October 15, 2025 • 21 mins
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we shine a light on remarkable stories of progress and community resilience that inspire hope for a brighter future. We kick off with a powerful statement from major airports across the country, which have rejected a politicized video from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, asserting that public spaces should remain free from partisan propaganda. This decision reflects an unwavering commitment to integrity and neutrality in government communication, emphasizing that airports are for travelers, not political theater.
Next, we celebrate a significant turnaround in Philadelphia, where the city is on track for its lowest homicide rate in two decades, thanks to collaborative efforts between law enforcement, community groups, and residents. This transformation showcases the power of unity and proactive engagement in creating safer neighborhoods.
In a historic move, the U.S. Senate has voted unanimously to repeal the 2002 resolution that authorized the invasion of Iraq, signaling a bipartisan commitment to accountability and a shift towards restoring congressional authority over warfare. This decision echoes the public's demand for peace and diplomacy over endless military interventions.
We also highlight the Ann Arbor District Library's plans to acquire the Ann Arbor Observer, ensuring the continuation of vital local journalism that serves the community. This acquisition is a testament to the importance of public access to independent reporting and the preservation of a cherished local resource.
Additionally, we bring you a listener-suggested story about the remarkable rebound of Florida's leatherback sea turtles, which have achieved record nesting numbers following last year's devastating hurricanes. This success reflects the impact of dedicated conservation efforts and the resilience of nature when supported by community action.
Finally, we celebrate New England's closure of its last coal-fired power plant, Merrimack Station, three years ahead of schedule. This pivotal moment marks a significant step in the region's transition to cleaner energy sources, showcasing the power of environmental advocacy and the shift towards sustainable energy practices.
Join us as we explore these uplifting stories and the positive changes happening across the nation. If you enjoy the episode, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! We’d love to hear from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/oct/14/airports-kristi-noem-video-government-shutdown
https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/philadelphia-gun-violence-homicides-steadily-declining
https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-iraq-trump-a6bc311c0b0890022cb818550758c94e
https://aadl.org/node/647334
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/endangered-leatherback-turtles-florida-rebound
https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/fossil-fuels/new-englands-last-coal-plant-shuts-down
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
Next, we celebrate a significant turnaround in Philadelphia, where the city is on track for its lowest homicide rate in two decades, thanks to collaborative efforts between law enforcement, community groups, and residents. This transformation showcases the power of unity and proactive engagement in creating safer neighborhoods.
In a historic move, the U.S. Senate has voted unanimously to repeal the 2002 resolution that authorized the invasion of Iraq, signaling a bipartisan commitment to accountability and a shift towards restoring congressional authority over warfare. This decision echoes the public's demand for peace and diplomacy over endless military interventions.
We also highlight the Ann Arbor District Library's plans to acquire the Ann Arbor Observer, ensuring the continuation of vital local journalism that serves the community. This acquisition is a testament to the importance of public access to independent reporting and the preservation of a cherished local resource.
Additionally, we bring you a listener-suggested story about the remarkable rebound of Florida's leatherback sea turtles, which have achieved record nesting numbers following last year's devastating hurricanes. This success reflects the impact of dedicated conservation efforts and the resilience of nature when supported by community action.
Finally, we celebrate New England's closure of its last coal-fired power plant, Merrimack Station, three years ahead of schedule. This pivotal moment marks a significant step in the region's transition to cleaner energy sources, showcasing the power of environmental advocacy and the shift towards sustainable energy practices.
Join us as we explore these uplifting stories and the positive changes happening across the nation. If you enjoy the episode, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! We’d love to hear from you, so reach out at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/oct/14/airports-kristi-noem-video-government-shutdown
https://www.audacy.com/kywnewsradio/news/local/philadelphia-gun-violence-homicides-steadily-declining
https://apnews.com/article/congress-war-powers-iraq-trump-a6bc311c0b0890022cb818550758c94e
https://aadl.org/node/647334
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/endangered-leatherback-turtles-florida-rebound
https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/fossil-fuels/new-englands-last-coal-plant-shuts-down
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'm Beowulf Rocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy,
de vendors, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone who believes
(00:29):
in making America a better place for everyone. Today's troubling
headlines often overwhelm us, and 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's vital to highlight
the positive progressive wins happening every day in the United
(00:52):
States of America. To help us spread the positivity. If
you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple, podcast, Asked, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties
like you hear more good news stories and stay positive
and motivated for the days ahead. Now, let's get to
(01:13):
some good news headlines designed to brighten your day. Across
the country, major airports are standing firm for fairness and
non partisan public space, refusing to air a politicized video
circulated by Homeland Security Secretary Christy Nome. The message, which
(01:34):
blames Democrats for the continuing federal shutdown, was swiftly rejected
by airport officials from Phoenix to Portland, with administrators emphasizing
that their terminals are for travelers, not political theater. The
decision reflects growing support for keeping government service areas free
(01:54):
of partisan propaganda. Officials at Las Vegas's Harry Reid Internet National, Seattle, Tacoma,
and Phoenix Sky Harbor confirmed they declined to run the
footage after legal review determined the video could violate the
Hatch Act, longstanding federal law guarding against political activity by
(02:16):
civil servants. The airports noted their policies prohibit partisan content
and promote neutral public messaging meant to inform rather than inflame.
Portland's Port authority made clear that using public property for
partisan purposes was unacceptable, a stance widely praised by local
(02:38):
civic advocates who called it a model for integrity in
government communication. At Charlotte Douglas in North Carolina, officials echoed
that sentiment, saying airport screens were reserved for travel updates
and wayfinding notices. Not partisan commentary. Westchester County, New York,
(02:59):
went for a calling Gnomes video unacceptable and contrary to
the trust taxpayers place in public institutions. Their message struck
accord nationwide, underscoring how community run airports can serve as
a bulwark against misinformation and divisive campaigning at places millions
(03:20):
of Americans rely on each day. As public servants continue
working through the shutdown without pay, airport authorities and local
governments have turned attention to supporting federal workers and demanding
genuine cooperation in Washington. Their collective stance rejecting political blame
(03:41):
shifting and focusing instead on service and stability, offers a
reminder that public spaces belong to everyone and that integrity
in governance remains stronger than any partisan script. Philadelphia is
experiencing a turnaround few thought possible, track to record its
lowest number of homicides in two decades, a stunning drop
(04:05):
that city leaders say reflects a unified push for peace
and accountability. After hitting a grim peak of five hundred
sixty two homicides in twenty twenty one, shootings are now
down roughly forty percent from last year, and killings have
plummeted about sixty percent. According to Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel,
(04:28):
overall crime has fallen by fourteen percent, a reversal that
many residents are calling a new beginning for the city's neighborhoods.
Bethel credited the transformation not to crackdowns, but to collaboration
between officers, community groups, and everyday Philadelphians determined to reclaim
(04:49):
their streets. Detectives have solved nearly eighty percent of homicide
cases this year, which Bethel said is breaking cycles of
retaliation that at once fueled deadly feuds. When we clear
these cases, we stop violence before it spreads, he explained,
describing how mutual trust and fast investigations help calm tense
(05:14):
blocks that once saw nearly nightly gunfire. That spirit of
cooperation extends to city Hall, where Bethel and Mayor Scherrell
Parker have linked community input directly to public safety planning.
The administration is seeking residence voices through a new citywide
(05:34):
survey at Phillypolice dot com slash Strategic Plan, a move
meant to codify how neighborhood solutions feed into policing strategies.
Both leaders have framed this era, not simply as a
statistical achievement, but as a testament to what's possible when residents, police,
(05:55):
and officials row in the same direction as Bethel put In.
District Attorney Larry Krasner recently pointed out that the city's
homicide trend puts Philadelphia among the fastest improving large cities
in the nation. He credited residents for demanding progressive reforms
that prioritize prevention and fairness alongside enforcement. Together, these efforts
(06:20):
are transforming a city once branded by violence into one
increasingly known for resilience and optivism, a living example of
how community investment and transparency in justice can change the
trajectory of an entire metropolis. 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
(06:45):
takes a humorous look at politics and current events one
week at a time. It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic,
hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday, and, in my opinion,
is the largest single repository of creatively insulting names for
Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini, and Orange Julius Caesar are just
(07:06):
the beginning. So if you want to recap of the
week and you want a laugh into the bargain, listen
to This Week Again with Suzanne Posel on this platform
or wherever you listen to podcasts. That's This Week Again
with Suzanne Posel. S U S A N N E
P S E L. This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, Repeat.
(07:32):
In a historic reversal long champion by progressives, the US
Senate voted unanimously to repeal the two thousand and two
resolution that authorized the invasion of Iraq, a war that
cost hundreds of thousands of lives and reshaped American foreign
policy for a generation. The measure, co sponsored by Senator
(07:54):
Tim Kaine of Virginia and Senator Todd Young of Indiana,
passed as part of the annual Defense Bill, signaling an
overwhelming bipartisan commitment to finally close a chapter of misguided
intervention and restore congressional authority over warfare. The decision, following
a similar vote in the House, marks a decisive shift
(08:17):
toward accountability and restraint. The repeal is expected to land
in the final Defense Authorization Bill later this year, clearing
both the outdated two thousand two and nineteen ninety one
war authorizations from the books. Advocates called it a vital
step in preventing future misuse of executive power, rejection of
(08:38):
the unilateral justifications once used for conflicts like the twenty
twenty drone strike that killed Iranian General Cassim Solomani. Congress
is now clearly asserting that it is our responsibility not
only to authorize, but to end wars, Young said after
the vote for Kine, who has pressed for years to
(09:00):
rebalance war powers, the moment was deeply symbolic. That's the
way the war ends, not with a bang, but a whimper,
he said, reflecting on decades of trauma for both Americans
and Iraqis. Nearly five thousand US troops lost their lives
and countless Iraqi civilians were killed after false claims that
(09:22):
Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction. The Senate's quiet,
unanimous approval, coming without debate or objection, mirrored the public's
weariness with forever wars and the growing demand for oversight
and peace building instead of endless deployments. This rare cross
(09:42):
party consensus unfolded amid a tense government shutdown fight, providing
a moment of unity in a divided capital. Progressive lawmakers
hailed the vote as proof that even in polarized times,
Congress can still choose diplomacy over dist The repeal paves
the way for broader discussions on revising the two thousand
(10:05):
and one authorization that continues to underwrite US military actions
across the globe, an overdue conversation about democracy's ultimate responsibility
deciding when and if a war should ever begin. The
an Arbor District Library AADL has announced plans to acquire
(10:27):
the an Arbor Observer, a move celebrated by many residents
as a win for public access and local journalism. Founded
in nineteen seventy six by Don and Mary Hunt, the
Observer has long been a cornerstone of community reporting, covering
civic life, local politics, culture and history for nearly half
(10:48):
a century. The acquisition, subject to a finalized agreement, aims
to ensure that this beloved publication remains accessible to all
and continues its tradition of ia independent reporting. AADL director
Elie Niberger said that The Observer's future would remain bright,
(11:09):
with the magazine staying an independently managed, ad funded business,
preserving its editorial freedom, financial autonomy, and availability to all
permanent residents. The Observer's current leaders, publisher Patricia Garcia and
editor John Hilton, echoed that sentiment, expressing pride that the
(11:29):
magazine's legacy as a vital public resource will be protected
for generations to come. The plan also builds on years
of cooperation between the Observer and the library, which has
already digitized decades of the publication for the community. While
the AADL will become the Observer's owner, Observer's staff will
(11:50):
remain with the publication, and the purchase agreement will be
publicly reviewed by the library's Board of trustees. This public
process is designed to invite community input and maintained full
accountability as details are finalized. Readers, advertisers, and Observer friends
have all played a role in sustaining this magazine, as
(12:12):
reflected in numerous supportive community responses. With this transition, ann
Arbor continues its strong tradition of valuing public ownership of
shared resources and nurturing local journalism that informs, connects, and
celebrates the entire community. Up next, a listener suggested story
(12:34):
back in a minute, and now, a listener suggested story
from Mazie in Jackson, Mississippi, a triumphant sign after the
devastation wrought by last year's hurricane season. Local experts had
been bracing for setbacks after three fierce hurricanes, Debbie, Helene,
and Milton battered the state's shores in quick succession, erasing
(12:59):
hunt of nests and reshaping beaches at Thanks to a
year of dedicated rebuilding, the state's wildlife agencies report the
highest number of leatherback nests ever recorded, with twenty twenty
one laid statewide so far in twenty twenty five, surpassing
any previous count. Green sea turtles, Florida's most common nester,
(13:23):
showed strong numbers as well, amassing over sixty one thousand
nests by August, second only to the record set in
twenty twenty three. Kemp's Ridley turtles, the rarest sea turtles worldwide,
also made a hopeful appearance, with ten confirmed nests, offering
a rare conservation win. Experts say, however, that nesting counts
(13:46):
alone don't tell the full story. Successful hatching remains the
critical factor for population recovery. This rebound reflects the impact
of decades of focused conservation work. Doctor James Buddy Powell
of Clearwater Marine Aquarium highlighted the lasting benefits of past efforts,
(14:06):
explaining how beach cleanup, light pollution reduction, and habitat protection
have created safer environments not only for turtles, but for
entire ecosystems. These compelling gains send a powerful message about
community driven conservation and natural resilience. As Florida's shores continue
to recover and wildlife populations grow, these efforts serve as
(14:29):
a testament that when we prioritize environmental stewardship, both nature
and people thrive together. Thanks so much for that story, Maisie.
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
(14:52):
squared Media Productions dot com, or send it to us
at good News for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky.
New England has officially closed the book on coal power
with the early shutdown of Merrimac Station in Bow, New Hampshire,
the region's last coal fired power plant, Originally scheduled to
(15:14):
retire in twenty twenty eight, economic realities forced the four
hundred and thirty eight megawatt facility offline three years ahead
of plan. The closure marks a pivotal moment in an
energy transition shaped by cleaner, more flexible power sources and
decades of environmental advocacy. Merrimac Station, which started operations in
(15:35):
the nineteen sixties, was once a dependable source of baseload
power for New England, but over time natural gas surged ahead,
supplying more than half of the region's electricity by last
year compared to less than fifteen percent in two thousand,
shifting demand patterns and making coal, which takes longer to
ramp up, less viable for the grid's needs. In twenty
(15:59):
twenty five, befour Merrimack generated just zero point two two
percent of regional power, underscoring its diminishing role. The plant's owner,
Granite Shore Power, announced the intent to close Merrimack back
in March twenty twenty four as part of a settlement
related to Federal Clean Water Act violations and community pressure.
(16:21):
The company plans to repurpose the four hundred acre site
into a clean energy hub, potentially combining solar panels and
battery storage to leverage existing grid connections. While details are
still evolving, environmental advocates view the closure and repurposing as
undeniable progress toward a cleaner energy future. Despite the Trump
(16:44):
Administration's pro coal push elsewhere, Merrimack's early retirement sends a
clear message in the face of market realities and community demands,
coal no longer makes economic or environmental sense in New
England or anywhere else for that matter. As the region
moves forward without coal, it stands as a beacon for
(17:06):
the rapidly changing energy landscape in the US. That's a
wrap for today's edition of Good News for Lefties. Remember
if these stories brighten your outlook, please help us spread
the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. The big thanks to
(17:26):
our production team, Roosevelt 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.
Speaker 2 (17:57):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast. Asked latest Paul, I saw Chris thirty seven percent.
He's at thirty seven percent, which still makes me think
thirty seven percent think this is good.
Speaker 3 (18:09):
This is all going seriously, how many airports are shut
down now?
Speaker 2 (18:13):
No?
Speaker 3 (18:14):
You know what are the people or traffic control?
Speaker 2 (18:16):
Not important?
Speaker 1 (18:17):
Not important now like Reagan Airport yesterday had to have
their traffic control come out of Philadelphia. Yeah, because the
problems there.
Speaker 3 (18:25):
Yeah, I mean, ladies and gentlemen, We're gonna be circling
for a while because our traffic controllers on a bus
from Philadelphia. Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller Happy Hour podcast
on Apple Podcasts, Stephanie Miller dot com or wherever you
get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (18:47):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
A federal judge has delivered a win for immigrant rights,
blocking the Trump administration from detaining immigrant children they turn eighteen.
The ruling halts government plans to transfer these young people
into adult detention facilities, a move immigrant advocates warned would
(19:11):
have begun this weekend and further traumatized miners seeking safety
in the United States. US District Judge Rudolph Contreras in Washington,
d C. Issued the temporary restraining order late Saturday, directing
Immigration and Customs enforcement to stop shifting unaccompanied miners into
adult custody on their eighteenth birthdays. Contreras found that such
(19:36):
detention violated a twenty twenty one court order requiring that
those who reach adulthood be placed in the least restrictive
setting available, a policy aimed at protecting vulnerable youths from
unnecessary incarceration. Immigrant advocates and community groups applauded the decision
as a crucial defense of basic compassion and due process.
(20:01):
The administration's latest plan was designed to coerce children into
abandoning their cases through fear, said maraud Awade of the
New York Immigration Coalition, referring to a separate proposal that
would pay miners to self deport. Advocates have called those
payments exploitative and said they undermined the asylum system itself,
(20:24):
which promises each child a fair hearing before removal. The
ruling comes amid renewed outcry over reports that Trump officials
have revived family separations and intensified detention efforts nationwide, even
targeting immigrant children and their sponsors. Lawyers say such tactics
(20:45):
echo passed abuses already deemed unlawful by federal courts. For
many immigrant families and allies, Contraras's order is a reminder
that organized advocacy still matters, and that federal courts remain
a vital check on government cruelty.
Good News for Lefties and America. Hello and thanks for
joining another episode of Good News for Lefties. I'm Beowulf Rocklin,
your host, ready to help you swap out doom and
gloom for some genuine hope with uplifting stories for democracy,
de vendors, progressives, liberals, socialists, leftists, and anyone who believes
(00:29):
in making America a better place for everyone. Today's troubling
headlines often overwhelm us, and 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's vital to highlight
the positive progressive wins happening every day in the United
(00:52):
States of America. To help us spread the positivity. If
you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on Apple, podcast, Asked, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. It helps more lefties
like you hear more good news stories and stay positive
and motivated for the days ahead. Now, let's get to
(01:13):
some good news headlines designed to brighten your day. Across
the country, major airports are standing firm for fairness and
non partisan public space, refusing to air a politicized video
circulated by Homeland Security Secretary Christy Nome. The message, which
(01:34):
blames Democrats for the continuing federal shutdown, was swiftly rejected
by airport officials from Phoenix to Portland, with administrators emphasizing
that their terminals are for travelers, not political theater. The
decision reflects growing support for keeping government service areas free
(01:54):
of partisan propaganda. Officials at Las Vegas's Harry Reid Internet National, Seattle, Tacoma,
and Phoenix Sky Harbor confirmed they declined to run the
footage after legal review determined the video could violate the
Hatch Act, longstanding federal law guarding against political activity by
(02:16):
civil servants. The airports noted their policies prohibit partisan content
and promote neutral public messaging meant to inform rather than inflame.
Portland's Port authority made clear that using public property for
partisan purposes was unacceptable, a stance widely praised by local
(02:38):
civic advocates who called it a model for integrity in
government communication. At Charlotte Douglas in North Carolina, officials echoed
that sentiment, saying airport screens were reserved for travel updates
and wayfinding notices. Not partisan commentary. Westchester County, New York,
(02:59):
went for a calling Gnomes video unacceptable and contrary to
the trust taxpayers place in public institutions. Their message struck
accord nationwide, underscoring how community run airports can serve as
a bulwark against misinformation and divisive campaigning at places millions
(03:20):
of Americans rely on each day. As public servants continue
working through the shutdown without pay, airport authorities and local
governments have turned attention to supporting federal workers and demanding
genuine cooperation in Washington. Their collective stance rejecting political blame
(03:41):
shifting and focusing instead on service and stability, offers a
reminder that public spaces belong to everyone and that integrity
in governance remains stronger than any partisan script. Philadelphia is
experiencing a turnaround few thought possible, track to record its
lowest number of homicides in two decades, a stunning drop
(04:05):
that city leaders say reflects a unified push for peace
and accountability. After hitting a grim peak of five hundred
sixty two homicides in twenty twenty one, shootings are now
down roughly forty percent from last year, and killings have
plummeted about sixty percent. According to Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel,
(04:28):
overall crime has fallen by fourteen percent, a reversal that
many residents are calling a new beginning for the city's neighborhoods.
Bethel credited the transformation not to crackdowns, but to collaboration
between officers, community groups, and everyday Philadelphians determined to reclaim
(04:49):
their streets. Detectives have solved nearly eighty percent of homicide
cases this year, which Bethel said is breaking cycles of
retaliation that at once fueled deadly feuds. When we clear
these cases, we stop violence before it spreads, he explained,
describing how mutual trust and fast investigations help calm tense
(05:14):
blocks that once saw nearly nightly gunfire. That spirit of
cooperation extends to city Hall, where Bethel and Mayor Scherrell
Parker have linked community input directly to public safety planning.
The administration is seeking residence voices through a new citywide
(05:34):
survey at Phillypolice dot com slash Strategic Plan, a move
meant to codify how neighborhood solutions feed into policing strategies.
Both leaders have framed this era, not simply as a
statistical achievement, but as a testament to what's possible when residents, police,
(05:55):
and officials row in the same direction as Bethel put In.
District Attorney Larry Krasner recently pointed out that the city's
homicide trend puts Philadelphia among the fastest improving large cities
in the nation. He credited residents for demanding progressive reforms
that prioritize prevention and fairness alongside enforcement. Together, these efforts
(06:20):
are transforming a city once branded by violence into one
increasingly known for resilience and optivism, a living example of
how community investment and transparency in justice can change the
trajectory of an entire metropolis. 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
(06:45):
takes a humorous look at politics and current events one
week at a time. It's a funny, angry, progressive, sarcastic,
hilarious podcast that drops every Sunday, and, in my opinion,
is the largest single repository of creatively insulting names for
Donald Trump. Mango Mussolini, and Orange Julius Caesar are just
(07:06):
the beginning. So if you want to recap of the
week and you want a laugh into the bargain, listen
to This Week Again with Suzanne Posel on this platform
or wherever you listen to podcasts. That's This Week Again
with Suzanne Posel. S U S A N N E
P S E L. This Week Again, Listen, Laugh, Repeat.
(07:32):
In a historic reversal long champion by progressives, the US
Senate voted unanimously to repeal the two thousand and two
resolution that authorized the invasion of Iraq, a war that
cost hundreds of thousands of lives and reshaped American foreign
policy for a generation. The measure, co sponsored by Senator
(07:54):
Tim Kaine of Virginia and Senator Todd Young of Indiana,
passed as part of the annual Defense Bill, signaling an
overwhelming bipartisan commitment to finally close a chapter of misguided
intervention and restore congressional authority over warfare. The decision, following
a similar vote in the House, marks a decisive shift
(08:17):
toward accountability and restraint. The repeal is expected to land
in the final Defense Authorization Bill later this year, clearing
both the outdated two thousand two and nineteen ninety one
war authorizations from the books. Advocates called it a vital
step in preventing future misuse of executive power, rejection of
(08:38):
the unilateral justifications once used for conflicts like the twenty
twenty drone strike that killed Iranian General Cassim Solomani. Congress
is now clearly asserting that it is our responsibility not
only to authorize, but to end wars, Young said after
the vote for Kine, who has pressed for years to
(09:00):
rebalance war powers, the moment was deeply symbolic. That's the
way the war ends, not with a bang, but a whimper,
he said, reflecting on decades of trauma for both Americans
and Iraqis. Nearly five thousand US troops lost their lives
and countless Iraqi civilians were killed after false claims that
(09:22):
Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction. The Senate's quiet,
unanimous approval, coming without debate or objection, mirrored the public's
weariness with forever wars and the growing demand for oversight
and peace building instead of endless deployments. This rare cross
(09:42):
party consensus unfolded amid a tense government shutdown fight, providing
a moment of unity in a divided capital. Progressive lawmakers
hailed the vote as proof that even in polarized times,
Congress can still choose diplomacy over dist The repeal paves
the way for broader discussions on revising the two thousand
(10:05):
and one authorization that continues to underwrite US military actions
across the globe, an overdue conversation about democracy's ultimate responsibility
deciding when and if a war should ever begin. The
an Arbor District Library AADL has announced plans to acquire
(10:27):
the an Arbor Observer, a move celebrated by many residents
as a win for public access and local journalism. Founded
in nineteen seventy six by Don and Mary Hunt, the
Observer has long been a cornerstone of community reporting, covering
civic life, local politics, culture and history for nearly half
(10:48):
a century. The acquisition, subject to a finalized agreement, aims
to ensure that this beloved publication remains accessible to all
and continues its tradition of ia independent reporting. AADL director
Elie Niberger said that The Observer's future would remain bright,
(11:09):
with the magazine staying an independently managed, ad funded business,
preserving its editorial freedom, financial autonomy, and availability to all
permanent residents. The Observer's current leaders, publisher Patricia Garcia and
editor John Hilton, echoed that sentiment, expressing pride that the
(11:29):
magazine's legacy as a vital public resource will be protected
for generations to come. The plan also builds on years
of cooperation between the Observer and the library, which has
already digitized decades of the publication for the community. While
the AADL will become the Observer's owner, Observer's staff will
(11:50):
remain with the publication, and the purchase agreement will be
publicly reviewed by the library's Board of trustees. This public
process is designed to invite community input and maintained full
accountability as details are finalized. Readers, advertisers, and Observer friends
have all played a role in sustaining this magazine, as
(12:12):
reflected in numerous supportive community responses. With this transition, ann
Arbor continues its strong tradition of valuing public ownership of
shared resources and nurturing local journalism that informs, connects, and
celebrates the entire community. Up next, a listener suggested story
(12:34):
back in a minute, and now, a listener suggested story
from Mazie in Jackson, Mississippi, a triumphant sign after the
devastation wrought by last year's hurricane season. Local experts had
been bracing for setbacks after three fierce hurricanes, Debbie, Helene,
and Milton battered the state's shores in quick succession, erasing
(12:59):
hunt of nests and reshaping beaches at Thanks to a
year of dedicated rebuilding, the state's wildlife agencies report the
highest number of leatherback nests ever recorded, with twenty twenty
one laid statewide so far in twenty twenty five, surpassing
any previous count. Green sea turtles, Florida's most common nester,
(13:23):
showed strong numbers as well, amassing over sixty one thousand
nests by August, second only to the record set in
twenty twenty three. Kemp's Ridley turtles, the rarest sea turtles worldwide,
also made a hopeful appearance, with ten confirmed nests, offering
a rare conservation win. Experts say, however, that nesting counts
(13:46):
alone don't tell the full story. Successful hatching remains the
critical factor for population recovery. This rebound reflects the impact
of decades of focused conservation work. Doctor James Buddy Powell
of Clearwater Marine Aquarium highlighted the lasting benefits of past efforts,
(14:06):
explaining how beach cleanup, light pollution reduction, and habitat protection
have created safer environments not only for turtles, but for
entire ecosystems. These compelling gains send a powerful message about
community driven conservation and natural resilience. As Florida's shores continue
to recover and wildlife populations grow, these efforts serve as
(14:29):
a testament that when we prioritize environmental stewardship, both nature
and people thrive together. Thanks so much for that story, Maisie.
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
(14:52):
squared Media Productions dot com, or send it to us
at good News for Lefties on Facebook, Instagram or blue Sky.
New England has officially closed the book on coal power
with the early shutdown of Merrimac Station in Bow, New Hampshire,
the region's last coal fired power plant, Originally scheduled to
(15:14):
retire in twenty twenty eight, economic realities forced the four
hundred and thirty eight megawatt facility offline three years ahead
of plan. The closure marks a pivotal moment in an
energy transition shaped by cleaner, more flexible power sources and
decades of environmental advocacy. Merrimac Station, which started operations in
(15:35):
the nineteen sixties, was once a dependable source of baseload
power for New England, but over time natural gas surged ahead,
supplying more than half of the region's electricity by last
year compared to less than fifteen percent in two thousand,
shifting demand patterns and making coal, which takes longer to
ramp up, less viable for the grid's needs. In twenty
(15:59):
twenty five, befour Merrimack generated just zero point two two
percent of regional power, underscoring its diminishing role. The plant's owner,
Granite Shore Power, announced the intent to close Merrimack back
in March twenty twenty four as part of a settlement
related to Federal Clean Water Act violations and community pressure.
(16:21):
The company plans to repurpose the four hundred acre site
into a clean energy hub, potentially combining solar panels and
battery storage to leverage existing grid connections. While details are
still evolving, environmental advocates view the closure and repurposing as
undeniable progress toward a cleaner energy future. Despite the Trump
(16:44):
Administration's pro coal push elsewhere, Merrimack's early retirement sends a
clear message in the face of market realities and community demands,
coal no longer makes economic or environmental sense in New
England or anywhere else for that matter. As the region
moves forward without coal, it stands as a beacon for
(17:06):
the rapidly changing energy landscape in the US. That's a
wrap for today's edition of Good News for Lefties. Remember
if these stories brighten your outlook, please help us spread
the word by rating and reviewing us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify,
or your podcast platform of choice. The big thanks to
(17:26):
our production team, Roosevelt 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.
Speaker 2 (17:57):
Here's what you've been missing on the Stephanie Miller Happy
Hour podcast. Asked latest Paul, I saw Chris thirty seven percent.
He's at thirty seven percent, which still makes me think
thirty seven percent think this is good.
Speaker 3 (18:09):
This is all going seriously, how many airports are shut
down now?
Speaker 2 (18:13):
No?
Speaker 3 (18:14):
You know what are the people or traffic control?
Speaker 2 (18:16):
Not important?
Speaker 1 (18:17):
Not important now like Reagan Airport yesterday had to have
their traffic control come out of Philadelphia. Yeah, because the
problems there.
Speaker 3 (18:25):
Yeah, I mean, ladies and gentlemen, We're gonna be circling
for a while because our traffic controllers on a bus
from Philadelphia. Subscribe to the Stephanie Miller Happy Hour podcast
on Apple Podcasts, Stephanie Miller dot com or wherever you
get your favorite podcasts.
Speaker 1 (18:47):
And in case you missed it, here's this good news headline.
A federal judge has delivered a win for immigrant rights,
blocking the Trump administration from detaining immigrant children they turn eighteen.
The ruling halts government plans to transfer these young people
into adult detention facilities, a move immigrant advocates warned would
(19:11):
have begun this weekend and further traumatized miners seeking safety
in the United States. US District Judge Rudolph Contreras in Washington,
d C. Issued the temporary restraining order late Saturday, directing
Immigration and Customs enforcement to stop shifting unaccompanied miners into
adult custody on their eighteenth birthdays. Contreras found that such
(19:36):
detention violated a twenty twenty one court order requiring that
those who reach adulthood be placed in the least restrictive
setting available, a policy aimed at protecting vulnerable youths from
unnecessary incarceration. Immigrant advocates and community groups applauded the decision
as a crucial defense of basic compassion and due process.
(20:01):
The administration's latest plan was designed to coerce children into
abandoning their cases through fear, said maraud Awade of the
New York Immigration Coalition, referring to a separate proposal that
would pay miners to self deport. Advocates have called those
payments exploitative and said they undermined the asylum system itself,
(20:24):
which promises each child a fair hearing before removal. The
ruling comes amid renewed outcry over reports that Trump officials
have revived family separations and intensified detention efforts nationwide, even
targeting immigrant children and their sponsors. Lawyers say such tactics
(20:45):
echo passed abuses already deemed unlawful by federal courts. For
many immigrant families and allies, Contraras's order is a reminder
that organized advocacy still matters, and that federal courts remain
a vital check on government cruelty.
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