Episodes

758
June 9, 2026

PM News: Judge Strikes Down Trump's H1B Visa Fee, Kennedy Center Drops His Name

U.S. District Judge Leo Sorokin invalidated Donald Trump's controversial $100,000 annual fee on H1B visa applications, deeming it an unlawful tax that violates federal law and the Constitution. The Kennedy Center is complying with a court order to remove Trump's name from its website, reinforcing the idea that only Congress has the authority to rename the esteemed venue. Federal judge rules Trump’s $100,000 fee for H-1B visas unlawful | US immigration | The Guardian Kennedy Center removes Trump...
757
June 9, 2026

Alabama’s First Medical Cannabis Dispensary, Judge Blocks Trump’s USDA Policy

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights a series of encouraging stories that showcase the resilience of democracy and the pursuit of justice. We kick off with a significant ruling from a federal judge who has temporarily blocked the USDA's attempt to impose Trump-era conditions on state funding, safeguarding vital nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC for millions of families. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield celebrates this victory, emphasizing the importanc...
756
June 8, 2026

Judge Rules Against Trump’s Anti-Immigrant Policies, Democrats Prepare for Oversight

A Rhode Island judge has struck down several of Donald Trump's anti-immigrant policies, mandating the resumption of asylum processing for individuals from 39 targeted countries. Democrats prepare to investigate Trump officials for potential criminal wrongdoing once they regain control of the House. Judge Strikes Down Trump 'Anti-Immigrant' Policies, Orders Restart of Asylum Processing | Common Dreams Democrats plan to investigate, and maybe prosecute, Trump officials post-2029 Become a support...
755
June 8, 2026

GOP Senators Stand Up Against Intelligence Nominee and Support Ukraine Aid

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a series of uplifting stories that showcase the resilience of democracy and progressive values. We start with a notable moment in the Senate where three Republican senators—Bill Cassidy, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski—voted for a Democratic amendment aimed at preventing Bill Pulte from serving as the acting director of national intelligence. Their concerns raise questions about qualifications and oversight in government pos...
754
June 7, 2026

Good News for Lefties- Progressive Voices Edition for June 7th

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--6...
753
June 7, 2026

Judge Strikes Down Trump’s Immigration Policy, Trump’s Approval Hits Rock Bottom

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King brings you a wealth of uplifting stories that highlight recent victories for justice and progress. We start with a groundbreaking ruling from a federal judge that strikes down a harmful Trump-era immigration policy, ensuring that countless immigrants can finally move forward with their applications for asylum and citizenship. This decision emphasizes the importance of lawful immigration pathways and accountability for the USCIS. Next, w...
752
June 6, 2026

World News: Trans Rights, Marriage Equality, and Environmental Restoration

In this week's episode of Good News for Lefties and the World, host Beowulf Rochlen takes us on a global journey of uplifting stories that highlight progress and positivity. We begin in the UK, where a new study by the advocacy group Translucent reveals that only four complaints were made regarding trans women in single-sex spaces over three years, debunking myths about safety concerns and showcasing the effectiveness of current policies. Next, we celebrate a historic moment in Poland as the ca...
751
June 6, 2026

Illinois Drivers Unionize and Pennsylvania Takes on Big Tech Taxes

In this uplifting episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King shares a series of inspiring stories that highlight progress and positive change across the nation. We kick off with a groundbreaking proposal in Illinois that would empower Uber and Lyft drivers to unionize and engage in collective bargaining, providing them with much-needed support and representation. This legislation, if signed into law, could transform the lives of over 100,000 drivers facing challenges in their working con...
750
June 5, 2026

PM News: Save America Act Fails as Soccer Streets Bring Joy to NYC

The Save America Act, a controversial Republican election overhaul championed by Donald Trump, has officially failed in the Senate. Andrea Pedro Francisco, a 23-year-old Guatemalan woman has been released from immigration detention after being denied necessary medical care for months. Detained Guatemalan woman who required urgent ovarian surgery for months released by ICE | News From The States SAVE Act, Republicans’ voting overhaul, fails in the Senate : NPR Become a supporter of this podcast...
749
June 5, 2026

Iowa's New Senate Hope and a Historic Homicide-Free Summer

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a refreshing wave of positive news that uplifts and inspires. We kick off with the exciting Democratic nomination win of Josh Turek for Iowa's open U.S. Senate seat, setting the stage for a competitive race against Ashley Hinson this November. In a surprising twist, businessman Zach Lan clinched the Republican nomination for Iowa governor, marking a tough night for Donald Trump and his endorsed candidate. Next, we turn ou...
748
June 4, 2026

PM News: House Votes to Reign in Trump's War Powers

The House of Representatives voted 215 to 208 to pass a War Powers Resolution, demanding President Trump seek approval for military action in Iran. Voters in Monterey, CA overwhelmingly approved a permanent ban on data centers, citing concerns over air quality, water resources, and public health. Voters in California City Become First in US to Approve Permanent Ban on Data Centers | Common Dreams US House passes war powers resolution to curb Trump’s authority in Iran | Donald Trump | The Guardi...
747
June 4, 2026

Judge Blocks Voter Suppression in New Hampshire

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that highlight recent victories for democracy and social justice across the nation. We kick off with a significant ruling from a federal judge in New Hampshire, declaring the state's attempt to eliminate voter affidavits as unconstitutional. This decision protects the right to vote and counters GOP efforts to suppress voter participation through draconian measures. Next, we celebrate a wi...
746
June 3, 2026

PM News: Trump Retreats on Anti-Weaponization Fund

Trump retreats from his controversial $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund, a move prompted by fierce backlash from congressional Republicans and a federal court ruling halting its establishment, and a landmark ruling from a divided panel of federal appeals court judges that strikes down Trump's policy banning transgender troops from military service. Trump administration retreats on 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' - POLITICO Appeals court rules against transgender military ban | AP News Become a su...
745
June 3, 2026

Declining Crime Rates and the Launch of Municipal Grocery Stores

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a wealth of uplifting news that showcases progress and positive change across America. We begin with encouraging statistics from California, where a significant decrease in homelessness has been reported, with the state implementing $3.3 billion in funding for housing and drug treatment programs. This reflects a broader national trend as the homeless population has also seen a decline. Next, we highlight a sharp drop in violen...
744
June 2, 2026

PM News: Trump’s Approval Plummets in PA and Illinois Advances Youth Health Rights

A new poll reveals a significant drop in approval ratings for Donald Trump and both of Pennsylvania's U.S. senators, In New York, lawmakers have proposed a constitutional amendment that could change the landscape of electoral maps ahead of the 2028 elections. Pa. voters more dissatisfied, especially with Trump tariffs, Jan. 6 fund | Morning Scrapple poll - pennlive.com New York Democrats eye single redistricting amendment Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/goo...
743
June 2, 2026

Indigenous Medicine School Proposal and Declining Litter Rates

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen curates a selection of inspiring stories that remind us of the progress being made in various corners of America. We start with a significant legal victory as a federal judge rules against Donald Trump's attempt to rename the iconic John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, reaffirming that only Congress can change its name. This ruling not only protects the integrity of the cultural institution but also halts Trump's plans for...
742
June 1, 2026

PM News: Talarico's Rise in Texas and Illinois' Bold Abortion Legislation

An encouraging poll from Texas indicates that Democratic state lawmaker James Talarico is leading Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, and J.B Pritzker has passed two crucial bills in Illinois aimed at protecting reproductive health privacy and expanding access to birth control for minors. 'Paxton is cooked': Eyes widen as new polls add to GOP's worst fears in Texas - Raw Story Lawmakers pass bill to shield abortion information from digital medical records | News From The States Become a su...
741
June 1, 2026

No Kings Day Concert and Vermont's Historic Herbicide Ban

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a vibrant assortment of uplifting news stories that highlight progressive achievements and community resilience across the nation. We kick off with an exciting announcement from the No Kings movement, which is planning a nationwide event on June 14 to counter Donald Trump's 80th birthday celebrations. This event will feature a star-studded concert at New York's Town Hall with performances by Bette Midler, Patti Smith, and ...
740
May 31, 2026

Good News for Lefties- Progressive Voices Edition for May 31st

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--6...
739
May 31, 2026

Opioid Overdoses Decline and Tech Workers Unite

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares uplifting stories that highlight progress and resilience in the face of adversity. We begin with a significant Supreme Court decision that dismissed Florida's lawsuit against California and Washington over their driver's license policies for undocumented individuals, illustrating the court's reluctance to engage in politically charged disputes. Next, we celebrate Massachusetts' impressive $3.1 billion in fair share revenue fr...
738
May 30, 2026

World News: UN's Climate Victory and Sudan's Health Triumph

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen takes us on a global journey to uncover uplifting stories that inspire hope and resilience in the face of challenges. We begin with a landmark resolution from the United Nations, which, in a decisive 141 to 8 vote, affirms that member states have a legal obligation to combat the climate crisis by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This resolution, championed by the island nation of Vanuatu, emphasizes the need for immediate action t...
737
May 30, 2026

Police Accountability in Michigan and Oregon's Bold New Leaders

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rocklin shines a light on positive developments amidst the ongoing challenges facing democracy and social justice. We start with a significant ruling from the Supreme Court, which has upheld a Michigan protestor's excessive force claim against a police officer, reinforcing accountability in law enforcement practices. Next, we celebrate a remarkable victory in Oregon, where progressive candidates Myrna Munoz and Tammy Carpenter have successf...
736
May 29, 2026

PM News: A Tax On Trump's Slush Fund and Data Center Backlash

Gavin Newsom wants the state to impose a 100 percent tax on any resident who receives monetary relief through the Justice Department’s $1.8 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund.” Plus, cities and counties across the country in recent weeks have blocked planned data centers amid concerns over rising electricity prices and environmental harms. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/newsom-wants-california-to-impose-100-tax-on-trump-s-slush-fund/ar-AA24goTv https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/...
735
May 29, 2026

Medical Debt Relief and Record-Breaking Sea Turtle Nests

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a wealth of uplifting stories that highlight positive changes and victories for progressives across America. We begin with a bipartisan initiative in Congress aimed at dismantling the controversial $1.8 billion Anti Weaponization Fund, which could potentially benefit allies of Donald Trump. Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick and Tom Suozzi are taking steps to unveil legislation that reflects the concerns of their constituents ...