Good News for Lefties | Daily News for Democracy

Two Squared Media Productions, LLC

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. 17H AGO

    Tubman Triumphs, Democrats Engage, and LGBTQ Veterans Find Home

    We kick off with a significant victory as the National Park Service reinstates the original content of its Harriet Tubman webpage, honoring her crucial role in American history and the fight against slavery after public outcry over previous edits. Next, we witness democracy in action as House Democrats take the initiative to hold town halls in Republican districts, stepping up to engage with constituents while some GOP lawmakers avoid accountability. This bold move showcases the importance of listening and connecting with the public. In a groundbreaking development, Seattle opens the nation’s first transitional housing program specifically for LGBTQ veterans, providing a safe and supportive environment for those who have faced unique challenges during and after their service. This initiative is a beacon of hope for marginalized communities. We also celebrate the Village of Faith Ministries in Virginia, which is converting its property into affordable housing, embodying the spirit of community support and collaboration in addressing the housing crisis. In a fun twist, Democrats are leveraging sports to connect with voters, with governors and lawmakers engaging in lively discussions about their favorite teams, proving that authenticity and relatability can resonate deeply with constituents. Finally, we spotlight the Wallace Annenberg Wildlife Crossing in Los Angeles, an ambitious project aimed at creating safe passage for wildlife across busy highways, demonstrating how innovative solutions can benefit both nature and urban environments. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    16 min
  2. 1D AGO

    Vaccine Support, Vermont's Victory, and Denver Schools Inclusion

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen presents a collection of inspiring stories that highlight progress and resilience in the face of adversity. We begin with a revealing poll showing that a majority of Donald Trump's voters support vaccines, challenging stereotypes about vaccine hesitancy and demonstrating a surprising bipartisan consensus on public health. Next, we celebrate Vermont's successful ban on single-use plastic bags, which has led to a remarkable 91% reduction in their use, showcasing how well-crafted legislation can promote sustainable living and environmental stewardship. The community-driven initiative has garnered widespread support and serves as a model for other states. In an exciting development, St. John's Lutheran Church in Madison, Wisconsin, is taking bold action to address the affordable housing crisis by demolishing its historic church building to make way for a new 10-story development that will provide 110 low-income apartments. Denver Public Schools stands firm against federal pressure to roll back protections for transgender and non-binary students, pledging to fight for inclusivity and the safety of all students, even in the face of potential funding cuts. A listener-suggested story reveals the powerful role of Gen Z in today's protest movements, highlighting their innovative approaches to activism and their commitment to social justice amidst challenges. Finally, we discuss how Chicago's nonprofit clinics are expanding telehealth services to ensure immigrant patients receive the care they need, despite rising fears of ICE activity. These clinics are dedicated to breaking down barriers and maintaining access to healthcare for all. Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of hope, activism, and the ongoing fight for justice! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    19 min
  3. 2D AGO

    Trump’s Low Approval, Oregon's Tax Plan, and Michigan Takes on Big Oil

    We start with the latest polling data revealing that Donald Trump's approval rating has plummeted to 36%, reflecting widespread discontent among voters regarding his immigration policies and overall presidency. Next, we celebrate Oregon's Senate passing a transformative plan projected to generate over $300 million for essential public services by eliminating certain tax breaks inspired by Trump's tax cuts. This plan also introduces new tax credits aimed at supporting low and moderate-income families, helping to alleviate financial pressures from rising living costs. We also highlight the return of the podcast Band Camp, where hosts Dan and Jen explore the reasons behind book bans, beginning with the classic The Catcher in the Rye. Their humorous and insightful discussions provide a fresh perspective on censorship and literature. In a bold legal move, Michigan joins other states in suing major oil companies for allegedly colluding to suppress competition from renewable energy sources, a lawsuit that could reshape the energy market and promote cleaner alternatives. New Hampshire's Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte made headlines by vetoing a discriminatory bill aimed at restricting transgender individuals from accessing spaces that align with their gender identity, reinforcing the state's commitment to inclusivity. A listener-suggested story reveals a significant conservation victory in California's Bay Area, where a historic ranch was saved from development, ensuring the protection of its rich ecological and cultural heritage. Finally, we share the inspiring story of Juan Leon, who has been using his tow truck business to help families reclaim vehicles abandoned during ICE operations, providing a vital service to those affected by immigration enforcement. Join us for this uplifting episode packed with stories of hope, activism, and the ongoing pursuit of justice! Today's Stories: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/trump-approval-rating-36-us-192003524.html https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2026/02/democrats-bill-to-add-300m-to-oregons-budget-by-ending-3-trump-tax-breaks-advances-over-republican-opposition.html https://insideclimatenews.org/news/15022026/michigan-alleges-antitrust-violations-against-big-oil/ https://www.them.us/story/new-hampshire-kelly-ayotte-bathroom-bill-veto https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/ca-nonprofit-buys-6100-acres-of-sacred-land-ending-10-year-battle-over-proposed-sand-mine/ https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/minnesota-tow-truck-driver-returns-abandoned-vehicles-to-families-after-ice-arrests/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    17 min
  4. 3D AGO

    AOC Rises, Teacher Strike Ends, and Mountain Lions Thrive

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of empowering stories that demonstrate the strength of community and progressive values. We kick off with a groundbreaking poll revealing that 85% of Democratic voters favor Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as a leader who will confront corporate greed and fight for the working class. This overwhelming support highlights a unifying desire among Democrats for a more aggressive stance against their political adversaries. Next, we celebrate the tentative agreement reached by San Francisco teachers after their historic strike, marking the first in decades. Their resilience has led to better wages and health benefits, showcasing the power of collective action in advocating for educators and students alike. In environmental news, a significant conservation effort will protect over 5,000 acres of forest land surrounding Shenandoah National Park, ensuring the preservation of vital ecosystems for future generations. We also highlight a bipartisan effort in Congress to end President Trump's emergency tariffs on Canada, reflecting a growing willingness among Republicans to prioritize the needs of working families over partisan loyalty. In a listener-suggested story, we learn about the surge in renewable energy, with solar and wind expected to dominate new U.S. generating capacity by 2026, marking a shift towards a more sustainable future. Finally, we celebrate the protection of over 1,400 mountain lions in California under the state's Endangered Species Act, a crucial step in safeguarding wildlife and their habitats. Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of progress, resilience, and the ongoing fight for justice! Today's Stories:  As Dem Voters Seek a 'Fight' With the Superrich, AOC is Now Their Favorite Candidate: Poll | Common Dreams San Francisco teachers strike ends as tentative deal reached with district | San Francisco | The Guardian More than 5,000 acres surrounding Shenandoah National Park to be protected House votes to cancel Trump Canada tariffs in rare bipartisan rebuke EIA: 99%+ of new US capacity in 2026 will be solar, wind + storage | Electrek Mountain lions gain protection under California’s Endangered Species Act | California | The Guardian Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    14 min
  5. 4D AGO

    Judge Orders Essential Care for Detainees, Kansas Governor Vetoes Harmful Bill

    In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a series of uplifting stories that highlight progress and resilience in the face of adversity. We begin with a significant ruling from a federal judge mandating that a California immigration detention center must provide detainees with adequate medical care, access to attorneys, and appropriate clothing. This decision marks a crucial step towards ensuring humane treatment for those in detention. Next, we celebrate Kansas Governor Laura Kelly's veto of a controversial bill that would have forced transgender individuals to use bathrooms corresponding to their assigned sex at birth. Governor Kelly emphasized the need for lawmakers to focus on improving the lives of Kansans rather than policing bathroom usage. We also highlight the launch of a new season of the podcast Band Camp, where hosts Dan and Jen explore the reasons behind the banning of classic literature, starting with J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. Their humorous take on the book provides a fresh perspective on censorship and literature. In housing news, Oregon advocates are pushing for Senate Bill 1523, which aims to ensure that renters have access to non-digital application methods and housing resources. This initiative seeks to protect vulnerable populations from being left behind by technological advancements. Additionally, we discuss the advancement of the Millionaires Tax in Washington state, which would impose a levy on personal income over $1 million. This tax is projected to generate significant revenue for the state, benefiting public services. A listener-suggested story reveals the vital role of aunts in supporting LGBTQ youth, particularly in communities of color, as they provide essential emotional and housing support. Finally, we celebrate the Washoe Tribe's historic purchase of over 10,000 acres of land for conservation, marking a significant step towards healing from historical trauma and restoring ancestral lands. Join us for a dose of good news that reaffirms the power of community, advocacy, and the ongoing fight for justice! For more about today's stories: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/11/california-ice-detainees-medical-care-attorneys-blankets https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/kansas-governor-vetoes-anti-trans-bathroom-bill-citing-numerous-and-significant https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/oregon-housing-bill-tries-reduce-rental-barriers-older-adults https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/02/09/wa-income-tax-on-higher-earners-clears-first-legislative-hurdle/ https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/aunts-support-lgbtq-youth https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/11/washoe-tribal-land-return-california https://phys.org/news/2026-02-lab-grown-algae-microplastics.html Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

    14 min
4.9
out of 5
404 Ratings

About

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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