August 3, 2025 • 24 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen showcases a series of uplifting stories that remind us of the positive strides being made across America.
Join us for this inspiring episode filled with stories of progress, community action, and the belief that change is possible and happening every day across 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 good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.
Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Join us for this inspiring episode filled with stories of progress, community action, and the belief that change is possible and happening every day across 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 good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.
Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-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 and bea
well frockling your host, and I'm ready to help you
swap out doom and gloom for some actual hope with
uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and
(00:30):
anyone who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It's no secret that these are challenging times. Immigrants and
citizens are being disappeared off our streets, some of our
most renowned educational and media institutions are bending the need
to Donald Trump, and the wholesale destruction of critical government
(00:51):
agencies is taking place day by day. Today's headlines often
overwhelm us with troubling news, making it all too easy
to lose sight of hope. And that's exactly why it's
vital to highlight the positive, real world progress that's happening
every day. Progress the too often gets drown out by
the negativity. Despite the setbacks, there is genuine movement toward
(01:16):
a better America. So let these stories serve as a
reminder that change is not just possible, it's happening. Carry
this hope with you and share it with others. Let's
kick off with some good news headlines designed to brighten
your day. Connecticut is blazing a trail toward affordable healthcare
(01:38):
with a sleeping set of new laws designed to bring
down prescription drug prices for both residents and hospitals. Responding
to community concerns over skyrocketing costs, lawmakers have prioritized pocketbook
issues and delivered a progressive policy package that puts the
health and financial wellbeing of eticut families at the forefront.
(02:02):
Among the changes, the state is now capping price increases
for many generic and off patent drugs to match inflation,
a move that curbs unfair price hikes and targets medications
used by thousands daily. Out of pocket prescription drug purchases
made with discount cards such as good Rx or array
(02:23):
Rx can now count towards insurance deductibles, making it easier
for families to stay healthy without sacrificing their budgets. The
state is also ramping up transparency by demanding strict regulation
of pharmacy benefit managers, long blamed by advocates for inflating
prices behind the scenes. Connecticut is also setting its sight
(02:46):
on broader innovation by exploring the importation of safe, lower
priced medications from Canada, an initiative that could pay the
way for substantial savings if given federal approval. At the
same time time, new task forces will ensure drug shortages
are addressed as part of the state's emergency preparedness, further
(03:07):
securing residents' access to life saving treatments. What sets these
reforms apart is their focus on collaboration and real world impact.
By expanding both purchasing and considering direct nonprofit drug manufacturing,
Connecticut positions itself as a national leader in the fight
for healthcare affordability. The state's energetic, data driven approach, embodied
(03:30):
in efforts like the Healthcare Benchmarks initiative, ensures future decisions
will be guided by transparency and impact for all, including
the many residents who have struggled for years to afford
their medications. With these measures, connecticuts lawmakers are showing that
forward thinking policies can deliver real, measurable relief to everyday people.
(03:54):
Senator Bernie Sanders is bringing his high energy Fighting Oligarchy
Tour to West Virginia and North Carolina this weekend, meeting
voters face to face in district's hardest hit by recent
sweeping cuts to healthcare and food assistants under President Trump's
policy agenda. The tour, which has already gathered crowds of
tens of thousands and inspired millions online, lands in several
(04:18):
West Virginia towns on Friday and Saturday, before heading to
Greensboro in Asheville, North Carolina on Sunday. These latest stops
come as Sanders continues a nationwide push urging Americans across
the political spectrum to unite against what he calls the
growing domination of billionaires and large corporations over national life.
At rallies described as packed and passionate, Sanders will deliver
(04:41):
his progressive message America needs living wage jobs, Medicare for all,
and an end to a corrupt campaign finance system that
lets wealthy special interests buy politicians. Local musicians and progressive
leaders are expected to join him on stage. Continuing the
movement tradition of blending activism with community spirit, the Senator
(05:04):
has drawn support far beyond the traditional Democratic base. More
than two thirds of RSVP'd attendees are new to his network,
and a third or not registered Democrats. That's evidence of
growing discontent with both major parties and the status quo.
Sanders tour directly challenges Republican lawmakers in districts where the
(05:27):
One Big Beautiful Bill was passed, legislation that analysts predict
will take health care and food security away from hundreds
of thousands while expanding tax breaks for the ultra wealthy.
He's calling on the public to mobilize and defeat every
member of Congress who voted for the bill, while uplifting
new progressive voices. Over seven thousand people recruited to run
(05:51):
for office, with half as independents. As Sanders takes the
stage in Ashville's Thomas Wolfe Auditorium this Sunday, is message
remains clear. The fight against oligarchy is a cross partisan
struggle and together, working people can reclaim American democracy from
the grip of corporate and billionaire power. With communities in
(06:15):
West Virginia and North Carolina rallying to his call, the
weekend promises to be a powerful chapter in a growing
people powered movement. New Jersey lawmakers are taking steps to
alleviate the impact of a sharp twenty percent surge in
electricity prices hitting customers starting June first, Recognizing the strain
(06:37):
this increased places on families already facing rising costs. In
many areas, progressive legislators are advancing a thoughtful package of
bills aimed at putting money back into consumers pockets while
ensuring accountability from utility companies. This approach shows a strong
commitment to energy justice and affordability for all New Jersey residents.
(07:00):
Measures under consideration include changing how the Board of Public
Utilities sets profit margins for utilities by requiring the lowest
reasonable return on equity, a move that could reduce the
costs passed on to customers. Additionally, lawmakers want utilities to
return any excess profits directly to ratepayers through credits or
(07:21):
direct payments, especially helping those who are behind on bills
or enrolled in assistance programs. This reflects a clear priority
to predict lower and moderate income households and offer real
practical relief. The package also calls for enhancing oversight through
new training requirements for regulators and launching dedicated studies to
(07:43):
how rapidly expanding data centers are affecting electricity demand and pricing,
With data centers accounting for a significant portion of the
increased load on the grid, Understanding their impact is key
to crafting equitable and sustainable solutions. Lawmakers stress that no
single fix will solve the challenge, but coordinated incremental action
(08:04):
can start bending the curve on rising costs. In the
face of looming federal cuts to vital energy assistance programs
for low income families, New Jersey's legislative leaders underscore the
urgency of their work delivering immediate relief along with structural reforms.
Their working to ensure New Jersey's energy future is affordable, fair,
(08:25):
and resilient. This moment offers hope for communities burdened by
rising utility bills and sets a path forward for energy democracy.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is intensifying efforts to counter Texas
Republicans push to redraw congressional district's mid decade, aiming to
(08:46):
secure more Republican seats ahead of the twenty twenty six midterms.
This weekend, Newsomb met in Sacramento with six Texas Democratic
state representatives to strategize opposition to what they describe as
a power grab orchestrated by Donald Trump and Texas GOP leaders.
Newsom emphasized that Democrats cannot stand by as Republicans reshape
(09:07):
election maps to entrance their power, calling the moment an
existential threat to American democracy, California lawmakers are considering moves,
including potentially reclaiming redistricting authority from the state's Independent Citizens
Redistricting Commission, a body voters established in twenty eight to
curb partisan jerrymandering. Newsomb indicated the legislature might pursue a
(09:31):
constitutional amendment or even a special election to redraw California's
congressional maps mid decade, aiming to increase democratic representation and
counteract Republican jerrymandering in states like Texas, This would mark
a significant shift from California's decade long tradition of independent redistricting.
The GOP map in Texas, pushed under Trump's urging, seeks
(09:54):
to add up to five congressional districts favoring Republicans, a
move Texas Democrat and national progressives condemned for diluting the
power of black, Latino and other communities of color. Texas
Democrats vow to use every tool to fight these redistricting efforts,
including federal lawsuits that already challenged Texas's maps on the
(10:14):
grounds of voter discrimination. Newsom's shows support through direct collaboration
with Texas lawmakers signals a growing willingness by prominent Democrats
to meet GOP hardball tactics with equally bold responses. As
this high stakes redistricting battle unfolds. Governor Newsom and allied
Democrats nationwide stress that democracy depends on fair maps that
(10:37):
reflect community's true voices, not partisan power grabs. California House Democrats,
including leaders like Nancy Pelosi, backing for measures to thwart
Republican gerrymandering efforts. With the midterm elections looming, this fight
over district lines has become a defining front in the
battle to preserve voting rights and ensure political representation for
(10:59):
all Americans. Up next, a listener suggested story back in
a minute, and now, a listener suggested story from Eric
in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. Minnesota's Secretary of State office has
firmly rejected the US Department of Justice's request to hand
over the state's voter registration list, citing a lack of
(11:23):
legal justification and concerns over the privacy and security of
sensitive personal data. In a detailed letter sent to the
DOJ in late July, General Council Justin Rickson emphasized that
the Department failed to specify any legal basis for the
demand or clarify how the information would be used and protected.
(11:44):
The office noted that Minnesota already upholds some of the
most secure and accurate voter registration and election systems in
the country, with strong public trust demonstrated by the state's
consistently high voter turnout. The DOJ's request came amid broader
federal inquiries into state election data and compliance with the
(12:05):
Help America Vote Act. However, independent experts and state election
officials have noted that no federal law requires states to
provide voter registration lists to the federal government. Moreover, Minnesota
is among a few states exempt from certain public discourse
provisions related to voter roles. Ericson's letter also highlighted Minnesota's
(12:27):
robust safeguards against election misconduct, including recent prosecutions of individuals
submitting fraudulent voter registrations, underscoring the effectiveness of the state's
voter role maintenance. This refusal by the state has sparked
some political debate. A group of Republican Minnesota legislators urged
(12:49):
the Secretary of State to cooperate with the DOJ's request
to protect voting rights, saying that full cooperation is necessary
to address potential voter fraud risks that story before. No
Democrats on the House State Elections Committee supported this push.
The Secretary of State's office has maintained that the voter
(13:09):
registration list is already available to the public stripped of
personal identifying information, ensuring transparency without compromising privacy. Minnesota stance
reflects a commitment to protecting voter data privacy while maintaining
secure and trusted election procedures. Minnesota continues to serve as
(13:29):
a model of strong election security and public confidence while
navigating federal demands, which at this point are based on
trying to reduce the number of people who will vote
against Republicans. Thank you so much for that story, Eric.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you, call or message us
(13:51):
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.
Bubba Wallace made history at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, becoming
the first black driver to win a major race on
(14:14):
the famed two point five mile oval. With a thrilling
victory at the Brickyard four hundred. Overcoming an intense rain delay,
back to back overtime restarts, and fierce competition from defending
champion Kyle Larson, Wallace showcased resilience and skilled to secure
his third NASCAR Cup Series win and his first triumph
(14:36):
in one of the sport's prestigious Crown Jewel events. The
thirty one year old's victory not only ended a one
hundred race windless streak, but also locked him into the playoffs,
providing a powerful boost to the twenty three XI Racing
team co owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR
star Denny Hamlin. Wallace's win is a landmark moment in sports,
(15:01):
breaking barriers and inspiring new generations by shining a spotlight
on diversity and inclusion in a sport eagerly evolving to
welcome all fans and drivers. Wallace's near tearful celebration with
his family after the race underscored the magnitude of the triumph.
His deft handling of high pressure moments, especially during the
(15:22):
final restarts when fuel concerns and strategic calculations were critical,
showed why he's regarded as one of NASCAR's most talented
and determined drivers. I want to win this, straight up,
Wallace said, emphasizing his competitive spirit against some of the
best in the field. And that's a wrap for today's
(15:43):
edition of Good News for Lefties. If these stories brighten
your outlook, please help us spread the word. Share this
episode on social media wherever you post. A big thanks
to our production team, Rosabel Hine and Aaron Watson for
making all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm bayable
for Rockland weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (16:19):
Stay tuned after this commercial break for more of me,
your humble and obedient servant, as I speak with Jen
and Dan of the band Camp podcast.
Speaker 3 (16:29):
The John Pegle Sang Podcast is now available six times
a week with me John Fugel Sang, I've been murdered
on CSI picketed by Westboro Baptist Church and host tell
Me Everything. On Sirius XM Progress one twenty seven. You
will hear authors, politicians, actors, filmmakers, rappers, rock stars, journalists, activists,
unhinged callers, and way too many comedians. They all have
a place of a John Fiegalsang podcast, and so do you.
(16:51):
The John Fugelsing Podcast Fair and Biased. Find it on
Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher for wherever you listen to boz.
Speaker 2 (16:59):
And Now an excerpt from a recent episode of The
band Camp Podcast where I speak with hosts Jen and Dan.
Then go listen to the full show The band Camp
Podcast That's banned with two ends bandcamp podcast dot com
and just a quick trigger warning here there may be
some clips of Donald Trump played in this next segment.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
It's time for band Camp News. Truth Speaker, news Speaker.
They will Rocklin. It's a weird name, but he's got
good news. Because he can't Dan Truth.
Speaker 4 (17:34):
He's broadcasting live from the good News for LEFTI Studios,
buried deep inside his social safe house, hidden somewhere deep
in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Wolf Rockland.
Speaker 1 (17:46):
Because you can't Thank you Dan, Thank you Jen, Thank
you scary book people. Oh boy, I am breathing deeply
of the air today. I've spent some time outside and
I have found through the story that I have for
you that this is a very good thing and that
I need to do more of it. Because what started
(18:07):
as a grassroots movement in the United States over a
decade ago, park prescriptions have become an evidence based treatment
regimen that helps people confront both mental and physical ailments
by spending more time outdoors. In fact, at least nine
countries now have nature prescription programs in some form. So
(18:30):
the idea is like that doctors or other health professionals
will like write, get down on a piece of paper,
go spend some time outside today. Go spend fifteen minutes outside.
Go for a hike, go for a walk, you know,
step out your front door, you know, sit in your backyard,
just you know, open the window, something like that.
Speaker 4 (18:47):
Okay, but this is not in our country.
Speaker 1 (18:50):
Well, it's something that is not official in our country.
Speaker 4 (18:54):
I guarantee as soon as our doctor's start saying you
go over to Regnar Park there and set up and
just relax. Uh, the Orange menace is going to show
up with a drill and start drilling, try to get
oil out from under your waile you're sitting there.
Speaker 1 (19:09):
I think the current Attorney General is probably more likely
to revoke all of those Surgeon General warnings on cigarette
packs than he is to give park prescriptions.
Speaker 4 (19:22):
Every fact. Start, everyone should go smoke everybody.
Speaker 1 (19:28):
That's that's our case program, right, everybody go out.
Speaker 4 (19:34):
Boy, I've got a lifelong and I can't really find
anything that anything only positive, only positive.
Speaker 1 (19:43):
But in Canada, our neighbors to the north, of course
are are are doing a wonderful job with this. They
are social prescribing in Canada. The BC British Columbia Parks
Foundation has created the p A r X, the Parks
Program aptly named that helps healthcare professionals improve patient's health
by connecting them with nature. It offers practical resources to
(20:06):
any clinician who registers with the program, as well as
tools to physically prescribe and track a patient's outdoor experiences
as part of their care. They give them park passes,
They provide them with like transportation to actually get to
some of these places. It's not just like go out
like here is the ability to do it. So our
neighbors to the north, they've got it down. They're doing
(20:29):
a good job. And perhaps when there is a future
administration that is amenable to you know, sanity, we might
be able to follow suit on an official national level,
and boy, that was a lot of good.
Speaker 5 (20:43):
That would be great.
Speaker 4 (20:44):
Yeah, I really love it. My god, is that makes
so much sense?
Speaker 5 (20:48):
Yeah?
Speaker 4 (20:48):
I mean seriously, Like just I was thinking about it
during the No King Day rallies. I give in mind,
I live in Palm Desert.
Speaker 1 (20:58):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (21:00):
Again, this is not an exaggeration. You know what it
was during the No King rally or me three hundred
and forty seven degrees.
Speaker 3 (21:09):
It was in the sane.
Speaker 4 (21:11):
People were melting in front of me. But it just
felt it felt so good that I have not felt
that way just going out and being in public in
a long time. Even just going to a grocery store
kind of sucks because I'm always thinking, like, how was
the election this close? Like, yeah, I don't know if
that guy, that guy, that lady over there, who did
(21:32):
you vote for? You know what I mean? It felt
so good to be in the middle of thousands of
people who all think relatively the same. I'm sure there
were little variations, but for all the important stuff, we
were all together and all had this amazing feeling.
Speaker 1 (21:51):
Like thousands of people in Palm Springs all roasting together.
It was must have been fantastic.
Speaker 4 (22:01):
But people were like pushing together. Like Palm Springs is
a pretty small area, and just like thousands of people
pushing and put a lot of drag queens get pushed
up against a lot of drag queens in there.
Speaker 1 (22:13):
So recently you may have seen this at the Kennedy Center,
drag queens came to the performance and to make a
point that Donald Trump, You're you're not going in the
right direction. You may be trying to get rid of us.
You may be trying to get rid of transgender people,
but we are here and we're here to stay to
make you a little bit more miser I.
Speaker 5 (22:34):
Heard people donated their tickets to the drag queens, particularly
so that they could show up.
Speaker 1 (22:40):
That's awesome. Yeah, that's fantastic.
Speaker 5 (22:42):
How funny is it that he went and he watched
Linna's Rob and then we have this No King's March.
It's just it's too much, it's too much to be real.
Speaker 1 (22:53):
Yeah, and you also think about what Leads Rob is about. Yeah,
it's about the barricades and overcoming injustice, which is exactly
the opposite of what is happening in Los Angeles. From
Trump's perspective, He's trying to destroy the barricades and clamp
(23:14):
down on people who are fighting for right.
Speaker 4 (23:17):
I heard during the show that where Trump was in attendance,
one lone squeaky army tank drove up on stage and past.
Speaker 5 (23:26):
That's hilarious.
Speaker 4 (23:28):
Oh my goodness.
Speaker 1 (23:29):
But okay, So spend more time out doors, spend more
time with drag queens, and that's going to be positive
for your health, good for your blood pressure. Very good
news for lefties and other human beings.
Speaker 4 (23:41):
Speaking of good news for lefties, everyone go check out
good News for Lefties with Payrol Brocklyn. He's a good guy.
He's a good boy.
Speaker 1 (23:50):
Oh you make up me pro
Speaker 2 (23:57):
And listen to Jen and Dan on the band camp
podcast at bandcamppodcast dot com.
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties and bea
well frockling your host, and I'm ready to help you
swap out doom and gloom for some actual hope with
uplifting stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and
(00:30):
anyone who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It's no secret that these are challenging times. Immigrants and
citizens are being disappeared off our streets, some of our
most renowned educational and media institutions are bending the need
to Donald Trump, and the wholesale destruction of critical government
(00:51):
agencies is taking place day by day. Today's headlines often
overwhelm us with troubling news, making it all too easy
to lose sight of hope. And that's exactly why it's
vital to highlight the positive, real world progress that's happening
every day. Progress the too often gets drown out by
the negativity. Despite the setbacks, there is genuine movement toward
(01:16):
a better America. So let these stories serve as a
reminder that change is not just possible, it's happening. Carry
this hope with you and share it with others. Let's
kick off with some good news headlines designed to brighten
your day. Connecticut is blazing a trail toward affordable healthcare
(01:38):
with a sleeping set of new laws designed to bring
down prescription drug prices for both residents and hospitals. Responding
to community concerns over skyrocketing costs, lawmakers have prioritized pocketbook
issues and delivered a progressive policy package that puts the
health and financial wellbeing of eticut families at the forefront.
(02:02):
Among the changes, the state is now capping price increases
for many generic and off patent drugs to match inflation,
a move that curbs unfair price hikes and targets medications
used by thousands daily. Out of pocket prescription drug purchases
made with discount cards such as good Rx or array
(02:23):
Rx can now count towards insurance deductibles, making it easier
for families to stay healthy without sacrificing their budgets. The
state is also ramping up transparency by demanding strict regulation
of pharmacy benefit managers, long blamed by advocates for inflating
prices behind the scenes. Connecticut is also setting its sight
(02:46):
on broader innovation by exploring the importation of safe, lower
priced medications from Canada, an initiative that could pay the
way for substantial savings if given federal approval. At the
same time time, new task forces will ensure drug shortages
are addressed as part of the state's emergency preparedness, further
(03:07):
securing residents' access to life saving treatments. What sets these
reforms apart is their focus on collaboration and real world impact.
By expanding both purchasing and considering direct nonprofit drug manufacturing,
Connecticut positions itself as a national leader in the fight
for healthcare affordability. The state's energetic, data driven approach, embodied
(03:30):
in efforts like the Healthcare Benchmarks initiative, ensures future decisions
will be guided by transparency and impact for all, including
the many residents who have struggled for years to afford
their medications. With these measures, connecticuts lawmakers are showing that
forward thinking policies can deliver real, measurable relief to everyday people.
(03:54):
Senator Bernie Sanders is bringing his high energy Fighting Oligarchy
Tour to West Virginia and North Carolina this weekend, meeting
voters face to face in district's hardest hit by recent
sweeping cuts to healthcare and food assistants under President Trump's
policy agenda. The tour, which has already gathered crowds of
tens of thousands and inspired millions online, lands in several
(04:18):
West Virginia towns on Friday and Saturday, before heading to
Greensboro in Asheville, North Carolina on Sunday. These latest stops
come as Sanders continues a nationwide push urging Americans across
the political spectrum to unite against what he calls the
growing domination of billionaires and large corporations over national life.
At rallies described as packed and passionate, Sanders will deliver
(04:41):
his progressive message America needs living wage jobs, Medicare for all,
and an end to a corrupt campaign finance system that
lets wealthy special interests buy politicians. Local musicians and progressive
leaders are expected to join him on stage. Continuing the
movement tradition of blending activism with community spirit, the Senator
(05:04):
has drawn support far beyond the traditional Democratic base. More
than two thirds of RSVP'd attendees are new to his network,
and a third or not registered Democrats. That's evidence of
growing discontent with both major parties and the status quo.
Sanders tour directly challenges Republican lawmakers in districts where the
(05:27):
One Big Beautiful Bill was passed, legislation that analysts predict
will take health care and food security away from hundreds
of thousands while expanding tax breaks for the ultra wealthy.
He's calling on the public to mobilize and defeat every
member of Congress who voted for the bill, while uplifting
new progressive voices. Over seven thousand people recruited to run
(05:51):
for office, with half as independents. As Sanders takes the
stage in Ashville's Thomas Wolfe Auditorium this Sunday, is message
remains clear. The fight against oligarchy is a cross partisan
struggle and together, working people can reclaim American democracy from
the grip of corporate and billionaire power. With communities in
(06:15):
West Virginia and North Carolina rallying to his call, the
weekend promises to be a powerful chapter in a growing
people powered movement. New Jersey lawmakers are taking steps to
alleviate the impact of a sharp twenty percent surge in
electricity prices hitting customers starting June first, Recognizing the strain
(06:37):
this increased places on families already facing rising costs. In
many areas, progressive legislators are advancing a thoughtful package of
bills aimed at putting money back into consumers pockets while
ensuring accountability from utility companies. This approach shows a strong
commitment to energy justice and affordability for all New Jersey residents.
(07:00):
Measures under consideration include changing how the Board of Public
Utilities sets profit margins for utilities by requiring the lowest
reasonable return on equity, a move that could reduce the
costs passed on to customers. Additionally, lawmakers want utilities to
return any excess profits directly to ratepayers through credits or
(07:21):
direct payments, especially helping those who are behind on bills
or enrolled in assistance programs. This reflects a clear priority
to predict lower and moderate income households and offer real
practical relief. The package also calls for enhancing oversight through
new training requirements for regulators and launching dedicated studies to
(07:43):
how rapidly expanding data centers are affecting electricity demand and pricing,
With data centers accounting for a significant portion of the
increased load on the grid, Understanding their impact is key
to crafting equitable and sustainable solutions. Lawmakers stress that no
single fix will solve the challenge, but coordinated incremental action
(08:04):
can start bending the curve on rising costs. In the
face of looming federal cuts to vital energy assistance programs
for low income families, New Jersey's legislative leaders underscore the
urgency of their work delivering immediate relief along with structural reforms.
Their working to ensure New Jersey's energy future is affordable, fair,
(08:25):
and resilient. This moment offers hope for communities burdened by
rising utility bills and sets a path forward for energy democracy.
California Governor Gavin Newsom is intensifying efforts to counter Texas
Republicans push to redraw congressional district's mid decade, aiming to
(08:46):
secure more Republican seats ahead of the twenty twenty six midterms.
This weekend, Newsomb met in Sacramento with six Texas Democratic
state representatives to strategize opposition to what they describe as
a power grab orchestrated by Donald Trump and Texas GOP leaders.
Newsom emphasized that Democrats cannot stand by as Republicans reshape
(09:07):
election maps to entrance their power, calling the moment an
existential threat to American democracy, California lawmakers are considering moves,
including potentially reclaiming redistricting authority from the state's Independent Citizens
Redistricting Commission, a body voters established in twenty eight to
curb partisan jerrymandering. Newsomb indicated the legislature might pursue a
(09:31):
constitutional amendment or even a special election to redraw California's
congressional maps mid decade, aiming to increase democratic representation and
counteract Republican jerrymandering in states like Texas, This would mark
a significant shift from California's decade long tradition of independent redistricting.
The GOP map in Texas, pushed under Trump's urging, seeks
(09:54):
to add up to five congressional districts favoring Republicans, a
move Texas Democrat and national progressives condemned for diluting the
power of black, Latino and other communities of color. Texas
Democrats vow to use every tool to fight these redistricting efforts,
including federal lawsuits that already challenged Texas's maps on the
(10:14):
grounds of voter discrimination. Newsom's shows support through direct collaboration
with Texas lawmakers signals a growing willingness by prominent Democrats
to meet GOP hardball tactics with equally bold responses. As
this high stakes redistricting battle unfolds. Governor Newsom and allied
Democrats nationwide stress that democracy depends on fair maps that
(10:37):
reflect community's true voices, not partisan power grabs. California House Democrats,
including leaders like Nancy Pelosi, backing for measures to thwart
Republican gerrymandering efforts. With the midterm elections looming, this fight
over district lines has become a defining front in the
battle to preserve voting rights and ensure political representation for
(10:59):
all Americans. Up next, a listener suggested story back in
a minute, and now, a listener suggested story from Eric
in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. Minnesota's Secretary of State office has
firmly rejected the US Department of Justice's request to hand
over the state's voter registration list, citing a lack of
(11:23):
legal justification and concerns over the privacy and security of
sensitive personal data. In a detailed letter sent to the
DOJ in late July, General Council Justin Rickson emphasized that
the Department failed to specify any legal basis for the
demand or clarify how the information would be used and protected.
(11:44):
The office noted that Minnesota already upholds some of the
most secure and accurate voter registration and election systems in
the country, with strong public trust demonstrated by the state's
consistently high voter turnout. The DOJ's request came amid broader
federal inquiries into state election data and compliance with the
(12:05):
Help America Vote Act. However, independent experts and state election
officials have noted that no federal law requires states to
provide voter registration lists to the federal government. Moreover, Minnesota
is among a few states exempt from certain public discourse
provisions related to voter roles. Ericson's letter also highlighted Minnesota's
(12:27):
robust safeguards against election misconduct, including recent prosecutions of individuals
submitting fraudulent voter registrations, underscoring the effectiveness of the state's
voter role maintenance. This refusal by the state has sparked
some political debate. A group of Republican Minnesota legislators urged
(12:49):
the Secretary of State to cooperate with the DOJ's request
to protect voting rights, saying that full cooperation is necessary
to address potential voter fraud risks that story before. No
Democrats on the House State Elections Committee supported this push.
The Secretary of State's office has maintained that the voter
(13:09):
registration list is already available to the public stripped of
personal identifying information, ensuring transparency without compromising privacy. Minnesota stance
reflects a commitment to protecting voter data privacy while maintaining
secure and trusted election procedures. Minnesota continues to serve as
(13:29):
a model of strong election security and public confidence while
navigating federal demands, which at this point are based on
trying to reduce the number of people who will vote
against Republicans. Thank you so much for that story, Eric.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you, call or message us
(13:51):
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.
Bubba Wallace made history at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, becoming
the first black driver to win a major race on
(14:14):
the famed two point five mile oval. With a thrilling
victory at the Brickyard four hundred. Overcoming an intense rain delay,
back to back overtime restarts, and fierce competition from defending
champion Kyle Larson, Wallace showcased resilience and skilled to secure
his third NASCAR Cup Series win and his first triumph
(14:36):
in one of the sport's prestigious Crown Jewel events. The
thirty one year old's victory not only ended a one
hundred race windless streak, but also locked him into the playoffs,
providing a powerful boost to the twenty three XI Racing
team co owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR
star Denny Hamlin. Wallace's win is a landmark moment in sports,
(15:01):
breaking barriers and inspiring new generations by shining a spotlight
on diversity and inclusion in a sport eagerly evolving to
welcome all fans and drivers. Wallace's near tearful celebration with
his family after the race underscored the magnitude of the triumph.
His deft handling of high pressure moments, especially during the
(15:22):
final restarts when fuel concerns and strategic calculations were critical,
showed why he's regarded as one of NASCAR's most talented
and determined drivers. I want to win this, straight up,
Wallace said, emphasizing his competitive spirit against some of the
best in the field. And that's a wrap for today's
(15:43):
edition of Good News for Lefties. If these stories brighten
your outlook, please help us spread the word. Share this
episode on social media wherever you post. A big thanks
to our production team, Rosabel Hine and Aaron Watson for
making all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm bayable
for Rockland weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (16:19):
Stay tuned after this commercial break for more of me,
your humble and obedient servant, as I speak with Jen
and Dan of the band Camp podcast.
Speaker 3 (16:29):
The John Pegle Sang Podcast is now available six times
a week with me John Fugel Sang, I've been murdered
on CSI picketed by Westboro Baptist Church and host tell
Me Everything. On Sirius XM Progress one twenty seven. You
will hear authors, politicians, actors, filmmakers, rappers, rock stars, journalists, activists,
unhinged callers, and way too many comedians. They all have
a place of a John Fiegalsang podcast, and so do you.
(16:51):
The John Fugelsing Podcast Fair and Biased. Find it on
Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher for wherever you listen to boz.
Speaker 2 (16:59):
And Now an excerpt from a recent episode of The
band Camp Podcast where I speak with hosts Jen and Dan.
Then go listen to the full show The band Camp
Podcast That's banned with two ends bandcamp podcast dot com
and just a quick trigger warning here there may be
some clips of Donald Trump played in this next segment.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
It's time for band Camp News. Truth Speaker, news Speaker.
They will Rocklin. It's a weird name, but he's got
good news. Because he can't Dan Truth.
Speaker 4 (17:34):
He's broadcasting live from the good News for LEFTI Studios,
buried deep inside his social safe house, hidden somewhere deep
in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Wolf Rockland.
Speaker 1 (17:46):
Because you can't Thank you Dan, Thank you Jen, Thank
you scary book people. Oh boy, I am breathing deeply
of the air today. I've spent some time outside and
I have found through the story that I have for
you that this is a very good thing and that
I need to do more of it. Because what started
(18:07):
as a grassroots movement in the United States over a
decade ago, park prescriptions have become an evidence based treatment
regimen that helps people confront both mental and physical ailments
by spending more time outdoors. In fact, at least nine
countries now have nature prescription programs in some form. So
(18:30):
the idea is like that doctors or other health professionals
will like write, get down on a piece of paper,
go spend some time outside today. Go spend fifteen minutes outside.
Go for a hike, go for a walk, you know,
step out your front door, you know, sit in your backyard,
just you know, open the window, something like that.
Speaker 4 (18:47):
Okay, but this is not in our country.
Speaker 1 (18:50):
Well, it's something that is not official in our country.
Speaker 4 (18:54):
I guarantee as soon as our doctor's start saying you
go over to Regnar Park there and set up and
just relax. Uh, the Orange menace is going to show
up with a drill and start drilling, try to get
oil out from under your waile you're sitting there.
Speaker 1 (19:09):
I think the current Attorney General is probably more likely
to revoke all of those Surgeon General warnings on cigarette
packs than he is to give park prescriptions.
Speaker 4 (19:22):
Every fact. Start, everyone should go smoke everybody.
Speaker 1 (19:28):
That's that's our case program, right, everybody go out.
Speaker 4 (19:34):
Boy, I've got a lifelong and I can't really find
anything that anything only positive, only positive.
Speaker 1 (19:43):
But in Canada, our neighbors to the north, of course
are are are doing a wonderful job with this. They
are social prescribing in Canada. The BC British Columbia Parks
Foundation has created the p A r X, the Parks
Program aptly named that helps healthcare professionals improve patient's health
by connecting them with nature. It offers practical resources to
(20:06):
any clinician who registers with the program, as well as
tools to physically prescribe and track a patient's outdoor experiences
as part of their care. They give them park passes,
They provide them with like transportation to actually get to
some of these places. It's not just like go out
like here is the ability to do it. So our
neighbors to the north, they've got it down. They're doing
(20:29):
a good job. And perhaps when there is a future
administration that is amenable to you know, sanity, we might
be able to follow suit on an official national level,
and boy, that was a lot of good.
Speaker 5 (20:43):
That would be great.
Speaker 4 (20:44):
Yeah, I really love it. My god, is that makes
so much sense?
Speaker 5 (20:48):
Yeah?
Speaker 4 (20:48):
I mean seriously, Like just I was thinking about it
during the No King Day rallies. I give in mind,
I live in Palm Desert.
Speaker 1 (20:58):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (21:00):
Again, this is not an exaggeration. You know what it
was during the No King rally or me three hundred
and forty seven degrees.
Speaker 3 (21:09):
It was in the sane.
Speaker 4 (21:11):
People were melting in front of me. But it just
felt it felt so good that I have not felt
that way just going out and being in public in
a long time. Even just going to a grocery store
kind of sucks because I'm always thinking, like, how was
the election this close? Like, yeah, I don't know if
that guy, that guy, that lady over there, who did
(21:32):
you vote for? You know what I mean? It felt
so good to be in the middle of thousands of
people who all think relatively the same. I'm sure there
were little variations, but for all the important stuff, we
were all together and all had this amazing feeling.
Speaker 1 (21:51):
Like thousands of people in Palm Springs all roasting together.
It was must have been fantastic.
Speaker 4 (22:01):
But people were like pushing together. Like Palm Springs is
a pretty small area, and just like thousands of people
pushing and put a lot of drag queens get pushed
up against a lot of drag queens in there.
Speaker 1 (22:13):
So recently you may have seen this at the Kennedy Center,
drag queens came to the performance and to make a
point that Donald Trump, You're you're not going in the
right direction. You may be trying to get rid of us.
You may be trying to get rid of transgender people,
but we are here and we're here to stay to
make you a little bit more miser I.
Speaker 5 (22:34):
Heard people donated their tickets to the drag queens, particularly
so that they could show up.
Speaker 1 (22:40):
That's awesome. Yeah, that's fantastic.
Speaker 5 (22:42):
How funny is it that he went and he watched
Linna's Rob and then we have this No King's March.
It's just it's too much, it's too much to be real.
Speaker 1 (22:53):
Yeah, and you also think about what Leads Rob is about. Yeah,
it's about the barricades and overcoming injustice, which is exactly
the opposite of what is happening in Los Angeles. From
Trump's perspective, He's trying to destroy the barricades and clamp
(23:14):
down on people who are fighting for right.
Speaker 4 (23:17):
I heard during the show that where Trump was in attendance,
one lone squeaky army tank drove up on stage and past.
Speaker 5 (23:26):
That's hilarious.
Speaker 4 (23:28):
Oh my goodness.
Speaker 1 (23:29):
But okay, So spend more time out doors, spend more
time with drag queens, and that's going to be positive
for your health, good for your blood pressure. Very good
news for lefties and other human beings.
Speaker 4 (23:41):
Speaking of good news for lefties, everyone go check out
good News for Lefties with Payrol Brocklyn. He's a good guy.
He's a good boy.
Speaker 1 (23:50):
Oh you make up me pro
Speaker 2 (23:57):
And listen to Jen and Dan on the band camp
podcast at bandcamppodcast dot com.
Popular Podcasts
Fudd Around And Find Out
UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the National Championship and prepare to be a first round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a world-class athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!