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. 7h ago

    PM News: Missouri Supreme Court Blocks Gerrymandering and MapQuest's Comeback

    We start with a landmark ruling from the Missouri Supreme Court, which has blocked the state's controversial congressional gerrymander, a move that empowers voters and reaffirms the principle that politicians should be chosen by the people, not the other way around.  Next, we highlight an unexpected resurgence for MapQuest, the classic mapping service, as it becomes the top free navigation app following Donald Trump's controversial renaming of Lake Ontario.    Today's Stories:  Missouri Supreme Court blocks GOP gerrymander, gives voters final say - Democracy Docket MapQuest Sticks With Lake Ontario, Sees Surge in App Downloads | PCMag Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  2. 19h ago

    Data Centers Halted and Voting Rights Expanded

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights the positive changes emerging in our society despite the overwhelming negativity often portrayed in the news. We begin by celebrating a significant victory for environmental groups as a federal panel halts the construction of the first artificial intelligence data center on U.S. public lands, siding with advocates who raised concerns about its environmental impact. Next, California takes a bold step forward with the GTFO Act, which would prevent former federal immigration officers from holding public sector jobs, promoting a more equitable hiring process. This move is a testament to the state's commitment to progressive values. In a notable trend, municipalities across the country are cutting ties with Flock Safety, a surveillance camera company, in response to growing public outcry over privacy concerns. This shift reflects a broader movement towards protecting civil liberties. In Alaska, voters have defied their Republican governor by approving new donation limits for political candidates, signaling a pushback against the influence of wealthy donors in elections. This citizen initiative demonstrates the power of grassroots activism in shaping democracy. Maine is also making strides in voting rights as the NAACP prison branch works to expand access for incarcerated individuals, ensuring that every voice is heard in the electoral process. Finally, we discuss the surge in battery storage capacity in the U.S. power sector, marking a significant step toward sustainable energy solutions. The growth of grid batteries is crucial for enhancing energy resilience and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Today's Stories:  Federal Panel Halts What Would Be First Data Center on Public Lands | Common Dreams California lawmakers target jobs for former immigration officers - POLITICO US Cities Are Terminating Flock Camera Contracts at Record Pace After Nationwide Pushback After Years of Runaway Spending, Alaskans Vote to Reinstate Cap on Campaign Donations | Bolts Maine Prisoners Organize to Protect Their Rare Right to Vote | Bolts The US built more grid batteries last quarter than… | Canary Media Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  3. 1d ago

    PM News: Victory for Trans Athletes in California and Tax Credits for Newsrooms

    A federal judge has dismissed the Trump administration's lawsuit against California's policy allowing transgender youth to participate in sports teams that align with their gender identity.   We also discuss California's Assembly Bill 2222, which aims to revitalize local journalism by providing tax credits for news organizations that employ journalists.    Today's Stories:  Federal judge tosses Trump lawsuit over trans athletes in California school sports | California | The Guardian Bill granting tax credits to local news heads to governor | Sacramento Bee Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  4. 1d ago

    Kansas Voter Turnout and AI in Schools

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a refreshing dose of positivity amidst the noise of current events. We kick off with the impressive turnout in Kansas, where over 650,000 voters participated in the recent primary election, marking the second highest in state history. This participation reflects a strong commitment to democracy, as voters decisively rejected a measure aimed at changing the appointment process for the Kansas Supreme Court. Next, we turn to New York City, where a new policy will restrict the use of artificial intelligence in schools, signaling a thoughtful approach to technology in education. This decision ensures that younger students will have limited access to AI tools, as Mayor Zohran Mamdani emphasizes the importance of a balanced educational environment. In labor news, more than 1,300 workers at Encore Boston Harbor Casino are gearing up for a potential strike, advocating for better wages and working conditions. This movement highlights the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and fair compensation in the hospitality industry. Meanwhile, in Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has ordered a pause on funding for Flock surveillance cameras amidst growing concerns over privacy and misuse. This decision reflects a community-driven pushback against invasive surveillance technologies, showcasing the power of public opinion in shaping policy. We also share a delightful story from Lenoir City, Tennessee, where an increase in black bear sightings has captivated residents, highlighting the resilience of wildlife in the face of habitat challenges. Lastly, we celebrate the California Legislature's passage of a bill that would prohibit the use of electric shock gloves by law enforcement, a significant step towards protecting human rights and ensuring accountability in policing practices. Today's Stories:  Kansas primary yields second-highest voter turnout in history | News From The States Mamdani expected to announce AI ban in NYC schools for young students More than 1,300 Encore Boston Harbor Casino workers will go on strike Friday morning Gov. Abbott blocks state agencies from spending on Flock cameras After decades of overhunting, black bears are slowly recolonizing Legislature passes ban on electroshock gloves to Newsom | Sacramento Bee Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  5. 2d ago

    PM News: From Senate Wins to Community Protection Initiatives

    We start with Democratic Senator Ed Markey's impressive win against Representative Seth Moulton in the Massachusetts Senate primary, securing two-thirds of the vote.  Moving to Michigan, we discuss a recent poll from Michigan State University showing Democrats leading in both the gubernatorial and Senate races.  This Afternoon's Stories:  MSU Poll Shows Democrats Lead, Republicans Coalesce Behind Rogers | Institute for Public Policy and Social Research Sen. Ed Markey defeats 47-year-old challenger to win Massachusetts Democratic Senate bid Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  6. 2d ago

    Clean Energy Triumphs and Affordable Housing Solutions

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on the positive developments amidst the backdrop of challenging times. We delve into a recent University of Massachusetts Amherst poll revealing a significant decline in Donald Trump's approval ratings, particularly regarding his handling of the Iran war, with over two-thirds of respondents expressing disapproval. This marks a critical moment as economic concerns continue to weigh heavily on voters. We also celebrate a major victory for LGBTQ+ rights, as former Georgia Southern University official Gemma Skuraton secures a $250,000 settlement after being fired for advocating for free chest binders for transmasculine students. This case underscores the ongoing fight for equality and representation in educational institutions. In environmental news, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has signed a groundbreaking law requiring data centers to disclose their water and energy usage, promoting transparency and accountability in the tech industry. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure sustainable practices in the face of growing environmental concerns. Turning to Wyoming, we highlight a shift in the Republican primaries, where voters chose candidates who support secure voting systems over those perpetuating false claims of voter fraud, signaling a potential change in the political landscape. Additionally, we share an inspiring story from Chicago, where the former Charles Warrington Earle School has been transformed into affordable housing, providing vital resources for low-income families in the community. Lastly, we discuss New Mexico's Public Service Company, which has made significant strides towards cleaner energy, achieving 80% carbon-free electricity ahead of schedule, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Today's Stories:  Over Two-thirds of Americans Disapprove of President Trump’s Handling of Iran War, as 4 in 5 Say the War Has Increased Food and Gas Prices : UMass Poll : UMass Amherst University worker says she was fired over chest binders for students. They settled for $250K. Data centers must report water, energy use under new law signed by Gov. Sherrill • New Jersey Monitor Wyoming Voters Oust GOP Faction that Wants to Crack Down on Elections  | Bolts West Englewood's shuttered Charles Warrington Earle School reopens as affordable housing - Chicago Sun-Times New Mexico delivers 80% carbon-free electricity Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  7. 3d ago

    PM News: Empowering Voters and Unions

    We start with a significant ruling from U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani in Massachusetts, who has upheld a temporary restraining order against the U.S. Postal Service's implementation of Donald Trump's executive order aimed at mail voting. With the midterm elections just two months away, Judge Talwani emphasizes the necessity for clear electoral rules, highlighting the potential consequences for voters.  Next, we celebrate a landmark bill passed by the California Legislature that empowers Native American tribes regarding the use of state land. Authored by Assembly Member James Ramos, the legislation seeks to protect sacred sites and ensure tribal consent for projects affecting indigenous spiritual practices, marking a critical step towards reconciliation and respect for Native cultures. This Afternoon's Stories:  Federal judge won’t lift temporary block on Trump’s anti-mail voting order - Democracy Docket California bill boosts tribal say over use of state land | Sacramento Bee Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

  8. 3d ago

    Progress from the Playground to Congress

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of inspiring stories that highlight progress and resilience across the nation. We kick off with a landmark ruling from a federal judge declaring the Trump administration's actions against AI startup Anthropic as unlawful retaliation, emphasizing the importance of protecting free speech in the tech industry. Next, we celebrate a significant victory for Oregon's recycling law, as a judge upholds the state's efforts to mitigate waste and pollution, reinforcing the power of local initiatives in environmental protection. Amtrak is also making headlines, with record ridership numbers reflecting a growing preference for train travel among Americans. As gas prices rise, the rail service is poised for continued growth, aiming for 66 million passengers by 2040. We highlight the historic election of Everton Blair in Georgia, making waves as the first openly gay Black person elected to Congress from the South, a beacon of hope and representation amid ongoing cultural battles. In a heartening community story, eight-year-old Maxime successfully advocates for the reopening of his local playground, showcasing the impact of youth activism in urban spaces. Finally, we touch upon ongoing negotiations in Seattle Public Schools, where teachers are fighting for better wages and inclusive programs, with the potential for a strike looming as the new school year approaches. Today's Stories:  Trump Administration’s Blacklisting of Anthropic Was Illegal, Judge Rules - The New York Times Federal judge sides with Oregon’s recycling law | Jefferson Public Radio Americans want more trains: Amtrak sees record ridership Congressman-elect Everton Blair reflects on making Black LGBTQ history in the South After public pushback, Trump pauses Big Bend border wall construction An 8-year-old asked Mamdani to reopen his playground. NYC now has a 'Renew Crew' to fix parks - CNBC TV18 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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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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