August 25, 2025 • 45 mins
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:06):
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm being
able to Froglin 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
(00:28):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It's no secret these are challenging times. The disappearing of
immigrants and citizens, the takeover of our nation's capital by
federal troops, and the wholesale destruction of critical government agencies.
Today's headlines often overwhelm us with troubling news, making it
(00:48):
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 drowned
out by the negativity. Despite the setbacks, there's a genuine
movement toward a better America. So let these stories serve
as a reminder that change is not just possible, it's happening.
(01:11):
Carry this hope with you and share it with others.
Let's kick off with some good news headlines designed to
brighten your day. Democrats in Rhode Island are celebrating a
landslide victory after state legislative candidate Stefano Famiglietti dramatically outperformed
recent presidential margins in a high profile special election. Famiglietti
(01:35):
secured over eighty three percent of the vote in the
race to fill the state Senate seat left vacant by
the late Senate President Dominic Brugerio, outpacing Vice President Kamala
Harris's margin from last fall by an extraordinary fifty five points.
His decisive win not only reflects his deep roots and
commitment to the community, but also highlights surging democratic momentum
(01:59):
at the local level. Campaigning on a platform rooted in
community values and practical solutions, Famiglietti galvanized voters in District four,
which has witnessed shifting political wins in recent cycles. While
the district's Democratic lean was challenged in recent presidential elections,
with Joe Biden taking it by seventeen points in twenty
(02:20):
twenty and Harris capturing it by just eleven last year,
Famiglietti's showing signals a resurgent and energized base ready to
tackle new challenges. State leaders praised Famiglietti's victory as a
testament to his connection with constituents and his dedication to
public service. His deep roots in the community and clear
(02:40):
understanding of the priorities of District four have resonated with voters,
the leadership team stated, underscoring the values and engagement he
brings to the legislature. The Rhode Island special election result
is part of a growing trend of Democratic overperformance in
state races around the country. From recent victories in Wisconsin's
Supreme Court to strong showings in Florida and Iowa legislative contests,
(03:03):
Democratic candidates continue to rally grassroots support. These outcomes are
fueling optimism among progressives that a blue wave could be
on the horizon for the twenty twenty six midterm elections,
driven by candidates who are delivering for their communities and
reflecting the electorate's priorities. Sherirett Brown, the longtime progressive champion
(03:25):
from Ohio, is laying the groundwork for a potential return
to the US Senate. Multiple sources report that Brown is
actively interviewing campaign managers for twenty twenty six bid, a
strong sign that he's preparing to take on Republican Senator
John Husted in what's shaping up to be one of
the country's marquee Senate matchups. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer
(03:47):
has traveled to Ohio twice this summer, personally urging Brown
to enter the race, underscoring how pivotal Democrats see his
potential comeback in a state that has been trending red.
Brown's decision is closely watched within the Democratic Party, as
there was speculation he might instead challenge for governor, particularly
with Ohio's next gubernatorial race also viewed as competitive. Still,
(04:10):
his record about performing national Democrats and tough races he
lost his Senate seat in twenty twenty four by fewer
than four points, while Vice President Harris trailed Trump in
Ohio by eleven makes him a formidable candidate to narrow
Republican margins. Brown's pro worker and trade skeptical stances have
long appealed to labour and some conservative leading voters, giving
(04:32):
Democrats hope he could expand their coalition in the Midwest.
Senator Husted fifty seven, was appointed to the Senate after J. D.
Vance left to serve as Vice President, and already has
substantial Arty backing and fundraising Horsepower reporting two point six
million dollars in cash on hand at the start of July.
(04:52):
Even so, Brown's name recognition and grassroots support could vault
Ohio back onto the national battleground map for Democrats, along
with recent high profile Senate recruitments like former North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper. If Brown formally enters the race, the
twenty twenty six Ohio Senate contest is expected to draw
significant national attention and resources for Democrats. His presence would
(05:16):
signal a push to reclaim ground in a state many
have considered out of reach and could play an outside's
role in shaping the balance of power in the next setting.
A federal judge has issued a two week halt on
construction at the detention center known as Alligator Alcatraz and
Florida Everglades, marking a victory for environmental advocates and local
(05:38):
indigenous groups. The decision, handed down by District Judge Kathleen Williams,
pauses all additional construction, including the installation of lighting, pavement,
and fencing, while hearings continue on the facility's environmental impact.
Williams cited credible evidence of ongoing harm to the fragile
wetlands and called the plaintiff's request pretty reasonable. In order
to prevent further ecological disturbs, the airstrip turned detention facility
(06:03):
sits within the Big Cypress National Preserve, home to endangered
species like the Florida United Bat. Expert witnesses testified that
newly paved areas could cause stormwater runoff to pollute the
surrounding ecosystem, as the flat wetlands can carry contaminants across
large areas during rainfall. Wetland's ecologist Christopher McVoy emphasized that
(06:24):
the pavement acts like glass, allowing water and pollutants to
travel unchecked into these sensitive habitats. Geologist Dylan Rio estimated
that more than twenty acres of impervious pavement had been added,
increasing the risk of chemical pollution harmful to aquatic and
terrestrial life. Plaintiffs, including Friends of the Everglades, the Center
(06:45):
for Biological Diversity, and the Mikasuk Tribe of Indians of Florida,
argue that the state and federal government failed to conduct
adequate environmental review or consider public input before fast tracking
construction of the facility. They rely on the National Environmental
Policy Act, which requires rigorous study of potential impacts when
(07:06):
federal actors are involved. Judge Williams agreed that there was
enough evidence of ongoing environmental harms not to mention the
moral harms that constructing a concentration camp of this sort
would entail to warrant the temporary restraining order, and highlighted
the Everglades's status as a unique and cherished natural resource.
The ruling represents a crucial pause for environmental and tribal
(07:29):
advocates seeking to ensure that America's largest wetlands are given
the comprehensive consideration and protection they deserve. Hearings will resume
as the broader legal and environmental debates around the future
of alligator alcatraz, its impact on the Everglades, and its
impact on our nation as a whole continue. President Trump's
(07:52):
job approval rating has dropped by six points since April,
according to a new University of Massachusetts Amherst poll and
corroborated by several national surveys. As of mid August twenty
twenty five, Trump's approval rating stands at thirty eight percent,
with disapproval at fifty eight percent, leaving his net approval
at negative twenty, the lowest point of his second term
(08:16):
so far. This latest decline is driven by eroding support
across demographic groups, notably among men and political independence groups
that had previously leaned more favorably toward him. Polls also
show that majorities of Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of
key policy issues, including the economy, inflation, jobs, immigration, and tariffs.
(08:38):
His reputation has taken a further hit due to his
response to the high profile Epstein case. Seventy percent of
Americans say he has not handled the issue well, eighty
one percent blame him for hiding information, and sixty three
percent believe his administration is being dishonest about the details.
The perception of a lack of transparency and ongoing controversy
(09:00):
have not only widened Trump's credibility gap with swing voters
and independents, but also begun to dent his standing among
Republican and conservative voters. Thank God. While polarization in US
politics tends to narrow the range of presidential approval ratings,
Trump's numbers remain low by any historical standard. Notably, only
(09:22):
about half of Republicans now say they strongly approve of
his presidency, and approval among self identified Republicans has declined
from roughly ninety five percent after his second inauguration to
eighty five percent in August. For a leader whose brand
relies on strength and disruption, these figures represent a significant
(09:42):
vulnerability heading into the twenty twenty six midterms, particularly his
confidence among his twenty twenty four voters shows signs of softening.
Speaker 2 (09:53):
Up.
Speaker 1 (09:53):
Next, a listener suggested story back in a minute, and
now a listener suggested story from Karen in Michigan. Two
women in Cadillac, Michigan are demonstrating the power of inclusion
and community spirit through their new Sack Lunch initiative One
Meal at a Time. Niki Paget and Jesse Duddles, both
living with developmental delays, launched the program to provide free
(10:17):
meals to veterans and anyone in need, distributing lunches every
Monday across from the Wexford County Public Library. What began
as a simple kitchen table idea has quickly become a
lifeline for many and an inspiring example of how everyone
can contribute to the well being of their community. Supported
by their caseworker and families, Nicki and Jesse handle everything
(10:38):
from shopping for supplies to handing out sandwiches themselves. Their
effort isn't just about good food. It's also about an
empowering experience that has helped both women grow in confidence,
find new purpose, and deepen their social ties. It makes
me happy to see them doing something other than sitting
in their rooms, said Nikki's mom, Joy and Paget. Both
(10:59):
Nikki and j Jes say the best part of their
work is seeing the smiles on people's faces and knowing
they are making a difference. Beyond tackling food insecurity, the
project has had a positive impact on Nicki and Jesse's
own well being, alleviating depression and anxiety by giving them
new focus and meaningful daily connection. Any leftover lunches are
(11:19):
donated to local organizations like the Cadillac Salvation Army's New
Hope Shelter, ensuring nothing goes to waste, and even more
people benefit from their efforts through one meal at a time,
Nicki and Jesse are showing that small acts of kindness,
rooted in empathy and dedication, can ripple outward, strengthening an
entire community. Their program thrives on local donations, both monetary
(11:44):
and in food, and serves as a reminder that everyone
has something to give and everyone gains when we take
care of each other. Thanks so much for that story, Karen,
That was wonderful. If you have thoughts, ideas, or more
good news to share, we'd love to hear from you
as well. Call or message us at two Z two
six five six six two seven to one, drop us
(12:05):
a line at beowolf at two squared Media Productions dot com,
or send it to us at good News for Lefties
on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. A federal judge in
Montana has ruled that the US Fish and Wildlife Service
violated the Endangered Species Act by denying protections for gray
wolves in the Northern Rocky Mountains. The ruling requires the
(12:29):
agency to reconsider its twenty twenty four decision that removed
federal protections for wolves living in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and
parts of Washington, Oregon, and Utah. This decision marks a
crucial step toward restoring protections for these iconic animals, which
play a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems. US District
Judge Donald Molloy found that the Fish and Wildlife Service
(12:53):
failed to use the best available science and unlawfully ignored
the wolves potential for recovery across the historic ranges, especially
in the southern Rockies, including Colorado. The judge criticized the
agency's reliance on flawed population estimates and harsh state management
policies that have allowed excessive hunting and trapping, pushing wolf
(13:14):
numbers dangerously low. The ruling highlights the importance of considering
natural dispersal and reintroduction efforts that are already helping wolves
recolonize parts of their former habitat. Advocates celebrated the ruling
as a hopeful turning point in wolf conservation. Collette Adkins
of the Center for Biological Diversity called it the hope
of true recovery for wolves across the West. Humane world
(13:37):
for animals in the Sierra Club also said the urgent
need for federal protection was important given the aggressive state
led killing campaigns in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, with some
states planning quotas that could result in hundreds of wolf
deaths this year. Renewed federal oversight is seen as essential
to preventing their extinction. While the ruling does not immediately
(13:59):
reinstate protect or change wolf management on the ground it
compels the Fish and Wildlife Service to reassess the species
status under the Endangered Species Act within sixty days using
rigorous science and the failings identified by the court. The
decision offers a path to meaningful recovery for wolves in
the Northern Rockies, signaling that the species fate will no
(14:21):
longer rest solely in the hands of state agencies that
have often prioritized hunting over conservation. You're listening to Good
News for Lefties on the Progressive Voices Network. But did
you know that we're a podcast too. That's right, Every
day Monday through Sunday, we feature positive stories for progressive
listeners because no matter how disturbing the headlines might be,
(14:43):
there's always hope we can build on for a better tomorrow.
So while you're listening during the commercial break to the
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News for Lefties or go to good News for Lefties
dot com. This is good News for Lefties. You can
find more at goodnewsf Lefties dot com. I'm bailable Frocklin
(15:05):
Back to the News, the National Weather Service is set
to rehire hundreds of workers following sweeping personnel cuts earlier
this year. Under the Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE,
the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAH, has received
(15:26):
approval to fill four hundred and fifty critical positions, including meteorologists, hydrologists,
and radar technicians. This move comes amid heightened scrutiny after
a deadly summer marked by severe weather events, including deadly
Texas floods, where understaffing raised questions about forecasting capabilities. Congressional
(15:47):
representatives Eric Sorenson and Mike Flood celebrated the decision as
overdue news. After months of pushing to exempt National Weather
Service staff from layoffs and hiring phrases, sponsored the bipartisan
Weather Workforce Improvement Act to reclassify National Weather Service employees
as essential public safety personnel and protect future staffing levels.
(16:12):
The cuts earlier in twenty twenty five had caused vacancies
in many weather offices, forcing cancellations of critical weather balloon launches,
and overnight shifts, while remaining staff faced unsustainable workloads. Though
the rehiring effort is a significant step forward experts caution
it may take months to recruit and train new employees,
(16:33):
meaning the agency's staffing challenges could persist into the peak
of hurricane and wildfire seasons. Still, the granting of direct
hiring authority to NOAH could help speed up recruitment by
reducing bureaucratic delays. The extensive loss of technical and forecasting
expertise has spurred concern across the weather community, which depends
(16:55):
on timely and accurate forecasts to save lives and protect
This rehiring initiative reflects a broader recognition among lawmakers and
officials that adequate staffing at the National Weather Service is
critical to public safety and disaster preparedness. It comes as
NOAH and NWS work to rebuild a resilient workforce after
(17:18):
budget driven reductions weakened the nation's frontline weather forecasting capabilities,
illustrating the vital role federal support plays in safeguarding Americans
from increasingly severe weather threats. A federal judge has ruled
that the abrupt cancelation of humanities grants by the National
(17:38):
Endowment for the Humanities was unlawful, allowing a lawsuit brought
by humanities organizations to proceed. In April, the Department of
Government Efficiency or DOGE, terminated thousands of grants previously approved
by Congress, affecting a wide range of groups, including state
(17:59):
humanities councils, museums, libraries, educators, and public media outlets. US
District Judge Michael H. Simon wrote that the plaintiffs are
likely to succeed in their claim that the withholding of
these funds is unconstitutional. He emphasized that the power of
the purse belongs solely to Congress, not the President, highlighting
(18:20):
that the unexpected grant cancelations violated this fundamental principle. For decades,
ANYH funding has enjoyed bipartisan support, providing critical resources to
public humanities programs across the country. The lawsuit was initiated
by groups such as Oregon Humanities and the Federation of
State Humanities Councils, who said the sudden cuts amounted to
(18:43):
an attempted destruction of the long standing federal state partnership
that supports humanity's initiatives. These programs helped veterans, heal, promote
literacy and critical thinking in children, and fund local projects
that enrich communities. Terminations have already forced some councils to
lay off staff cancel vital programs. While the ruling is
(19:06):
being hailed as a major victory by advocates, many humanities
councils continue to operate without their appropriated funds as the
legal battle proceeds. The decision underscores the crucial role that
federal funding plays in sustaining America's cultural and educational infrastructure
and sets the stage for the restoration of these essential grants.
(19:30):
The Department of Justice is facing a severe shortage of lawyers,
with reports indicating that more than sixty percent of the
Civil Rights Division's workforce has left since January twenty twenty five.
This exodus has been driven by widespread dissatisfaction among attorneys
regarding the Trump administration's use of the DOJ to push controversial,
(19:51):
ideologically driven priorities rather than focusing on protecting civil rights.
The Department is now scrambling to fill these vacancies, with
leaders urging current staff to take reassignments to critical areas
such as education, employment, and voting rights litigation. Now you
may ask why is this good news, Well, I'll tell
you why. The attorney shortage has created a critical gap
(20:14):
in the DOJ's ability to carry out its mission effectively,
and whose mission is it? It's Donald Trump's mission, so
he doesn't have enough help left to carry out his
authoritarian agenda. The Trump administration's redefinition of priorities has included
investigating organizations promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, restricting voting access
(20:38):
under the guise of fraud prevention, and pulling back on
prosecuting race based employment discrimination. These shifts have alienated many
experienced civil rights lawyers, who either resigned or were pushed out,
leaving the DOJ to rely on a diminished and often
unwilling workforce to advance its agenda. And given what that
(20:59):
agenda is, that is very good news for lefties and America.
The administration continues to pursue aggressive ideological litigation, and significant
attrition of skilled attorneys may mean the DOJ could lack
the necessary capacity to fully implement these efforts. That again,
(21:22):
is very good news for lefties. The Department of Homeland
Security's recent attempt to use South Park, a show known
for its sharp political satire, to promote recruitment for ICE,
was met with a sharp rebuke from the show's creators.
DHS posted a screenshot from the series depicting ICE agents
(21:44):
touting signing bonuses and benefits for potential recruits that was
recently revoked by the Way, just weeks after the White
House had dismissed South Park as irrelevant following episodes that
unapologetically criticized the trumpetmanministration and its harmful immigration policies, and
by the Way, pictured Trump in bed with Satan in
(22:06):
the true South Park fashion. The show responded by reposting
the DHS message with a biting wait so we are
relevant hashtag eat a bag of dicks, highlighting the administration's
attempt to co opt a show that has long held
a mirror to the damaging rhetoric and actions of those
in power. The ongoing season has relentlessly satirized Trump's administration,
(22:29):
including its anti immigrant stances, exposing the harsh realities faced
by communities targeted by ICE enforcement. The use of South
Park imagery as a tool for recruitment for an agency
widely criticized for human rights abuses and family separations underscores
the troubling normalization of aggressive immigration enforcement. While DHS touts
(22:51):
perks like signing bonuses and student loan forgiveness, it masks
the very real harm ICE is inflicted on immigrant communities.
South Park's pointed response reflects a broader cultural resistance to
an administration willing to exploit popular media not to inform,
but to bolster a punitive and inhumane agenda. This episode
(23:13):
exposes the complex relationship between political power and cultural influence,
revealing how satire and critique remain vital tools to hold
authorities accountable. As ICE continues its enforcement campaigns, works like
south Park serve as crucial voices advocating for humanity, justice,
(23:34):
and dignity in the face of oppressive policies. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
a listener suggested story from Brent in Stanford, California. Stanford
University's student run newspaper, The Stanford Daily, has taken a
bold stand against the Trump administration by filing a federal
(23:55):
lawsuit challenging the administration's use of immigration laws to te
target pro Palestinian activists and journalists. The suit alleges that
the administration's policies, specifically invoking sections of the Immigration and
Nationality Act, have been weaponized to cancel visas and threatened deportation.
Against non citizen writers based on their political speech, creating
(24:18):
a chilling effect on free expression on campus. The lawsuit
highlights the severe consequences of these actions, noting that student
journalists on visas have self censored, declined to cover or
comment on Middle East conflict related issues, and even requested
removal of previously published articles out of fear for their
(24:39):
immigration status. According to attorneys from the Foundation for Individual
Rights and Expression, which is representing the newspaper, these measures
violate the First Amendment by effectively punishing protected speech simply
because it conflicts with US foreign policy interests as defined
by Secretary of State Mark Rubio. Nintifs argue that the
(25:00):
administration's approach forces non citizen students into silence, undermining fundamental
American values of free expression and the press. The lawsuit
calls on the federal court to block the government from
applying immigration provisions in a manner that punishes students for
their viewpoints, reinforcing that constitutional rights should not be contingent
(25:23):
on citizenship status. This legal challenge underscores the broader attacks
on academic freedom and free speech rising amid the administration's
efforts to suppress dissent on divisive issues. While the Department
of Homeland Security has dismissed the lawsuit as politically motivated
and of course they would, critics assert that this case
(25:44):
is crucial to defending the rights of vulnerable communities, who
have long played an essential role in shaping debate and
dialogue in American universities. The Stanford Dailyes lawsuit pushes back
against the dangerous precedent of using immigration and enforcement to
intimidate voices critical of government policies, marking a significant moment
(26:06):
for civil liberties and campus journalism in the Trump era.
Thanks for that story, Brent. 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 one, drop us a
line at beowulf at two squared Media Productions dot com,
(26:26):
or send it to us at good News for Lefties
on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. Former Georgia Lieutenant Governor
Jeff Duncan, who served from twenty nineteen to twenty twenty three,
has officially switched from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party,
citing deep ideological differences that had been building for years.
(26:49):
In an op ed entitled from Republican Lieutenant Governor to Democrat.
Loving my neighbor is Easier Now. Duncan explained that his
journey began well before President Donald Trump's attempts to overturn
the twenty twenty election in Georgia. His decision was rooted
in a daily struggle to love my neighbor within a
party whose policies, he said, increasingly conflicted with his Christian
(27:12):
faith and moral values. Duncan specifically criticized the GOP's stances
on healthcare, gun safety, immigration, and social programs. He denounced
recent Republican led cuts to snap food assistance and medicaid
funding as contrary to caring for vulnerable families, and condemned
the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement as a lesson on
(27:35):
how not to love your neighbor. His public break with
the party opened last year as he guarded backlash for
endorsing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, and
led to his expulsion from the Georgia GOP earlier in
twenty twenty five. While Duncan has yet to announce any
concrete political plans, he has received encouragement from Democrats, independents
(27:57):
and even some Republicans frustrated with the direction of their party.
He indicated that he is considering running for office again
and expressed a desire to make a difference, build consensus,
and turn chaos into conversations in Georgia's political landscape. His
switch underscores the growing rift within the GOP and the
changing dynamics of American politics in states pivotal for future elections.
(28:23):
I'm so glad you're listening to Good News for Lefties
on the Progressive Voices Network. However, were you aware that
we're a podcast as well. That's right, every day, Monday
through Sunday, we feature positive news stories for progressive listeners
because no matter how depressing the headlines might be, there's
always hope that we can build on for a better tomorrow.
(28:44):
So while you're listening to the commercials and the wonderful
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We'll be back in a minute.
Speaker 3 (28:59):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast.
Speaker 2 (29:04):
This is the same man, all right, or this is
the same you know, orange tubby pile of rotted tomato,
all right, colostomy bag, diaper wearing fool who comes out
there who says with Zelenski, Oh so you if you
you just have a war, you start a war, then
you don't have to have elections. Oh okay, that's a
(29:25):
good idea, right. Donald Trump is the most disgraceful, utterly
despicable thing that has ever held public office in America.
And anyone who doesn't come up and shouts straight out
all right that you're you're a lion, mf then you
are facilitating this disgrace.
Speaker 3 (29:48):
Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller Happy Our podcast on Apple Podcasts,
Stephanie Miller dot com, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (30:00):
This is good news for Lefties. I'm bayable for Rockland.
You can find out more at goodnewsfo Lefties dot com.
Let's go back to the news. Thousands of demonstrators filled
the streets of Washington, d C. In the last week,
demanding accountability and defending democracy as protests erupted against President
Trump's latest attempts to consolidate power. Chanting and drumming and
(30:22):
waving signs. The crowds stretched across the nation's capital, where
a diverse coalition of Americans made it clear that they
would not remain silent in the face of what they
view as an abuse of power, Trump sending National Guard units,
many of them from red states, into the nation's blue capital.
(30:43):
Organizers who describe the demonstrations as both a warning a
mis celebration of civic engagement, emphasizing the people from all
walks of life have united to reaffirm democratic values. Activists,
faith leaders, labor groups, students, and everyday resident stood shoulder
to shoulder, sending a message that the country's future belongs
(31:05):
to the people, not anyone politician or administration. The protests
carried the energy of the past moments of American history,
when mass mobilization forced accountability and change. Participants said the
demonstrations were not only about pushing back against authoritarian maneuvers,
(31:25):
but also reimagining the nation's path forward. Speakers drew attention
to issues of justice, equality and transparency, highlighting the ongoing
fight for women's rights, racial justice, queer and trans equality,
reproductive freedom, and economic fairness. Calls for resilience were matched
(31:46):
by an outpouring of optimism, with marchers reminding each other
that the right to assemble and speak out remains a
cornerstone of the American spirit. Despite the tense political climate,
the protests resonated as a hopeful cry for unity and renewal.
Organizers vowed to keep the momentum alive through local organizing,
(32:08):
grassroots advocacy, and voter mobilization in the months ahead. For
many on the streets of Washington this week, the demonstrations
reflected a steadfast belief that everyday, people, when united, can
protect democracy and shape a more just and inclusive America.
Tenants in Boston's Matapan neighborhood have scored a victory after
(32:31):
a six year battle to keep their homes affordable. Residents
of the Fair Lawn Estate's apartment complex, backed by the
housing justice nonprofit City Life Vita Urbana, organized against dramatic
rent hikes imposed by a corporate landlord in twenty eighteen.
Their persistence paid off this spring when the City of
(32:53):
Boston helped facilitate the purchase of the three hundred forty
seven unit property by an affordable housing devals developer that
is now guaranteed permanent affordability For longtime residents like Betty
Lewis seventy four, this win is both personal and collective.
Lewis helped form a tenant association after her monthly rent
(33:14):
jumped by three hundred dollars, an increase she couldn't afford
on a fixed income. With encouragement from City Life organizers,
she and her neighbors stood firm against pressure and threatened evictions,
staging vigils, rallies, and even jury trials. This is a
community victory won by neighbors working together, Lewis said. It's
(33:35):
not just for us. We hope it inspires organizing for
housing stability all across Boston and across the state. The
deal was made possible through Boston's Acquisition Opportunity Program, created
to preserve naturally affordable housing stock at risk from speculative investment.
With ten million dollars in Federal American Rescue Plan funds,
(33:57):
the city ensured Fair Lawn's units are now income restricted
in perpetuity. Current tenants are protected by caps on annual
rent increases at two percent, with additional safeguards in place
for low income renters and those using rental assistance fouchers.
City officials have hailed the deal as a cost effective
way to preserve affordability, protecting hundreds of families for a
(34:19):
fraction of what new construction would require. Tenant leaders and
advocates are already pointing toward broader reforms, bringing back rent
control and enacting tenant opportunity to purchase policies that would
give residents first rights when landlords sell. But for now,
the win at Fairlawn Estates stands as an example of
(34:41):
collective action. As Lewis notes, the lesson for other communities
is clear. Form a tenant association, know your rights, knock
on your neighbor's door. You're stronger together. For Matapan tenants,
that solidarity has turned a looing displacement into lasting stability
(35:01):
and hope. Before we get back to the news, I
want to tell you about an important podcast called This
Week Again, hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a humorous
look at politics and current events one week at a time.
It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast that drops
every Sunday, and, in my opinion, is the largest single
(35:24):
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 or wherever you listen
to podcasts. That's This Week Again with Suzanne Posel s
(35:46):
U S A N N E P O S E
L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat. Two right wing
operatives at the center of a racially targeted voter intimidation
scheme have finally admitted guilt after a year's long legal battle.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that John Berkman fifty
(36:10):
nine and Jacob wool twenty seven pled no contest to
multiple felony charges, including conspiring to intimidate voters and using
computers to carry out their scheme. The pair masterminded robocalls
before the twenty twenty general election that spread lies designed
to dissuade black Detroit voters from casting ballots by mail.
(36:33):
The robocalls, sent to nearly twelve thousand households with Detroit addresses,
falsely claimed that voting by mail would expose voters to
police tracking, debt collection, and even forced vaccinations. By the CDC.
Berkman and Wohl themselves identified as the source of the calls,
(36:54):
and closed by urging recipients not to give your private
information to the man. Nessel described the campaign as an
egregious example of voter suppression, stressing that her office would
never allow deception and fear to block Michigan voters from
exercising their constitutional rights. The case wound its way through
(37:15):
Michigan courts for years, with defendants appealing charges all the
way up to the state's Supreme Court. In a decisive ruling,
the Justice is found that the state's voter intimidation laws
clearly applied and that the pair's actions were not protected
by the First Amendment. Their guilty pleas come after repeated
legal defeats that set an important precedent affirming the state's
(37:37):
ability to prosecute modern tactics of voter suppression in the
digital age. With sentencing scheduled for December first in Wayne County,
Berkman and Wall now faced significant prison time for their conduct.
For voting rights advocates, the case is a victory that
underscores the importance of vigilance as nessl put it accountability.
(38:00):
Years after election day, helps ensure Michigan's elections remain free, fair,
and beyond the reach of schemes aimed at silencing communities
of color. New York City is making sure kids don't
go hungry this summer by teaming up with No Kid
Hungry New York to provide free meals across all five boroughs.
(38:21):
With nearly one thousand distribution sites at schools, parks, pools, libraries,
and even food trucks, the initiative is ensuring that children
and teens have access to nutritious meals every day, no
matter their circumstances. At places like Half in Park in
the Bronx, food trucks are serving free breakfast and lunch
(38:42):
seven days a week, offering options ranging from cheese sandwiches
to chicken pasta. Organizers emphasize that meals are selected only
after taste testing with students, making sure the food is
both healthy and something kids actually want to eat. When
kids have access to arecious meals, they grow up stronger,
they have higher attendance rates, they do better in school,
(39:05):
said Rachel Sabella, director of No Kid Hungry New York.
The program addresses a critical gap for families during the
summer months, when students no longer have access to free
or reduced price meals during the school day. For many
families facing rising costs of food, rent, and transportation, these
(39:26):
meals provide both relief and stability. By bringing meal sites
directly into neighborhoods, the initiative ensures accessibility and prioritizes the
well being of children in every community. City officials and
advocates view this as an investment not just in health,
but in the future of New York. Strong, well nurished
(39:49):
kids are better learners and more engaged in school, laying
the foundation for greater opportunity. With community partners stepping up,
the message is clear, no child in New York City
should go without a good meal, and programs rooted inequity
and care can transform lives across the city. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute and Now,
(40:15):
A listener suggested story from Connor in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.
The Minnesota Viking's newest cheerleaders, Blaze Chic and Louis Khan,
are embracing the spotlight and pushing back against backlash after
making history as part of the team's twenty twenty five squad.
The pair, among a growing number of male cheerleaders across
the NFL took the field during preseason games this month
(40:38):
to raucous applause inside the stadium, even as a vocal
minority online attempted to stir outrage criticism, including homophobic remarks
from former NFL player Antonio Brown, as only spotlighted the
progress being made across the league. Chic brushed off the
negativity with humor, posting a photo of himself and Cohn
(40:59):
in uniform with the cheeky caption, wait did someone say
our name? Their lighthearted response underscored the confidence and joy
they bring to the sport, proving that inclusivity has a
place on the sidelines as much as anywhere else in football.
The Vikings organization stood firmly behind their cheerleaders, affirming in
a statement that Schikh and Khan earned their place through
(41:22):
the same rigorous audition process as all other squad members.
The team noted that male cheerleaders are not new to
the sport. College cheer squads have long featured been and
a third of NFL teams now include them as well.
We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the
role they play as ambassadors of the organization. The team said,
(41:43):
from the Los Angeles Rams groundbreaking decision to add male
dancers in twenty eighteen to today's NFL landscape with more
than a dozen teams featuring men on the sidelines, this
shift reflects a broader embrace of athleticism, diversity, and representation.
For fans in Minneapolis, chic and CON's presence signals the
(42:04):
future where football culture better marrors the inclusivity of the
communities it represents, and, judging by the cheers from inside
the stadium, the game day experience has only gotten stronger.
Thanks for that story, Connor. If you have thoughts, ideas
are more good news to share, We'd love to hear
from you as well. Call or message us at two
(42:25):
zero two six five six six two seven to one,
drop us a line at Beowulf at two Squaredmedia Productions
dot com, or send it to us at good News
for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or Blue Sky. In Austin, Texas,
a new chapter in affordable housing is taking shape literally
(42:45):
through three D printing. Construction technology company Icon has begun
building three compact homes as part of the city's Muller
Affordable Homes program. The project marks one of the first
times in the USA US that three D printed housing
is being directly applied to tackle affordability for low income residents.
(43:07):
Each two story home spans six hundred and fifty one
square feet, with a first floor that combines living, dining
in kitchen space, and a second floor hosting a bedroom
and bathroom. The hybrid construction uses Icon's large scale three
D printer to extrude durable cement like walls, while traditional
builders add timber framing, roofing, and finishes designed for resilience.
(43:32):
The homes are engineered to provide superior insulation with stand water, mold, termites,
and even fire. Although the one hundred ninety five thousand
dollars price tag may not seem cheap, it represents a
significant step down from nearby three D printed homes in
the same community that start around three hundred fifty thousand
dollars and sur past one million dollars. Austin, Texas isn't cheap,
(43:57):
my Friends. Advocates view this as proof that advanced construction
methods can help produce costs and increase predictability in housing
production for Austin, a city at the heart of both
a tech boom, and affordability crisis. These homes highlight the
potential of three D printing to expand access to housing
that is both sustainable and secure. If scaled, the technology
(44:21):
could offer communities nationwide a powerful tool in addressing the
country's deepening housing shortage. You just heard good News for
Lefties on the Progressive Voices Network, but I want to
remind you that we're a podcast as well. That's right,
every single day of the week we feature positive news
stories for progressive listeners because no matter how dystopian the
(44:41):
headlines might be, there's always hope that we can build
on for a better tomorrow. So while you're listening to
the other fine programs here on the Progressive Voices Network,
head on over to your podcast platform of choice and
subscribe to Good News for Lefties or go to good
News for Lefties dot com. Thanks for listening.
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm being
able to Froglin 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
(00:28):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
It's no secret these are challenging times. The disappearing of
immigrants and citizens, the takeover of our nation's capital by
federal troops, and the wholesale destruction of critical government agencies.
Today's headlines often overwhelm us with troubling news, making it
(00:48):
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 drowned
out by the negativity. Despite the setbacks, there's a genuine
movement toward a better America. So let these stories serve
as a reminder that change is not just possible, it's happening.
(01:11):
Carry this hope with you and share it with others.
Let's kick off with some good news headlines designed to
brighten your day. Democrats in Rhode Island are celebrating a
landslide victory after state legislative candidate Stefano Famiglietti dramatically outperformed
recent presidential margins in a high profile special election. Famiglietti
(01:35):
secured over eighty three percent of the vote in the
race to fill the state Senate seat left vacant by
the late Senate President Dominic Brugerio, outpacing Vice President Kamala
Harris's margin from last fall by an extraordinary fifty five points.
His decisive win not only reflects his deep roots and
commitment to the community, but also highlights surging democratic momentum
(01:59):
at the local level. Campaigning on a platform rooted in
community values and practical solutions, Famiglietti galvanized voters in District four,
which has witnessed shifting political wins in recent cycles. While
the district's Democratic lean was challenged in recent presidential elections,
with Joe Biden taking it by seventeen points in twenty
(02:20):
twenty and Harris capturing it by just eleven last year,
Famiglietti's showing signals a resurgent and energized base ready to
tackle new challenges. State leaders praised Famiglietti's victory as a
testament to his connection with constituents and his dedication to
public service. His deep roots in the community and clear
(02:40):
understanding of the priorities of District four have resonated with voters,
the leadership team stated, underscoring the values and engagement he
brings to the legislature. The Rhode Island special election result
is part of a growing trend of Democratic overperformance in
state races around the country. From recent victories in Wisconsin's
Supreme Court to strong showings in Florida and Iowa legislative contests,
(03:03):
Democratic candidates continue to rally grassroots support. These outcomes are
fueling optimism among progressives that a blue wave could be
on the horizon for the twenty twenty six midterm elections,
driven by candidates who are delivering for their communities and
reflecting the electorate's priorities. Sherirett Brown, the longtime progressive champion
(03:25):
from Ohio, is laying the groundwork for a potential return
to the US Senate. Multiple sources report that Brown is
actively interviewing campaign managers for twenty twenty six bid, a
strong sign that he's preparing to take on Republican Senator
John Husted in what's shaping up to be one of
the country's marquee Senate matchups. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer
(03:47):
has traveled to Ohio twice this summer, personally urging Brown
to enter the race, underscoring how pivotal Democrats see his
potential comeback in a state that has been trending red.
Brown's decision is closely watched within the Democratic Party, as
there was speculation he might instead challenge for governor, particularly
with Ohio's next gubernatorial race also viewed as competitive. Still,
(04:10):
his record about performing national Democrats and tough races he
lost his Senate seat in twenty twenty four by fewer
than four points, while Vice President Harris trailed Trump in
Ohio by eleven makes him a formidable candidate to narrow
Republican margins. Brown's pro worker and trade skeptical stances have
long appealed to labour and some conservative leading voters, giving
(04:32):
Democrats hope he could expand their coalition in the Midwest.
Senator Husted fifty seven, was appointed to the Senate after J. D.
Vance left to serve as Vice President, and already has
substantial Arty backing and fundraising Horsepower reporting two point six
million dollars in cash on hand at the start of July.
(04:52):
Even so, Brown's name recognition and grassroots support could vault
Ohio back onto the national battleground map for Democrats, along
with recent high profile Senate recruitments like former North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper. If Brown formally enters the race, the
twenty twenty six Ohio Senate contest is expected to draw
significant national attention and resources for Democrats. His presence would
(05:16):
signal a push to reclaim ground in a state many
have considered out of reach and could play an outside's
role in shaping the balance of power in the next setting.
A federal judge has issued a two week halt on
construction at the detention center known as Alligator Alcatraz and
Florida Everglades, marking a victory for environmental advocates and local
(05:38):
indigenous groups. The decision, handed down by District Judge Kathleen Williams,
pauses all additional construction, including the installation of lighting, pavement,
and fencing, while hearings continue on the facility's environmental impact.
Williams cited credible evidence of ongoing harm to the fragile
wetlands and called the plaintiff's request pretty reasonable. In order
to prevent further ecological disturbs, the airstrip turned detention facility
(06:03):
sits within the Big Cypress National Preserve, home to endangered
species like the Florida United Bat. Expert witnesses testified that
newly paved areas could cause stormwater runoff to pollute the
surrounding ecosystem, as the flat wetlands can carry contaminants across
large areas during rainfall. Wetland's ecologist Christopher McVoy emphasized that
(06:24):
the pavement acts like glass, allowing water and pollutants to
travel unchecked into these sensitive habitats. Geologist Dylan Rio estimated
that more than twenty acres of impervious pavement had been added,
increasing the risk of chemical pollution harmful to aquatic and
terrestrial life. Plaintiffs, including Friends of the Everglades, the Center
(06:45):
for Biological Diversity, and the Mikasuk Tribe of Indians of Florida,
argue that the state and federal government failed to conduct
adequate environmental review or consider public input before fast tracking
construction of the facility. They rely on the National Environmental
Policy Act, which requires rigorous study of potential impacts when
(07:06):
federal actors are involved. Judge Williams agreed that there was
enough evidence of ongoing environmental harms not to mention the
moral harms that constructing a concentration camp of this sort
would entail to warrant the temporary restraining order, and highlighted
the Everglades's status as a unique and cherished natural resource.
The ruling represents a crucial pause for environmental and tribal
(07:29):
advocates seeking to ensure that America's largest wetlands are given
the comprehensive consideration and protection they deserve. Hearings will resume
as the broader legal and environmental debates around the future
of alligator alcatraz, its impact on the Everglades, and its
impact on our nation as a whole continue. President Trump's
(07:52):
job approval rating has dropped by six points since April,
according to a new University of Massachusetts Amherst poll and
corroborated by several national surveys. As of mid August twenty
twenty five, Trump's approval rating stands at thirty eight percent,
with disapproval at fifty eight percent, leaving his net approval
at negative twenty, the lowest point of his second term
(08:16):
so far. This latest decline is driven by eroding support
across demographic groups, notably among men and political independence groups
that had previously leaned more favorably toward him. Polls also
show that majorities of Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of
key policy issues, including the economy, inflation, jobs, immigration, and tariffs.
(08:38):
His reputation has taken a further hit due to his
response to the high profile Epstein case. Seventy percent of
Americans say he has not handled the issue well, eighty
one percent blame him for hiding information, and sixty three
percent believe his administration is being dishonest about the details.
The perception of a lack of transparency and ongoing controversy
(09:00):
have not only widened Trump's credibility gap with swing voters
and independents, but also begun to dent his standing among
Republican and conservative voters. Thank God. While polarization in US
politics tends to narrow the range of presidential approval ratings,
Trump's numbers remain low by any historical standard. Notably, only
(09:22):
about half of Republicans now say they strongly approve of
his presidency, and approval among self identified Republicans has declined
from roughly ninety five percent after his second inauguration to
eighty five percent in August. For a leader whose brand
relies on strength and disruption, these figures represent a significant
(09:42):
vulnerability heading into the twenty twenty six midterms, particularly his
confidence among his twenty twenty four voters shows signs of softening.
Speaker 2 (09:53):
Up.
Speaker 1 (09:53):
Next, a listener suggested story back in a minute, and
now a listener suggested story from Karen in Michigan. Two
women in Cadillac, Michigan are demonstrating the power of inclusion
and community spirit through their new Sack Lunch initiative One
Meal at a Time. Niki Paget and Jesse Duddles, both
living with developmental delays, launched the program to provide free
(10:17):
meals to veterans and anyone in need, distributing lunches every
Monday across from the Wexford County Public Library. What began
as a simple kitchen table idea has quickly become a
lifeline for many and an inspiring example of how everyone
can contribute to the well being of their community. Supported
by their caseworker and families, Nicki and Jesse handle everything
(10:38):
from shopping for supplies to handing out sandwiches themselves. Their
effort isn't just about good food. It's also about an
empowering experience that has helped both women grow in confidence,
find new purpose, and deepen their social ties. It makes
me happy to see them doing something other than sitting
in their rooms, said Nikki's mom, Joy and Paget. Both
(10:59):
Nikki and j Jes say the best part of their
work is seeing the smiles on people's faces and knowing
they are making a difference. Beyond tackling food insecurity, the
project has had a positive impact on Nicki and Jesse's
own well being, alleviating depression and anxiety by giving them
new focus and meaningful daily connection. Any leftover lunches are
(11:19):
donated to local organizations like the Cadillac Salvation Army's New
Hope Shelter, ensuring nothing goes to waste, and even more
people benefit from their efforts through one meal at a time,
Nicki and Jesse are showing that small acts of kindness,
rooted in empathy and dedication, can ripple outward, strengthening an
entire community. Their program thrives on local donations, both monetary
(11:44):
and in food, and serves as a reminder that everyone
has something to give and everyone gains when we take
care of each other. Thanks so much for that story, Karen,
That was wonderful. If you have thoughts, ideas, or more
good news to share, we'd love to hear from you
as well. Call or message us at two Z two
six five six six two seven to one, drop us
(12:05):
a line at beowolf at two squared Media Productions dot com,
or send it to us at good News for Lefties
on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. A federal judge in
Montana has ruled that the US Fish and Wildlife Service
violated the Endangered Species Act by denying protections for gray
wolves in the Northern Rocky Mountains. The ruling requires the
(12:29):
agency to reconsider its twenty twenty four decision that removed
federal protections for wolves living in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and
parts of Washington, Oregon, and Utah. This decision marks a
crucial step toward restoring protections for these iconic animals, which
play a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems. US District
Judge Donald Molloy found that the Fish and Wildlife Service
(12:53):
failed to use the best available science and unlawfully ignored
the wolves potential for recovery across the historic ranges, especially
in the southern Rockies, including Colorado. The judge criticized the
agency's reliance on flawed population estimates and harsh state management
policies that have allowed excessive hunting and trapping, pushing wolf
(13:14):
numbers dangerously low. The ruling highlights the importance of considering
natural dispersal and reintroduction efforts that are already helping wolves
recolonize parts of their former habitat. Advocates celebrated the ruling
as a hopeful turning point in wolf conservation. Collette Adkins
of the Center for Biological Diversity called it the hope
of true recovery for wolves across the West. Humane world
(13:37):
for animals in the Sierra Club also said the urgent
need for federal protection was important given the aggressive state
led killing campaigns in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, with some
states planning quotas that could result in hundreds of wolf
deaths this year. Renewed federal oversight is seen as essential
to preventing their extinction. While the ruling does not immediately
(13:59):
reinstate protect or change wolf management on the ground it
compels the Fish and Wildlife Service to reassess the species
status under the Endangered Species Act within sixty days using
rigorous science and the failings identified by the court. The
decision offers a path to meaningful recovery for wolves in
the Northern Rockies, signaling that the species fate will no
(14:21):
longer rest solely in the hands of state agencies that
have often prioritized hunting over conservation. You're listening to Good
News for Lefties on the Progressive Voices Network. But did
you know that we're a podcast too. That's right, Every
day Monday through Sunday, we feature positive stories for progressive
listeners because no matter how disturbing the headlines might be,
(14:43):
there's always hope we can build on for a better tomorrow.
So while you're listening during the commercial break to the
wonderful sponsors of the Progressive Voices Network, head on over
to your podcast platform of choice and subscribe to Good
News for Lefties or go to good News for Lefties
dot com. This is good News for Lefties. You can
find more at goodnewsf Lefties dot com. I'm bailable Frocklin
(15:05):
Back to the News, the National Weather Service is set
to rehire hundreds of workers following sweeping personnel cuts earlier
this year. Under the Department of Government Efficiency or DOGE,
the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAH, has received
(15:26):
approval to fill four hundred and fifty critical positions, including meteorologists, hydrologists,
and radar technicians. This move comes amid heightened scrutiny after
a deadly summer marked by severe weather events, including deadly
Texas floods, where understaffing raised questions about forecasting capabilities. Congressional
(15:47):
representatives Eric Sorenson and Mike Flood celebrated the decision as
overdue news. After months of pushing to exempt National Weather
Service staff from layoffs and hiring phrases, sponsored the bipartisan
Weather Workforce Improvement Act to reclassify National Weather Service employees
as essential public safety personnel and protect future staffing levels.
(16:12):
The cuts earlier in twenty twenty five had caused vacancies
in many weather offices, forcing cancellations of critical weather balloon launches,
and overnight shifts, while remaining staff faced unsustainable workloads. Though
the rehiring effort is a significant step forward experts caution
it may take months to recruit and train new employees,
(16:33):
meaning the agency's staffing challenges could persist into the peak
of hurricane and wildfire seasons. Still, the granting of direct
hiring authority to NOAH could help speed up recruitment by
reducing bureaucratic delays. The extensive loss of technical and forecasting
expertise has spurred concern across the weather community, which depends
(16:55):
on timely and accurate forecasts to save lives and protect
This rehiring initiative reflects a broader recognition among lawmakers and
officials that adequate staffing at the National Weather Service is
critical to public safety and disaster preparedness. It comes as
NOAH and NWS work to rebuild a resilient workforce after
(17:18):
budget driven reductions weakened the nation's frontline weather forecasting capabilities,
illustrating the vital role federal support plays in safeguarding Americans
from increasingly severe weather threats. A federal judge has ruled
that the abrupt cancelation of humanities grants by the National
(17:38):
Endowment for the Humanities was unlawful, allowing a lawsuit brought
by humanities organizations to proceed. In April, the Department of
Government Efficiency or DOGE, terminated thousands of grants previously approved
by Congress, affecting a wide range of groups, including state
(17:59):
humanities councils, museums, libraries, educators, and public media outlets. US
District Judge Michael H. Simon wrote that the plaintiffs are
likely to succeed in their claim that the withholding of
these funds is unconstitutional. He emphasized that the power of
the purse belongs solely to Congress, not the President, highlighting
(18:20):
that the unexpected grant cancelations violated this fundamental principle. For decades,
ANYH funding has enjoyed bipartisan support, providing critical resources to
public humanities programs across the country. The lawsuit was initiated
by groups such as Oregon Humanities and the Federation of
State Humanities Councils, who said the sudden cuts amounted to
(18:43):
an attempted destruction of the long standing federal state partnership
that supports humanity's initiatives. These programs helped veterans, heal, promote
literacy and critical thinking in children, and fund local projects
that enrich communities. Terminations have already forced some councils to
lay off staff cancel vital programs. While the ruling is
(19:06):
being hailed as a major victory by advocates, many humanities
councils continue to operate without their appropriated funds as the
legal battle proceeds. The decision underscores the crucial role that
federal funding plays in sustaining America's cultural and educational infrastructure
and sets the stage for the restoration of these essential grants.
(19:30):
The Department of Justice is facing a severe shortage of lawyers,
with reports indicating that more than sixty percent of the
Civil Rights Division's workforce has left since January twenty twenty five.
This exodus has been driven by widespread dissatisfaction among attorneys
regarding the Trump administration's use of the DOJ to push controversial,
(19:51):
ideologically driven priorities rather than focusing on protecting civil rights.
The Department is now scrambling to fill these vacancies, with
leaders urging current staff to take reassignments to critical areas
such as education, employment, and voting rights litigation. Now you
may ask why is this good news, Well, I'll tell
you why. The attorney shortage has created a critical gap
(20:14):
in the DOJ's ability to carry out its mission effectively,
and whose mission is it? It's Donald Trump's mission, so
he doesn't have enough help left to carry out his
authoritarian agenda. The Trump administration's redefinition of priorities has included
investigating organizations promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, restricting voting access
(20:38):
under the guise of fraud prevention, and pulling back on
prosecuting race based employment discrimination. These shifts have alienated many
experienced civil rights lawyers, who either resigned or were pushed out,
leaving the DOJ to rely on a diminished and often
unwilling workforce to advance its agenda. And given what that
(20:59):
agenda is, that is very good news for lefties and America.
The administration continues to pursue aggressive ideological litigation, and significant
attrition of skilled attorneys may mean the DOJ could lack
the necessary capacity to fully implement these efforts. That again,
(21:22):
is very good news for lefties. The Department of Homeland
Security's recent attempt to use South Park, a show known
for its sharp political satire, to promote recruitment for ICE,
was met with a sharp rebuke from the show's creators.
DHS posted a screenshot from the series depicting ICE agents
(21:44):
touting signing bonuses and benefits for potential recruits that was
recently revoked by the Way, just weeks after the White
House had dismissed South Park as irrelevant following episodes that
unapologetically criticized the trumpetmanministration and its harmful immigration policies, and
by the Way, pictured Trump in bed with Satan in
(22:06):
the true South Park fashion. The show responded by reposting
the DHS message with a biting wait so we are
relevant hashtag eat a bag of dicks, highlighting the administration's
attempt to co opt a show that has long held
a mirror to the damaging rhetoric and actions of those
in power. The ongoing season has relentlessly satirized Trump's administration,
(22:29):
including its anti immigrant stances, exposing the harsh realities faced
by communities targeted by ICE enforcement. The use of South
Park imagery as a tool for recruitment for an agency
widely criticized for human rights abuses and family separations underscores
the troubling normalization of aggressive immigration enforcement. While DHS touts
(22:51):
perks like signing bonuses and student loan forgiveness, it masks
the very real harm ICE is inflicted on immigrant communities.
South Park's pointed response reflects a broader cultural resistance to
an administration willing to exploit popular media not to inform,
but to bolster a punitive and inhumane agenda. This episode
(23:13):
exposes the complex relationship between political power and cultural influence,
revealing how satire and critique remain vital tools to hold
authorities accountable. As ICE continues its enforcement campaigns, works like
south Park serve as crucial voices advocating for humanity, justice,
(23:34):
and dignity in the face of oppressive policies. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute, and now,
a listener suggested story from Brent in Stanford, California. Stanford
University's student run newspaper, The Stanford Daily, has taken a
bold stand against the Trump administration by filing a federal
(23:55):
lawsuit challenging the administration's use of immigration laws to te
target pro Palestinian activists and journalists. The suit alleges that
the administration's policies, specifically invoking sections of the Immigration and
Nationality Act, have been weaponized to cancel visas and threatened deportation.
Against non citizen writers based on their political speech, creating
(24:18):
a chilling effect on free expression on campus. The lawsuit
highlights the severe consequences of these actions, noting that student
journalists on visas have self censored, declined to cover or
comment on Middle East conflict related issues, and even requested
removal of previously published articles out of fear for their
(24:39):
immigration status. According to attorneys from the Foundation for Individual
Rights and Expression, which is representing the newspaper, these measures
violate the First Amendment by effectively punishing protected speech simply
because it conflicts with US foreign policy interests as defined
by Secretary of State Mark Rubio. Nintifs argue that the
(25:00):
administration's approach forces non citizen students into silence, undermining fundamental
American values of free expression and the press. The lawsuit
calls on the federal court to block the government from
applying immigration provisions in a manner that punishes students for
their viewpoints, reinforcing that constitutional rights should not be contingent
(25:23):
on citizenship status. This legal challenge underscores the broader attacks
on academic freedom and free speech rising amid the administration's
efforts to suppress dissent on divisive issues. While the Department
of Homeland Security has dismissed the lawsuit as politically motivated
and of course they would, critics assert that this case
(25:44):
is crucial to defending the rights of vulnerable communities, who
have long played an essential role in shaping debate and
dialogue in American universities. The Stanford Dailyes lawsuit pushes back
against the dangerous precedent of using immigration and enforcement to
intimidate voices critical of government policies, marking a significant moment
(26:06):
for civil liberties and campus journalism in the Trump era.
Thanks for that story, Brent. 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 one, drop us a
line at beowulf at two squared Media Productions dot com,
(26:26):
or send it to us at good News for Lefties
on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky. Former Georgia Lieutenant Governor
Jeff Duncan, who served from twenty nineteen to twenty twenty three,
has officially switched from the Republican Party to the Democratic Party,
citing deep ideological differences that had been building for years.
(26:49):
In an op ed entitled from Republican Lieutenant Governor to Democrat.
Loving my neighbor is Easier Now. Duncan explained that his
journey began well before President Donald Trump's attempts to overturn
the twenty twenty election in Georgia. His decision was rooted
in a daily struggle to love my neighbor within a
party whose policies, he said, increasingly conflicted with his Christian
(27:12):
faith and moral values. Duncan specifically criticized the GOP's stances
on healthcare, gun safety, immigration, and social programs. He denounced
recent Republican led cuts to snap food assistance and medicaid
funding as contrary to caring for vulnerable families, and condemned
the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement as a lesson on
(27:35):
how not to love your neighbor. His public break with
the party opened last year as he guarded backlash for
endorsing President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, and
led to his expulsion from the Georgia GOP earlier in
twenty twenty five. While Duncan has yet to announce any
concrete political plans, he has received encouragement from Democrats, independents
(27:57):
and even some Republicans frustrated with the direction of their party.
He indicated that he is considering running for office again
and expressed a desire to make a difference, build consensus,
and turn chaos into conversations in Georgia's political landscape. His
switch underscores the growing rift within the GOP and the
changing dynamics of American politics in states pivotal for future elections.
(28:23):
I'm so glad you're listening to Good News for Lefties
on the Progressive Voices Network. However, were you aware that
we're a podcast as well. That's right, every day, Monday
through Sunday, we feature positive news stories for progressive listeners
because no matter how depressing the headlines might be, there's
always hope that we can build on for a better tomorrow.
(28:44):
So while you're listening to the commercials and the wonderful
sponsors of the Progressive Voices Network, mosey on over to
your podcast platform of choice and subscribe to Good News
for Lefties or go to good News for Lefties dot com.
We'll be back in a minute.
Speaker 3 (28:59):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast.
Speaker 2 (29:04):
This is the same man, all right, or this is
the same you know, orange tubby pile of rotted tomato,
all right, colostomy bag, diaper wearing fool who comes out
there who says with Zelenski, Oh so you if you
you just have a war, you start a war, then
you don't have to have elections. Oh okay, that's a
(29:25):
good idea, right. Donald Trump is the most disgraceful, utterly
despicable thing that has ever held public office in America.
And anyone who doesn't come up and shouts straight out
all right that you're you're a lion, mf then you
are facilitating this disgrace.
Speaker 3 (29:48):
Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller Happy Our podcast on Apple Podcasts,
Stephanie Miller dot com, or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (30:00):
This is good news for Lefties. I'm bayable for Rockland.
You can find out more at goodnewsfo Lefties dot com.
Let's go back to the news. Thousands of demonstrators filled
the streets of Washington, d C. In the last week,
demanding accountability and defending democracy as protests erupted against President
Trump's latest attempts to consolidate power. Chanting and drumming and
(30:22):
waving signs. The crowds stretched across the nation's capital, where
a diverse coalition of Americans made it clear that they
would not remain silent in the face of what they
view as an abuse of power, Trump sending National Guard units,
many of them from red states, into the nation's blue capital.
(30:43):
Organizers who describe the demonstrations as both a warning a
mis celebration of civic engagement, emphasizing the people from all
walks of life have united to reaffirm democratic values. Activists,
faith leaders, labor groups, students, and everyday resident stood shoulder
to shoulder, sending a message that the country's future belongs
(31:05):
to the people, not anyone politician or administration. The protests
carried the energy of the past moments of American history,
when mass mobilization forced accountability and change. Participants said the
demonstrations were not only about pushing back against authoritarian maneuvers,
(31:25):
but also reimagining the nation's path forward. Speakers drew attention
to issues of justice, equality and transparency, highlighting the ongoing
fight for women's rights, racial justice, queer and trans equality,
reproductive freedom, and economic fairness. Calls for resilience were matched
(31:46):
by an outpouring of optimism, with marchers reminding each other
that the right to assemble and speak out remains a
cornerstone of the American spirit. Despite the tense political climate,
the protests resonated as a hopeful cry for unity and renewal.
Organizers vowed to keep the momentum alive through local organizing,
(32:08):
grassroots advocacy, and voter mobilization in the months ahead. For
many on the streets of Washington this week, the demonstrations
reflected a steadfast belief that everyday, people, when united, can
protect democracy and shape a more just and inclusive America.
Tenants in Boston's Matapan neighborhood have scored a victory after
(32:31):
a six year battle to keep their homes affordable. Residents
of the Fair Lawn Estate's apartment complex, backed by the
housing justice nonprofit City Life Vita Urbana, organized against dramatic
rent hikes imposed by a corporate landlord in twenty eighteen.
Their persistence paid off this spring when the City of
(32:53):
Boston helped facilitate the purchase of the three hundred forty
seven unit property by an affordable housing devals developer that
is now guaranteed permanent affordability For longtime residents like Betty
Lewis seventy four, this win is both personal and collective.
Lewis helped form a tenant association after her monthly rent
(33:14):
jumped by three hundred dollars, an increase she couldn't afford
on a fixed income. With encouragement from City Life organizers,
she and her neighbors stood firm against pressure and threatened evictions,
staging vigils, rallies, and even jury trials. This is a
community victory won by neighbors working together, Lewis said. It's
(33:35):
not just for us. We hope it inspires organizing for
housing stability all across Boston and across the state. The
deal was made possible through Boston's Acquisition Opportunity Program, created
to preserve naturally affordable housing stock at risk from speculative investment.
With ten million dollars in Federal American Rescue Plan funds,
(33:57):
the city ensured Fair Lawn's units are now income restricted
in perpetuity. Current tenants are protected by caps on annual
rent increases at two percent, with additional safeguards in place
for low income renters and those using rental assistance fouchers.
City officials have hailed the deal as a cost effective
way to preserve affordability, protecting hundreds of families for a
(34:19):
fraction of what new construction would require. Tenant leaders and
advocates are already pointing toward broader reforms, bringing back rent
control and enacting tenant opportunity to purchase policies that would
give residents first rights when landlords sell. But for now,
the win at Fairlawn Estates stands as an example of
(34:41):
collective action. As Lewis notes, the lesson for other communities
is clear. Form a tenant association, know your rights, knock
on your neighbor's door. You're stronger together. For Matapan tenants,
that solidarity has turned a looing displacement into lasting stability
(35:01):
and hope. Before we get back to the news, I
want to tell you about an important podcast called This
Week Again, hosted by Suzanne Posel. It takes a humorous
look at politics and current events one week at a time.
It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic, hilarious podcast that drops
every Sunday, and, in my opinion, is the largest single
(35:24):
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 or wherever you listen
to podcasts. That's This Week Again with Suzanne Posel s
(35:46):
U S A N N E P O S E
L This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, repeat. Two right wing
operatives at the center of a racially targeted voter intimidation
scheme have finally admitted guilt after a year's long legal battle.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that John Berkman fifty
(36:10):
nine and Jacob wool twenty seven pled no contest to
multiple felony charges, including conspiring to intimidate voters and using
computers to carry out their scheme. The pair masterminded robocalls
before the twenty twenty general election that spread lies designed
to dissuade black Detroit voters from casting ballots by mail.
(36:33):
The robocalls, sent to nearly twelve thousand households with Detroit addresses,
falsely claimed that voting by mail would expose voters to
police tracking, debt collection, and even forced vaccinations. By the CDC.
Berkman and Wohl themselves identified as the source of the calls,
(36:54):
and closed by urging recipients not to give your private
information to the man. Nessel described the campaign as an
egregious example of voter suppression, stressing that her office would
never allow deception and fear to block Michigan voters from
exercising their constitutional rights. The case wound its way through
(37:15):
Michigan courts for years, with defendants appealing charges all the
way up to the state's Supreme Court. In a decisive ruling,
the Justice is found that the state's voter intimidation laws
clearly applied and that the pair's actions were not protected
by the First Amendment. Their guilty pleas come after repeated
legal defeats that set an important precedent affirming the state's
(37:37):
ability to prosecute modern tactics of voter suppression in the
digital age. With sentencing scheduled for December first in Wayne County,
Berkman and Wall now faced significant prison time for their conduct.
For voting rights advocates, the case is a victory that
underscores the importance of vigilance as nessl put it accountability.
(38:00):
Years after election day, helps ensure Michigan's elections remain free, fair,
and beyond the reach of schemes aimed at silencing communities
of color. New York City is making sure kids don't
go hungry this summer by teaming up with No Kid
Hungry New York to provide free meals across all five boroughs.
(38:21):
With nearly one thousand distribution sites at schools, parks, pools, libraries,
and even food trucks, the initiative is ensuring that children
and teens have access to nutritious meals every day, no
matter their circumstances. At places like Half in Park in
the Bronx, food trucks are serving free breakfast and lunch
(38:42):
seven days a week, offering options ranging from cheese sandwiches
to chicken pasta. Organizers emphasize that meals are selected only
after taste testing with students, making sure the food is
both healthy and something kids actually want to eat. When
kids have access to arecious meals, they grow up stronger,
they have higher attendance rates, they do better in school,
(39:05):
said Rachel Sabella, director of No Kid Hungry New York.
The program addresses a critical gap for families during the
summer months, when students no longer have access to free
or reduced price meals during the school day. For many
families facing rising costs of food, rent, and transportation, these
(39:26):
meals provide both relief and stability. By bringing meal sites
directly into neighborhoods, the initiative ensures accessibility and prioritizes the
well being of children in every community. City officials and
advocates view this as an investment not just in health,
but in the future of New York. Strong, well nurished
(39:49):
kids are better learners and more engaged in school, laying
the foundation for greater opportunity. With community partners stepping up,
the message is clear, no child in New York City
should go without a good meal, and programs rooted inequity
and care can transform lives across the city. Up next,
a listener suggested story back in a minute and Now,
(40:15):
A listener suggested story from Connor in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota.
The Minnesota Viking's newest cheerleaders, Blaze Chic and Louis Khan,
are embracing the spotlight and pushing back against backlash after
making history as part of the team's twenty twenty five squad.
The pair, among a growing number of male cheerleaders across
the NFL took the field during preseason games this month
(40:38):
to raucous applause inside the stadium, even as a vocal
minority online attempted to stir outrage criticism, including homophobic remarks
from former NFL player Antonio Brown, as only spotlighted the
progress being made across the league. Chic brushed off the
negativity with humor, posting a photo of himself and Cohn
(40:59):
in uniform with the cheeky caption, wait did someone say
our name? Their lighthearted response underscored the confidence and joy
they bring to the sport, proving that inclusivity has a
place on the sidelines as much as anywhere else in football.
The Vikings organization stood firmly behind their cheerleaders, affirming in
a statement that Schikh and Khan earned their place through
(41:22):
the same rigorous audition process as all other squad members.
The team noted that male cheerleaders are not new to
the sport. College cheer squads have long featured been and
a third of NFL teams now include them as well.
We support all our cheerleaders and are proud of the
role they play as ambassadors of the organization. The team said,
(41:43):
from the Los Angeles Rams groundbreaking decision to add male
dancers in twenty eighteen to today's NFL landscape with more
than a dozen teams featuring men on the sidelines, this
shift reflects a broader embrace of athleticism, diversity, and representation.
For fans in Minneapolis, chic and CON's presence signals the
(42:04):
future where football culture better marrors the inclusivity of the
communities it represents, and, judging by the cheers from inside
the stadium, the game day experience has only gotten stronger.
Thanks for that story, Connor. If you have thoughts, ideas
are more good news to share, We'd love to hear
from you as well. Call or message us at two
(42:25):
zero two six five six six two seven to one,
drop us a line at Beowulf at two Squaredmedia Productions
dot com, or send it to us at good News
for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or Blue Sky. In Austin, Texas,
a new chapter in affordable housing is taking shape literally
(42:45):
through three D printing. Construction technology company Icon has begun
building three compact homes as part of the city's Muller
Affordable Homes program. The project marks one of the first
times in the USA US that three D printed housing
is being directly applied to tackle affordability for low income residents.
(43:07):
Each two story home spans six hundred and fifty one
square feet, with a first floor that combines living, dining
in kitchen space, and a second floor hosting a bedroom
and bathroom. The hybrid construction uses Icon's large scale three
D printer to extrude durable cement like walls, while traditional
builders add timber framing, roofing, and finishes designed for resilience.
(43:32):
The homes are engineered to provide superior insulation with stand water, mold, termites,
and even fire. Although the one hundred ninety five thousand
dollars price tag may not seem cheap, it represents a
significant step down from nearby three D printed homes in
the same community that start around three hundred fifty thousand
dollars and sur past one million dollars. Austin, Texas isn't cheap,
(43:57):
my Friends. Advocates view this as proof that advanced construction
methods can help produce costs and increase predictability in housing
production for Austin, a city at the heart of both
a tech boom, and affordability crisis. These homes highlight the
potential of three D printing to expand access to housing
that is both sustainable and secure. If scaled, the technology
(44:21):
could offer communities nationwide a powerful tool in addressing the
country's deepening housing shortage. You just heard good News for
Lefties on the Progressive Voices Network, but I want to
remind you that we're a podcast as well. That's right,
every single day of the week we feature positive news
stories for progressive listeners because no matter how dystopian the
(44:41):
headlines might be, there's always hope that we can build
on for a better tomorrow. So while you're listening to
the other fine programs here on the Progressive Voices Network,
head on over to your podcast platform of choice and
subscribe to Good News for Lefties or go to good
News for Lefties dot com. Thanks for listening.
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