Good News for Lefties | Daily News for Democracy

We start with the Supreme Court's refusal to reconsider Donald Trump's appeal in the E. Jean Carroll case, effectively upholding a $5 million jury award against him for sexual abuse and defamation.  

Next, we share the news of a Trump merchandise store in Tennessee closing its doors due to a lack of customers, highlighting shifting sentiments among his supporters.  

Supreme Court rejects final Trump appeal of $5 million E. Jean Carroll verdict - ABC News
Massive Trump merchandise store goes out of business - because nobody is buying anything | The Independent

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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a series of uplifting stories that highlight progress and resilience in the face of adversity. We start with California's landmark decision to ban paraquat, a toxic herbicide linked to Parkinson's disease, marking a significant public health victory as advocates celebrate the state's commitment to safer agricultural practices. Meanwhile, polling data reveals a dramatic decline in Donald Trump's approval ratings among Black and Hispanic voters, challenging his narrative of growing support within these communities.

We also shine a light on the courageous actions of Catholic sisters in Ohio, who stood in solidarity with Haitian immigrants facing ICE enforcement, demonstrating the power of compassion and community support in difficult times. In Wisconsin, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley makes history by securing the Democratic nomination for governor, aiming to become the first Black governor in the state's history, as he pledges to work for all Wisconsinites.

Additionally, we celebrate the inspiring achievement of 12-year-old Aaisha Asif, whose innovative project inspired by mussels has earned her a spot as a finalist in the Young Scientist Challenge, showcasing the potential for environmentally friendly adhesives.

Finally, we discuss the Department of Justice's ongoing struggles with voter roll cases, as a federal judge dismisses its latest attempt, underscoring the importance of protecting voting rights.


Today's Stories: 

California bans paraquat, highly toxic herbicide outlawed in more than 70 countries | California | The Guardian
Trump Says Black Voters Are Flocking to GOP — New Data Suggests Otherwise - Newsweek
Catholic sisters stand up in support of Haitians outside ICE offices
David Crowley's nomination a first for a Wisconsin Black man
Democrats push nearly 250 state bills opposing federal immigration efforts | News From The States
Inspired by mussels, this 12-year-old Florida student is competing for a $25,000 prize with her eco-friendly adhesive - The Times of India

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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.

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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 ongoing battle against book banning, all while diving into the themes of Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale." We start with an inspiring story about Randall Tarpy Schwed and his husband Mark, who, after becoming fathers, curated a remarkable collection of LGBTQ children's books. This collection has found a new home at the Mechanics Institute in San Francisco, highlighting the importance of representation in literature.

As we navigate the cultural war being waged against LGBTQ narratives, Beowulf and the hosts engage in a humorous yet poignant dialogue about the historical presence of queer stories and the absurdity of current political rhetoric. With plenty of laughs and insightful commentary, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of literature and social justice.

Today's Highlights:

• The journey of Randall Tarpy Schwed and Mark's LGBTQ children's book collection
• The Mechanics Institute's efforts to preserve and share this important literary history
• A comedic take on the misconceptions surrounding LGBTQ existence in history

Don't miss this entertaining and enlightening episode! And for more from Dan and Jen, search for Banned Camp (that's Banned with two N's) on your favorite podcast platform.

bannedcamppodcast.com

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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King brings you a collection of inspiring stories that highlight the resilience of democracy and the power of community.

We kick off with a significant legal win in Boston, where a federal judge dismissed a lawsuit against Harvard University, affirming the institution's commitment to protecting its Jewish students amidst political tensions.

Next, we celebrate a victory in Nebraska, where a court rejected the Republican National Committee's attempt to block overseas U.S. citizens from voting, reinforcing the rights of citizens abroad to participate in elections.

Turning to Minnesota, we report on record-breaking primary voter turnout, showcasing the state's dedication to democracy as over 1.1 million residents cast their ballots.

We also discuss a critical conversation around child marriage sparked by a recent child endangerment case in Ohio, highlighting legislative efforts to protect minors from forced unions.

In a heartwarming story, we feature Luke Holdsworth, a sign language interpreter who is making music festivals accessible for deaf fans, ensuring that everyone can share in the joy of live performances.

Finally, we share the uplifting news of a generous anonymous donation that saved a vital senior services program in Pennsylvania, illustrating the impact of community support.

Today’s Stories:

Federal judge dismisses Trump lawsuit against Harvard - NPR
Nebraska court rejects RNC lawsuit against overseas voting - Democracy Docket
Minnesota sets record for primary voter turnout - Minnesota Reformer
Child marriage issue reignited after Ohio case - Utah News Dispatch
Sign language interpreter brings Oasis concert to life for deaf fans - Positive News
Anonymous donor saves vital senior services program - WTAE

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In this week's episode of Good News for Lefties and the World, host Beowulf Rochlen takes us on a journey through a series of uplifting global stories that highlight progressive victories and positive change. We begin with FIFA President Gianni Infantino's decision to abandon a controversial plan to sell World Cup profits to private equity, following widespread pushback from the soccer community. This decision underscores the importance of preserving the integrity of football for fans and players alike.

Next, we celebrate France's historic commitment to end the import of hunting trophies from protected species, a significant step towards wildlife conservation that aims to protect vulnerable animals from trophy hunters.

In environmental news, a new study reveals that trees planted in China's extensive reforestation projects are growing faster than those in natural forests, showcasing the country's commitment to combating desertification and reducing carbon emissions.

We also highlight Hungary's parliamentary confirmation of Andras Baka as the new president, a figure known for his criticism of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban and a champion for judicial independence.

In a move towards clean energy, India has launched its first domestically built hydrogen-powered train, which is set to operate in Haryana, marking a significant advancement in sustainable transportation.

Lastly, we share encouraging statistics from the World Health Organization indicating a 21% decline in global road traffic deaths from 2011 to 2025, despite the increase in motor vehicles, highlighting the effectiveness of road safety measures worldwide.

Join us as we explore these inspiring stories and more, reminding us that progress is indeed possible in our pursuit of a better world for all.

Today's Stories: 

Infantino is not proceeding with divisive plan to sell World Cup profits to private equity | AP News
Victory For Wildlife: France Moves To End Trophy Hunting Imports - World Animal News
66 billion trees have been planted in China's Great Green Wall — and they appear to be growing faster than natural forests | Live Science
Hungary elects supreme court judge ousted by Orban as new president | Civil Rights News | Al Jazeera
India rolls out first hydrogen-powered train built in the country | AP News
Road deaths fall by 21% globally but stronger action is needed to save lives

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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King dishes up a series of uplifting stories that showcase the resilience and progress of the Democratic movement.

We kick off with a promising Senate race in North Carolina, where former Governor Roy Cooper holds a significant lead over Republican challenger Michael Whatley, signaling a potential shift in the Tar Heel state. As concerns about the economy and political turmoil grow, Democrats are eyeing crucial Senate pickups that could help reclaim control.

Next, we celebrate a landmark ruling in Virginia, where a federal judge has ruled in favor of the NAACP, ordering the Shenandoah County school board to remove Confederate names from schools, affirming the rights of Black students and promoting a more inclusive educational environment.

In Maryland, the Democratic-controlled legislature is taking steps to eliminate the state's only Republican-held congressional district by placing a constitutional amendment on the ballot, responding to national GOP redistricting efforts and aiming to secure Democratic representation.

We also highlight a significant legal victory for clean energy, as a federal judge has ordered the Department of Defense to resume evaluations of onshore wind farms, lifting a moratorium that had stalled important renewable energy projects across the country.

We also share a fun and quirky story about British comedian John Oliver, who is taking on the convenience store chain Buc-ee's over its aggressive legal tactics against small businesses. Oliver's cheeky initiative, featuring the rodent mascot Mr. Nutter Butter, aims to raise funds for Hunger Free America, highlighting the power of humor in advocacy.

Finally, we share a heartwarming story about the restoration of whitebark pine trees in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, showcasing efforts to combat climate change and preserve vital habitats for wildlife.

Today's Stories:

Cooper leads Whatley in North Carolina Senate race | The Hill
Judge rules against Confederate names in Virginia schools | Associated Press
Maryland Democrats vote to place redistricting amendment on ballot | NBC News
Federal judge orders DoD to resume wind farm evaluations | Canary Media
John Oliver takes on Buc-ee’s with a new mascot | Good Good Good
Grand Teton National Park's effort to restore whitebark pines | Montana Free Press

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If you’re enjoying all the good news here at Good News For Fefties, then I have a feeling you’re going to like our new podcast, good chats for lefties. It's a brand new show, hosted by me, Beowulf rochlen, where I talk with some of the people who help make good news happen. Officials, activists, organizers, and generally good people who I talk to about positive progressive news and how we can get more of it. Our first guest is Puneet Maharaj, the executive director of National Nurses United. Listen to the first few minutes here and if you enjoy it, click on one of the links below to hear the full show.

Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-chats-for-lefties/id6801665004

Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/show/0347dYP5eV6c0kQtwNp49i?si=e930d761bafa422f

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We begin with a remarkable election in Tennessee, where 22-year-old Brendan Doughtie has flipped a Republican seat on the Rutherford County Commission, becoming the youngest and first openly gay person elected to the position.  Next, we travel to Joliet, Illinois, where City Councilman Juan Moreno stands in solidarity with over 100 IKEA workers on strike, advocating for fair wages and the right to organize.   

Who is Brendan Doughtie? The 22-year-old bagel shop worker who just flipped a red Tennessee seat

IKEA Workers Strike As Joliet City Councilman Juan Moreno Stands In Solidarity With Them | Joliet, IL Patch



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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a series of uplifting stories that highlight the ongoing fight for democracy and social justice across the nation. We start with a significant victory in Massachusetts, where a federal judge has blocked the Trump administration's attempts to undermine mail voting, ensuring that millions of Americans can participate in the upcoming midterm elections without confusion.

Next, we celebrate Colorado's new law mandating public and private colleges to provide access to abortion medication on campus, joining several other states committed to expanding reproductive rights in the wake of recent Supreme Court decisions.

The episode also covers the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee's efforts to flip the Arizona Legislature, targeting key races that could lead to a historic shift in power after decades of Republican dominance. This is a crucial moment for Arizonans seeking representation that prioritizes their rights and issues.

Additionally, we spotlight the digitization of a historic collection of photographs capturing the lives of Black families in Columbia, South Carolina, making these important images available to the public for the first time.

Listeners will also hear about a groundbreaking agrivoltaic solar project in Arkansas that is not only generating renewable energy but also supporting local wildlife through innovative monitoring efforts.

Finally, we share the inspiring story of 99-year-old Mabel Blair, who returned to the baseball diamond to celebrate the launch of the new Women's Professional Baseball League, showcasing the enduring spirit of women in sports.

Today's Stories: 

Federal judge blocks Trump’s anti-mail voting executive order again — this time nationwide - Democracy Docket
More college students will have access to abortion medication | News From The States
Democrats target two more Arizona races to bid to end GOP’s 60-year grip on the legislature | News From The States
6,000 portraits of Black history now free to the public for first time
Scientists placed cameras around an Arkansas solar farm where sheep graze and uncovered a hidden “feast” of frogs, snakes, and even badgers
Pro Women’s Baseball Resumes for First Time Since 1954: A League of Their Own is BACK!

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