August 7, 2025 • 20 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into a series of uplifting stories that highlight the resilience and determination of communities and leaders across America, proving that hope is alive and well.
We begin with a significant stand taken by Senate Democrats who, in a show of unity, refused to fast track President Trump's controversial nominees, prioritizing transparency and accountability over political expedience. This decision marks a crucial moment in the fight for a government that listens to the people and upholds democratic values.
Next, Maryland joins a coalition of states in a lawsuit against the USDA, challenging its demand for sensitive personal data from SNAP recipients. The legal action underscores a commitment to protecting privacy rights and ensuring that vulnerable families can access essential food assistance without fear of overreach.
In a landmark ruling, a federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from cutting Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide, safeguarding access to critical health services for millions of patients. This decision is a vital victory in the ongoing fight for reproductive rights and public health.
We also celebrate the Ghost Trap Rodeo in Tampa Bay, where volunteers came together to rescue marine life and clean up the waters, illustrating the power of community action in environmental stewardship.
Listeners will be inspired by New Mexico's push to ban immigration detention facilities, reflecting a growing movement to address immigration issues through a human rights lens. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's administration is leading the charge to ensure humane treatment for immigrant communities.
Finally, we share exciting news about the dramatic cost reduction of solar power, which has become 41% cheaper than fossil fuels, paving the way for a clean energy future that promises economic opportunity and environmental benefits.
Join us for this enlightening episode filled with stories of hope, progress, and the unwavering belief that change is 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/senate-confirmations-nominations-trump-schumer-thune-905a63d0046319eeb7c266d5e24e70b6
https://marylandmatters.org/2025/07/30/maryland-joins-democrat-led-states-suing-to-block-usda-release-of-snap-recipients-personal-data/
https://www.aol.com/news/judge-orders-medicaid-funding-temporarily-161247239.html
https://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/2025/07/24/volunteers-pull-4000-pounds-trash-128-ghost-traps-tampa-bay-waters/
https://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/bill-to-ban-immigration-detention-facilities-in-new-mexico-eyed-for-potential-special-session/article_9769e7d0-7d58-4333-bcca-37af182a60d6.html
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/solar-power-versus-fossil-fuels-cheaper-study
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.
We begin with a significant stand taken by Senate Democrats who, in a show of unity, refused to fast track President Trump's controversial nominees, prioritizing transparency and accountability over political expedience. This decision marks a crucial moment in the fight for a government that listens to the people and upholds democratic values.
Next, Maryland joins a coalition of states in a lawsuit against the USDA, challenging its demand for sensitive personal data from SNAP recipients. The legal action underscores a commitment to protecting privacy rights and ensuring that vulnerable families can access essential food assistance without fear of overreach.
In a landmark ruling, a federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from cutting Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide, safeguarding access to critical health services for millions of patients. This decision is a vital victory in the ongoing fight for reproductive rights and public health.
We also celebrate the Ghost Trap Rodeo in Tampa Bay, where volunteers came together to rescue marine life and clean up the waters, illustrating the power of community action in environmental stewardship.
Listeners will be inspired by New Mexico's push to ban immigration detention facilities, reflecting a growing movement to address immigration issues through a human rights lens. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's administration is leading the charge to ensure humane treatment for immigrant communities.
Finally, we share exciting news about the dramatic cost reduction of solar power, which has become 41% cheaper than fossil fuels, paving the way for a clean energy future that promises economic opportunity and environmental benefits.
Join us for this enlightening episode filled with stories of hope, progress, and the unwavering belief that change is 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/senate-confirmations-nominations-trump-schumer-thune-905a63d0046319eeb7c266d5e24e70b6
https://marylandmatters.org/2025/07/30/maryland-joins-democrat-led-states-suing-to-block-usda-release-of-snap-recipients-personal-data/
https://www.aol.com/news/judge-orders-medicaid-funding-temporarily-161247239.html
https://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/2025/07/24/volunteers-pull-4000-pounds-trash-128-ghost-traps-tampa-bay-waters/
https://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/bill-to-ban-immigration-detention-facilities-in-new-mexico-eyed-for-potential-special-session/article_9769e7d0-7d58-4333-bcca-37af182a60d6.html
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/solar-power-versus-fossil-fuels-cheaper-study
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 being here for another episode of good news for Lefties.
I'm your host, Babel Franklin, ready to help you sab
out doom, scrolling for hope, Scrolling with some genuine, uplifting
stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone
(00:29):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It is no secret that these are challenging times. The
disappearing of immigrants and citizens off of our streets, Texas
trying to arrest democratic lawmakers, and the wholesale destruction of
critical government agencies. Today's headlines often overwhelm us with troubling news,
(00:52):
making it all too easy to lose sight of hope.
That's exactly why it's vital to highlight the positive, real
world old progress that's happening every day, progress that too
often gets drowned out by the negativity. Despite the setbacks,
there is genuine movement toward a better America. So let
(01:13):
these stories serve as a reminder that change isn't just possible,
it's happening. Carry this hope with you and share it
with others. Now, let's kick off with some good news
headlines designed to brighten your day. The Senate wrapped up
its session with a show of resolve on the part
of Democrats who refused to fast track President Trump's deeply
(01:37):
controversial nominees, instead heading into the August recess without a
rushed confirmation deal. After days of intense negotiation and mounting
public pressure from Trump to bend the process, Democratic leaders
stood firm in defense of transparency and careful vetting, rejecting
any shortcuts to push through a tranch of executive and
(01:59):
judicial picks. Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, made it
clear they would not be bullied or steamrolled, insisting that
every nominee must be held to the highest standard, especially
as the country faces the consequences of rushed and ideological appointments.
As Republicans floated changing Senate rules to limit debate and
(02:20):
further erode by partisan norms, Schumer emphasized that protecting the
Chamber's deliberative process is crucial for democracy, especially with critical
spending and policy battles ahead. The impass arrives at a
time of heightened partisanship, but also signals a progressive commitment
to safeguard institutions from unqualified or extreme appointees. By blocking
(02:47):
blanket approvals and slowing the pace. Democrats have asserted the
importance of oversight and accountability rather than rubber stamping nominations
and weakening established checks and balances. Chambers may be quiet
for August, the message is loud and clear. The era
of backram deals to rubber stamp controversial nominees is over.
(03:09):
Progressives are fighting for a government that listens to the
people and prioritizes competence, transparency, and the rule of law
over political expedients. Voters looking for leadership, not capitulation, can
find hope in this show of principled resistance and Senate
Democrats unwilling to bow to intimidation or speed over substance.
(03:35):
Maryland has joined a coalition of twenty states in Washington,
d c. Insuing the US Department of Agriculture to block
the agency's demand for extensive personal data on Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program recipients. The USDA's directive requires states to provide
sensitive information, including social security numbers, dates of birth, immigration, employment,
(04:01):
and marital status, on tens of millions of people who
have received food assistance over the past five years. States
faced a July thirtieth deadline to comply with the USDA,
threatening to withhold federal funding from those that do not.
The lawsuit, filed in the U S District Court in California,
argues that this unprecedented data collection violates multiple federal and
(04:25):
state privacy laws and constitutional protections. Maryland Attorney General Anthony
Brown emphasized that both federal and state law restrict the
disclosure of such personally identifying SNAP information, and the USDA's
demands to go beyond lawful boundaries. With over six hundred
and eighty thousand Maryland residents relying on SNAP, including around
(04:49):
two hundred seventy thousand children, Brown called the USDA's action
an overreach that flies in the face of privacy and
security protections meant to safeguard vulnerable families. This legal challenge
reflects growing concern among progressive leaders about the Trump administration's
efforts to amass vast troves of personal data under the
(05:11):
guise of preventing fraud, but which experts and advocates warn
could chill participation in essential public assistance programs. The suit
highlights spheres that such data could be misused for harsh
immigration enforcement or other intrusive measures threatening the dignity and
security of millions who depend on SNAP for basic nutrition.
(05:33):
Maryland is also part of a parallel lawsuit challenging the
Department of Health and Human Services over similar attempts to
access Medicaid recipient's private medical data. Together, these efforts underscore
a larger movement by states, led predominantly by Democrats, to
defend privacy rights and protect the integrity and accessibility of
(05:54):
social safety net programs against aggressive federal data collection initiatives.
The coalition actions stand as a robust defense of family's
right to confidentiality and food security in a time of need.
Before we get back to the news, I want to
tell you about an important podcast called This Week Again,
(06:14):
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 of creatively
insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini, and Orange Julius
(06:36):
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 A
N N E P S E L This Week Again. Listen, Laugh, repeat.
(07:02):
A federal judge in Boston U. S. District, Judge Indira Tolwani,
has issued a ruling temporarily blocking the Trump administration from
cutting Medicaid funding to all Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide. The
decision expands on a previous injunction, which had only protected
ten affiliates, preventing enforcement of a provision in the recent
(07:24):
GOP Tax and Health law that bars Medicaid payments for
one year to health nonprofits that both provide abortions and
received over eight hundred thousand dollars in Medicaid funding in
twenty twenty three. Judge Talwani said that cutting off Medicaid
reimbursements to Planned Parenthood's network poses a serious risk of
disrupting essential health services for patients. These include access to contraceptives,
(07:50):
cancer screenings, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections STIs. The
judge warned that funding interruptions could lead to increased unintended
pregnancies and untreated STIs, exacerbating public health challenges. Importantly, Tulwani
clarified that the ruling does not force the government to
fund elective abortions or any services not eligible for Medicaid.
(08:14):
The judge found that the law's provision effectively singles out
planned parenthood affiliates, many of which provide a broad range
of health services beyond abortion, unfairly jeopardizing their ability to operate.
The ruling pushes back against what Tulwane described as a
punitive and unconstitutional targeting of planned parenthood, which could otherwise
(08:35):
force clinics to reduce services or clothes, impacting millions of
patients nationwide. Planned Parenthood Federation of America hailed the ruling
as a critical victory for access to vital, reproductive and
preventative health care. The organization vowed to continue its legal
fight against the law, ensuring that Medicaid patients can maintain
(08:56):
access to trusted providers for birth control, as to keie testing,
cancer screenings, and more. Meanwhile, the judges order highlights the
judiciary's role in protecting the healthcare rights of vulnerable populations
from politically motivated funding cuts. A dedicated group of volunteers
recently rallied in Tampa Bay for the Ghost Trap Rodeo,
(09:20):
a spirited clean up event aimed at rescuing marine life
from the deadly impact of abandoned crab traps and removing
trash from the waters of Florida's largest estuary. Over the
course of just a few hours, one hundred nine volunteers
patrolled the bay by boat, kayak, and on foot, pulling
(09:40):
out nearly one hundred thirty ghost traps along with more
than four thousand pounds of marine debris, showcasing the power
of community action for environmental stewardship. Ghost traps are derelict
crab traps left behind in the water that continue to
trap and kill marine animals in a cruel cycleree enter
(10:00):
perish and attract more victims, with an estimated ten percent
of crab traps becoming ghost traps. This clean up helps
break that cycle, saving creatures such as baby gag groupers,
stone crabs, scorpionfish, and mangrove snappers. Volunteers even rescued an
emaciated fish on the brink of death, demonstrating the tangible
(10:23):
difference such efforts make The volunteer's hall included not only traps,
but a wide array of trash, from fishing lines that
can entangle turtles and birds to large debris left by
storms such as a kitchen sink and a microwave. The
impact on wildlife was illustrated when a volunteer discovered a
dead pelican entangled in a fishing line, a reminder of
(10:46):
the urgent need tackle marine pollution. Local environmental organizations like
Tampa Bay Watch and Clearwater Marine Aquarium supported the event,
helping foster a collective commitment to protect and restore te
Tampa Bay's delicate ecosystem. This ongoing effort benefits both wildlife
and the people who depend on Tampa Bay for their
(11:08):
livelihoods and recreation. As Fishing Captain Bobby Maguire put it,
you've got to give back to what you're taking from.
The ghost Trap Rodeo is a shining example of how
citizen engagement, paired with expert coordination and safeguard marine environments
and inspire communities to protect the natural treasures that sustain them.
(11:29):
Up next, a listener suggested story back in a minute,
and Now, a listener suggested story from Shane in Santa Fe,
New Mexico. New Mexico is gearing up for a likely
special legislative session, with Governor Michelle Luhann Grisham's office signaling
strong interest in advancing a bill to ban immigration detention
(11:51):
facilities in the state. The proposed legislation, sometimes called the
Immigrant Safety Act or House Bill nine, aims to prevent
state and local governments from entering into contracts with federal
agencies that detain immigrants for civil violations. This would effectively
end New Mexico's complicity in housing federal immigration detention centers,
(12:13):
such as the Ottero County Processing Center, which have faced
serious allegations of human rights abuses, including inadequate medical care
and deaths in custody. The Governor's Chief General Counsel, Holly Agagenian,
indicated to lawmakers that while no final decision on the
timing has been made, a special session is most likely
(12:34):
definitely yes, with a potential start in late August or
early September. Alongside the detention ban, the session is expected
to address federal budget cuts impacting the state and put
forward various anti crime measures. Advocates in some legislators, like
Representative Christine Chandler and Senator Antoinette Sadio Lopez have expressed
(12:56):
strong support for banning immigration detention facilities, citing concerns over transparency,
legal oversight gaps, and reports of harsh conditions inside the centers.
This upcoming special session reflects New Mexico's growing movement to
address immigration detention through a human rights lens and to
respond proactively to federal policy shifts and budgetary pressures. If enacted,
(13:20):
New Mexico would join several other states taking legislative steps
to in their roles in the federal immigration detention system,
prioritizing dignity and humane treatment for immigrant communities within their borders.
The state legislature is also planning visits to detention centers
to better assess conditions firsthand as this important debate unfolds.
(13:43):
Thanks so much for that important story, Shane. 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
Priturections dot com, or send it to us at good
News for Lefties on Facebook Instagram or blue Sky. Solar
(14:09):
power has undergone an extraordinary transformation over the past fifteen years,
shifting from being nearly four times as expensive as fossil
fuels to now being forty one percent cheaper. According to
recent United Nations reports, This dramatic cost reduction, combined with
the stability and abundance of renewable energy sources, marks a
(14:29):
positive tipping point in global energy markets, signaling the dawn
of a clean energy era. UN Secretary General Antonio Gutierres
highlighted in a July speech that this new era promises cheap,
clean and abundant energy capable of powering extensive economic opportunity worldwide.
(14:50):
The cost of utility scale solar photovoltaic PV projects has
plummeted by eighty to ninety percent each decade since nineteen sixty,
with twenty twenty five solar generation costs ranging approximately from
twenty nine to ninety two dollars per megawatt hour in
the US, substantially lower than coal, which is from sixty
(15:10):
nine to one hundred and sixty nine per megawatt hour
a natural gas, which is one hundred and ten to
two hundred and twenty eight dollars per megawatt hour. These
figures reflect the levelized cost of Energy l COOE, a
comprehensive metric that factors in capital, operation, maintenance, and fuel
costs over projects. Lifetime. Renewable energies low operating expenses due
(15:33):
to free fuel, sunlight, and advances in technology and manufacturing
contrast sharply with the volatile and rising costs for fossil fuels. Globally,
ninety two point five percent of new electricity capacity added
in twenty twenty four came from renewable sources, with solar
and wind electricity generation growing by seventy four percent in
(15:53):
just one year. This surge in renewable deployment comes amid
decreasing investments in fossil fuels and increasing financing, with green
energy investment outpacing fossil fuel investment by eight hundred billion
dollars in twenty twenty four. A loan the clean energy
transition also benefits from innovations in battery storage and grid management,
(16:15):
making renewables not only cheaper, but more reliable and scalable
than ever. The UN reports and experts contend that countries
continuing reliance on coal, oil, and gas are jeopardizing their
economic competitiveness facing higher costs and stranded assets. By contrast,
solar energy offers price stability, immunity to fuel supply shocks,
(16:38):
and environmental benefits, including zero emissions during operation. The evidence
compels a global shift to renewables, reminding stakeholders that the
transition to a sustainable, affordable energy future is fully within
reach and the reasons for hope abound. That's it for
today's edition of Good News for Lefties. If these stories
(17:00):
brightened 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
Beowolf Franklin weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (17:38):
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.
Dive into the day's headlines with Stephanie Miller Out of
the Gate and unwind with hilarious conversations on Stephanie Miller's
(17:59):
Happy Hour. Don't miss a single lap 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 (18:12):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
Zorhan Mamdani, thirty three year old assemblyman and proud Democratic socialist,
is rewriting the rules of New York City politics. According
to a new Zenith Research and Public Progress Solutions poll
of one four hundred and fifty three city residents, Mamdani
(18:35):
not only leads a crowded mayoral field, he has surged
past all other candidates combined, capturing fifty percent of voter support.
His energetic campaign and progressive message have clearly struck a
chord with New Yorkers seeking transformative change in city hall.
Mamdani's breakthrough follows his stunning victory in the Democratic mayoral
(18:59):
primary over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, sending political shockwaves throughout
the city and beyond. His coalition grows even stronger in
hypothetical matchups. When Cuomo is removed from the race, Mamdanni's
support rises to fifty five percent. In a one on
one contest against Mayor Eric Adams, he holds a commanding
(19:21):
fifty nine to thirty two lead. In every scenario. Mamdanni's
support never dips below the majority threshold, demonstrating unwavering enthusiasm
among voters for his vision of a more equitable and
just New York. What sets Mamdannie apart is not just
his lead, but the breadth of his appeal. He's the
only candidate a majority of respondents fifty eight percent would
(19:45):
consider voting for in the general election, far outpacing his rivals.
Even in a city where seventy percent of residents report
being dissatisfied with its current direction, Mamdani's candidacy offers hope,
especially on urgent issues like A four housing, rising living costs,
and public safety priority concerns voiced by Pole participants. With
(20:07):
the general election on November fourth, Mamdani's momentum shows no
signs of slowing down. Energized by grassroots support and a
growing mandate for progressive change, he is positioned as the
candidate most aligned with New Yorker's hopes and a fairer future.
His campaign is not just a political contest. It is
a movement redefining what is possible in the nation's largest city,
(20:31):
and I would argue throughout the nation.
Good news for Lefties and America. Hello, and thank you
for being here for another episode of good news for Lefties.
I'm your host, Babel Franklin, ready to help you sab
out doom, scrolling for hope, Scrolling with some genuine, uplifting
stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone
(00:29):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It is no secret that these are challenging times. The
disappearing of immigrants and citizens off of our streets, Texas
trying to arrest democratic lawmakers, and the wholesale destruction of
critical government agencies. Today's headlines often overwhelm us with troubling news,
(00:52):
making it all too easy to lose sight of hope.
That's exactly why it's vital to highlight the positive, real
world old progress that's happening every day, progress that too
often gets drowned out by the negativity. Despite the setbacks,
there is genuine movement toward a better America. So let
(01:13):
these stories serve as a reminder that change isn't just possible,
it's happening. Carry this hope with you and share it
with others. Now, let's kick off with some good news
headlines designed to brighten your day. The Senate wrapped up
its session with a show of resolve on the part
of Democrats who refused to fast track President Trump's deeply
(01:37):
controversial nominees, instead heading into the August recess without a
rushed confirmation deal. After days of intense negotiation and mounting
public pressure from Trump to bend the process, Democratic leaders
stood firm in defense of transparency and careful vetting, rejecting
any shortcuts to push through a tranch of executive and
(01:59):
judicial picks. Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, made it
clear they would not be bullied or steamrolled, insisting that
every nominee must be held to the highest standard, especially
as the country faces the consequences of rushed and ideological appointments.
As Republicans floated changing Senate rules to limit debate and
(02:20):
further erode by partisan norms, Schumer emphasized that protecting the
Chamber's deliberative process is crucial for democracy, especially with critical
spending and policy battles ahead. The impass arrives at a
time of heightened partisanship, but also signals a progressive commitment
to safeguard institutions from unqualified or extreme appointees. By blocking
(02:47):
blanket approvals and slowing the pace. Democrats have asserted the
importance of oversight and accountability rather than rubber stamping nominations
and weakening established checks and balances. Chambers may be quiet
for August, the message is loud and clear. The era
of backram deals to rubber stamp controversial nominees is over.
(03:09):
Progressives are fighting for a government that listens to the
people and prioritizes competence, transparency, and the rule of law
over political expedients. Voters looking for leadership, not capitulation, can
find hope in this show of principled resistance and Senate
Democrats unwilling to bow to intimidation or speed over substance.
(03:35):
Maryland has joined a coalition of twenty states in Washington,
d c. Insuing the US Department of Agriculture to block
the agency's demand for extensive personal data on Supplemental Nutrition
Assistance Program recipients. The USDA's directive requires states to provide
sensitive information, including social security numbers, dates of birth, immigration, employment,
(04:01):
and marital status, on tens of millions of people who
have received food assistance over the past five years. States
faced a July thirtieth deadline to comply with the USDA,
threatening to withhold federal funding from those that do not.
The lawsuit, filed in the U S District Court in California,
argues that this unprecedented data collection violates multiple federal and
(04:25):
state privacy laws and constitutional protections. Maryland Attorney General Anthony
Brown emphasized that both federal and state law restrict the
disclosure of such personally identifying SNAP information, and the USDA's
demands to go beyond lawful boundaries. With over six hundred
and eighty thousand Maryland residents relying on SNAP, including around
(04:49):
two hundred seventy thousand children, Brown called the USDA's action
an overreach that flies in the face of privacy and
security protections meant to safeguard vulnerable families. This legal challenge
reflects growing concern among progressive leaders about the Trump administration's
efforts to amass vast troves of personal data under the
(05:11):
guise of preventing fraud, but which experts and advocates warn
could chill participation in essential public assistance programs. The suit
highlights spheres that such data could be misused for harsh
immigration enforcement or other intrusive measures threatening the dignity and
security of millions who depend on SNAP for basic nutrition.
(05:33):
Maryland is also part of a parallel lawsuit challenging the
Department of Health and Human Services over similar attempts to
access Medicaid recipient's private medical data. Together, these efforts underscore
a larger movement by states, led predominantly by Democrats, to
defend privacy rights and protect the integrity and accessibility of
(05:54):
social safety net programs against aggressive federal data collection initiatives.
The coalition actions stand as a robust defense of family's
right to confidentiality and food security in a time of need.
Before we get back to the news, I want to
tell you about an important podcast called This Week Again,
(06:14):
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 of creatively
insulting names for Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini, and Orange Julius
(06:36):
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 A
N N E P S E L This Week Again. Listen, Laugh, repeat.
(07:02):
A federal judge in Boston U. S. District, Judge Indira Tolwani,
has issued a ruling temporarily blocking the Trump administration from
cutting Medicaid funding to all Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide. The
decision expands on a previous injunction, which had only protected
ten affiliates, preventing enforcement of a provision in the recent
(07:24):
GOP Tax and Health law that bars Medicaid payments for
one year to health nonprofits that both provide abortions and
received over eight hundred thousand dollars in Medicaid funding in
twenty twenty three. Judge Talwani said that cutting off Medicaid
reimbursements to Planned Parenthood's network poses a serious risk of
disrupting essential health services for patients. These include access to contraceptives,
(07:50):
cancer screenings, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections STIs. The
judge warned that funding interruptions could lead to increased unintended
pregnancies and untreated STIs, exacerbating public health challenges. Importantly, Tulwani
clarified that the ruling does not force the government to
fund elective abortions or any services not eligible for Medicaid.
(08:14):
The judge found that the law's provision effectively singles out
planned parenthood affiliates, many of which provide a broad range
of health services beyond abortion, unfairly jeopardizing their ability to operate.
The ruling pushes back against what Tulwane described as a
punitive and unconstitutional targeting of planned parenthood, which could otherwise
(08:35):
force clinics to reduce services or clothes, impacting millions of
patients nationwide. Planned Parenthood Federation of America hailed the ruling
as a critical victory for access to vital, reproductive and
preventative health care. The organization vowed to continue its legal
fight against the law, ensuring that Medicaid patients can maintain
(08:56):
access to trusted providers for birth control, as to keie testing,
cancer screenings, and more. Meanwhile, the judges order highlights the
judiciary's role in protecting the healthcare rights of vulnerable populations
from politically motivated funding cuts. A dedicated group of volunteers
recently rallied in Tampa Bay for the Ghost Trap Rodeo,
(09:20):
a spirited clean up event aimed at rescuing marine life
from the deadly impact of abandoned crab traps and removing
trash from the waters of Florida's largest estuary. Over the
course of just a few hours, one hundred nine volunteers
patrolled the bay by boat, kayak, and on foot, pulling
(09:40):
out nearly one hundred thirty ghost traps along with more
than four thousand pounds of marine debris, showcasing the power
of community action for environmental stewardship. Ghost traps are derelict
crab traps left behind in the water that continue to
trap and kill marine animals in a cruel cycleree enter
(10:00):
perish and attract more victims, with an estimated ten percent
of crab traps becoming ghost traps. This clean up helps
break that cycle, saving creatures such as baby gag groupers,
stone crabs, scorpionfish, and mangrove snappers. Volunteers even rescued an
emaciated fish on the brink of death, demonstrating the tangible
(10:23):
difference such efforts make The volunteer's hall included not only traps,
but a wide array of trash, from fishing lines that
can entangle turtles and birds to large debris left by
storms such as a kitchen sink and a microwave. The
impact on wildlife was illustrated when a volunteer discovered a
dead pelican entangled in a fishing line, a reminder of
(10:46):
the urgent need tackle marine pollution. Local environmental organizations like
Tampa Bay Watch and Clearwater Marine Aquarium supported the event,
helping foster a collective commitment to protect and restore te
Tampa Bay's delicate ecosystem. This ongoing effort benefits both wildlife
and the people who depend on Tampa Bay for their
(11:08):
livelihoods and recreation. As Fishing Captain Bobby Maguire put it,
you've got to give back to what you're taking from.
The ghost Trap Rodeo is a shining example of how
citizen engagement, paired with expert coordination and safeguard marine environments
and inspire communities to protect the natural treasures that sustain them.
(11:29):
Up next, a listener suggested story back in a minute,
and Now, a listener suggested story from Shane in Santa Fe,
New Mexico. New Mexico is gearing up for a likely
special legislative session, with Governor Michelle Luhann Grisham's office signaling
strong interest in advancing a bill to ban immigration detention
(11:51):
facilities in the state. The proposed legislation, sometimes called the
Immigrant Safety Act or House Bill nine, aims to prevent
state and local governments from entering into contracts with federal
agencies that detain immigrants for civil violations. This would effectively
end New Mexico's complicity in housing federal immigration detention centers,
(12:13):
such as the Ottero County Processing Center, which have faced
serious allegations of human rights abuses, including inadequate medical care
and deaths in custody. The Governor's Chief General Counsel, Holly Agagenian,
indicated to lawmakers that while no final decision on the
timing has been made, a special session is most likely
(12:34):
definitely yes, with a potential start in late August or
early September. Alongside the detention ban, the session is expected
to address federal budget cuts impacting the state and put
forward various anti crime measures. Advocates in some legislators, like
Representative Christine Chandler and Senator Antoinette Sadio Lopez have expressed
(12:56):
strong support for banning immigration detention facilities, citing concerns over transparency,
legal oversight gaps, and reports of harsh conditions inside the centers.
This upcoming special session reflects New Mexico's growing movement to
address immigration detention through a human rights lens and to
respond proactively to federal policy shifts and budgetary pressures. If enacted,
(13:20):
New Mexico would join several other states taking legislative steps
to in their roles in the federal immigration detention system,
prioritizing dignity and humane treatment for immigrant communities within their borders.
The state legislature is also planning visits to detention centers
to better assess conditions firsthand as this important debate unfolds.
(13:43):
Thanks so much for that important story, Shane. 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
Priturections dot com, or send it to us at good
News for Lefties on Facebook Instagram or blue Sky. Solar
(14:09):
power has undergone an extraordinary transformation over the past fifteen years,
shifting from being nearly four times as expensive as fossil
fuels to now being forty one percent cheaper. According to
recent United Nations reports, This dramatic cost reduction, combined with
the stability and abundance of renewable energy sources, marks a
(14:29):
positive tipping point in global energy markets, signaling the dawn
of a clean energy era. UN Secretary General Antonio Gutierres
highlighted in a July speech that this new era promises cheap,
clean and abundant energy capable of powering extensive economic opportunity worldwide.
(14:50):
The cost of utility scale solar photovoltaic PV projects has
plummeted by eighty to ninety percent each decade since nineteen sixty,
with twenty twenty five solar generation costs ranging approximately from
twenty nine to ninety two dollars per megawatt hour in
the US, substantially lower than coal, which is from sixty
(15:10):
nine to one hundred and sixty nine per megawatt hour
a natural gas, which is one hundred and ten to
two hundred and twenty eight dollars per megawatt hour. These
figures reflect the levelized cost of Energy l COOE, a
comprehensive metric that factors in capital, operation, maintenance, and fuel
costs over projects. Lifetime. Renewable energies low operating expenses due
(15:33):
to free fuel, sunlight, and advances in technology and manufacturing
contrast sharply with the volatile and rising costs for fossil fuels. Globally,
ninety two point five percent of new electricity capacity added
in twenty twenty four came from renewable sources, with solar
and wind electricity generation growing by seventy four percent in
(15:53):
just one year. This surge in renewable deployment comes amid
decreasing investments in fossil fuels and increasing financing, with green
energy investment outpacing fossil fuel investment by eight hundred billion
dollars in twenty twenty four. A loan the clean energy
transition also benefits from innovations in battery storage and grid management,
(16:15):
making renewables not only cheaper, but more reliable and scalable
than ever. The UN reports and experts contend that countries
continuing reliance on coal, oil, and gas are jeopardizing their
economic competitiveness facing higher costs and stranded assets. By contrast,
solar energy offers price stability, immunity to fuel supply shocks,
(16:38):
and environmental benefits, including zero emissions during operation. The evidence
compels a global shift to renewables, reminding stakeholders that the
transition to a sustainable, affordable energy future is fully within
reach and the reasons for hope abound. That's it for
today's edition of Good News for Lefties. If these stories
(17:00):
brightened 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
Beowolf Franklin weird name Good News for Lefties and America.
Speaker 2 (17:38):
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.
Dive into the day's headlines with Stephanie Miller Out of
the Gate and unwind with hilarious conversations on Stephanie Miller's
(17:59):
Happy Hour. Don't miss a single lap 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 (18:12):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
Zorhan Mamdani, thirty three year old assemblyman and proud Democratic socialist,
is rewriting the rules of New York City politics. According
to a new Zenith Research and Public Progress Solutions poll
of one four hundred and fifty three city residents, Mamdani
(18:35):
not only leads a crowded mayoral field, he has surged
past all other candidates combined, capturing fifty percent of voter support.
His energetic campaign and progressive message have clearly struck a
chord with New Yorkers seeking transformative change in city hall.
Mamdani's breakthrough follows his stunning victory in the Democratic mayoral
(18:59):
primary over former Governor Andrew Cuomo, sending political shockwaves throughout
the city and beyond. His coalition grows even stronger in
hypothetical matchups. When Cuomo is removed from the race, Mamdanni's
support rises to fifty five percent. In a one on
one contest against Mayor Eric Adams, he holds a commanding
(19:21):
fifty nine to thirty two lead. In every scenario. Mamdanni's
support never dips below the majority threshold, demonstrating unwavering enthusiasm
among voters for his vision of a more equitable and
just New York. What sets Mamdannie apart is not just
his lead, but the breadth of his appeal. He's the
only candidate a majority of respondents fifty eight percent would
(19:45):
consider voting for in the general election, far outpacing his rivals.
Even in a city where seventy percent of residents report
being dissatisfied with its current direction, Mamdani's candidacy offers hope,
especially on urgent issues like A four housing, rising living costs,
and public safety priority concerns voiced by Pole participants. With
(20:07):
the general election on November fourth, Mamdani's momentum shows no
signs of slowing down. Energized by grassroots support and a
growing mandate for progressive change, he is positioned as the
candidate most aligned with New Yorker's hopes and a fairer future.
His campaign is not just a political contest. It is
a movement redefining what is possible in the nation's largest city,
(20:31):
and I would argue throughout the nation.
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!