In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a powerful lineup of stories that highlight progress, justice, and community empowerment across the nation. We begin with Maryland Governor Wes Moore's groundbreaking initiative, which includes nearly 7,000 pardons for simple cannabis possession as part of a broader effort to close the racial wealth gap and repair the harms of past drug policies. This monumental step not only clears records but also invests in communities disproportionately affected by discriminatory practices, showcasing Maryland as a national leader in equity-driven policy.

Next, we celebrate a significant victory for healthcare workers in Minnesota, where nurses have reached a tentative agreement with hospital employers that prioritizes workplace safety and fair compensation. This agreement, achieved through collective action, reflects a growing movement to ensure that patient care and worker well-being are at the forefront of healthcare negotiations.

Rhode Island takes a stand for intellectual freedom with the signing of the Freedom to Read Act, ensuring that library materials remain accessible and protected from censorship. This legislation affirms the fundamental right to explore diverse voices and perspectives, reinforcing the importance of inclusion in education and community spaces.

Oregon is also making headlines with Governor Tina Kotech's executive order mandating a ban on student cell phone use in public schools. This bold move aims to enhance student well-being and academic success by creating distraction-free learning environments, setting a progressive example for educational policy nationwide.

Listeners will be inspired by the passage of the Summer Willis Act in Texas, a landmark law that redefines consent and closes loopholes in sexual assault statutes. This legislation empowers survivors and strengthens protections, marking a significant step forward for justice and accountability in the state.

Finally, we highlight Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre's victory in the special election for San Diego County's District 1 supervisor seat, a win that signals a shift towards progressive priorities and community-driven policy in South County. Aguirre's commitment to clean water, affordable housing, and environmental justice resonates with the urgent needs of her constituents.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of advocacy, resilience, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but happening right now!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/benjaminadams/2025/06/26/maryland-gov-moore-grants-7000-more-pardons-in-cannabis-equity-push



https://www.kare11.com/article/news/local/twin-cities-nurses-reach-deal-avoiding-a-strike-duluth-hospitals/89-3a61bbb9-a0dd-4f98-bafe-b6a87fa9ce0e



https://rhodeislandcurrent.com/briefs/gov-mckee-signs-freedom-to-read-act-into-law/



https://www.oregonlive.com/education/2025/07/gov-tina-kotek-issues-executive-order-mandating-bell-to-bell-ban-on-student-cellphones-in-oregon-schools.html



https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/texas-sexual-assault-bill-summer-willis-legislature-consent



https://www.10news.com/americavotes/mccann-concedes-to-aguirre-in-district-1-supervisor-special-election-race



More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen delivers a powerful lineup of progressive victories that uplift and inspire. We start with a significant legal win for Haitian immigrants as a federal judge in New York blocks the Trump administration's attempt to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 500,000 Haitians. This ruling restores the TPS expiration date to February 3, 2026, providing much-needed stability and security amid ongoing crises in Haiti.

Next, we celebrate a landmark decision from the Supreme Court that defends reproductive rights in Montana. By declining to hear a case aimed at reinstating parental consent requirements for minors seeking abortions, the court affirms the right to reproductive autonomy, ensuring that Montana remains a stronghold for access to abortion services.

In a hopeful trend, the United States is witnessing a historic decline in homicide rates, with a 14% drop nationwide in 2024. Cities like Detroit are experiencing their lowest murder rates in decades, thanks to community-based violence intervention programs and renewed investments in social infrastructure, demonstrating the power of community support in reducing crime.

We also delve into the ongoing municipal workers' strike in Philadelphia, where essential workers are advocating for fair wages and improved benefits. As negotiations continue, the impact on city services is felt across neighborhoods, highlighting the need for a resolution that addresses the vital contributions of blue-collar workers.

Listeners will be intrigued by a listener-suggested story from North Carolina, where the state Democratic Party has taken a bold stance by calling for an embargo on U.S. military aid to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This resolution reflects a significant shift in the party's base and underscores grassroots demands for a reevaluation of U.S. foreign policy.

Finally, we highlight a groundbreaking innovation from researchers at Virginia Tech, who have developed a revolutionary recyclable circuit board that could help tackle the global e-waste crisis. This self-healing, flexible material opens the door to a more sustainable future for electronics, showcasing the potential for circular economy practices in tech manufacturing.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of resilience, advocacy, and the belief that positive change is possible!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/judge-blocks-trump-ending-tps-haitians-rcna216431



https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/5384083-supreme-court-declines-montana-abortion-case/



https://www.npr.org/2025/06/30/nx-s1-5448852/murders-down-nationwide-covid



https://www.cbsnews.com/philadelphia/news/philadelphia-trash-strike-dc33-cherelle-parker/



https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/politics-government/article309636240.html



https://www.thebrighterside.news/post/recyclable-circuit-boards-may-help-solve-the-worlds-growing-e-waste-crisis/



More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into a treasure trove of progressive victories and inspiring stories that challenge the status quo. We start with Elon Musk's unexpected stance against Donald Trump's sweeping tax and budget legislation, as he vows to support primary challengers to Republicans who back the bill. While his motivations may be mixed, Musk's call for fiscal responsibility and a new political party reflects a growing desire for alternatives to corporate-backed politics.

Oregon is stepping up to tackle its housing crisis with the launch of the Housing Accountability and Production Office (HAPO). This new agency aims to accelerate the construction of affordable homes, reflecting a commitment to housing justice and economic opportunity for all Oregonians. With ambitious goals and dedicated leadership, HAPO is set to remove barriers and unlock new opportunities for communities across the state.

In a heartening response to a controversial feedback system implemented by the Trump administration, visitors to national parks have turned the tables, flooding feedback forms with praise for park rangers and a demand for honest storytelling about American history. This grassroots movement underscores the public's commitment to preserving the full, complex narrative of the nation's past, pushing back against attempts to whitewash history.

The EPA has awarded $3.7 million in grants to organizations in Michigan and Ohio, empowering farmers to adopt sustainable practices that protect water quality in the Great Lakes. This investment in clean agriculture not only supports farmers but also promotes environmental stewardship, showcasing the potential for collaboration between agriculture and conservation efforts.

Listeners will be inspired by the story of Deja Fox, a 25-year-old progressive candidate making waves in Arizona's special election. With a focus on reproductive rights, affordable housing, and a commitment to representing the voices of working families, Fox embodies the spirit of generational change and authentic representation in politics.

Finally, we highlight a new regional Vaccine Advisory group being formed by Maine, New York, Rhode Island, and Connecticut in response to federal upheaval in vaccine policy. This initiative aims to uphold scientific integrity and ensure that public health remains a priority, demonstrating the power of state-led leadership in safeguarding communities.

Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of resilience, advocacy, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but already happening!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:


https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/06/30/musk-warns-republicans-voting-for-trump-mega-bill/84422289007



https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/briefs/gov-kotek-launches-new-agency-to-fast-track-housing-construction/



https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/national-park-trump-feedback-forms



https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/eo14253.htm



https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-selects-four-organizations-receive-37-million-grants-assist-farmers-nutrient



https://www.tucsonsentinel.com/local/report/070125_foxx_profile/in-cd7-special-election-democrat-deja-foxx-says-she-represents-new-generation-political-leaders/


https://www.pressherald.com/2025/06/30/maine-other-states-consider-forming-regional-vaccine-advisory-group/



More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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

We kick off with a monumental victory for reproductive rights in Wisconsin, where the state Supreme Court struck down a 176-year-old near-total abortion ban. This landmark decision ensures that personal health care choices remain with individuals and their doctors, reaffirming Wisconsin's commitment to reproductive freedom and health care access.

Next, we celebrate Key West's courageous move to void a controversial agreement that allowed local police to collaborate with federal immigration authorities. This decision, driven by community voices, underscores the city's dedication to inclusivity and trust, prioritizing the safety and dignity of all residents, regardless of immigration status.

In a significant win for digital privacy, a California jury ordered Google to pay $314.6 million for collecting personal data without user consent. This ruling marks a pivotal moment in the fight for consumer rights, sending a strong message to tech giants about accountability and transparency in data practices.

Connecticut is making strides towards a sustainable future with new climate legislation aimed at achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. These ambitious policies reflect the state's commitment to environmental stewardship and position Connecticut as a regional leader in climate action.

Listeners will be inspired by a listener-suggested story highlighting a multi-state lawsuit aimed at protecting Medicaid recipients' personal health information from being used for immigration enforcement. This coalition of states is standing firm against the misuse of sensitive data, reaffirming the importance of privacy and equitable access to healthcare.

Finally, California is poised to make history by moving toward fair compensation for incarcerated firefighters during active fire emergencies, a significant step towards justice and dignity in the state's emergency response system.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of advocacy, resilience, and the belief that positive change is possible!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:


https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/06/30/musk-warns-republicans-voting-for-trump-mega-bill/84422289007/



https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/briefs/gov-kotek-launches-new-agency-to-fast-track-housing-construction/



https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/national-park-trump-feedback-forms



https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/eo14253.htm



https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-selects-four-organizations-receive-37-million-grants-assist-farmers-nutrient



https://www.tucsonsentinel.com/local/report/070125_foxx_profile/in-cd7-special-election-democrat-deja-foxx-says-she-represents-new-generation-political-leaders/


https://www.pressherald.com/2025/06/30/maine-other-states-consider-forming-regional-vaccine-advisory-group/



More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of inspiring stories that highlight the power of community action, innovation, and resilience. We kick off with a groundbreaking study revealing that bans and fees on plastic bags have led to a remarkable 25% to 47% reduction in shoreline pollution across the United States. This research underscores the effectiveness of targeted policies in combating plastic waste, demonstrating that when communities unite for a common cause, significant change is possible.

Next, we shine a light on the incredible work of mobile medical teams like Healthcare in Action, which are transforming the lives of vulnerable seniors facing homelessness. Through compassionate care and support, these teams are not only addressing health issues but also restoring dignity and hope for individuals like Rose del Rosario, who found solace and assistance in a mobile clinic after losing everything.

In a powerful response to the erasure of queer history, we explore the vibrant community formed by The Queer History 101 Book Club. Led by historian Hugh Ryan and activist Ms. Peppermint, this initiative reimagines how LGBTQ history is shared, fostering connection and resilience through diverse storytelling and dialogue. As they navigate oppression, participants draw strength from the past, ensuring that queer narratives continue to thrive.

We also celebrate the opening of Theodora Family Hotel in Denver, a transformative facility designed to provide families experiencing homelessness with a safe and supportive environment. With a focus on dignity and comprehensive wraparound services, this project exemplifies the potential for innovative solutions in the face of housing crises.

Lastly, we highlight an exciting advancement in vaccine delivery technology from MIT engineers, which promises to revolutionize global immunization efforts by reducing the need for follow-up shots. This innovative approach could significantly improve vaccine coverage, particularly in underserved areas, showcasing the power of science in addressing public health challenges.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of hope, advocacy, and the belief that positive change is possible!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdeznkxyek0o


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bzfGe_tj8o


https://www.wired.com/story/trump-wants-to-erase-queer-history-this-unconventional-book-club-is-fighting-back/


https://denverite.com/2025/05/16/new-voa-hotel-for-homeless-families-west-colfax/


https://news.mit.edu/2025/particles-carrying-multiple-vaccine-doses-could-reduce-need-follow-up-shots-0515


https://today.yougov.com/politics/articles/52405-poll-americans-say-donald-trump-has-committed-crimes


More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.



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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on transformative actions and victories that uphold civil rights, promote sustainability, and foster community. We kick off with the ACLU's bold class action lawsuit against Trump's executive order aimed at limiting birthright citizenship. This coalition of advocacy groups and families is determined to defend the 14th Amendment, ensuring that the voices of those impacted are heard in federal court. Supporters emphasize that birthright citizenship is a cornerstone of American democracy, reflecting the nation's commitment to equality and justice for all.

Next, we celebrate California's ambitious strides towards electric trucks, despite federal pushback. With over 15% of medium and heavy-duty trucks sold in 2023 being zero-emission, California continues to lead the charge in clean transportation, prioritizing public health and environmental justice. Innovative state policies and community support are paving the way for a cleaner future, showcasing how bold climate action can flourish even amid federal resistance.

In an inspiring move towards educational equity, Colorado has enacted a groundbreaking law mandating black history education standards in public K-12 schools. This initiative aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Black American history and culture, fostering cross-cultural respect and engagement. As the state prepares to roll out these standards, advocates are hopeful for a more inclusive curriculum that celebrates the contributions of Black Americans throughout history.

We also highlight a significant conservation victory in Alabama's Mobile Tensaw Delta, where nearly 8,000 acres of biodiverse wetlands have been permanently protected from industrial development. This achievement reflects the power of grassroots advocacy and honors the legacy of biologist Edward O. Wilson, ensuring that this ecologically rich land remains a sanctuary for rare species and a vital habitat for future generations.

Listeners will be inspired by the preservation of the Elizabeth Street Garden in New York City, where community advocates successfully halted plans for housing to protect this cherished green space. The new agreement not only preserves the garden but also facilitates the construction of over 620 affordable apartments in nearby locations, showcasing the power of grassroots activism in urban planning.

Finally, we celebrate the opening of The Pride, New England's first LGBTQ+ welcoming affordable senior housing community in Boston. This innovative project provides a vibrant and inclusive living space for LGBTQ elders, fostering connection and dignity while addressing the urgent need for affordable housing. With overwhelming demand and fully occupied units, The Pride stands as a beacon of hope and community-driven progress.

Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of resilience, advocacy, and hope!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:

https://archive.is/1ZzYy


https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2025/06/california-electric-trucks-central-valley-donald-trump-evs/


https://www.denver7.com/lifestyle/education/new-colorado-law-establishes-black-history-education-standards-in-public-schools


https://insideclimatenews.org/news/15062025/alabama-conservation-saves-land-from-becoming-wood-pellet-mill/


https://gothamist.com/news/elizabeth-street-garden-to-remain-as-adams-administration-drops-housing-fight


https://www.nbcboston.com/news/local/how-a-vacant-boston-school-was-transformed-into-thriving-housing-for-lgbtq-seniors/3742796/


More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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

in this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a wealth of uplifting stories that emphasize the power of justice, community, and progress. We begin with a landmark ruling from the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which has blocked the Trump administration's attempt to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. This decision reinstates over 1,300 employees and reaffirms the vital role of federal support in public education, ensuring that essential services for students and families remain intact. Advocates are celebrating this victory as a crucial step toward safeguarding educational opportunities for all.

Next, we discuss the advancement of the defamation lawsuit brought by the Exonerated 5 against former President Trump. A federal judge has allowed the case to move forward, affirming the accountability of public figures for spreading false information that harms individuals. This ruling represents a significant moment for justice and truth, as the plaintiffs seek to set the record straight regarding their wrongful convictions.

We also highlight a decisive victory for constitutional rights, as a federal judge has struck down an executive order targeting the law firm Sussman Godfrey. The ruling emphasizes the importance of protecting legal advocacy against political retaliation, reinforcing the independence of the legal profession and the rule of law.

In an exciting development for renewable energy, the U.S. solar industry has achieved a remarkable milestone, adding 8.6 gigawatts of new manufacturing capacity in the first quarter of 2025. This surge reflects a growing commitment to clean energy and energy independence, although challenges remain regarding tariffs and policy stability.

Listeners will also be inspired by the opening of Ricky's, a new queer women-owned sports bar in San Francisco's Castro District, dedicated to celebrating women's athletics and fostering community. This vibrant venue marks a significant step forward in LGBTQ visibility and representation, offering a welcoming space for fans of women's sports.

Finally, we share Denver's innovative pilot program aimed at protecting vulnerable residents from extreme heat by providing portable air conditioning units and air purifiers. This initiative demonstrates a proactive approach to climate challenges, ensuring that low-income families have access to essential cooling solutions during scorching summers.

Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of resilience, advocacy, and hope!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:

https://www.yahoo.com/news/trump-cannot-proceed-gutting-us-210033084.html


https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/28/trump-central-park-five-defamation.html


https://www.democracydocket.com/news-alerts/judge-strikes-down-trump-order-targeting-law-firm-susman-godfrey/


https://www.woodmac.com/press-releases/u.s-adds-8.6-gw-of-new-solar-module-manufacturing-capacity-one-of-its-strongest-quarters-of-growth-in-u.s-history/


https://sfstandard.com/2025/06/11/rikkis-womens-sports-bar-lesbian/


https://www.9news.com/article/news/local/9news-mornings/denver-pilot-program-ac-units-air-purifiers/73-6f355d78-b21f-49a1-a7f9-9d145543fb0c


More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.
Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

Show notes created by https://headliner.ap

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights groundbreaking advancements in health care access, economic equity, and community resilience. We start with a momentous Supreme Court ruling that upholds a key provision of the Affordable Care Act, ensuring that millions of Americans can access vital preventative services at no cost. This decision reinforces the importance of expert-driven health policies, particularly for those relying on essential services like cancer screenings and HIV prevention.

Next, we celebrate significant minimum wage increases set to take effect in 15 cities and states, directly benefiting over 880,000 workers. These hikes, driven by inflation adjustments and proactive legislation, reflect a growing recognition of the need for fair pay, particularly for marginalized communities. Advocates emphasize that higher wages not only support families but also strengthen local economies.

In Los Angeles, we delve into the community's response to federal immigration raids targeting local workers. Residents are uniting to demand accountability and humane treatment for all, showcasing the power of solidarity in the face of fear. Grassroots initiatives are emerging, providing essential support to undocumented families and reinforcing the spirit of mutual aid across neighborhoods.

We also discuss Oregon's passage of Senate Bill 2, a legislative effort aimed at reducing gun violence by banning rapid-fire devices and enhancing background checks. This bill reflects a growing consensus on the need for evidence-based gun safety laws to protect communities from senseless violence.

Finally, we explore the transformative potential of abandoned coal plants across North America, as communities repurpose these sites for clean energy and sustainable development. From solar farms to educational facilities, these projects highlight the importance of collaboration in creating a greener future.

Join us for this inspiring episode filled with stories of advocacy, progress, and hope!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:


https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/27/supreme-court-obamacare-aca-decision-case


https://stateline.org/2025/06/26/minimum-wage-set-to-increase-in-15-cities-states-despite-lawmaker-pushback/


https://archive.ph/DbgAv


https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/26/los-angeles-residents-immigrants-ice-resistance?CMP=Share_AndroidApp_Other


https://www.ijpr.org/politics-government/2025-06-26/oregon-lawmakers-pass-gun-bill-to-ban-rapid-fire-devices-allow-new-concealed-carry-rules


https://reasonstobecheerful.world/abandoned-coal-plants-are-a-huge-opportunity/


More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights a series of pivotal victories that affirm the rights of workers and the importance of community action. We begin with a landmark ruling from a federal judge who issued a preliminary injunction against the Trump administration's attempt to strip nearly a million federal employees of their collective bargaining rights. This decision, hailed by union leaders, underscores the vital role of strong unions in protecting workers' rights and free speech, reinforcing that attacks on organized labor will be met with determined resistance.

Next, we turn to Oregon, where House Democrats have advanced legislation to protect the state's National Guard from being used as law enforcement without the governor's consent. This proactive measure aims to ensure local control during emergencies while preventing federal overreach, particularly in light of recent controversial actions in California. The bill reflects a commitment to keeping the National Guard focused on serving Oregonians in times of need.

We also discuss the growing public opposition to President Trump’s sweeping tax and spending package, which faces significant disapproval across various demographics. Polls indicate that a majority of Americans are against the bill, which attempts to extend previous tax cuts while cutting essential social programs. This unpopularity poses a challenge for Senate Republicans as they race to pass the legislation before the upcoming deadline.

In a positive development for maternal and infant health, Oregon lawmakers are moving forward with Senate Bill 692, which mandates insurance coverage for doulas and lactation specialists. This bipartisan effort aims to improve maternal health outcomes and address disparities faced by marginalized communities, reflecting a broader commitment to equitable healthcare.

Finally, we celebrate a remarkable surge in charitable giving across the United States, with donations reaching nearly $600 billion in 2024. This growth highlights the resilience and generosity of Americans, as individuals and corporations step up to support a diverse range of causes, from food security to education.

Join us for this inspiring episode filled with stories of advocacy, progress, and hope!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:


https://www.commondreams.org/news/federal-employees-union-block



https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2025/06/oregon-dems-vote-to-prevent-trump-from-deploying-oregon-national-guard-as-he-did-in-california.html



https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/polls-trump-bill-unpopular-republicans-stare-deadline-passage-rcna213724



https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2025/06/legislature-poised-to-require-insurance-coverage-for-expanded-care-for-moms-babies.html



https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/charitable-giving-study



https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/lawsuit-challenges-billions-of-dollars-in-trump-administration-funding-cuts/ar-AA1Hlrvo



More good daily news for democracy on Facebook, Bluesky, and Instagram.

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into a series of uplifting stories that highlight the power of grassroots activism and progressive victories. We kick off with Zorhan Mamdani's groundbreaking win in the New York City Democratic mayoral primary, marking a pivotal moment for left-wing populism. Mamdani, the first Muslim and South Asian nominee for mayor, triumphed against former governor Andrew Cuomo despite being outspent nearly 10 to 1, proving that grassroots organizing can overcome entrenched political machines. His platform, centered on economic justice, resonates with voters across diverse backgrounds, showcasing a potential blueprint for progressive campaigns nationwide.

Next, we celebrate a significant setback for President Trump's proposed Medicaid cuts as the Senate parliamentarian rules that over $250 billion in cuts cannot be fast-tracked through reconciliation. This ruling protects vital Medicaid funding for vulnerable populations, highlighting the ongoing struggle to safeguard essential health care services amidst partisan politics.

In Illinois, a new bill requiring three-point seat belts in all newly manufactured school buses is set to enhance student safety, reflecting a growing commitment to protect our children on the road. This legislation aligns Illinois with modern safety standards and provides parents with peace of mind.

We also explore a groundbreaking international survey revealing widespread support for a carbon tax that addresses both climate change and global inequality. The findings suggest that people are willing to accept personal costs for climate action when it is linked to social justice initiatives, challenging the notion that such policies are politically toxic.

Finally, we share the inspiring story of Sarah Inamma, an Idaho teacher who stood firm in her commitment to inclusivity by refusing to remove a welcoming sign from her classroom. Now joining the Boise School District, Inamma continues to advocate for an affirming educational environment for all students, highlighting the vital role educators play in fostering acceptance and respect.

Join us for this energizing episode filled with stories of resilience, advocacy, and hope!

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at [email protected].

You can find more about this week's stories here:


https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/jun/26/zohran-mamdani-interview-leftwing-politics-us-elections?CMP=Share_AndroidApp_Other


https://www.forbes.com/sites/saradorn/2025/06/26/some-medicaid-cuts-in-trumps-signature-policy-bill-blocked-by-senate-parliamentarian/


https://www.wandtv.com/news/statehouse/bill-requiring-seat-belts-on-school-buses-arrives-on-pritzkers-desk/article_5550c7c3-7a6f-4de3-818c-c8df79247777.html


https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/majority-of-people-support-carbon-tax


https://www.ktvb.com/video/news/local/west-ada-teacher-moves-to-boise-school-district/277-91c89d1e-c984-478c-a47b-e6f983c87d43


https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/united-states-250-birthday-wish-walls


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Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.

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