August 1, 2025 • 18 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of inspiring stories that highlight the positive changes occurring across America, reminding us that hope is alive and well. We kick off with the announcement from former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, who has declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in 2026. His extensive experience and commitment to economic justice position him as a formidable contender in a crucial battleground state.
Next, we turn our attention to the courageous union workers of Hawaii Teamsters Local 996, who have joined a nationwide strike against Air Gas. This collective action underscores the ongoing fight for fair labor practices and highlights the resilience of workers demanding respect and better working conditions.
In a significant move for voting rights, New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlon has firmly declined the DOJ's request for the state's voter registration list, standing up for state privacy laws and pushing back against federal overreach. This decision aligns New Hampshire with other states advocating for voter protection amid ongoing national debates on election integrity.
We also celebrate Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker's signing of two new gun safety bills aimed at promoting responsible firearm storage and enhancing law enforcement's ability to trace illegal firearms. These measures represent meaningful steps toward preventing gun violence and ensuring community safety.
A listener-suggested story highlights Reno, Nevada's innovative use of goats for wildfire prevention, showcasing a low-tech, environmentally friendly approach to managing vegetation and reducing fire risks in residential areas.
Lastly, we discuss the impressive role of clean energy technologies during recent heat waves, demonstrating how solar panels and battery storage have helped maintain grid stability while saving consumers millions.
Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of progress, resilience, and the belief that change is not just possible, but actively happening 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 on today's stories here:
https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-senate-roy-cooper-tillis-49e7b69b20db803f75a1893e1e890f18
https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2025/07/29/this-is-enough-union-workers-go-strike-against-airgas/
https://www.democracydocket.com/news-alerts/new-hampshire-defies-doj-push-for-voter-data/
https://chicago.suntimes.com/illinois-governor/2025/07/28/illinois-governor-jb-pritzker-gun-safety-bills-safe-gun-storage-act
https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/goats-assigned-reno-wildfire-prevention-work
https://www.semafor.com/article/07/29/2025/us-clean-energy-helps-prevent-blackouts-during-heatwave
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.
Next, we turn our attention to the courageous union workers of Hawaii Teamsters Local 996, who have joined a nationwide strike against Air Gas. This collective action underscores the ongoing fight for fair labor practices and highlights the resilience of workers demanding respect and better working conditions.
In a significant move for voting rights, New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlon has firmly declined the DOJ's request for the state's voter registration list, standing up for state privacy laws and pushing back against federal overreach. This decision aligns New Hampshire with other states advocating for voter protection amid ongoing national debates on election integrity.
We also celebrate Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker's signing of two new gun safety bills aimed at promoting responsible firearm storage and enhancing law enforcement's ability to trace illegal firearms. These measures represent meaningful steps toward preventing gun violence and ensuring community safety.
A listener-suggested story highlights Reno, Nevada's innovative use of goats for wildfire prevention, showcasing a low-tech, environmentally friendly approach to managing vegetation and reducing fire risks in residential areas.
Lastly, we discuss the impressive role of clean energy technologies during recent heat waves, demonstrating how solar panels and battery storage have helped maintain grid stability while saving consumers millions.
Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of progress, resilience, and the belief that change is not just possible, but actively happening 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 on today's stories here:
https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-senate-roy-cooper-tillis-49e7b69b20db803f75a1893e1e890f18
https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2025/07/29/this-is-enough-union-workers-go-strike-against-airgas/
https://www.democracydocket.com/news-alerts/new-hampshire-defies-doj-push-for-voter-data/
https://chicago.suntimes.com/illinois-governor/2025/07/28/illinois-governor-jb-pritzker-gun-safety-bills-safe-gun-storage-act
https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/goats-assigned-reno-wildfire-prevention-work
https://www.semafor.com/article/07/29/2025/us-clean-energy-helps-prevent-blackouts-during-heatwave
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 thank you
for joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm
baiable for Rockland, 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, and anyone
(00:27):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It's no secret that these are challenging times. The disappearing
of immigrants and citizens, some of our most renowned educational
and media institutions bending the knee to Trump, and the
wholesale destruction of critical government agencies. Today's headlines often overwhelm
(00:48):
us with troubling news, making it all too easy to
lose sight of hope. That's exactly why it's vital to
highlight the positive, real world progress that's happening every day,
progress that too often gets round out by the negativity.
Despite the setbacks, there's genuine movement toward a better America.
So let these stories serve as a reminder of the
(01:09):
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.
Former Democratic North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has officially announced
his candidacy for the US Senate in twenty twenty six,
(01:29):
instantly shaking up what is forecast to be one of
the nation's most closely watched races. Cooper's entry comes as
incumbent Republican Senator Tom Tillis prepares to retire, creating an
open seat in a perennial battleground state that Donald Trump
carried narrowly in twenty twenty four. Cooper sixty eight, unveiled
(01:49):
his campaign with a video emphasizing the dangers facing America's
middle class and criticizing politicians in DC for policies he
says hurt working families, issuing direct mentions of Trump, and
focusing on economic justice. His extensive career spans nearly four decades,
including sixteen years as North Carolina Attorney General and two
(02:10):
terms as governor, where he gained a reputation as a
resilient Democrat able to win statewide in a Republican leaning electorate.
His tenure featured steering the state through the COVID nineteen pandemic,
navigating climate disasters, rolling back the controversial bathroom bill and
seeing the state's economy surge, Cooper also managed to bipartisan
(02:30):
accomplishments such as Medicaid expansion and new clean energy legislation.
His candidacy is widely regarded as a major boost for Democrats,
who need to pick up four Senate seats in twenty
twenty six to try to reclaim a majority in a
year with few competitive opportunities. Cooper immediately becomes the favorite
for the Democratic nomination, with party leaders quickly rallying behind
(02:53):
him and current Governor Josh Stein offering a swift endorsement.
The only other prominent Democrat in the race, former US
Representative Wileye Nickel, has stood down. Cooper's history of winning
in a GOP controlled state and his reputation as a
consensus builder make him a formidable contender in a high
stakes contest that could determine control of the US Senate.
(03:17):
Union workers represented by Hawaii Teamster's Local nine to ninety
six have joined the nationwide strike against air gas. Over
forty workers in Hawaii, including drivers, delivery personnel, and filling
department employees, are walking picket lines at three locations in Oahu,
with a few members on the Big Island. The strike
is in response to air Gases alleged on fair labor
(03:40):
practices and disappointing contract proposals, which the union says showed
disrespect and ignore seniority rules. Workers complain about being overworked
with reduced staffing and added responsibilities. This strike in Hawaii
as part of a broader labor action involving teamsters in
at least eleven other states. At multiple air gas facilities nationwide,
(04:03):
a supplier of industrial, medical, and specialty gases, has stalled negotiations,
refused to bargain in good faith, and repeatedly violated labor laws.
The union leadership highlights that air Gas, a subsidiary of
the French multinational air Liquid, reported more than three point
eight billion dollars in profits last year, underscoring the union's
(04:25):
call for fair contracts and workplace respect. There have been
disturbing reports of unidentified chemical agents being used against striking
workers in Illinois and New Jersey, received as intimidation attempts,
escalating tensions further. Despite these challenges, teamsters across the country
remain united and determined to secure better pay, benefits and
(04:46):
working conditions. Hawaii Teamster's local nine to nine to six.
President Kevin Hallou said negotiations are ongoing, with a virtual
meeting scheduled soon, but noted that the parties remain worlds
upon at this stage. The strike takes place in the
background of ongoing national labor struggles involving critical industrial supply
(05:08):
workers demanding fair treatment and contract terms. 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,
(05:28):
hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday and, in my opinion,
is the largest single repository 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
(05:50):
or wherever you listen to podcasts. That's This Week Again
with Suzanne Posel, s U S A N N E
PO s E S Well This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat,
New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlon, a Republican, has
firmly declined the US Department of Justice's request to turn
(06:14):
over the state's full statewide voter registration list. The DOJ's request,
part of a larger federal effort under President Donald Trump's
executive order to obtain detailed voting data for multiple states,
sought a complete copy of New Hampshire's voter database, including
active and inactive voters. Scanlon cited state law protecting the
(06:36):
voter database as private and confidential, alongside cybersecurity concerns about
disclosing sensitive election infrastructure data that could pose national security risks.
Scanlon reminded the DOJ that New Hampshire is exempt from
the National Voter Registration Act because of its long standing
practice of allowing same day voter registration prior to the
(06:59):
nvraas enactment in nineteen ninety four. This exemption limits federal
authority to demand such data access. He also pointed out
that New Hampshire law authorizes the release of voter registration
lists only under specific, limited circumstances not applicable here. Instead,
Scanlon directed DOJ officials to publicly available voter checklists maintained
(07:22):
at the city and town level, which include names and addresses,
but not the full sensitive voter database. New Hampshire's refusal
places it alongside other states like Minnesota and Wisconsin that
have pushed back against similar DOJ demands, citing legal protections
and concerns about federal overreach. The backdrop includes controversies and
(07:43):
false claims about election integrity propagated by the Trump administration,
with election officials and states waring that such federal information
requests might be politically motivated, attempts to undermine trust or
build databases for immigration enforcement or v voter suppression efforts.
(08:03):
Illinois Governor JB. Pritzker signed two new gun safety bills.
The first, known as the Safe Gun Storage ac to
Senate Bill eight, requires firearm owners to securely store guns
in a locked container whenever they know or reasonably should
know that a miner, someone prohibited from possessing a gun,
or a person at risk of self harm or harming
(08:24):
others could gain access to the firearm. Failure to comply
can result in civil fines up to five hundred dollars,
increasing to one thousand if the firearm is accessed by
such individuals and up to ten thousand dollars if the
gun is used to cause injury, death, or in connection
with the crime. The law also allows for misdemeanor criminal
(08:45):
charges in such cases. Gun owners must report lost or
stolen firearms within forty eight hours, shortening from the previous
seventy two hour timeframe. Illinois State Police can revoke firearm
owner identification cards for repeated failure to report lost or
stolen guns. The act includes provisions for community service or
(09:05):
restitution as alternatives, defines, and establishes civil liability in private
lawsuits for violations. The second bill mandates that all law
enforcement agencies in Illinois use the federal e Trace system
to trace firearms or covered at crime scenes or seized
because they were used illegally or believed to be associated
(09:26):
with crimes. This is intended to strengthen investigations by tracking
guns commonly used in multiple crimes and to disrupt illegal
gun trafficking networks. Previously, participation in e Trace was voluntary,
but the new law, supported by Attorney General Kwame Raoul,
makes it a requirement statewide. The law takes effect immediately.
(09:48):
Governor Pritzker described these measures as common sense steps promoting
gun safety and preventing tragedies that could otherwise be avoidable,
saying that Illinois is moving beyond mere thoughts and prayers
towards meaningful action. Up next, a listener suggested story back
in a minute, and now, a listener suggested story from
(10:10):
Ronda in Carson City, Nevada. The City of Reno, Nevada,
has deployed two hundred and fifty Spanish goats from high
desert graziers in Smith Valley to graze approximately twenty seven
acres of city owned open space in the Evans Creek area.
They'll work for about forty five days to reduce wildfire
(10:30):
risk by eating down the build up of dead and
flammable vegetation, especially non native grasses and weeds like bitter brush, manzanita,
and cheat grass that are common wildfire fuels. This targeted
grazing project focuses on hilly terrain near residential areas prone
to wildfire hazards, as the buildup of dry brush and
(10:53):
dead plant material creates dangerous wildfire conditions. It's the fourth
time Renos used goats for fire mitigation, using solar powered
electric fencing and guard dogs to corral and protect the
goats from predators and theft. The use of goats is
considered a low tech, cost effective, and environmentally friendly method
(11:13):
for clearing vegetation indifficult to reach areas versus manual clearing
or chemical herbicides. While studies on fire risk reduction are limited,
some research and anecdotal evidence suggest grazing can serve as
natural fire breaks by clearing fuel loads. This initiative is
especially important as northern Nevada faces a heightened wildfire threat
(11:37):
due to prolonged heat, drought conditions and flammable grasses. Reno
Fire Chief Dave Cochrane emphasized the continued need for federal
support for wildfire prevention efforts amid staffing and funding challenges.
The grazing project costs about seventy six five hundred dollars
and is partially funded by state resources allocated for wildlife
(12:01):
prevention and natural resource management. Thank you so much for
that story, Ronda. 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' to two seven to, one drop us a
line at beowolf at two Squared Media productions dot com
(12:21):
or send it to us At Good news For lefties On, Facebook,
instagram or Blue. Sky clean energy technologies have played a
critical role in preventing blackouts during the recent heat wave
affecting nearly half of THE us. Population In New, england for,
example solar panels installed on rooftops and a growing network
(12:43):
of battery storage systems helped meet record electricity demand caused
by widespread use of air, Conditioning reducing reliance on fossil
fuel power plants and avoiding. Outages these resources likely saved
consumers in the region around twenty, million lowering peak energy
costs and easing grid strain during extreme heat. Periods virtual power,
(13:07):
plants or, VPPs which coordinate distributed energy resources like residential
solar and, batteries have also been instrumental in stabilizing the.
Grid In, vermont utility customers with battery storage saw reduced
electricity purchases during peak, demand collectively saving about three million
dollars in energy. Costs VPPs and behind the meter's solar
(13:30):
deliveries helped grid operators maintain reliable power without triggering blackouts
despite heat driven demand. Spikes this success shows how clean
energy resources can improve grid resilience and affordability amid increasing
climate driven weather extremes such as heat. Waves but THE
Us department Of energy is warned that the ongoing retirement
(13:53):
of coal and natural gas plants without sufficient on demand
replacement could lead to significantly more blackouts by two twenty
thirty if not. Addressed despite these, risks The New england
example shows that incorporating solar, efficiency battery, storage and grid
innovations can strengthen electricity supply and prevent interruptions during critical. Events,
(14:15):
meanwhile other parts of the world like The Middle east
And europe are also grappling with severe heat waves and,
wildfires where aging and damaged power infrastructure is struggling to
cope with soaring. Demand in THE, us the clean energy,
transition combined with advanced technologies like virtual power, plant represents
a promising path to maintain energy reliability and reduce, emissions
(14:39):
especially as extreme temperatures become more. Frequent that's a wrap
for today's 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 thanks
so much to our production, team Roosebel heine And Aaron
watson for making all of this possible behind the. Scenes
(15:02):
I'm Beowulf. Rocklin weird name good news for lefties And.
Speaker 2 (15:09):
America are you tired of the same, old boring political.
Chatter are you.
Speaker 3 (15:30):
Craving some, smart, insightful and hilarious takes on the day's,
News then get ready For america's original sexy, Liberal Stephanie.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
Miller she's now delivering her.
Speaker 3 (15:38):
Signature blend of politics and pop culture five days a
week in podcast. Form dive into the day's headlines With
Stephanie Miller out of The gate and unwind 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.
Speaker 1 (15:59):
Podcasts and in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline americans' attitudes toward immigration have reached new heights of,
positivity with nearly eight inten adults now saying that immigration
is a good thing for The United. States this marks
a significant jump from sixty four percent a year. Ago
(16:22):
and is the most optimistic measure in twenty five years
Of gallop. Polling the trend reflects a broadening embrace of immigration's,
value cutting across political affiliations and signaling powerful momentum for
inclusion even amidst ongoing national debates and challenging federal. Policies
the shift is particularly notable Among independents And, republicans demographics
(16:46):
that typically lean more cautious on the. Issue support for
the idea that immigrants benefit of the country has soared Among,
republicans rising from just thirty nine percent last year to
about two thirds. Now independence showed a comparable, leap with
eighty percent now expressing positive views about. Immigration at the same,
(17:07):
time the percentage Of americans who see immigration as a
negative has dropped to just twenty, percent representing a dramatic
decline from previous. Years americans are also increasingly content with immigration,
levels with just thirty percent now saying immigration should, decrease
down from fifty five percent a year. Ago more people
(17:30):
than ever before prefer to keep immigration levels the same
or even see them. Increased the change in climate is
also fueling growing support for pathways to, citizenship with the
vast majority OF us adults now favoring policies that allow
immigrants living in the country without legal status to earn,
citizenship especially for those brought to THE us as. Children
(17:53):
these findings point to a hopeful and pragmatic turn in
the national, conversation with More americans recognizing the benefits of
a diverse and welcoming, society even in the face of
tough enforcement policies and political. Rhetoric the public support for
immigrants and desire for solutions that honor dignity and opportunity
(18:14):
continues to, rise a sign that the values of inclusion
and community are resonating more powerfully than ever. Before
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thank you
for joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm
baiable for Rockland, 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, and anyone
(00:27):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It's no secret that these are challenging times. The disappearing
of immigrants and citizens, some of our most renowned educational
and media institutions bending the knee to Trump, and the
wholesale destruction of critical government agencies. Today's headlines often overwhelm
(00:48):
us with troubling news, making it all too easy to
lose sight of hope. That's exactly why it's vital to
highlight the positive, real world progress that's happening every day,
progress that too often gets round out by the negativity.
Despite the setbacks, there's genuine movement toward a better America.
So let these stories serve as a reminder of the
(01:09):
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.
Former Democratic North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has officially announced
his candidacy for the US Senate in twenty twenty six,
(01:29):
instantly shaking up what is forecast to be one of
the nation's most closely watched races. Cooper's entry comes as
incumbent Republican Senator Tom Tillis prepares to retire, creating an
open seat in a perennial battleground state that Donald Trump
carried narrowly in twenty twenty four. Cooper sixty eight, unveiled
(01:49):
his campaign with a video emphasizing the dangers facing America's
middle class and criticizing politicians in DC for policies he
says hurt working families, issuing direct mentions of Trump, and
focusing on economic justice. His extensive career spans nearly four decades,
including sixteen years as North Carolina Attorney General and two
(02:10):
terms as governor, where he gained a reputation as a
resilient Democrat able to win statewide in a Republican leaning electorate.
His tenure featured steering the state through the COVID nineteen pandemic,
navigating climate disasters, rolling back the controversial bathroom bill and
seeing the state's economy surge, Cooper also managed to bipartisan
(02:30):
accomplishments such as Medicaid expansion and new clean energy legislation.
His candidacy is widely regarded as a major boost for Democrats,
who need to pick up four Senate seats in twenty
twenty six to try to reclaim a majority in a
year with few competitive opportunities. Cooper immediately becomes the favorite
for the Democratic nomination, with party leaders quickly rallying behind
(02:53):
him and current Governor Josh Stein offering a swift endorsement.
The only other prominent Democrat in the race, former US
Representative Wileye Nickel, has stood down. Cooper's history of winning
in a GOP controlled state and his reputation as a
consensus builder make him a formidable contender in a high
stakes contest that could determine control of the US Senate.
(03:17):
Union workers represented by Hawaii Teamster's Local nine to ninety
six have joined the nationwide strike against air gas. Over
forty workers in Hawaii, including drivers, delivery personnel, and filling
department employees, are walking picket lines at three locations in Oahu,
with a few members on the Big Island. The strike
is in response to air Gases alleged on fair labor
(03:40):
practices and disappointing contract proposals, which the union says showed
disrespect and ignore seniority rules. Workers complain about being overworked
with reduced staffing and added responsibilities. This strike in Hawaii
as part of a broader labor action involving teamsters in
at least eleven other states. At multiple air gas facilities nationwide,
(04:03):
a supplier of industrial, medical, and specialty gases, has stalled negotiations,
refused to bargain in good faith, and repeatedly violated labor laws.
The union leadership highlights that air Gas, a subsidiary of
the French multinational air Liquid, reported more than three point
eight billion dollars in profits last year, underscoring the union's
(04:25):
call for fair contracts and workplace respect. There have been
disturbing reports of unidentified chemical agents being used against striking
workers in Illinois and New Jersey, received as intimidation attempts,
escalating tensions further. Despite these challenges, teamsters across the country
remain united and determined to secure better pay, benefits and
(04:46):
working conditions. Hawaii Teamster's local nine to nine to six.
President Kevin Hallou said negotiations are ongoing, with a virtual
meeting scheduled soon, but noted that the parties remain worlds
upon at this stage. The strike takes place in the
background of ongoing national labor struggles involving critical industrial supply
(05:08):
workers demanding fair treatment and contract terms. 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,
(05:28):
hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday and, in my opinion,
is the largest single repository 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
(05:50):
or wherever you listen to podcasts. That's This Week Again
with Suzanne Posel, s U S A N N E
PO s E S Well This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat,
New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlon, a Republican, has
firmly declined the US Department of Justice's request to turn
(06:14):
over the state's full statewide voter registration list. The DOJ's request,
part of a larger federal effort under President Donald Trump's
executive order to obtain detailed voting data for multiple states,
sought a complete copy of New Hampshire's voter database, including
active and inactive voters. Scanlon cited state law protecting the
(06:36):
voter database as private and confidential, alongside cybersecurity concerns about
disclosing sensitive election infrastructure data that could pose national security risks.
Scanlon reminded the DOJ that New Hampshire is exempt from
the National Voter Registration Act because of its long standing
practice of allowing same day voter registration prior to the
(06:59):
nvraas enactment in nineteen ninety four. This exemption limits federal
authority to demand such data access. He also pointed out
that New Hampshire law authorizes the release of voter registration
lists only under specific, limited circumstances not applicable here. Instead,
Scanlon directed DOJ officials to publicly available voter checklists maintained
(07:22):
at the city and town level, which include names and addresses,
but not the full sensitive voter database. New Hampshire's refusal
places it alongside other states like Minnesota and Wisconsin that
have pushed back against similar DOJ demands, citing legal protections
and concerns about federal overreach. The backdrop includes controversies and
(07:43):
false claims about election integrity propagated by the Trump administration,
with election officials and states waring that such federal information
requests might be politically motivated, attempts to undermine trust or
build databases for immigration enforcement or v voter suppression efforts.
(08:03):
Illinois Governor JB. Pritzker signed two new gun safety bills.
The first, known as the Safe Gun Storage ac to
Senate Bill eight, requires firearm owners to securely store guns
in a locked container whenever they know or reasonably should
know that a miner, someone prohibited from possessing a gun,
or a person at risk of self harm or harming
(08:24):
others could gain access to the firearm. Failure to comply
can result in civil fines up to five hundred dollars,
increasing to one thousand if the firearm is accessed by
such individuals and up to ten thousand dollars if the
gun is used to cause injury, death, or in connection
with the crime. The law also allows for misdemeanor criminal
(08:45):
charges in such cases. Gun owners must report lost or
stolen firearms within forty eight hours, shortening from the previous
seventy two hour timeframe. Illinois State Police can revoke firearm
owner identification cards for repeated failure to report lost or
stolen guns. The act includes provisions for community service or
(09:05):
restitution as alternatives, defines, and establishes civil liability in private
lawsuits for violations. The second bill mandates that all law
enforcement agencies in Illinois use the federal e Trace system
to trace firearms or covered at crime scenes or seized
because they were used illegally or believed to be associated
(09:26):
with crimes. This is intended to strengthen investigations by tracking
guns commonly used in multiple crimes and to disrupt illegal
gun trafficking networks. Previously, participation in e Trace was voluntary,
but the new law, supported by Attorney General Kwame Raoul,
makes it a requirement statewide. The law takes effect immediately.
(09:48):
Governor Pritzker described these measures as common sense steps promoting
gun safety and preventing tragedies that could otherwise be avoidable,
saying that Illinois is moving beyond mere thoughts and prayers
towards meaningful action. Up next, a listener suggested story back
in a minute, and now, a listener suggested story from
(10:10):
Ronda in Carson City, Nevada. The City of Reno, Nevada,
has deployed two hundred and fifty Spanish goats from high
desert graziers in Smith Valley to graze approximately twenty seven
acres of city owned open space in the Evans Creek area.
They'll work for about forty five days to reduce wildfire
(10:30):
risk by eating down the build up of dead and
flammable vegetation, especially non native grasses and weeds like bitter brush, manzanita,
and cheat grass that are common wildfire fuels. This targeted
grazing project focuses on hilly terrain near residential areas prone
to wildfire hazards, as the buildup of dry brush and
(10:53):
dead plant material creates dangerous wildfire conditions. It's the fourth
time Renos used goats for fire mitigation, using solar powered
electric fencing and guard dogs to corral and protect the
goats from predators and theft. The use of goats is
considered a low tech, cost effective, and environmentally friendly method
(11:13):
for clearing vegetation indifficult to reach areas versus manual clearing
or chemical herbicides. While studies on fire risk reduction are limited,
some research and anecdotal evidence suggest grazing can serve as
natural fire breaks by clearing fuel loads. This initiative is
especially important as northern Nevada faces a heightened wildfire threat
(11:37):
due to prolonged heat, drought conditions and flammable grasses. Reno
Fire Chief Dave Cochrane emphasized the continued need for federal
support for wildfire prevention efforts amid staffing and funding challenges.
The grazing project costs about seventy six five hundred dollars
and is partially funded by state resources allocated for wildlife
(12:01):
prevention and natural resource management. Thank you so much for
that story, Ronda. 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' to two seven to, one drop us a
line at beowolf at two Squared Media productions dot com
(12:21):
or send it to us At Good news For lefties On, Facebook,
instagram or Blue. Sky clean energy technologies have played a
critical role in preventing blackouts during the recent heat wave
affecting nearly half of THE us. Population In New, england for,
example solar panels installed on rooftops and a growing network
(12:43):
of battery storage systems helped meet record electricity demand caused
by widespread use of air, Conditioning reducing reliance on fossil
fuel power plants and avoiding. Outages these resources likely saved
consumers in the region around twenty, million lowering peak energy
costs and easing grid strain during extreme heat. Periods virtual power,
(13:07):
plants or, VPPs which coordinate distributed energy resources like residential
solar and, batteries have also been instrumental in stabilizing the.
Grid In, vermont utility customers with battery storage saw reduced
electricity purchases during peak, demand collectively saving about three million
dollars in energy. Costs VPPs and behind the meter's solar
(13:30):
deliveries helped grid operators maintain reliable power without triggering blackouts
despite heat driven demand. Spikes this success shows how clean
energy resources can improve grid resilience and affordability amid increasing
climate driven weather extremes such as heat. Waves but THE
Us department Of energy is warned that the ongoing retirement
(13:53):
of coal and natural gas plants without sufficient on demand
replacement could lead to significantly more blackouts by two twenty
thirty if not. Addressed despite these, risks The New england
example shows that incorporating solar, efficiency battery, storage and grid
innovations can strengthen electricity supply and prevent interruptions during critical. Events,
(14:15):
meanwhile other parts of the world like The Middle east
And europe are also grappling with severe heat waves and,
wildfires where aging and damaged power infrastructure is struggling to
cope with soaring. Demand in THE, us the clean energy,
transition combined with advanced technologies like virtual power, plant represents
a promising path to maintain energy reliability and reduce, emissions
(14:39):
especially as extreme temperatures become more. Frequent that's a wrap
for today's 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 thanks
so much to our production, team Roosebel heine And Aaron
watson for making all of this possible behind the. Scenes
(15:02):
I'm Beowulf. Rocklin weird name good news for lefties And.
Speaker 2 (15:09):
America are you tired of the same, old boring political.
Chatter are you.
Speaker 3 (15:30):
Craving some, smart, insightful and hilarious takes on the day's,
News then get ready For america's original sexy, Liberal Stephanie.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
Miller she's now delivering her.
Speaker 3 (15:38):
Signature blend of politics and pop culture five days a
week in podcast. Form dive into the day's headlines With
Stephanie Miller out of The gate and unwind 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.
Speaker 1 (15:59):
Podcasts and in case you missed, it here's this good news.
Headline americans' attitudes toward immigration have reached new heights of,
positivity with nearly eight inten adults now saying that immigration
is a good thing for The United. States this marks
a significant jump from sixty four percent a year. Ago
(16:22):
and is the most optimistic measure in twenty five years
Of gallop. Polling the trend reflects a broadening embrace of immigration's,
value cutting across political affiliations and signaling powerful momentum for
inclusion even amidst ongoing national debates and challenging federal. Policies
the shift is particularly notable Among independents And, republicans demographics
(16:46):
that typically lean more cautious on the. Issue support for
the idea that immigrants benefit of the country has soared Among,
republicans rising from just thirty nine percent last year to
about two thirds. Now independence showed a comparable, leap with
eighty percent now expressing positive views about. Immigration at the same,
(17:07):
time the percentage Of americans who see immigration as a
negative has dropped to just twenty, percent representing a dramatic
decline from previous. Years americans are also increasingly content with immigration,
levels with just thirty percent now saying immigration should, decrease
down from fifty five percent a year. Ago more people
(17:30):
than ever before prefer to keep immigration levels the same
or even see them. Increased the change in climate is
also fueling growing support for pathways to, citizenship with the
vast majority OF us adults now favoring policies that allow
immigrants living in the country without legal status to earn,
citizenship especially for those brought to THE us as. Children
(17:53):
these findings point to a hopeful and pragmatic turn in
the national, conversation with More americans recognizing the benefits of
a diverse and welcoming, society even in the face of
tough enforcement policies and political. Rhetoric the public support for
immigrants and desire for solutions that honor dignity and opportunity
(18:14):
continues to, rise a sign that the values of inclusion
and community are resonating more powerfully than ever. Before
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