Good News for Lefties | Daily News for Democracy

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Positive, progressive news for democracy daily! Democrats, Leftists, liberals, and democratic socialists welcome. A respite from troubling headlines in difficult times. Sure, read the bad news, but then listen to us! Send good news tips to beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com or 202-656-6271 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  1. 4H AGO

    Judge to ICE: Don't Gas Protestors!

    A federal judge in Oregon restricted federal officers from using teargas at protests at the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in Portland, in response to a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon on behalf of protesters and freelance journalists. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    6 min

  2. 12H AGO

    Arkansas Victory, Paid Leave Expansion, and Vermont's Trailblazing Mayor

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a series of uplifting stories that highlight recent victories and positive developments. We kick off with the exciting news of Democrat Alex Holladay's win in a special election in Arkansas, marking the ninth state legislative seat flipped by Democrats since Donald Trump took office. Holladay's victory reflects a growing desire for accountability among voters tired of one-party rule. Next, we delve into new polling data revealing that nearly 47% of Americans oppose the recent airstrikes on Iran, showcasing a significant divide in public opinion, especially among different political affiliations. Meanwhile, we also discuss the recent ruling by a federal judge that voided actions taken by Carrie Lake during her unlawful leadership of the US Agency for Global Media, a significant step towards restoring integrity to this vital institution. In Oregon, state lawmakers have approved a measure requiring federal immigration officers to display their identities, a move aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in law enforcement. This follows a similar initiative in California, highlighting a growing trend towards protecting civil rights at the state level. A listener-suggested story reveals that a third of American workers now have access to government-issued paid leave, the highest share ever. This progress comes amidst ongoing efforts in various states to expand paid leave policies, driven by advocates pushing for more equitable workplace standards. Finally, we celebrate a historic milestone in Vermont, where Thomas Renner has become the first black and openly LGBTQ mayor in the state's history, paving the way for future leaders and inspiring younger generations. Today's Stories:  Democrats have flipped 9 seats in state legislative special elections under Trump while Republicans are at 0 Red line on Iran? Majority of Americans say 'no' to boots on ground; few expect the war to end within a month - Angus Reid Institute Judge rules Kari Lake unlawfully ran US media agency, voiding mass layoffs | Trump administration | The Guardian Legislation moves forward to prohibit ICE agents in Oregon from wearing masks | Jefferson Public Radio A record 1 in 3 U.S. workers now have access to paid leave Who is Vermont's first Black mayor? Winooski's Thomas Renner elected Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    14 min

  3. 1D AGO

    Trump's Disapproval and a Former Inmate's Inspiring Journey

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen presents a collection of encouraging stories that shine a light on progress and resilience. We begin with the latest poll revealing President Donald Trump's disapproval rating has reached a staggering 59%, suggesting a shift in public sentiment that could impact Republican strategies in upcoming elections. Next, we turn our attention to Wisconsin, where liberals have a golden opportunity to secure a majority on the state Supreme Court, potentially safeguarding voting rights ahead of the presidential election. Former Democratic lawmaker Chris Taylor is in the running to expand the court's liberal majority, promising to protect ballot access and challenge gerrymandering efforts. We also highlight the innovative work of the Community Immigration Law Center in Madison, Wisconsin, which is expanding its legal team to better serve the community amidst ongoing immigration challenges. In environmental news, Oregon has made headlines by adopting heat pumps as the default cooling appliance for new homes, a significant step towards energy efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. A listener-suggested story introduces us to Kirwan Pittman, a former inmate who has made history as the first to purchase a prison in the U.S. after his release. Pittman is dedicated to transforming the narrative around incarceration through his nonprofit, which focuses on reducing recidivism and providing essential resources for formerly incarcerated individuals. Lastly, we report on Republican Representative Tony Gonzalez's decision to drop his reelection bid amid an ethics investigation into his conduct, marking a significant moment in political accountability. For more about today's stories: https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-record-high-disapproval-rating-poll-11614925 https://boltsmag.org/wisconsin-supreme-court-election-lazar-taylor/ https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/madison-immigration-law-center-expanding-staff-steels-itself-continue-fight-against-trump https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/heat-pumps/oregon-pushes-new-homes-install-heat-pumps https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/former-inmate-buys-prison https://19thnews.org/2026/03/tony-gonzales-drops-reelection-bid/ https://newjerseymonitor.com/2026/02/20/nj-voting-rights-act/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    13 min

  4. 2D AGO

    Good News for Lefties- Progressive Voices Edition for March 8th

    Did you know that Good News For Lefties is featured on the Progressive Voices Network? That's right, every Saturday and Sunday from 12-1pm ET / 9-10am PT, you can hear the best good news of the week by going to ProgressiveVoices.com or to Progressive voices on the TuneIn app. Today we feature a recent episode - listen and check out the other fine shows at ProgressiveVoices.com. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    45 min

  5. 2D AGO

    Banned Camp: Censorship Challenges and Congressional Courage

    In this special crossover episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen joins Dan and Jen from the Banned Camp podcast for a lively discussion on the current state of book banning and censorship. As they dive into the complexities surrounding the controversial novel "Catcher in the Rye," Beowulf sheds light on Congressman Maxwell Frost's reintroduction of the Fight Book Bans Act, an important legislative effort aimed at combating the alarming rise in school book censorship, with nearly 7,000 books removed from shelves in the past year alone. The trio shares laughs and insights, exploring the absurdities of politics, including a humorous take on President Donald Trump's infamous signature, and the importance of fighting for the freedom to read. They emphasize the need for continued advocacy against book bans, even in the face of challenging political landscapes. Join Beowulf, Dan, and Jen as they navigate these pressing issues with wit and wisdom, and discover how you can support the fight against censorship. bannedcamppodcast.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    7 min

  6. 2D AGO

    Tariff Refunds, Primary Upsets, and Endless Subscription Protections

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King brings you a collection of inspiring stories that celebrate accountability and community resilience. We begin with a significant ruling from a federal judge in New York, determining that companies affected by unconstitutional tariffs imposed by the Trump administration are entitled to refunds, shedding light on the importance of checks and balances in government. Next, we discuss the primary election results in North Carolina, where a long-serving Democratic representative was decisively defeated after supporting controversial legislation expanding cooperation with ICE, signaling a shift in voter sentiment towards more progressive values. In Arizona, lawmakers are taking steps to protect consumers from unwanted automatic subscription renewals, ensuring that individuals have the right to easily cancel contracts without unnecessary hurdles, a win for consumer rights. We also highlight the efforts of a young activist, Alexa Jaramillo, who distributed legal rights cards to her community, empowering students and individuals with knowledge about their rights in the face of immigration enforcement. Then, we discuss a new study, in expert birders, which suggests that being an expert in a hobby or field of study may help to slow declining cognitive skills. This amazing new study shows that hobbies involving perception, attention and memory could help preserve cognitive skills as we age. Finally, we celebrate the landmark designation of the iconic Brady Bunch house in Los Angeles, preserving a beloved piece of television history for future generations to enjoy. Today's Stories: Federal Judge Rules Companies Entitled to Refunds for Unconstitutional Tariffs North Carolina Democrat Defeated After Supporting ICE Cooperation Arizona Lawmakers Move to Protect Consumers from Automatic Renewals Teen Activist Distributes Legal Rights Cards to Community Expert Birders Have Younger Brains How Expertise May Protect Brain Health Brady Bunch House Designated as Historic Cultural Monument Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    26 min

  7. 3D AGO

    Banned Camp: LGBTQ+ Wins and the Fight for Freedom

    In this special crossover episode of Good News for Lefties and the Banned Camp podcast, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into the world of book banning alongside Dan and Jen from Band Camp. This season, they tackle J.D. Salinger's classic, "Catcher in the Rye," while Beowulf brings you the latest updates on the fight against censorship in literature. We kick off with some uplifting news from Canada, where the Jake Epp Library board in Steinbach, Manitoba, has successfully blocked an attempt to remove the Christian gender-affirming book "Queerfully and Wonderfully Made" by Lee Fink from its shelves. This victory highlights the ongoing battle against book bans, even as similar challenges rise across the border in the U.S. The conversation takes a broader turn as the hosts discuss the global rise of far-right ideologies and their impact on literature and LGBTQ+ rights. They explore the cultural perceptions of sex and violence in literature, questioning why society often reacts more strongly to sexual content than to depictions of violence. Tune in for this enlightening discussion that blends humor and serious commentary on the state of free expression in literature. Don't forget to check out Banned Camp for more fun and insightful episodes! bannedcamppodcast.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    6 min

  8. 3D AGO

    Polls Show Support for Abolishing ICE and Zoran Mamdani Kicks Off Free Child Care

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King brings you a collection of inspiring stories that spotlight the growing movement for justice and compassion across America. We begin with a revealing poll indicating that half of Americans now support the abolition of ICE, reflecting a significant shift in public sentiment against harsh immigration policies. Next, we share the powerful story of Arianne Betancourt, who has become a beacon of hope as she advocates for her father and others detained at the controversial Alligator Alcatraz facility in Florida. Her journey highlights the resilience of families affected by the immigration system and the importance of community support in the face of adversity. In labor news, we celebrate the conclusion of the largest nursing strike in New York City's history, as 15,000 nurses secure a new contract that promises to enhance patient care and working conditions. This victory marks a significant milestone in the fight for healthcare workers' rights. We also spotlight Mayor Zoran Mandani's ambitious plan to expand free child care for two-year-olds in New York City, a crucial step towards supporting families and addressing the child care crisis. A listener-suggested story brings us to New Jersey, where Governor Mikey Sherrill is committed to expanding harm reduction programs to combat the opioid crisis, ensuring access to life-saving resources for those in need. Finally, we feature Lauren Phillips, who has transformed her balcony into a small solar power plant, showcasing innovative solutions for sustainable energy and environmental justice in her community. Today's Stories: Poll shows half of Americans support abolishing ICE Adrian Betancourt fights for her father's rights at Alligator Alcatraz Largest nursing strike in NYC history ends with new contract Mayor Mandani announces free child care expansion New Jersey expands harm reduction programs under Governor Sherrill Bronx resident installs first plug-and-play solar panel Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    26 min
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Positive, progressive news for democracy daily! Democrats, Leftists, liberals, and democratic socialists welcome. A respite from troubling headlines in difficult times. Sure, read the bad news, but then listen to us! Send good news tips to beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com or 202-656-6271 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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