Good News For Lefties (and America!) - Daily News for Democracy

• Rising Support for Immigration, New Jersey's Universal Preschool, and Missouri's Foster Care Reform

  In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen takes you on an inspiring journey through a series of uplifting stories that highlight progress and resilience amidst challenging times. We begin with a remarkable shift in public sentiment, as nearly 80% of Americans now view immigration positively—the highest level of optimism in 25 years. This change reflects a growing recognition of the benefits immigrants bring to our society, transcending political divides and promoting a more inclusive narrative.Next, we celebrate New Jersey's groundbreaking legislation aimed at providing universal, high-quality early education for all children. Governor Phil Murphy's new law mandates full-day kindergarten by 2030 and expands access to preschool, ensuring that families across the state can benefit from foundational learning opportunities that foster economic mobility and address educational disparities.Missouri also makes headlines with a significant reform that protects the financial futures of vulnerable children in foster care. By ending the practice of seizing foster children's Social Security benefits to cover care costs, the state is prioritizing the needs of these young individuals and setting a higher standard for child welfare.We then turn our attention to a historic expedition by Indigenous youth who are paddling 300 miles down the Klamath River, marking a cultural reclamation following the removal of hydroelectric dams. This journey not only symbolizes healing and sovereignty for the tribes but also highlights the resilience of the river's ecosystem as salmon populations begin to thrive once again.Lastly, we discuss the preparations for a strike by concession workers at Fenway Park, who are advocating for fair wages and job security amidst rising automation. Their efforts underscore the importance of human connection in creating a vibrant community experience at the ballpark.Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of hope and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected] can find more about this week's stories here:https://apnews.com/article/immigration-polling-trump-deportation-d138992f803e2d0b5b399aa9eaa36581https://newjerseymonitor.com/2025/07/11/free-pre-k-kindergarten-expanded-under-new-law-signed-by-governor/https://missouriindependent.com/2025/07/09/missouri-governor-signs-bill-banning-state-from-seizing-foster-kids-benefits/https://www.cnn.com/travel/klamath-river-indigenous-paddle-c2e-spchttps://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/fenway-park-workers-strike-2-day-deadline/https://techstartups.com/2025/07/09/youtube-to-demonetize-ai-generated-videos-starting-july-15/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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• Michigan's Medical Debt Relief, Pittsburgh's LGBTQ Protections, and Grassroots Defense Against ICE

  In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into a series of uplifting stories that showcase resilience and progress in these challenging times. We kick off with House Democrats' strategic redistricting plans aimed at reclaiming the House majority in 2026. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is leading the charge to redraw congressional maps in key blue states, countering Republican maneuvers and emphasizing the need for a fair political landscape.Next, we celebrate a monumental initiative in Michigan where over 210,000 residents are seeing a significant burden lifted as $144 million in medical debt is erased. Governor Gretchen Whitmer's partnership with the national nonprofit Undue Medical Debt is transforming lives, providing financial relief to those most in need without any strings attached.In Waltham, Massachusetts, a dedicated network of volunteers known as Fuerza is stepping up to protect immigrant communities from aggressive ICE enforcement. Their rapid response efforts provide support and legal resources to those affected by immigration raids, highlighting the importance of community solidarity in uncertain times.We also discuss a groundbreaking innovation in environmental sustainability: biodegradable mushroom diapers. Founded by Taro Isakopila, HERO Technologies is revolutionizing diaper disposal with a product that decomposes within a year, showcasing a new way to tackle plastic waste.Listeners will be inspired by Pittsburgh City Council's unanimous passage of three bills aimed at strengthening protections for LGBTQ residents, ensuring access to essential services and promoting inclusivity in the face of potential federal rollbacks.Finally, we highlight Casey Zapp's successful effort to secure funding for the Miami Tropical Botanic Garden, preserving this vital green space from development pressures while also addressing environmental challenges like stormwater flooding.Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of hope, resilience, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected] can find more about this week's stories here:https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/20/politics/redistricting-2026-house-democratshttps://www.mlive.com/news/2025/07/why-210000-michigan-residents-are-having-their-medical-debt-erased.htmlhttps://www.motherjones.com/politics/2025/06/ice-deportation-trump-miller-homan-waltham-massachusetts-fuerza-volunteers/https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/mushroom-diapers-disposable-biodegradablehttps://www.wesa.fm/politics-government/2025-07-09/pittsburgh-city-council-passes-further-protections-for-lgbtq-peoplehttps://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/miami-tropical-botanic-garden-founder-secures-funding-to-save-it-from-developers/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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• Minneapolis Progressives Rise, Federal Judge Upholds FTC Protections, and States Unite for Disaster Preparedness

  In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a vibrant mix of uplifting stories that illuminate progress and resilience in our communities. We begin with a significant victory in Minneapolis, where state Senator Omar Fateh has secured the DFL party's endorsement for mayor, signaling a shift towards progressive leadership. Fateh's commitment to working-class priorities and community inclusion resonates with residents eager for real change, highlighting the power of grassroots movements.Next, we discuss a landmark ruling from a federal judge affirming the legality of Federal Trade Commission Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter's position, reinforcing the importance of independent regulatory agencies in safeguarding consumer rights. This decision underscores the necessity of upholding democratic principles against attempts to undermine them.A coalition of 20 Democratic-led states has also taken a stand by filing a lawsuit to reverse the Trump administration's termination of a vital FEMA program that funds disaster preparedness. This legal action aims to protect communities from climate-driven threats, showcasing a collective commitment to resilience and safety.Listeners will be inspired by the story of track star Sadie Shriner, who is suing Princeton University for discrimination after being barred from competing due to her gender identity. Shriner's case highlights the ongoing fight for trans rights in sports, emphasizing the need for equality and inclusion.We also feature a listener-suggested story about innovative strides in earthquake preparedness, showcasing how research and investment in safety can save lives. The advancements being made at institutions like UCSD are setting new standards for building resilience in seismic zones.Finally, we explore California Democrats' ambitious plans to redraw the state's congressional map in a bid to secure additional Democratic seats ahead of the 2026 midterms. This strategic effort reflects the party's commitment to fair representation and active engagement in the political process.Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of hope, resilience, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected] can find more about this week's stories here:https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jul/21/omar-fateh-minneapolis-mayor-endorsementshttps://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/judge-rules-trumps-firing-ftc-commissioner-was-illegal-2025-07-17/https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/democratic-states-sue-trump-administration-over-fema-funding-cuts/ar-AA1IJqahhttps://www.thepinknews.com/2025/07/17/sadie-schreiner-princeton-university-sued/https://theprogressnetwork.org/earthquake-preparedness-progress/https://punchbowl.news/archive/71725-am-2/More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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• Federal Judge Upholds Transparency, Superman Soars at the Box Office, and Medical Debt Relief in Arizona

  In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that shine a light on progress and resilience in the face of adversity. We start with a significant ruling from a federal judge who has ordered the Trump administration to reinstate a public website that tracks federal spending, reaffirming the fundamental principle of government transparency. This landmark decision, celebrated by advocates for accountability, underscores the public's right to know how taxpayer dollars are being allocated.Next, we celebrate the success of James Gunn's latest Superman film, which has triumphed at the box office while delivering a powerful message of inclusion and compassion. Despite criticism from conservative commentators, audiences have embraced the film's themes, proving that empathy and diversity resonate strongly with viewers.In a notable legal victory for journalistic freedom, a federal judge dismissed Donald Trump's lawsuit against journalist Bob Woodward, reinforcing the rights of reporters to publish material from on-the-record interviews without facing undue legal threats. This ruling marks a significant win for the press and sets a precedent for future cases.We also highlight a pivotal court order that allows transgender Americans to obtain accurate passports reflecting their gender identity, providing much-needed relief and reducing bureaucratic hurdles for many individuals.Listeners will be inspired by a listener-suggested story about Arizona's initiative to erase over $429 million in medical debt for families across the state, a life-changing measure that underscores the commitment to economic security and well-being for all residents.Finally, we discuss the latest poll showing a peak in disapproval ratings for Donald Trump, indicating growing public dissatisfaction with his leadership as we move closer to the 2026 midterms. This shift could signal a potential opportunity for Democrats to reclaim lost ground.Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of hope, accountability, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected] can find more about this week's stories here:https://thehill.com/business/budget/5411550-trump-administration-funding-tracker-judge/https://www.dailykos.com/stories/2025/7/15/2333524/-Americans-reject-MAGA-https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5409559-trumps-long-stalled-suit-against-bob-woodward-dismissed/https://19thnews.org/2025/07/transgender-passport-state-department/https://www.azfamily.com/2025/07/16/gov-hobbs-announces-erasure-429m-medical-debt-thousands-arizonans/https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-approval-rating-polls-2101138More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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• Court Ruling Protects Press, Florida's AG Under Fire, and Progressives Rally for Working Class Power

  In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into a series of uplifting stories that showcase resilience and progress in the face of adversity. Kicking off with a significant ruling from a federal judge, we learn how the Los Angeles Police Department is temporarily barred from using excessive force against journalists covering protests. This crucial victory for press freedom underscores the importance of protecting the rights of those who document democracy in action.Next, we highlight a coalition of legal scholars urging the Florida Supreme Court to investigate Attorney General Pam Bondi for alleged ethical violations. This movement reflects a growing commitment to accountability within the legal community, emphasizing that no one is above the law, not even those in positions of power.The Congressional Progressive Caucus is also making waves with the launch of new task forces aimed at mobilizing working-class voters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Their focus on lowering costs, fighting corruption, and ensuring fair pay resonates with a populace eager for change, demonstrating that progressives are ready to champion the needs of everyday Americans.Listeners will be inspired by a listener-suggested story about a class action lawsuit filed by immigrant advocacy organizations seeking to end ICE arrests at immigration court hearings. This bold legal action aims to restore due process and protect vulnerable communities from unjust deportations.Finally, we celebrate Chip Gaines' commitment to representation as he stands by the decision to feature a same-sex couple on the new reality series "Back to the Frontier," promoting inclusivity and dialogue in the face of criticism. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of visibility and acceptance for all families.Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of hope, accountability, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected] can find more about this week's stories here:https://laist.com/news/politics/los-angeles-police-cannot-detain-or-fire-weapons-at-journalists-covering-protests-judge-ruleshttps://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/state-politics/article310669975.htmlhttps://www.commondreams.org/news/2026-us-house-electionshttps://www.commondreams.org/news/battleground-alliance-labor-groups-2026https://www.commondreams.org/news/ice-courthouse-arrestshttps://www.nbcnews.com/nbc-out/out-pop-culture/chip-gaines-gay-couple-back-frontier-show-rcna218890More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-and-america-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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