September 13, 2025 • 19 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we shine a light on a series of empowering stories that showcase progressive victories and community resilience across the nation. First, we celebrate Democrat James Walkinshaw's impressive win in Virginia's 11th congressional district, securing nearly 75% of the vote. His campaign, focused on defending federal jobs and public services against the Trump administration's cuts, highlights the power of grassroots activism and voter engagement in shaping a brighter future for working families.
Next, we turn our attention to California, where lawmakers are poised to extend the state's Cap and Trade program through 2045, reinforcing their commitment to climate action amidst corporate pushback. This extension promises long-term investments in clean energy and public transit, showcasing the determination of progressive advocates to hold polluters accountable and protect vulnerable communities.
We also discuss California's groundbreaking deal to bolster the Wildfire utility fund by $18 billion, a crucial step towards safeguarding communities against the increasing risks of wildfires. This initiative emphasizes the importance of utility accountability and community safety as climate challenges intensify.
In Minnesota, Governor Tim Waltz is making waves following the tragic mass shooting at a local school, vowing to push for urgent gun safety legislation. With a focus on evidence-based policies, Waltz and Democratic leaders are determined to prioritize the safety of students and communities, challenging the status quo in the face of gun violence.
We also highlight an inspiring story from Boulder, Colorado, where high school students are constructing affordable homes through the Boulder Mod Project. This innovative program not only addresses the housing crisis but also empowers youth with valuable skills and job opportunities in the clean energy sector.
Finally, we report on a significant legal victory as a federal judge blocks President Trump's attempt to remove Federal Reserve Board governor Lisa Cook, reaffirming the importance of protecting the independence of our financial institutions from political interference.
If these uplifting stories resonate with you, please consider rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform to help spread the good news! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about these stories:
https://archive.ph/mqFlT
https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/09/california-cap-and-trade-negotiations/
https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2025/09/11/california-to-boost-utility-wildfire-fund-by-18-billion/
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2025/09/09/walz-vows-special-session-one-way-or-another-on-guns
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/habitat-for-humanity-factory-students-build-tiny-homes
https://www.commondreams.org/news/fed-governor-lisa-cook
https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/09/california-cap-and-trade-negotiations/
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Next, we turn our attention to California, where lawmakers are poised to extend the state's Cap and Trade program through 2045, reinforcing their commitment to climate action amidst corporate pushback. This extension promises long-term investments in clean energy and public transit, showcasing the determination of progressive advocates to hold polluters accountable and protect vulnerable communities.
We also discuss California's groundbreaking deal to bolster the Wildfire utility fund by $18 billion, a crucial step towards safeguarding communities against the increasing risks of wildfires. This initiative emphasizes the importance of utility accountability and community safety as climate challenges intensify.
In Minnesota, Governor Tim Waltz is making waves following the tragic mass shooting at a local school, vowing to push for urgent gun safety legislation. With a focus on evidence-based policies, Waltz and Democratic leaders are determined to prioritize the safety of students and communities, challenging the status quo in the face of gun violence.
We also highlight an inspiring story from Boulder, Colorado, where high school students are constructing affordable homes through the Boulder Mod Project. This innovative program not only addresses the housing crisis but also empowers youth with valuable skills and job opportunities in the clean energy sector.
Finally, we report on a significant legal victory as a federal judge blocks President Trump's attempt to remove Federal Reserve Board governor Lisa Cook, reaffirming the importance of protecting the independence of our financial institutions from political interference.
If these uplifting stories resonate with you, please consider rating and reviewing us on your favorite podcast platform to help spread the good news! We love hearing from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
For more about these stories:
https://archive.ph/mqFlT
https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/09/california-cap-and-trade-negotiations/
https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2025/09/11/california-to-boost-utility-wildfire-fund-by-18-billion/
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2025/09/09/walz-vows-special-session-one-way-or-another-on-guns
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/habitat-for-humanity-factory-students-build-tiny-homes
https://www.commondreams.org/news/fed-governor-lisa-cook
https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/09/california-cap-and-trade-negotiations/
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'd be
able for Rockland, your host, ready to help you swap
out doom and gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting
stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone
(00:28):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
Today's troubling headlines often overwhelmness, and they have been particularly
overwhelming this week. I'm sure if you follow the news,
you'll read or hear about some of them today. All
the bad news makes it easy to lose sight of hope,
and that's exactly why it is vital to highlight the
(00:50):
positive progressive wins happening every day in the United States
of America. To help us spread the positivity. If you
enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties
like you hear more good news stories and stay positive
(01:11):
and motivated for the days ahead. Now, let's get to
some good news headlines designed to brighten your day. Democrat
James Walkinshaw delivered a resounding victory in Virginia's eleventh Congressional District,
capturing nearly seventy five percent of the vote in a
special election that sent a clear message of resistance to
(01:32):
the Trump administration's federal cuts. Representing the deep blue suburbs
of DC, Walkinshaw focused his campaign on the real world
impact of Trump's attacks on federal jobs and public services,
reassuring Fairfax Virginia families that their concerns would find a
champion in Congress. Walkinshaw's triumph is also a testament to
(01:53):
the enduring legacy of the late Representative Jerry Connelly, whose
advocacy for government workers and progress of values inspired both
is former chief of staff and the district. Voters rewarded
Walkinshaw's experience in his commitment to pushing back against attempts
to dismantle public sector protections, a top concern for thousands
(02:14):
of families whose livelihoods are tied to strong federal employment.
With democratic turnout soaring well beyond expectations and a margin
that dwarfed previous cycles, progressives in Northern Virginia demonstrated their
determination to defend community priorities and reject far right fear mongering.
The overwhelming win signals that voters are looking for action, vision,
(02:37):
and a willingness to directly challenge extremist attacks on working families, democracy,
and local communities. As Walkinshaw heads to Washington, he brings
renewed energy and a bold mandate to advance policies that
invest in people, strengthen public institutions, and safeguard rights under
threat from reactionary politics. For many in the eleventh year district,
(03:00):
this election was not just about replacing a beloved leader,
but about building a future grounded in fairness, opportunity, and
progress for all. California's Cap and Trade program, a pillar
of the state's climate action, is on the brink of
a historic extension through twenty forty five, showing lawmakers resolved
(03:22):
to keep leading the way on finding climate pollution even
amidst fierce industry backlash and political turbulence. The new proposal,
crafted after months of organizing and negotiation, would provide long
term certainty for investments in clean energy, public transit, and
climate resilience initiatives that have created green jobs and cut
(03:42):
emissions statewide. Progressive environmental advocates see this as a critical
chance to improve the system, not just extend it. They
continue to push for stronger rules to reign in corporate polluters,
ensure clean air for communities near refineries, and stop fossil
fuel industry loopholes that have hindered real progress in frontline neighborhoods.
(04:05):
While the process was marked by last minute brinksmanship and
closed door drafts, grassroots groups argue the push for a
deal comes because community voices are finally challenging decades of
polluter influence. In Sacramento, supporters say extending the carbon market
positions California to ramp up climate ambition and chart a
(04:26):
path forward towards zero emission prosperity, particularly as the Trump
administration slashes federal support for clean energy and environmental justice.
With billions raised for climate action over the last eleven
years and new talks of linking programs with other leading states,
this move signals hope for a fairer, cleaner, and more
resilient future that leaves no community behind. As the session
(04:49):
deadline nears, climate advocates and local leaders are urging lawmakers
to seize this opportunity, finish the job, protect family sealth,
and inspire other states to raise their standards for ambitious,
people centered climate policy. More from California. California lawmakers have
(05:11):
reached a groundbreaking deal to boost the state's Wildfire Utility
Fund by eighteen billion dollars, a crucial move to safeguard
communities and build resilience as wildfire risks increase due to
the climate crisis. Under the proposal, which is set for
final legislative votes, the expanded fund will be split evenly
(05:33):
between rate payers and utility shareholders, ensuring powerful utility companies
help shoulder the cost rather than passing the full burden
to working families. The fund, launched in twenty nineteen after
catastrophic fires and the PG and E bankruptcy Acts, as
an insurance pool to help cover billions in wildfire damages
(05:55):
tied to utility caused blazes. The additional eighteen billion dollars
on top of the current thirteen billion will stabilize the
fund and keep resources available for future fire victims, particularly
in the wake of devastating January fires that threatened to
deplete reserves. Consumer and environmental advocates have pushed for stronger
utility accountability throughout the rush negotiations, highlighting concerns about affordability
(06:21):
and the need for more investments in wildfire prevention and
grid safety. Some legislative provisions, like requiring public financing for
new transmissions lines, could save Californians billions and help modernize
the state's clean energy infrastructure while controlling rate hikes as
wildfires become more frequent and severe. This move stands as
(06:41):
California's commitment to public safety, climate adaptation, and a fairer
system that puts people over corporate profits. The package now
awaits final Senate and Assembly approval, with advocates and lawmakers
urging swift passage to provide certainty for communities and insure
support is in place for upcoming fire seasons. After the
(07:04):
tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, a
devastating attack in which two children were killed and nearly
two dozen others wounded, Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz has vowed
to push for a special legislative session to deliver real
action on gun violence. Driven by the outcry of affected
families and a statewide sense of urgency, Waltz declared that
(07:25):
Minnesotans deserve more than thoughts and prayers, promising to keep
the issue front and center until new public safety measures
become law. Democratic leaders are pressing for changes such as
bans on assault weapons and high capacity magazines, aiming to
prevent these weapons of war from inflicting more harm in
schools and community. Progressives argue it's time to replace empty
(07:48):
rhetoric with tough, evidence based policies that prioritize the safety
and well being of every student. While some Republican lawmakers
are pushing for mental health funding and enhanced school secure instead,
Waltz has made clear that a robust gun safety agenda
is not negotiable. Community advocates are also underscoring the urgent
need to listen to impacted families, especially those who have
(08:12):
carried wounds, trauma, and loss for years, demanding that their
pain fuel a renewed commitment to preventing future tragedies. For progressives,
the time has come from Minnesota to stand up to
the gun lobby and show that courageous leadership can make
schools and neighborhoods truly safe for all kids, regardless of
zip code. With legislative control still split, advocates know the
(08:36):
road ahead won't be easy, but Waltz and his allies
are determined to seize this moment to deliver justice for
victims and bring lasting change. Their message is clear, inaction
is not an option. Minnesota families deserve safer communities and
a future where mass shootings become a thing of the past.
Up next, a listener suggested story back in a minute,
(09:02):
and now a listener suggested story from Bob in Denver, Colorado.
High School students in Boulder, Colorado are helping build a
more just and sustainable future, one tiny home at a time.
Through the Boulder Mod Project, Students spend part of their
school day in a state of the art solar powered factory,
(09:22):
constructing all electric affordable homes that will offer local families
the chance to put down roots and thrive. This unique
partnership between the Boulder Valley School District, the City of Boulder,
and Habitat for Humanity FLATIRNS is transforming how affordable housing
gets built and who gets to play a part. Students
(09:43):
aren't just learning the construction trade, they're earning credit, gaining
real world experience, and landing jobs in clean energy, a
win for both youth empowerment and the climate. The Boulder
Mod Factory, honored with the Eagle Award for its Impact Act,
shows what's possible when a community comes together with the
(10:04):
goal of making fifteen percent of Boulder's homes permanently affordable
by twenty thirty five. The program delivers stability for families
while creating pathways into the workforce, especially for those who
might not otherwise pursue skilled trades. As the first habitat
run modular factory in the nation, Bolder mod is charting
(10:27):
a new course for affordable housing and skills education alike.
Backers hope to see more chapters follow suit, multiplying the
number of students building brighter futures and the number of
families who get to come home to a place they
can finally call their own. Thanks so much for that story, Bob.
(10:47):
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you. Call or message us
at two zero two six five six six two seven
to one, drop us a line at Beowulf at two
squared Media Productions dot com, or send it to us
at good News for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky.
(11:09):
A federal judge has firmly blocked President Trump's attempt to
unlawfully remove Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook, showing the
critical need to protect the Fed's independence from political interference.
The ruling came as Cook's legal team challenged Trump's claims,
which centered on unproven accusations of mortgage fraud tied to
(11:31):
properties purchased before her board appointment. Judge GM Cobb made
clear that Trump's argument lacked legal foundation and that dismissals
must meet the strict four cause standard, which was not
met in this case. The accusations against Cook were largely
driven by Bill Pult, a Trump appointee accused of exploiting
(11:54):
private mortgage data to target political opponents. Economist Dean Baker
and others have highlighted Pul's troubling role, noting it undermines
trust in critical public agencies when such information is weaponized.
The court's decision to grant Cook a temporary injunction means
she will remain on the Federal Reserve Board with full
(12:16):
voting rights as the case moves forward, maintaining stability for
the nation's financial system. Legal experts hailed the ruling as
a victory for the rule of law and an important
blow against attempts to politicize central banking. Cook's legal team
stressed that allowing the president to remove Fed governors based
on vague, unsubstantiated claims would threaten the delicate balance that
(12:39):
keeps monetary policy decisions free from short term political pressures.
This case highlights the stakes as Trump's aggressive efforts to
reshape the Fed continue raising alarms about risks to economic
fairness and accountability. For now, Lisa Cook remains steadfast in
her role, supported by the court's reaffirmation of for statutory protections.
(13:02):
Advocates sy this as a crucial defense of democracies economic safeguards,
and a clear message that no one, not even a president,
can undermine the Federal Reserves Mission through political intimidation. That's
a wrap for today's edition of Good News for Lefties.
Remember if these stories brighten your outlook, please help us
(13:23):
spread the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team Roosabel Heine and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm Beowulf Rocklin,
weird name Good News for Lefties and America. Stay tuned
(13:58):
after this commercial break for more of me, your humble
and obedient servant. As I speak with Jen and Dan
of the band Camp Podcast.
Speaker 2 (14:07):
The John Peegle Sang Podcast is now available six times
a week with me John Fugelsang, I've been murdered on CSI,
ticketed by Westboro Baptist Church and host tell me Everything.
On Serious Xmprogress one twenty seven. You will hear authors, politicians, actors, filmmakers, rappers, rockstars, journalists, activists,
unhinged callers, and way too many comedians. They all have
a place of the John Feaglesang Podcast, and so do you.
(14:29):
The John Fiegle sing Podcast Fair and Biased. Find it
on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher for wherever you listen to Bobs.
Speaker 1 (14:37):
And Now. An excerpt from a recent episode of the
band Camp Podcast where I speak with hosts Jen and Dan.
Then go listen to the full show The band Camp
Podcast that's banned with two ends bandcamp podcast, dot com
and just a quick trigger warning here there may be
some clips of Donald Trump played in this next segment.
Speaker 3 (15:01):
It's time for bancab News.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
True Speaker, News Speaker. They will freckling. It's a weird name,
but he's got good news because he can't have a truth.
Speaker 4 (15:12):
He's broadcasting live from the good News for LEFTI Studio
is buried deep inside his social safehouse, hidden somewhere deep
in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Well Rockland.
Speaker 1 (15:25):
Because you can't Hello Dan, Hello Jen, Hello, scary book people.
I bring you good news from the Pacific Northwest in
my state, Oregon. The city of Portland, it is expanding
its first responded team dedicated solely to those having mental
(15:45):
health crises in cities across the country where the police
will respond to a mental health crisis and it does
not always end well. And furthermore, police are not always
trained to deal with mental health crisis. They're supposed to
be responding to crimes. So Portland has developed a team
that is specifically dealing with these types of situations. The
(16:09):
Portland Street Response has worked as an alternative first responder
agency to serve people having mental health issues. Unarmed staff
members are dispatched to provide services to those with suspected
substance abuse issues, who have basic unmet needs like housing
and more. Now they fielded nearly forty thousand calls since
(16:30):
twenty twenty one, and that to me is great because
that's forty thousand opportunities to not interact with someone with
a gun.
Speaker 4 (16:38):
One thing that Republicans are truly better at than Democrats,
is the messaging. And but this is that you're talking
about is the terribly named defund the police, right, because
when you say defund the police, it means in so
many people's brain, they want to cut the police, they
(16:58):
want to eliminate the police. These first yeah, they want
to play around with the budget of the police department
and say, maybe we don't need a lot of army tanks.
Let's take a big chunk of that money out of
the budget and give that money to people to teach
others how to de escalate and work with people who
need extra care. That's the fund part. It's not eliminating,
(17:22):
it's expanding. It's saying, let's train officers and first responders
to de escalate instead of just instantly shooting people.
Speaker 1 (17:30):
Exactly. And you raise a really good point, which is
that about ten or eleven years ago, the Pentagon started
providing police departments across the country with military equipment like
these massive m wraps and I think literally tanks in
some cases. That's not something they need. You could understand
your reaction. You don't want the police having tanks in
(17:53):
these massive vehicles. But this is essentially, what is happening
in cities across the country when Trump is literally sending
the military it.
Speaker 4 (18:01):
Oh, look at this, robots fact checking.
Speaker 3 (18:05):
I beg your pardon, Beowulf, but I do need to
correct you. President Trump has in fact renamed the Pentagon
the Department of War. So please show the orange loaf
of poop some respect.
Speaker 1 (18:15):
See that is very interesting, robot, because I am of
two minds about this. The Department of Defense. On the
one hand, you don't want to call it the Department
of War because war is bad. On the other hand,
the Department of Defense is just a euphemism. Maybe we
should call it what it is. I'm for this in
the sense that we're calling it what it is. We
(18:35):
should be aware that it's war, in the same way
that comedian Roywood Junior said. But if we get rid
of the Confederate flag, how am I gonna know who
the dangerous white people are?
Speaker 4 (18:48):
I guess maybe it should be called something like the
Department of the Big Beautiful Guns. Go listen to me
Well good news for lefties. Wherever you find podcasts, soul
can Band the Truth Beban
Speaker 1 (19:07):
And listen to Jen and Dan on the bandcamp podcast
at bandcamppodcast, dot com
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello, and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'd be
able for Rockland, your host, ready to help you swap
out doom and gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting
stories for democracy defenders, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone
(00:28):
who believes in making America a better place for everyone.
Today's troubling headlines often overwhelmness, and they have been particularly
overwhelming this week. I'm sure if you follow the news,
you'll read or hear about some of them today. All
the bad news makes it easy to lose sight of hope,
and that's exactly why it is vital to highlight the
(00:50):
positive progressive wins happening every day in the United States
of America. To help us spread the positivity. If you
enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties
like you hear more good news stories and stay positive
(01:11):
and motivated for the days ahead. Now, let's get to
some good news headlines designed to brighten your day. Democrat
James Walkinshaw delivered a resounding victory in Virginia's eleventh Congressional District,
capturing nearly seventy five percent of the vote in a
special election that sent a clear message of resistance to
(01:32):
the Trump administration's federal cuts. Representing the deep blue suburbs
of DC, Walkinshaw focused his campaign on the real world
impact of Trump's attacks on federal jobs and public services,
reassuring Fairfax Virginia families that their concerns would find a
champion in Congress. Walkinshaw's triumph is also a testament to
(01:53):
the enduring legacy of the late Representative Jerry Connelly, whose
advocacy for government workers and progress of values inspired both
is former chief of staff and the district. Voters rewarded
Walkinshaw's experience in his commitment to pushing back against attempts
to dismantle public sector protections, a top concern for thousands
(02:14):
of families whose livelihoods are tied to strong federal employment.
With democratic turnout soaring well beyond expectations and a margin
that dwarfed previous cycles, progressives in Northern Virginia demonstrated their
determination to defend community priorities and reject far right fear mongering.
The overwhelming win signals that voters are looking for action, vision,
(02:37):
and a willingness to directly challenge extremist attacks on working families, democracy,
and local communities. As Walkinshaw heads to Washington, he brings
renewed energy and a bold mandate to advance policies that
invest in people, strengthen public institutions, and safeguard rights under
threat from reactionary politics. For many in the eleventh year district,
(03:00):
this election was not just about replacing a beloved leader,
but about building a future grounded in fairness, opportunity, and
progress for all. California's Cap and Trade program, a pillar
of the state's climate action, is on the brink of
a historic extension through twenty forty five, showing lawmakers resolved
(03:22):
to keep leading the way on finding climate pollution even
amidst fierce industry backlash and political turbulence. The new proposal,
crafted after months of organizing and negotiation, would provide long
term certainty for investments in clean energy, public transit, and
climate resilience initiatives that have created green jobs and cut
(03:42):
emissions statewide. Progressive environmental advocates see this as a critical
chance to improve the system, not just extend it. They
continue to push for stronger rules to reign in corporate polluters,
ensure clean air for communities near refineries, and stop fossil
fuel industry loopholes that have hindered real progress in frontline neighborhoods.
(04:05):
While the process was marked by last minute brinksmanship and
closed door drafts, grassroots groups argue the push for a
deal comes because community voices are finally challenging decades of
polluter influence. In Sacramento, supporters say extending the carbon market
positions California to ramp up climate ambition and chart a
(04:26):
path forward towards zero emission prosperity, particularly as the Trump
administration slashes federal support for clean energy and environmental justice.
With billions raised for climate action over the last eleven
years and new talks of linking programs with other leading states,
this move signals hope for a fairer, cleaner, and more
resilient future that leaves no community behind. As the session
(04:49):
deadline nears, climate advocates and local leaders are urging lawmakers
to seize this opportunity, finish the job, protect family sealth,
and inspire other states to raise their standards for ambitious,
people centered climate policy. More from California. California lawmakers have
(05:11):
reached a groundbreaking deal to boost the state's Wildfire Utility
Fund by eighteen billion dollars, a crucial move to safeguard
communities and build resilience as wildfire risks increase due to
the climate crisis. Under the proposal, which is set for
final legislative votes, the expanded fund will be split evenly
(05:33):
between rate payers and utility shareholders, ensuring powerful utility companies
help shoulder the cost rather than passing the full burden
to working families. The fund, launched in twenty nineteen after
catastrophic fires and the PG and E bankruptcy Acts, as
an insurance pool to help cover billions in wildfire damages
(05:55):
tied to utility caused blazes. The additional eighteen billion dollars
on top of the current thirteen billion will stabilize the
fund and keep resources available for future fire victims, particularly
in the wake of devastating January fires that threatened to
deplete reserves. Consumer and environmental advocates have pushed for stronger
utility accountability throughout the rush negotiations, highlighting concerns about affordability
(06:21):
and the need for more investments in wildfire prevention and
grid safety. Some legislative provisions, like requiring public financing for
new transmissions lines, could save Californians billions and help modernize
the state's clean energy infrastructure while controlling rate hikes as
wildfires become more frequent and severe. This move stands as
(06:41):
California's commitment to public safety, climate adaptation, and a fairer
system that puts people over corporate profits. The package now
awaits final Senate and Assembly approval, with advocates and lawmakers
urging swift passage to provide certainty for communities and insure
support is in place for upcoming fire seasons. After the
(07:04):
tragic mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, a
devastating attack in which two children were killed and nearly
two dozen others wounded, Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz has vowed
to push for a special legislative session to deliver real
action on gun violence. Driven by the outcry of affected
families and a statewide sense of urgency, Waltz declared that
(07:25):
Minnesotans deserve more than thoughts and prayers, promising to keep
the issue front and center until new public safety measures
become law. Democratic leaders are pressing for changes such as
bans on assault weapons and high capacity magazines, aiming to
prevent these weapons of war from inflicting more harm in
schools and community. Progressives argue it's time to replace empty
(07:48):
rhetoric with tough, evidence based policies that prioritize the safety
and well being of every student. While some Republican lawmakers
are pushing for mental health funding and enhanced school secure instead,
Waltz has made clear that a robust gun safety agenda
is not negotiable. Community advocates are also underscoring the urgent
need to listen to impacted families, especially those who have
(08:12):
carried wounds, trauma, and loss for years, demanding that their
pain fuel a renewed commitment to preventing future tragedies. For progressives,
the time has come from Minnesota to stand up to
the gun lobby and show that courageous leadership can make
schools and neighborhoods truly safe for all kids, regardless of
zip code. With legislative control still split, advocates know the
(08:36):
road ahead won't be easy, but Waltz and his allies
are determined to seize this moment to deliver justice for
victims and bring lasting change. Their message is clear, inaction
is not an option. Minnesota families deserve safer communities and
a future where mass shootings become a thing of the past.
Up next, a listener suggested story back in a minute,
(09:02):
and now a listener suggested story from Bob in Denver, Colorado.
High School students in Boulder, Colorado are helping build a
more just and sustainable future, one tiny home at a time.
Through the Boulder Mod Project, Students spend part of their
school day in a state of the art solar powered factory,
(09:22):
constructing all electric affordable homes that will offer local families
the chance to put down roots and thrive. This unique
partnership between the Boulder Valley School District, the City of Boulder,
and Habitat for Humanity FLATIRNS is transforming how affordable housing
gets built and who gets to play a part. Students
(09:43):
aren't just learning the construction trade, they're earning credit, gaining
real world experience, and landing jobs in clean energy, a
win for both youth empowerment and the climate. The Boulder
Mod Factory, honored with the Eagle Award for its Impact Act,
shows what's possible when a community comes together with the
(10:04):
goal of making fifteen percent of Boulder's homes permanently affordable
by twenty thirty five. The program delivers stability for families
while creating pathways into the workforce, especially for those who
might not otherwise pursue skilled trades. As the first habitat
run modular factory in the nation, Bolder mod is charting
(10:27):
a new course for affordable housing and skills education alike.
Backers hope to see more chapters follow suit, multiplying the
number of students building brighter futures and the number of
families who get to come home to a place they
can finally call their own. Thanks so much for that story, Bob.
(10:47):
If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share,
we'd love to hear from you. Call or message us
at two zero two six five six six two seven
to one, drop us a line at Beowulf at two
squared Media Productions dot com, or send it to us
at good News for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky.
(11:09):
A federal judge has firmly blocked President Trump's attempt to
unlawfully remove Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook, showing the
critical need to protect the Fed's independence from political interference.
The ruling came as Cook's legal team challenged Trump's claims,
which centered on unproven accusations of mortgage fraud tied to
(11:31):
properties purchased before her board appointment. Judge GM Cobb made
clear that Trump's argument lacked legal foundation and that dismissals
must meet the strict four cause standard, which was not
met in this case. The accusations against Cook were largely
driven by Bill Pult, a Trump appointee accused of exploiting
(11:54):
private mortgage data to target political opponents. Economist Dean Baker
and others have highlighted Pul's troubling role, noting it undermines
trust in critical public agencies when such information is weaponized.
The court's decision to grant Cook a temporary injunction means
she will remain on the Federal Reserve Board with full
(12:16):
voting rights as the case moves forward, maintaining stability for
the nation's financial system. Legal experts hailed the ruling as
a victory for the rule of law and an important
blow against attempts to politicize central banking. Cook's legal team
stressed that allowing the president to remove Fed governors based
on vague, unsubstantiated claims would threaten the delicate balance that
(12:39):
keeps monetary policy decisions free from short term political pressures.
This case highlights the stakes as Trump's aggressive efforts to
reshape the Fed continue raising alarms about risks to economic
fairness and accountability. For now, Lisa Cook remains steadfast in
her role, supported by the court's reaffirmation of for statutory protections.
(13:02):
Advocates sy this as a crucial defense of democracies economic safeguards,
and a clear message that no one, not even a president,
can undermine the Federal Reserves Mission through political intimidation. That's
a wrap for today's edition of Good News for Lefties.
Remember if these stories brighten your outlook, please help us
(13:23):
spread the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. A big thanks to
our production team Roosabel Heine and Aaron Watson for making
all of this possible behind the scenes. I'm Beowulf Rocklin,
weird name Good News for Lefties and America. Stay tuned
(13:58):
after this commercial break for more of me, your humble
and obedient servant. As I speak with Jen and Dan
of the band Camp Podcast.
Speaker 2 (14:07):
The John Peegle Sang Podcast is now available six times
a week with me John Fugelsang, I've been murdered on CSI,
ticketed by Westboro Baptist Church and host tell me Everything.
On Serious Xmprogress one twenty seven. You will hear authors, politicians, actors, filmmakers, rappers, rockstars, journalists, activists,
unhinged callers, and way too many comedians. They all have
a place of the John Feaglesang Podcast, and so do you.
(14:29):
The John Fiegle sing Podcast Fair and Biased. Find it
on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher for wherever you listen to Bobs.
Speaker 1 (14:37):
And Now. An excerpt from a recent episode of the
band Camp Podcast where I speak with hosts Jen and Dan.
Then go listen to the full show The band Camp
Podcast that's banned with two ends bandcamp podcast, dot com
and just a quick trigger warning here there may be
some clips of Donald Trump played in this next segment.
Speaker 3 (15:01):
It's time for bancab News.
Speaker 1 (15:03):
True Speaker, News Speaker. They will freckling. It's a weird name,
but he's got good news because he can't have a truth.
Speaker 4 (15:12):
He's broadcasting live from the good News for LEFTI Studio
is buried deep inside his social safehouse, hidden somewhere deep
in the Oregon woods. He is Babe Well Rockland.
Speaker 1 (15:25):
Because you can't Hello Dan, Hello Jen, Hello, scary book people.
I bring you good news from the Pacific Northwest in
my state, Oregon. The city of Portland, it is expanding
its first responded team dedicated solely to those having mental
(15:45):
health crises in cities across the country where the police
will respond to a mental health crisis and it does
not always end well. And furthermore, police are not always
trained to deal with mental health crisis. They're supposed to
be responding to crimes. So Portland has developed a team
that is specifically dealing with these types of situations. The
(16:09):
Portland Street Response has worked as an alternative first responder
agency to serve people having mental health issues. Unarmed staff
members are dispatched to provide services to those with suspected
substance abuse issues, who have basic unmet needs like housing
and more. Now they fielded nearly forty thousand calls since
(16:30):
twenty twenty one, and that to me is great because
that's forty thousand opportunities to not interact with someone with
a gun.
Speaker 4 (16:38):
One thing that Republicans are truly better at than Democrats,
is the messaging. And but this is that you're talking
about is the terribly named defund the police, right, because
when you say defund the police, it means in so
many people's brain, they want to cut the police, they
(16:58):
want to eliminate the police. These first yeah, they want
to play around with the budget of the police department
and say, maybe we don't need a lot of army tanks.
Let's take a big chunk of that money out of
the budget and give that money to people to teach
others how to de escalate and work with people who
need extra care. That's the fund part. It's not eliminating,
(17:22):
it's expanding. It's saying, let's train officers and first responders
to de escalate instead of just instantly shooting people.
Speaker 1 (17:30):
Exactly. And you raise a really good point, which is
that about ten or eleven years ago, the Pentagon started
providing police departments across the country with military equipment like
these massive m wraps and I think literally tanks in
some cases. That's not something they need. You could understand
your reaction. You don't want the police having tanks in
(17:53):
these massive vehicles. But this is essentially, what is happening
in cities across the country when Trump is literally sending
the military it.
Speaker 4 (18:01):
Oh, look at this, robots fact checking.
Speaker 3 (18:05):
I beg your pardon, Beowulf, but I do need to
correct you. President Trump has in fact renamed the Pentagon
the Department of War. So please show the orange loaf
of poop some respect.
Speaker 1 (18:15):
See that is very interesting, robot, because I am of
two minds about this. The Department of Defense. On the
one hand, you don't want to call it the Department
of War because war is bad. On the other hand,
the Department of Defense is just a euphemism. Maybe we
should call it what it is. I'm for this in
the sense that we're calling it what it is. We
(18:35):
should be aware that it's war, in the same way
that comedian Roywood Junior said. But if we get rid
of the Confederate flag, how am I gonna know who
the dangerous white people are?
Speaker 4 (18:48):
I guess maybe it should be called something like the
Department of the Big Beautiful Guns. Go listen to me
Well good news for lefties. Wherever you find podcasts, soul
can Band the Truth Beban
Speaker 1 (19:07):
And listen to Jen and Dan on the bandcamp podcast
at bandcamppodcast, dot com
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Cardiac Cowboys
The heart was always off-limits to surgeons. Cutting into it spelled instant death for the patient. That is, until a ragtag group of doctors scattered across the Midwest and Texas decided to throw out the rule book. Working in makeshift laboratories and home garages, using medical devices made from scavenged machine parts and beer tubes, these men and women invented the field of open heart surgery. Odds are, someone you know is alive because of them. So why has history left them behind? Presented by Chris Pine, CARDIAC COWBOYS tells the gripping true story behind the birth of heart surgery, and the young, Greatest Generation doctors who made it happen. For years, they competed and feuded, racing to be the first, the best, and the most prolific. Some appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, operated on kings and advised presidents. Others ended up disgraced, penniless, and convicted of felonies. Together, they ignited a revolution in medicine, and changed the world.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.