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Here's Episode 117 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!

00:00-15:29: Pat's Mom's Passing & Influence

In the first segment, Pat Johnston talks about his Mom passing away last week, and the major influence she played in his political and news upbringing. Like Pat, his Mom wore her politics and values on her sleeve, and she wasn't bashful about sharing her views, especially when she thought some right-winger was completely wrong! Her political values and passion have indeed been passed-down to Pat, and he explains why he's so incredibly grateful to have those important traits. Then, Pat explains the importance of focusing on local and state politics during these Trump Part II days.

15:30-37:25: MI State Rep. Betsy Coffia Interview

Pat next talks with Michigan Progressive Democratic State Representative Betsy Coffia. Rep. Coffia works hard for the people of the 103rd District, covering Leelanau, Benzie, and Grand Traverse Counties. Despite Coffia's district being mostly rural, and despite Republicans trying their best to oust her, Coffia actually Increased her victory margin in this past election compared her first win in 2022. Coffia explains how she was able to achieve success in a tough year for other Michigan Democrats. And she talks about the wasted opportunity by state House Democrats to pass important bills during their last days in the majority.

37:26-45:00: Last Call on A Weak Resistance

The "Last Call" segment highlights a column by Michigan Advance's Susan J. Demas, in which Demas writes how there is very little resistance going into this Trump term compared to the first one in 2016. Unlike the Women's Marches in '16, there were no Democratic Party officials present at any marches this time around. How can there be a Resistance 2.0 if Democratic Party leaders are already bending the knee in both Michigan and D.C.?

45:01-49:20: Ending/Demise of The Lions

Pat ends on a sports note by sharing his thoughts and feelings on the early, and stunning, ouster of the Detroit Lions in the NFL Playoffs. Yet, Pat remains optimistic for the Lions next year. 

Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!

Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!

leftoflansing.com

NOTES:

"The Resistance decides it’s futile." By Susan J. Demas of Michigan Advance

Democratic New York Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer post via Blue Sky.

Tim Alberta post about the Detroit Lions playoff loss.

Traverse City Image: "Traverse City Michigan Sign M-22" by Royalbroil is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.