Good News for Lefties | Daily News for Democracy

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen delivers a dose of positivity as we gear up for the upcoming elections. We kick off with a landmark victory for workers in New York City, where Mayor Zhoran Mamdani announces a monumental $131 million settlement with DoorDash, ensuring fair compensation for food delivery workers who faced wage theft. This unprecedented settlement marks a significant step in holding corporations accountable for their actions.
Next, we celebrate a successful National Voter Registration Day, with over 550,000 voters registering or updating their information, a crucial move as we approach the midterms. Cheyenne...

A recent Marist poll reveals that Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico and gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa are leading their Republican counterparts, with Talarico at 50% and Hinojosa at 49%.  This shift in momentum is critical in a state traditionally dominated by Republicans, particularly following Hinojosa's impactful ads targeting Governor Abbott's financial ties to data centers.  

This Afternoon's Stories: 

Marist poll finds James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa leading GOP rivals in Texas

Delaware absentee ballot law greenlit for midterms - Democracy Docket

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/supp

Journalists from CNN, MS NOW, and POLITICO were granted entry to White House grounds Thursday after the outlet was denied access earlier in the morning despite a judge’s order to immediately restore access.

Link:

https://www.politico.com/news/2026/09/24/politico-granted-white-house-access-after-being-denied-earlier-thursday-01091766


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a wave of positive news as we approach the November elections. We kick off with Michigan's Democratic Senate candidate, Abdul El Sayed, gaining traction against Republican Mike Rogers, driven by voters' desire for change from Trump's leadership. In a significant legal victory, charges against Stanford students involved in a protest against Israel's actions in Gaza have been dropped, showcasing the power of activism and community support.We also highlight the impressive polling numbers for Iowa's Josh Turek and Rob Sand, both Democrats, who are leading their Republican...

The Cook Political Report has shifted the Senate races in Kansas and South Carolina toward Democrats, marking a potential turning point for these traditionally Republican strongholds.  In a bold move, major television networks have suspended their White House pool coverage in solidarity with CNN, following Trump's denial of access to certain media outlets.  

This Afternoon’s Stories: 

Senate races shift toward Democrats in Kansas, South Carolina: Cook Political Report

Major TV networks pull out of White House pool after Trump ban



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/p...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a fresh wave of uplifting stories as the November elections loom. We start with promising news from Texas, where Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico is gaining momentum, leading Republican Ken Paxton in the latest poll. Meanwhile, the Texas Supreme Court has blocked a controversial voting map in Galveston County, ensuring fair representation for minority voters and reinforcing the integrity of our electoral process.We also highlight a significant legal victory for union workers as a federal judge rules against the Trump administration's attempt to cut...

Republican Senator John Curtis of Utah is calling for an investigation into Donald Trump Jr.'s financial dealings, particularly after a Russian oligarch partially funded his recent wedding.  Meanwhile, a federal appeals court has blocked the Department of Homeland Security from restoring a controversial tool intended for voter roll comparisons, upholding privacy laws and keeping voting access protected as the Trump administration pushes for new restrictions ahead of the midterms.

This Afternoon's Stories: 

GOP Sen. John Curtis calls for probe of Trump Jr. after wedding party

Appeals Court Maintains Block on Federal Voter Identification To...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on the positive developments in the realm of democracy and community support. As the November elections draw near, we celebrate Missouri's decision to drop a lawsuit that threatened to exclude non-citizens from the population count for congressional representation, preserving the integrity of our electoral process. California Governor Gavin Newsom takes a stand for election security with new legislation aimed at protecting voting rights against federal interference, reaffirming the importance of accessible mail-in voting.We also share the heartwarming story of Heretic Coffee in Portland, which has...

A federal judge has ruled that the Trump administration must provide a 30-day notice before any actions that could threaten the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, safeguarding this cherished cultural landmark from potential demolition.  Meanwhile, the Trump administration faces its 24th consecutive loss in court as a judge denies the DOJ's request for unredacted voter data from Vermont, a significant victory for voter privacy advocates.


This Afternoon's Stories: 

Judge orders Trump administration to give 30 days’ notice before moving to demolish Kennedy Center | Washington DC | The Guardian

DOJ is 0-24 in its...

A total of 29% of Americans say they approve of the way Donald Trump is handling his job as president according to the latest survey from the American Research Group.

Link: https://americanresearchgroup.com/economy/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen delivers a refreshing dose of optimism as we gear up for the November elections. The latest poll reveals a surprising dead heat in the Florida Senate race, with Democratic nominee Angie Nixon challenging incumbent Senator Ashley Moody, showcasing the power of grassroots campaigning against overwhelming odds. Meanwhile, YouTube star Ms. Rachel is matching Macklemore's generous $1 million donation to Palestinian aid organizations, urging other celebrities to join the cause and raise awareness for those affected by the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

In educational news, a federal judge has...

In this special crossover episode of Good News for Lefties and the Banned Camp podcast, host Beowulf Rochlen joins Dan and Jen to discuss the vital topic of book banning and the upcoming Banned Books Week. The American Library Association has announced this year's theme, "Let Books Be: Protect the Freedom to Read," which will take place from October 4th to 10th.

Together, they celebrate the importance of access to literature and the freedom to read, while also introducing the exciting Bookshelf Initiative, where a collection of banned books will be donated to a lucky winner. Beowulf emphasizes t...

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--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a series of encouraging updates as we head into the November elections. A federal immigration officer wanted for assault has been arrested, highlighting accountability in law enforcement amidst ongoing debates around immigration policies. Meanwhile, California's election landscape is heating up, with promising polling for Democratic candidates and a noteworthy proposition aimed at funding health care through a one-time billionaire tax.
In a significant development, the House of Representatives has taken a stand against billionaire Leon Black, holding him in criminal contempt for refusing to cooperate with...

In this week's episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen takes us on a journey across the globe, highlighting inspiring progressive stories that remind us of the power of collective action and environmental stewardship. As the world shifts towards democratic governance, we see a significant decline in leaders chosen by force or inheritance, with only 34 countries lacking elected parliaments today. This transformation underscores the growing importance of elections in shaping our political landscape.
In a remarkable turn of events, Europe has witnessed a surge in renewable energy sources, notably wind and solar, overtaking methane as the primary...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a series of encouraging stories as we approach the crucial November elections. A recent poll reveals that voters in key swing districts have a strong aversion to artificial intelligence companies, while showing overwhelming support for Medicare for All, highlighting a shift towards progressive policies. Independent Representative Kevin Kiley's decision to leave the Republican Party signifies a growing trend of discontent within GOP ranks, further indicating that Democrats may have an advantage in upcoming races.
In Virginia, King George County Schools have settled a lawsuit allowing middle school...

Former Representative Mary Peltola is making waves in Alaska, leading Republican Senator Dan Sullivan by five points in a recent poll—a remarkable feat in a traditionally red state.  Meanwhile, tenants in Shelbyville, Kentucky, are taking a stand by forming a tenant union to address long-standing issues such as maintenance problems and threats of eviction.   

This Afternoon's Stories: 

Dan Sullivan trails Mary Peltola in Alaska Senate contest: AARP poll 

Shelbyville tenants launching union against Lexington property management company | News From The States

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of uplifting stories as we gear up for the upcoming elections. The U.S. Senate has dealt a significant blow to the cryptocurrency industry by rejecting the Clarity Act, a move celebrated by many Democrats who raised concerns over government ethics and consumer protections. Meanwhile, Representative Thomas Massie's impeachment articles against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth add a layer of accountability regarding military actions in Iran.  
A groundbreaking study suggests that a 3% wealth tax on billionaires could save nearly 30 million lives by addressing funding gaps in...

A new poll shows Democrat Rob Sand leading Republican Zach Lahn by 10 points in the Iowa governor's race, igniting hope for Democrats in a state that has leaned right in recent years.  Meanwhile, a coalition of over 500 Jewish voters in Michigan has publicly endorsed Dr. Abdul El Sayed, the Democratic Senate nominee, highlighting his commitment to health care, democracy, and social welfare as key reasons for their support against his Republican opponent, Mike Rogers.   

This Afternoon's Stories: 

Democrat Rob Sand double digits ahead in state Trump won three times: Poll

Jewish Leaders in Michigan Urge...

n this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights some significant victories for progressives as we approach the November elections. A federal appellate court has rejected the Department of Energy's attempt to keep a Michigan coal plant operational, marking a win for climate advocates and a step towards cleaner energy. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has also taken a stand for transgender rights by terminating a proposed rule that would have restricted transgender students' access to sports and facilities, a move celebrated by advocacy groups.
In a groundbreaking settlement, Iowa will receive $126 million from Meta to establish...

A federal judge has blocked the Kennedy Center's attempt to honor Donald Trump, reaffirming that the venue should remain solely dedicated to President John F. Kennedy.    In a surprising turn of public opinion, a recent poll in Michigan reveals that the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has lost favor among voters, with more Michiganders disapproving of the organization than even President Trump and the NRA.   

Judge blocks Kennedy Center board from putting Trump’s name on building

In Michigan Poll, AIPAC Less Popular Than Either NRA or Trump | Common Dreams


Become a suppor...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on the victories and progress being made as we edge closer to the November elections. A recent court ruling has blocked the Trump administration's attempt to politicize federal job applications by removing a loyalty question, ensuring that qualified public servants are prioritized over partisan hires. Meanwhile, Oregon lawmakers are pushing to ban controversial AI-powered license plate readers, citing privacy concerns and Fourth Amendment violations.

In a significant labor win, over 200 staffers at the Wikimedia Foundation have voted to unionize, marking a pivotal moment for...

The Missouri Supreme Court has taken a stand against gerrymandering, holding Secretary of State Denny Hoskins in contempt for attempting to impose a biased electoral map.  In an unprecedented move, nearly 150 unionized doctors in Minnesota have initiated a four-day strike, marking the first walkout by private sector hospital staff in U.S. history. 

Today's Stories: 

Missouri’s top election official held in contempt for defying court’s gerrymander order - Democracy Docket
'It's unsustainable': Doctors abandon posts in first-ever US hospital walkout - Raw Story

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreake...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rocklin sheds light on the silver linings amidst the political storm as we approach the November elections. With a recent NBC News poll revealing a significant dip in Donald Trump's approval ratings, even among Republicans, we explore the shifting sentiments that could reshape the political landscape.New Mexico's Public Lands Commissioner, Stephanie Garcia Richard, takes a bold step by banning new uranium mining projects on state trust lands, prioritizing environmental health over profit.

Meanwhile, the progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative debunks the myth that higher taxes drive wealthy...

The Supreme Court on Monday prevented a U.S. Postal Service regulation concerning mail-in ballots from going into effect.

Link:

https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-says-trump-cannot-enforce-new-mail-ballot-regulation-rcna596088

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

A federal appeals court has dealt a major blow to the Trump administration by blocking an IRS program that shared taxpayer information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), reinforcing the right to taxpayer confidentiality.  In other news, federal regulators are investigating Tesla's innovative CyberCab for potential safety violations, raising questions about compliance with established vehicle standards.

Trump Dealt New Data-Sharing Blow in IRS-ICE Fight Ahead of Midterms - Newsweek

Texas man’s deportation raises questions about ICE partnerships

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a wave of optimism as we gear up for the upcoming elections. Recent polling shows Democratic candidates Troy Jackson and Abdul El Sayed leading their races in Maine and Michigan, respectively, promising a competitive landscape for the left. Meanwhile, a significant victory for environmental protection emerges as a federal court halts the construction of a controversial data center in Nevada, citing a lack of proper environmental analysis.We also celebrate the expansion of reproductive health services with Planned Parenthood of Montana's announcement of a new clinic in...

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--6256627/support.

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 about book banning and the latest news in literature. This season, they're diving into Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale," and Beowulf brings his signature humor and insights to the conversation.

The episode features exciting news from Indiana as Purdue University acquires the Kurt Vonnegut Museum, ensuring the legacy of the iconic author continues to thrive. Julia Whitehead, the museum's founder, shares her enthusiasm for the partnership, which promises to enrich Purdue's museum...

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights some uplifting stories that remind us of the positive changes happening in America. A federal judge in Maryland has blocked a Trump executive order seeking to restrict birthright citizenship, reinforcing the rights of children born in the U.S. Meanwhile, a recent poll reveals that many young voters, including 31% of Generation Z who previously supported Trump, now express regret about their choice, signaling shifting political sentiments as the midterms approach.In a promising trend, youth voter registration is on the rise, with 18-year-olds showing a significant increase compared...

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 ruling from Bulgaria's top court that allows transgender individuals to legally change their name and gender on ID documents, aligning the country...

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 pressing issue of book bans. As they dive into the latest headlines, Beowulf highlights a significant pushback against a controversial policy in Somerset County, Maryland, which restricts access to young adult books in school libraries. This policy, which only allows students over 18 to access these books, has sparked outrage and a formal appeal to the state Board of Education, citing violations of the First Amendment and Maryland's freedom to read law.
<...

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 competitive ahead of the midterms.In legal news, a New Jersey judge has upheld an executive order that restricts federal immigration officials' access...

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 Defiance Zoo & Aquarium welcomes baby porcupine

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podc...

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 Supreme Court is holding Secretary of State Denny Hoskins in contempt for defying a ruling against a newly drawn GOP map that threatens...

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 Democratic primary

Arlington County sets aside $50K to aid families of ICE detainees

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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.

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 decision to pause new data center approvals, aiming to ensure responsible development and community impact. In legal news, a federal judge has...

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 Docket

State workers to hold strike vote as negotiations drag on

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.s...

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 a remarkable $2 million grant to combat gender-based violence through direct cash assistance to survivors, demonstrating the transformative impact of economic support.

In Asheville, North...