The Lean to the Left Podcast

Bob Gatty
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The Lean to the Left Podcast Podcast

Welcome Thoughtful Americans If you're a progressive concerned about political & social issues? You belong HERE at Lean to the Left, where you'll find no-holds-barred commentary, current political news, interviews with fascinating people, top experts, and others with incredibly interesting stories to tell. In fact, you'll never know who'll show up at Lean to the Left. It's unique and compelling journalism with a splash of humor and a dash of sarcasm. I'm your host, Bob Gatty, presenting my take on what's happening today from a liberal, progressive perspective. You'll find info and commentary about issues like the environment, human rights, health, racism, education and other issues of concern today. I co-authored "Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness", two volumes of essays about Trump's dangerous policies. Links: Vol. 1: https://amzn.to/3WNrfjH; Vol. 2: https://amzn.to/3SSsGMM. Meanwhile, my co-author, CJ Waldron and I, are hard at work on a follow-up volume, bringing readers up to date on developments since those editions were published. So, watch for that on Amazon. The Lean to the Left podcast, now completing its fourth year, was launched as part of our blog site, LeantotheLeft.net, which had its beginnings in 2017 in response to Donald Trump’s bullying and name-calling tactics and his attacks on the mainstream news media. Our goal was to set the record straight on Trump’s claims and divisive rhetoric, which has continued through his defeat by President Joe Biden, unfounded claims of election fraud, the January 6, 2021 insurrection, and his efforts to regain the Presidency. I bring to this effort a wealth of experience as political journalist and editorial services company president, previously having served two members of Congress, one Republican and the other a Democrat, as chief of staff and press secretary. , If you share these concerns and want to stay abreast of key political developments with insight from experts and pointed commentary tinged with humor, please subscribe to this channel . For more info, please visit my website. Website leantotheleft.net Lean to the Left Podcast podcast.leantotheleft.net Twitter x.com/leantotheleft1 Facebook facebook.com/notfakenews.2 Instagram instagram.com/leantotheleft1 Tik Tok tiktok.com/@leantotheleft

  1. Trump on the Defense: Harris Gains Momentum

    3 DAYS AGO

    Trump on the Defense: Harris Gains Momentum

    Trump on the Defense: Harris Gains Momentum If you enjoy this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss." If the election were today, Vice President Kamala Harris would defeat former President Donald Trump by about five points, according to Doug Kaplan, president of the national polling and political consulting firm, Kaplan Strategies. On the Lean to the Left podcast, Kaplan said Trump is on the defense as Harris gains momentum coming out of the September 10 debate. "If the election were today, Harris would win," said Kaplan, on the Lean to the Left podcast, recorded following the September 10 presidential debate, "However, two months is a long time in politics." When asked about the enduring impact of the debate performances, Doug Kaplan said that without more debates, this singular encounter may dominate the narrative and that Harris’s significant fundraising and the Republicans’ chaotic strategy underscore a potential advantage for the vice-president. Kaplan cautioned that Harris needs to win nationally by four to five points and win the swing states by at least two points if she is to secure the election. ""Each day the election focuses on Trump is a win for Harris," said Kaplan. "Trump needs to make it about her, but he has struggled." Trump's on the defense, he added. Kaplan pointed out Trump's vulnerability on the issue of reproductive rights, saying, "if reproductive rights inspire a high voter turnout among women, it could be a decisive factor." Young voters could also help turn the tide for Harris, noted Kaplan, who pointed out that Barack Obama was able to capture strong support from those voters, and the question now is whether Harris can do the same. Both immigration and the economy also will continue to be major factors, added Kaplan, as they continue to evolve. ___________________ A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time. Prefer to listen instead of watching our Podcast? Please visit https://podcast.leantotheleft.net ______________________ Our thanks to our guest, Doug Kaplan, president of Kaplan Strategies. We appreciate his insight and expertise. For info about Kaplan and his work, please visit https://kaplanstrategies.com. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Kamala Harris vs. Donald Trump: Debate Recap 00:20 Polls and Public Perception 01:01 Defining Kamala Harris 01:08 Interview with Doug Kaplan 01:17 Debate Performances Analyzed 01:46 Impact on Polling and Election 02:02 Public Reactions and Personal Anecdotes 02:55 Historical Debate Comparisons 03:48 Campaign Strategies and Challenges 04:08 Swing States and Key Issues 05:51 Economic Concerns and Inflation 08:08 Immigration and Border Policies 09:12 Reproductive Rights Debate 10:19 Running Mate Choices 13:07 Youth Voters and Social Media Influence 14:08 Endorsements and Their Impact 14:58 Election Predictions and Polling Insights 16:04 Kaplan Strategies: Behind the Scenes _______________________ ⛾ If you enjoy our videos, please be kind enough to let us know, by buying us a cup of coffee by clicking on the THANKS button. This will help keep this channel providing great political news and commentary. Thank you for your support. Bob Gatty 😊 Please note that this video may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support my channel and allows me to continue providing free and affordable information

    18 min
  2. Dixie Dems: The Harris-Trump Debate

    3 DAYS AGO

    Dixie Dems: The Harris-Trump Debate

    The Harris-Trump Debate If you enjoy this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss. Join the Dixie Dems as they analyze the fiery Harris-Trump debate on the Lean to the Left podcast. Bob Gatty of South Carolina, Robert Thompson of Georgia, and Arthur Hill of North Carolina, discuss key moments from the debate, including Trump's controversial comments on immigration and Harris's sharp responses. They also reflect on Harris's effective debate tactics, Trump's recurring themes, and the broader political implications. The conversation touches on key issues in the election, including Trump's history and criminal convictions, the economy, immigration, the environment, and the contrasting approaches of both candidates. Don't miss this in-depth discussion on the latest political showdown. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and Debate Overview 00:40 Arthur's Analysis and Expert Opinions 02:15 Republican Reactions and Missed Opportunities 03:34 Robert's Reaction and Gerrymandering Calls 06:12 Trump's Fear Mongering and Harris's Composure 09:10 Fracking Debate and Pennsylvania's Importance 11:40 Abortion Claims and Taylor Swift's Endorsement 15:51 Trump's Immigration Rhetoric and Polling Concerns 19:12 Trump's Legal Troubles and Justice Department Accusations 20:45 January 6th and Peaceful Transfer of Power 23:52 Trump's Views on Ukraine and Putin 27:25 Economic and Immigration Issues 29:32 Climate Change and Global Perception 31:33 Debate Performance and Polls 35:52 Reflections on September 11th 37:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    39 min
  3. How Was Gen Z Affected by 9/11

    14 SEPT

    How Was Gen Z Affected by 9/11

    Understanding the 9/11 Generation Commemorating the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center, we discuss its impact on Gen Z with Matt Warshauer, author of 'Creating and Failing the 9/11 Generation, available at https://amzn.to/3XnBDPH. Warshauer, a history professor at Central Connecticut State University, delves into how 9/11 influenced America's youth, U.S. policies, and international relations. We explore the notion of the '9/11 Generation,' the consequences of the Iraq War, and the evolving mindset of today's young people. Additionally, we discuss the differences between patriotism and nationalism, the role of youth activism, and the future implications for America's global standing. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of 9/11's continuing impact on our world. If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss." CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction: The Lasting Impact of 9/11 00:59 Defining the 9/11 Generation 01:51 The Cultural Shift Post-9/11 04:37 Teaching the 9/11 Generation 06:27 The Iraq War and Its Global Impact 08:03 Understanding the Real Story of 9/11 13:35 Youth Activism and Civic Engagement 18:33 Patriotism and Nationalism Post-9/11 26:16 Personal Reflections and Global Reactions 33:44 Conclusion: Lessons and Reflections

    38 min
  4. Dixie Dems Discuss Georgia Tragedy, Gun Control, and Kamala Harris' Surge

    10 SEPT

    Dixie Dems Discuss Georgia Tragedy, Gun Control, and Kamala Harris' Surge

    Dixie Dems discuss the Georgia school shooting tragedy, gun control, and Kamala Harris' surge. If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss. In this powerful episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, hosts Arthur Hill, Robert Thompson, and Bob Gatty delve into the tragic Appalachee High School shooting in Georgia. They discuss the broader implications of gun control in the U.S., examine political responses, and propose potential solutions to curb gun violence. The Dixie Dems also touch on Kamala Harris' rising popularity in the presidential race, her campaign's substantial fundraising efforts, and critique Donald Trump's ongoing rhetoric. Tune in for a deep dive into pressing political issues, personal stories from those affected by gun violence, and an innovative proposal for change -- one that both Republicans and Democrats should be able to support. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast 00:48 Tragic Georgia School Shooting 04:32 Gun Control Debate and Proposals 09:07 Political Landscape and Campaigns 18:04 North Carolina Politics and Controversies 21:55 Introduction of New Billboards 23:26 Mad Dog's Billboard Campaign 24:20 Trump's Donations to Kamala Harris 25:34 Federal Investigation into Robinson 27:20 Russian Propaganda and Media Influence 28:18 Trump's One-Minute Videos 30:38 Kamala Harris's Fundraising Success 33:40 Tim Scott's Marriage and Political Implications 35:31 Call to Action on Gun Control 36:41 Conclusion and Upcoming Debate

    42 min
  5. Understanding Project 2025, a Threat to American Democracy

    3 SEPT

    Understanding Project 2025, a Threat to American Democracy

    Understanding Project 2025, A Threat to American Democracy Let's keep the conversation going! What are your thoughts on the issues discussed in this episode? I’d love to hear your opinions in the comments. And, if you enjoy our content, please subscribe to the Lean to the Left podcast. In this episode, our goal is to increase understanding of 'Project 2025,' a threat to American democracy and a controversial roadmap for a potential new Trump administration. Designed by the Heritage Foundation and backed by Trump and his allies, Project 2025 would give Trump, if elected, massive new powers that would benefit the wealthy and provide unimaginable harm to most Americans. Featuring insights from Lean to the Left contributors C. J. Waldron and Susan V. Hutchinson, we explore the potential impacts on American society, from healthcare and education to federal governance and women's rights. Learn about the implications for democracy, national policies, and the possible future that Project 2025 could shape. Don't miss this comprehensive analysis and discussion. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Project 2025 00:57 Meet the Contributors: C.J. Waldron and Susan V. Hutchinson 01:14 The Dangerous Blueprint of Project 2025 01:40 Impact on Government and Education 04:14 The Threat to Rule of Law 05:19 Beneficiaries and Victims of Project 2025 08:05 Republican Manipulation and Corporate Greed 11:25 The Attack on Women's Rights 14:45 Healthcare Under Project 2025 19:03 Abortion and the Life at Conception Act 23:24 White Christian Nationalism and Education 27:00 Conclusion and Call to Action

    32 min
  6. Confronting Outrage: A Conversation on Media and Polarization

    1 SEPT

    Confronting Outrage: A Conversation on Media and Polarization

    Confronting Outrage: A Conversation on Media and Polarization Thank you for tuning in! I'm passionate about bringing progressive voices to the forefront, and I hope our discussions inspire you to think critically about the issues we face today. Join us on the Lean to the Left podcast with David Beckemeyer, a tech veteran and host of the Outrage Overload podcast. Together we discuss the pervasive impact of outrage in media and politics, the role of both conservative and liberal media in fueling toxic polarization, and strategies for counteracting this divisive trend. Beckemeyer offers insights from his 25+ years in the tech industry, his role in democratizing the internet, and his work in science communication. Learn how progressives can effectively cope with outrage media and the importance of pragmatic empathy in today's polarized climate. CHAPTERS; 00:00 Introduction: Media Outrage and Polarization 00:50 Meet the Guest: David Beckmeyer 01:38 Understanding Outrage Porn 03:27 The Concept of Outrage Overload 04:23 Coping with Outrage Media 07:01 The Role of Conversations and Bridge Building 12:49 Impact of Media Manipulation 18:54 David Beckmeyer's Podcast: Outrage Overload 21:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    26 min
  7. Trump, Kennedy & Roadkill

    26 AUG

    Trump, Kennedy & Roadkill

    One Nutcase Joins Another Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the man who had a parasitic worm in his brain, tried to get Kamala Harris to give him a job in her new administration, has dropped out of the presidential sweepstakes and is backing another nutcase, Donald J. Trump. They deserve each other and make a great match considering that Trump, while his brain apparently is worm-free, is about as wacko as you can get considering that during the Covid pandemic he tossed out the idea of injecting people with bleach to prevent the onset of the virus that's claimed more than 1.2 million people, mostly on his watch. And remember what he said in 2020: "I don't take responsibility at all." OK, so now worm-brain RFK Jr. has hooked up with Trump in his effort to derail the Harris-Walz march to the White House. It's a great fit, too, because Kennedy once sent a friend a pic of himself with what he claimed to be a barbecued dog cooked on a spit. So, he should get along great with Trump's VP runningmate JD Vance, who apparently has something against cats. A lot of women are pissed off at Vance for saying the U.S. is being run by Democrats, corporate oligarchs and "a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices they've made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable, too." Wow! That is really weird! How does that dovetail with all the joy the Kamala Harris-Tim Walz team is bringing to the presidential campaign -- and, really, the nation? It's especially weird, too, because it's the Republicans who are being run by corporate oligarchs who Trump is trying to hit up for campaign cash, not the Democrats who are laser focused on helping the middle class. Anyway, the Democratic National Committee"s War Room has emailed a press release with reactions to the RFK Jr's support of Trump, as he apparently has given up hopes of working in the Harris administration because Kamala refused to take his call. So, he's now switching to Trump where he must think he could find a job. Hopefully, however, it would not be as dog catcher. Here are some of the comments published by the War Room following Kennedy's endorsement of Trump: The Hill: GOP strategist cautions Trump on joining forces with RFK Jr: ‘He’s kind of a looney tune’ “Republican strategist Scott Jennings advised former President Trump to be careful now that he has seemingly joined forces with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., arguing the independent presidential candidate is ‘kind of a looney tune.’ [...] ‘There could be some cost on the other side of the algebra…he’s a conspiracy theorist, and a lot of people think he’s kind of a looney tune.’” Stuart Stevens on MSNBC with Ali Velshi  “Well, you know, Donald Trump objects to being called weird. So what does he do…he goes and takes this endorsement from, you know, one of the sadder figures in American public life. A guy who clearly is just broken…you have two candidates that are supporting Putin, two candidates who would like to end the war in Ukraine so that Russia could take Ukraine, and you have two candidates who are against any mandatory vaccines in schools…that's the pro—polio route. I mean, it is just as nutty as it can be, and it will continue to dismay me that other members of my former party don't call it out. It's just crazy." Ronald Brownstein with CNN’s Michael Smerconish “And I think this latent threat to Trump of being associated with anti vaccine extremism that Kennedy brings to him, I think on balance, this will end up being more of a problem than an asset.” Scott Jennings and Karen Finney on State of the Union with Jake Tapper Jennings: “My caution, my advice, would be the downstream effects of this.You now own anything [RFK Jr.] might do or say for the next couple of months, and this may or may not inure your benefits. So I would just caution, careful, careful.” Finney: “If you want to have that endorsement, I'm perfectly happy for

    8 min
  8. The Sin of Racial Capitalism and For-Profit Prisons

    23 AUG

    The Sin of Racial Capitalism and For-Profit Prisons

    Racial Capitalism and America's For-Profit Prisons with Dr. Robin Bernstein Thank you for tuning in! I'm passionate about bringing progressive voices to the forefront, and I hope our discussions inspire you to think critically about the issues we face today. In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we discuss America's ongoing struggle with racism and racial capitalism in America's for-profit prisons with Dr. Robin Bernstein, the Dillon Professor of American History at Harvard University. Dr. Bernstein explores the shocking history of convict leasing in the north well before the Civil War through her book 'Freeman's Challenge: The Murder That Shook America's Original Prison for Profit'. The conversation delves into the story of William Freeman, a Black and Native American teenage convict who refused to work for free, and the broader implications of anti-Black racism in the context of the for-profit prison system. This enlightening discussion reveals the often overlooked roots of racial capitalism in America, especially in the North, historical misconceptions, and the modern-day parallels in the prison system. CHAPTERS:  00:00 Introduction to Racial Capitalism 00:23 Meet Dr. Robin Bernstein 00:39 The Story of William Freeman 02:28 Convict Leasing in the North 02:50 The 13th Amendment and Northern Slavery 04:28 Modern Prisons for Profit 06:08 Freeman's Resistance and Its Impact 09:48 Historical Context and Racial Innocence 11:53 Freeman's True Story 14:55 The Myth of Black Criminality 18:25 Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman 22:38 Contemporary Relevance of Freeman's Story 23:49 Challenging the Prison System 26:21 Conclusion and Contact Information Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

    30 min
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About

Welcome Thoughtful Americans If you're a progressive concerned about political & social issues? You belong HERE at Lean to the Left, where you'll find no-holds-barred commentary, current political news, interviews with fascinating people, top experts, and others with incredibly interesting stories to tell. In fact, you'll never know who'll show up at Lean to the Left. It's unique and compelling journalism with a splash of humor and a dash of sarcasm. I'm your host, Bob Gatty, presenting my take on what's happening today from a liberal, progressive perspective. You'll find info and commentary about issues like the environment, human rights, health, racism, education and other issues of concern today. I co-authored "Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness", two volumes of essays about Trump's dangerous policies. Links: Vol. 1: https://amzn.to/3WNrfjH; Vol. 2: https://amzn.to/3SSsGMM. Meanwhile, my co-author, CJ Waldron and I, are hard at work on a follow-up volume, bringing readers up to date on developments since those editions were published. So, watch for that on Amazon. The Lean to the Left podcast, now completing its fourth year, was launched as part of our blog site, LeantotheLeft.net, which had its beginnings in 2017 in response to Donald Trump’s bullying and name-calling tactics and his attacks on the mainstream news media. Our goal was to set the record straight on Trump’s claims and divisive rhetoric, which has continued through his defeat by President Joe Biden, unfounded claims of election fraud, the January 6, 2021 insurrection, and his efforts to regain the Presidency. I bring to this effort a wealth of experience as political journalist and editorial services company president, previously having served two members of Congress, one Republican and the other a Democrat, as chief of staff and press secretary. , If you share these concerns and want to stay abreast of key political developments with insight from experts and pointed commentary tinged with humor, please subscribe to this channel . For more info, please visit my website. Website leantotheleft.net Lean to the Left Podcast podcast.leantotheleft.net Twitter x.com/leantotheleft1 Facebook facebook.com/notfakenews.2 Instagram instagram.com/leantotheleft1 Tik Tok tiktok.com/@leantotheleft

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