eighty five million dollars
into recycling upgrades, supporting material recovery facilities and insulating local
systems from the volatile ups and downs of global recycling markets.
(19:19):
By twenty twenty seven, every Oregon household from Portland to
the most rural towns will be able to recycle the
same set of materials with consistent access. For communities that
previously had no curbside programs, such as Pendleton, this change
is transformative. The rollout will bring one hundred new recycling trucks,
(19:41):
one hundred fifty thousand household carts, and one hundred forty
expanded drop off points statewide. Advocates say these investments will
not only reduce waste, but also help cut greenhouse gas emissions,
while bringing Oregon closer to a circular economy where materials
are recycled and rep purposed instead of ending up in landfills.
(20:03):
Even with legal challenges from national industry groups, Oregon remains
committed to pushing forward. Environmental leaders frame the new law
as a model for other states, with California and Minnesota
already following Oregon's lead. For Oregonians, the shift represents a
tangible step towards a cleaner, farer system, one where the
(20:25):
burden no longer falls solely on households and where recycling
becomes a shared responsibility for everyone, shaping the products we use.
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