Episodes
879
Aug. 2, 2026
Banned Camp: The Inspiring Journey of Librarian Martia Jacobs
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 centered around the theme of banned books. This season, the Band Camp crew delves into J.D. Salinger's classic, "Catcher in the Rye," while Beowulf brings his unique news segment highlighting the ongoing challenges of book banning. We share an inspiring story about Martia Jacobs, a library associate in North Carolina, who overcame significant rea...
878
Aug. 2, 2026
Victory for Arizona Unions and Trump's Approval Rating Plummets
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King brings you a lineup of uplifting stories that celebrate recent victories for the left. We kick things off with a significant legal win in Arizona, where a judge struck down a Republican-backed ballot referral aimed at undermining teachers unions, preserving their ability to collect dues and negotiate effectively. Next, we delve into a troubling new poll revealing that Donald Trump's approval rating has dropped to a record low among whit...
876
Aug. 1, 2026
Banned Camp: Moms for Liberty's Struggles and Book Banning Battles
In this special crossover episode of Good News for Lefties and the Banned Camp Podcast, host Beowulf Rochlen joins Dan and Jen for an engaging discussion about the latest in book banning and the cultural climate surrounding it. We dive into the intriguing revelations about Moms for Liberty, a group facing internal turmoil as they resort to paying local chapters to attend national Zoom meetings, highlighting their dwindling enthusiasm amidst legal scandals and leadership resignations. As we expl...
877
Aug. 1, 2026
World News: Protests, Environmental Wins, and Free Transit
In this week's episode of Good News for Lefties and the World, host Beowulf Rochlen takes us on a journey through inspiring stories from around the globe that highlight activism, environmental progress, and innovative solutions. We start in India, where the Cockroach Janta party successfully ended a five-week protest, leading to the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan amidst demands for accountability. This marks a significant moment in the fight against authoritarianism under P...
875
Aug. 1, 2026
Mayor Mamdani Explores Reparations and DOJ Wins Zero Cases in Voter Data Lawsuits
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King brings you a series of uplifting stories that shine a light on the resilience of democracy and progressive values. We start with a significant legal victory as a federal judge dismisses the Department of Justice's lawsuit for New Jersey's unredacted voter rolls, marking the DOJ's 18th defeat in its nationwide voter data efforts. This ruling underscores the ongoing struggle for voter rights and the importance of state autonomy in election...
874
July 31, 2026
PM News: Cybertruck's Epic Fail and New Hope for Renters
We take a deep dive into the latest news, starting with the disappointing sales figures of Tesla's Cybertruck, which has been dubbed a "cyber disaster." With projections of 250,000 units sold annually, the reality is a mere fraction of that, making it the worst-selling vehicle in the U.S. since the Ford Edsel. Shifting gears, we discuss a recent CNN poll revealing that a significant majority of Americans believe Donald Trump is neglecting the nation's most pressing issues, with his approval rati...
873
July 31, 2026
Francesca Hong Rises, Old Ladies Dive into Cape Cod
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories that highlight the resilience and progress of the left. We start with the chaotic yet exciting Democratic primary in Wisconsin, where Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong has emerged as a frontrunner, showcasing a shift towards progressive ideals within the party. Next, we celebrate a significant step in Michigan, where a petition to ban large corporations with government contracts from ma...
872
July 30, 2026
PM News: Trump's Legal Troubles Mount
We kick off with Donald Trump's controversial remarks regarding the nomination of Todd Blanche as attorney general, revealing the tensions within the Republican Party as they seek concessions before the upcoming Senate shift. In a significant legal setback for Trump's Department of Justice, a federal judge has dismissed the lawsuit aimed at obtaining New Jersey's unredacted voter rolls, marking the 18th defeat for the DOJ in its nationwide voter data crusade. (2) Live updates: Trump may withdra...
871
July 30, 2026
Crime Rates Plummet and Workers Gain Power
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen navigates through a series of impactful stories that highlight the pulse of progressive change in America. We kick off with a revealing poll showing that nearly half of Americans believe Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should be arrested, reflecting a growing sentiment for accountability in international affairs. Next, we dive into the fascinating case of former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, who faces charges related to th...
870
July 29, 2026
PM News: Trump's Approval Dips as Democrats Gain Ground in Texas
We start with a revealing CNN poll showing a significant drop in Donald Trump's approval ratings among Republicans, with only 19% expressing enthusiasm for his upcoming term. Next, we dive into the Texas Senate race, where Democrat James Talarico is making waves with a 5-point lead over Republican Ken Paxton, signaling a potential shift in a state long dominated by Republicans. Just 1 in 5 Republicans enthusiastic about rest of Trump term: Poll Talarico leads Paxton by 5 points in new Texas Sen...
869
July 29, 2026
Resigning from Trump’s Chaos
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights a series of uplifting stories that remind us of the progress being made despite the challenges we face. We kick off with the resignation of Mark Rosenblum from the Department of Homeland Security, who publicly criticized the Trump administration's stance on immigration, signaling a positive shift towards accountability in government. Next, we celebrate a significant legal victory in Arkansas, where a federal judge struck ...
868
July 28, 2026
PM News: Even Cheaper Groceries in NYC
We start with an exciting announcement from New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani, who pledges that city-run grocery stores will offer staple items at 30% cheaper prices, potentially saving families around $1,000 a year. Next, we discuss the dismissal of charges against prominent union leader David Huerta, who was arrested during a protest against an immigration raid in Los Angeles. The U.S. Attorney's office has moved to dismiss the charges, reflecting a broader trend of failed prosecutions against...
867
July 28, 2026
Battling Surveillance Pricing and Celebrating Women Candidates
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a refreshing mix of uplifting stories that shine a light on progress and resilience. We begin with a significant ruling from a federal appellate panel, which upheld a lower court's injunction blocking the Trump administration's attempts to manipulate mail-in voting, a critical victory for voting rights advocates. Next, we celebrate the triumph of Maine Democrats as Troy Jackson secures the party's nomination for Senate am...
866
July 27, 2026
PM News: House Gains and Drone Dilemmas
With just 100 days remaining, forecasts from Decision Desk HQ show Democrats gaining momentum, potentially flipping the House of Representatives with a projected 15-seat advantage. In economic news, New York City has added an impressive 40,000 jobs in the first half of the year, defying expectations and showcasing resilience despite national challenges. Democrats favored to win House, underdogs in Senate 100 days out Surprise! NYC nets 40,000 new jobs on Wall Street surge Become a supporter of...
865
July 27, 2026
DOJ's Losing Streak and Ossoff's Momentum
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into a series of encouraging stories that highlight progress and resilience across the nation. We start with a significant legal setback for the Department of Justice, as a federal judge appointed by Donald Trump dismisses yet another lawsuit aimed at accessing voter registration records, marking the DOJ's record at 0 for 17 in these cases. This ruling underscores the ongoing challenges in safeguarding voting rights amidst poli...
864
July 26, 2026
Good News for Lefties- Progressive Voices Edition for July 26th
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...
863
July 26, 2026
Banned Camp: How Librarians Are Tackling Mental Health
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 that blends humor with pressing social issues. The trio dives into the world of banned books, focusing on "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood, while Beowulf brings in a crucial segment on the latest developments in book banning and censorship. This episode highlights a heartening initiative in Indiana, where librarians are receiving training...
862
July 26, 2026
Trump's Meltdown and the Fight for Fair Elections
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King gives up optimistic, good news stories for basically Democrats and anyone who needs an uplift. We kick off with a heated report from the Daily Beast, detailing President Trump's explosive reactions to the ongoing conflict with Iran, as tensions escalate amid a series of airstrikes. Trump's frustration peaks following a reporter's inquiry about the war's timeline, leading to a chaotic outburst that reveals the mounting pressures he faces....
861
July 25, 2026
World News: Leopard Conservation and Starbucks Unions
In this week's episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen takes us on a global journey to uncover inspiring stories that highlight progressive movements and positive changes. We start with the resignation of Nigel Farage from Parliament, a move that could signal a shift in the political landscape amid scrutiny over his financial dealings. Good riddance, indeed! Next, we celebrate the formation of Starbucks Korea's first labor union, a significant step for workers seeking better pay ...
860
July 25, 2026
Banned Camp: Lucha Libre and Literacy
In this special crossover episode of Good News for Lefties and the Banned Camp Podcast, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into the exciting intersection of literature and entertainment. Join us as we explore the latest developments in book banning while sharing laughs with Dan and Jen from Band Camp, who are currently dissecting "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood. We highlight an incredible initiative taking place in libraries across the country: Lucha Libro! This vibrant program merges Mexican ...
859
July 25, 2026
Legal Setbacks for Trump and Major Wins for Affordable Housing
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King shares a collection of impactful stories that highlight accountability and progress. We begin with a significant ruling from a federal magistrate judge, requiring President Trump to disclose financial information related to his defamation lawsuit against the BBC. This decision opens the door for greater scrutiny of Trump's business dealings, reminding us that legal actions can have far-reaching implications. Next, we cover a coalition o...
858
July 24, 2026
PM News: Anti-ICE Heroes and Union Solidarity: A Fight for Justice
We begin with Troy Jackson's promising rise in the polls as he prepares to challenge Republican Senator Susan Collins. Next, we highlight a historic turnout in Nebraska's Democratic primary, where voters showed unprecedented enthusiasm, surpassing Republican participation for the first time in over three decades. Leading Collins in New Poll, Jackson Says Maine Can't Afford 6 More Years of GOP Senator's 'Concern' | Common Dreams Dem turnout in Nebraska’s primary exceeded Republican for the first...
857
July 24, 2026
Empowering Renters and Honoring Black History
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights a series of uplifting stories that showcase progress and resilience in the face of adversity. We kick off with the Los Angeles Police Department's decision to end its partnership with Flock Safety, a move that reflects growing concerns over privacy rights amid surveillance technology debates. This pivotal change opens a dialogue about safety and civil liberties in urban areas. Next, we discuss the case of former Wisconsin...
856
July 23, 2026
PM News: Missouri's Voting Rights Victory and Oakland's Immigrant Protections
We start with Missouri's groundbreaking House Bill 1871, which restores voting rights to approximately 40,000 individuals on probation or parole. Next, we turn our attention to Oakland, California, where Mayor Barbara Lee and city officials are advocating for a new ordinance that would enhance protections for immigrants. GOP-Run Missouri Becomes Latest State to Roll Back Felony Disenfranchisement | Bolts Oakland leaders back expanding immigrant protections – NBC Bay Area Become a supporter of ...