Episodes

In this edition of Good News for Lefties and the World, host Beowulf Rochlen takes you on a journey through uplifting global stories that inspire hope and progress. We begin with a monumental agreement in Libya, where rival factions have committed to holding elections, marking a significant step towards stability after years of conflict. This breakthrough follows extensive negotiations by the UN, showcasing the power of dialogue in resolving deep-seated issues. Next, we celebrate a landmark rul...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights a series of inspiring stories that remind us of the power of grassroots movements and community action as we approach the upcoming elections. The No Kings coalition is gearing up for a fourth day of action, encouraging voters to mobilize against the influence of billionaire elites and protect democracy. Meanwhile, the political landscape in Florida shows signs of vulnerability for Republicans, as key districts become compe...

A revealing new survey shows a significant decline in approval ratings for both Donald Trump and Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe, marking a turning point in public sentiment. Switching gears, we celebrate a heartwarming milestone at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, where a prehensile-tailed porcupine baby has made its debut, a first in the zoo's 121-year history. This Afternoon's Stories: Trump, Kehoe post first negative approval ratings in new Missouri poll | News From The States Point Defia...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a spotlight on the positive developments happening across the nation, despite the barrage of negative headlines. We kick off with the latest poll revealing Donald Trump's approval rating stagnating at 33%, as voters express their dissatisfaction with his handling of the cost of living, a pivotal issue in the upcoming elections.Next, we delve into the escalating battle over congressional maps in Missouri, where the state's Supr...

We kick off with Rhode Island, where State Representative David Morales, a Democratic Socialist endorsed by Bernie Sanders, triumphed in the Democratic primary against incumbent Mayor Brett Smiley. Next, we turn to Arlington, Virginia, where the County Board has allocated $50,000 to support families affected by deportations, providing vital financial assistance without burdensome requirements. This Afternoon's Stories Stories: Bernie Sanders-endorsed challenger defeats Providence mayor in a De...

The U.S. Supreme Court Thursday temporarily blocked Missouri’s gerrymandered map that would eliminate a Democratic district in Kansas City while legal challenges are resolved. Link: https://www.democracydocket.com/news-alerts/supreme-court-blocks-gerrymandered-missouri-map-that-federal-judge-revived/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.co...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a refreshing dose of positivity amidst the noise of negativity surrounding us. As we approach the crucial midterm elections, the Senate race is heating up, with polls indicating a tight contest that could swing in favor of Democrats. Senator Ted Cruz's concerns about potential Democratic victories highlight the competitive landscape in key states like North Carolina and Georgia.We also discuss Texas Governor Greg Abbott's ...

We start with a crucial ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court, which denied Missouri Republicans' appeal to use a gerrymandered map in the upcoming midterm elections, preserving fair representation for voters. Next, we turn our attention to California, where the SEIU Local 1000 is preparing to hold a strike authorization vote as contract negotiations with Governor Gavin Newsom's administration stall. In big win for voters, Supreme Court won’t revive Missouri gerrymander before midterms - Democracy...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that showcase the power of activism and community support. We start with a nationwide mobilization by registered nurses, who, alongside patients and allies, are demanding hospitals sever ties with the controversial AI company Palantir, highlighting the importance of protecting democracy and human rights in healthcare.Next, we celebrate Sonia Passi and her nonprofit Freeform, which received...

In Michigan, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is leading in the governor's race, and former Health Director Abdul El-Sayed is making strides in the U.S. Senate contest. A significant ruling from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals allows states to regulate prediction markets, impacting the future of this controversial industry. This Afternoon's Stories: Politics: Poll shows Democrats lead in Michigan governor, Senate States can regulate prediction markets as gambling, federal appeals court rul...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights the positive strides being made across the nation, despite the overwhelming negative news cycle. We kick off with the encouraging rise in labor union membership, with over 411,000 new members joining last year, marking the largest growth since 2008. Discover how collective bargaining states are outperforming right-to-work states in terms of worker earnings and rights.Next, we discuss the legal defeat faced by Ghislaine Max...

in New York City as Mayor Zohran Mamdani announces the creation of the nation's first Office of Worker Power. We also delve into the proactive measures taken by educators in Los Angeles, where volunteers are patrolling neighborhoods to protect students from federal immigration enforcement as they return to school. This Afternoon's Stories: On Labor Day, Mamdani Announces First-of-Its Kind 'Office of Worker Power' in NYC | Common Dreams LAUSD Teachers Circle Neighborhoods at Dawn; ICE Warrant R...

Democratic State Auditor Rob Sand is leading in the Iowa governor's race, showcasing a strong chance for Democrats in a traditionally Republican stronghold. Next, we celebrate a significant victory for medical cannabis advocates in Nebraska as the state Supreme Court upholds two voter-approved laws, affirming the people's will against legal challenges. On the tech front, federal regulators are investigating Tesla's new Cyber Cab for potential safety compliance issues, raising important questions...

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...

In this special crossover episode of Good News for Lefties and the Banned Camp podcast, host Beowulf Rochlen joins Dan and Jen for a lively discussion on the latest in book banning and the fight for free speech in libraries. This week, we celebrate a significant victory for librarian Patty Hector, who received a $275,000 settlement after being unjustly fired for defending the right to access books in her community. We delve into the implications of her case on the ongoing battle against censorsh...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a wealth of uplifting stories that highlight progress and positive change across the nation. We kick things off with New Jersey's new law allowing residents to install small solar panels, empowering individuals to reduce their energy costs while promoting sustainability. Governor Mikey Sherrill's initiative is a game-changer for those with limited access to traditional solar options. Next, we discuss Virginia State Senator Gl...

In this special crossover episode of Good News for Lefties and the Banned Camp podcast, host Beowulf Rochlen joins Dan and Jen to explore the intersection of literature and social issues. This week, they dive into the impactful legacy of the late Dolly Parton, focusing on her commitment to childhood literacy through her Imagination Library initiative. Launched in 1995, this program has sent over 318 million culturally inclusive books to children worldwide, fostering a love for reading from a you...

In this week's episode of Good News for Lefties and the World, host Beowulf Rochlen takes us on an inspiring journey around the globe, highlighting remarkable stories that showcase positive progressive change. We begin with Argentina's Tren Solar de la Quebrada, the first fully solar-powered luxury train in Latin America, offering a sustainable travel option that connects tourists to UNESCO World Heritage Sites without emitting noise or pollution. Next, we celebrate the reelection of Zambia's P...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a wave of uplifting stories that showcase the resilience of democracy and community spirit. We start with an important ruling from the Maryland Supreme Court, allowing a constitutional amendment on redistricting to appear on the ballot this November, empowering voters to reshape congressional districts in favor of fair representation. Next, we celebrate a significant win in Missouri, where the state Supreme Court has appr...

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 Cou...

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 ...

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 ta...

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...

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 challenge...