Good News for Lefties | Daily News for Democracy

 A groundbreaking victory for progressive politics as Melat Kiros, a 29-year-old democratic socialist, unseats 15-term incumbent Diana DeGette in Colorado's 1st congressional district primary.  Federal judges block the Trump administration's new restrictions on the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, protecting public service workers from unfair debt relief barriers.  

Today's Stories: 

Another Blow to Democratic Establishment as Melat Kiros Unseats 30-Year Incumbent in Colorado | Common Dreams

Judges strike down Trump administration student loan forgiveness overhaul

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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a collection of positive stories that highlight the resilience of democracy and the power of community engagement. We start with a revealing new poll indicating that 53% of Americans believe there are grounds to impeach Donald Trump, reflecting a growing sentiment among the populace regarding accountability in leadership. This comes as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries hints that Democrats are keeping all options open regarding impeachment.

Next, we celebrate a significant legal victory for environmental advocates as an Alaska district court rules against logging interests seeking to exploit the Tongass National Forest's old-growth timber. This ruling protects vital habitats for numerous species and reinforces the importance of preserving our natural resources.

We also discuss the troubling perception of AI among Americans, with only 16% believing it will positively impact society despite its increasing usage. This growing skepticism may signal a shift in public sentiment towards technology and its implications for the future.

Turning to public health, recent state laws banning PFAs in textiles have led to a significant reduction in toxic chemicals, showcasing the effectiveness of protective policies and the commitment of brands to adapt for consumer safety.

In a heartwarming story, Arizona has enacted a new law requiring health insurers to cover supplemental breast imaging, ensuring that women can access necessary care without financial burden. This legislation is a victory for patient advocacy and health equity.

Finally, we highlight the compassionate actions of Aurora, Colorado's Mayor Mike Coffman, who has taken to sleeping in local homeless shelters to better understand and improve the services provided to those in need. His dedication to creating a model program for homelessness is a testament to leadership grounded in empathy.

Today's Stories: 

New Poll Shows Majority of Americans Believe There Are Grounds to Impeach Trump | Truthout
America's Largest Rainforest Safe from Logging Thanks to Alaska Court Ruling
Americans Have Turned Against AI in Incredible Numbers
State bans on Pfas reduce ‘forever chemicals’ in clothing and textiles, US report finds | Pfas | The Guardian
Arizona passes legislation requiring insurers to cover follow-up breast imaging
Colorado mayor reveals he's been sleeping in homeless shelter

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An exciting poll from Texas shows Democrat James Talarico leading Republican Ken Paxton in the upcoming U.S. Senate race, with Talarico garnering 48.4% support.  An innovative housing initiative is underway in Des Moines, Iowa, where the newly approved Joppa Village will provide affordable tiny homes for those experiencing homelessness.   

A2 Insights Texas Statewide Survey (6/23/26 - 6/28/26).pdf - Google Drive

Des Moines Tiny Home Village Brings $300 Rents, On-Site Gym and Medical Services to Chronically Homeless Residents

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In this breaking news edition of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen reports a significant victory for birthright citizenship as the Supreme Court blocks Donald Trump's attempt to limit citizenship at birth for those born on U.S. soil. In a decisive 6-3 ruling, the justices deemed Trump's executive order, issued on the first day of his second term, unlawful, reaffirming the Constitution's 14th Amendment which guarantees citizenship to nearly everyone born in the United States. The court's decision underscores the importance of this amendment, originally ratified to ensure equal rights for formerly enslaved individuals, and highlights the ongoing commitment to uphold the rights of all citizens.

Supreme Court rejects Trump’s attempt to limit birthright citizenship

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n this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights several uplifting developments that showcase the resilience of democracy and the power of community action. We kick off with a significant legal victory as a federal appeals court upholds a Biden-era rule aimed at reducing harmful soot pollution from coal-fired power plants, marking a setback for the previous administration's deregulatory efforts. This ruling is celebrated by environmental advocates as a crucial step towards cleaner air and better public health.

Next, we turn our attention to the Ohio Senate race, where a new poll indicates that former Senator Sherrod Brown is leading Republican John Husted, offering hope for Democrats aiming to flip this critical seat in the upcoming midterms. The changing political landscape in Ohio, fueled by discontent over the economy, presents a promising opportunity for progressive candidates.

We then discuss labor news from Akron, Ohio, where transit workers are preparing for a strike authorization vote after enduring years without a raise. Union leaders express their determination to fight for fair wages and working conditions, highlighting the ongoing struggles of workers across the nation.

In a significant development, the Everglades Immigration Detention Center, controversially dubbed "Alligator Alcatraz," is set to close due to safety concerns and public backlash, reflecting a growing movement against inhumane detention practices.

Activists in Surprise, Arizona, are taking bold steps to challenge local leadership by proposing to disincorporate the city in response to a proposed immigration detention center. This grassroots initiative aims to empower residents and ensure community safety.

Lastly, we celebrate Etsy's new campaign that encourages consumers to support local sellers named Jeff, contrasting their human-centered approach with the corporate giant Amazon. This initiative underscores the importance of community and small business support in today's economy.

Today's Stories: 

'Good News for Clean Air' as Court Rejects Trump EPA Bid to Ditch Coal Plant Soot Rule | Common Dreams
Sherrod Brown Chances of Ousting GOP’s Jon Husted in Ohio Senate Race—Polls - Newsweek
Metro RTA union to hold strike vote following collapsed negotiations
‘Alligator Alcatraz’ shuts down in Florida less than a year after opening
Frustrated by inaction on ICE warehouse, activists move to dissolve Surprise altogether
Etsy’s Anti-Amazon Ad Campaign Might Be Its Smartest Move Yet

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 A recent AARP survey shows Democrat Amy Acton leading Republican Vivek Ramaswamy in the Ohio governor's race, with strong support among independents and black voters. Meanwhile, in Maine, Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner is narrowly ahead of incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins, a crucial race for Democrats aiming to regain Senate control.

Acton narrowly leads Ramaswamy in new Ohio governor poll. See details

New poll shows Platner with slight lead over Collins in tight Senate race
 

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In this special Supreme Court Edition of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rocklin delivers a roundup of significant rulings that have brought some unexpected good news. We kick off with a landmark decision allowing mail-in ballots to be counted even if they arrive after Election Day, as long as they are postmarked beforehand. This ruling, which came down in a 5-4 vote, is a major setback for former President Trump and affirms the rights of voters in Mississippi and beyond.
Next, we discuss the Supreme Court's refusal to hear Trump's appeal regarding a jury's verdict that found him liable for sexual abuse and defamation against writer E. Jean Carroll, leaving the $5 million award intact. This decision adds to Trump's mounting legal challenges as he navigates his political comeback.
We also highlight another victory for progressives, as the Court ruled against Trump's attempts to dismiss Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve, ensuring checks on presidential power in shaping economic policy. Additionally, the Supreme Court has placed new limits on law enforcement's use of geofence warrants, emphasizing the need for privacy protections under the Fourth Amendment.
Finally, we touch on the Court's decision to reject Alan Dershowitz's defamation lawsuit against CNN, maintaining the legal standards for public figures in such cases. Join us as we celebrate these victories for democracy and civil rights.  

Today's Stories: 

Supreme Court allows states to count mail-in ballots that arrive late, rejecting RNC challenge
Donald Trump loses appeal in Supreme Court over E. Jean Carroll case
Supreme Court won't let Trump fire Lisa Cook from Federal Reserve
US supreme court rules geofence warrants require constitutional privacy protections | US supreme court | The Guardian
Supreme court denies Alan Dershowitz bid to revive $300m lawsuit against CNN | US supreme court | The Guardian


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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we start with a significant legal win in California, where a federal court dismissed a lawsuit from Donald Trump's administration against Los Angeles, affirming the city's right to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. City Attorney Heidi Feldstein Soto celebrates this ruling as a victory for community safety and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Next, we explore a proposed New Jersey law aimed at transforming vacant shopping malls and underused office parks into affordable housing. This innovative legislation seeks to tackle the state's housing shortage while revitalizing struggling commercial properties, ensuring that at least 20% of new units will be designated as affordable housing.

The episode also shines a spotlight on the recent successes of Democratic Socialists in major city mayoral primaries, with Janice Lewis George in Washington, D.C., and Nithya Raman in Los Angeles making headlines. Their victories underscore a growing demand for economic populism and a focus on the needs of the middle class.

We then delve into exciting health news, as research reveals that COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues, particularly among older adults and those with pre-existing conditions. This vital information reinforces the importance of vaccination in protecting public health.

Next, we celebrate pop star Charlie XCX's commitment to social justice, as she pledges to donate a portion of her ticket sales to the Transgender Law Center during her upcoming tour, supporting the rights of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals.

Finally, we touch on labor news from Jackson, Mississippi, where transit workers have authorized a potential strike in pursuit of better wages, highlighting the ongoing struggles of workers across the nation.

Today's stories:

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/22/judge-trump-lawsuit-los-angeles-sanctuary-city

https://www.nj.com/realestate-news/2026/06/vacant-nj-malls-could-become-housing-under-proposed-law.html

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5932183-democratic-socialists-dsa-political-change/

https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/5926083-covid-19-vaccine-cardiovascular-benefits/

https://www.thepinknews.com/2026/06/09/charli-xcx-donating-portion-of-tour-ticket-sales-to-trans-charity/

https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/jtran-union-workers-vote-authorize-004816894.html



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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 to tackle the pressing issue of book banning while diving into the literary world. This week, they celebrate a significant win in San Luis Obispo County, where the Lucia Marr school board voted to keep Toni Morrison's acclaimed novel, "The Bluest Eye," in the Arroyo Grande High School library despite attempts to remove it due to its mature content. This decision highlights the ongoing national debate surrounding censorship and the importance of access to diverse literature for students.

As they explore the recent challenges against other titles such as "Gender Queer" and "Push," the trio engages in lively discussion about the implications of limiting access to literature and the absurdity of political decisions that affect community resources like libraries. Beowulf also shares his thoughts on the necessity of literacy among lawmakers, adding a humorous twist to the conversation.

Join us for this enlightening and entertaining episode that blends humor with serious discussions about freedom of expression and the power of storytelling.

Don't forget to check out the Banned Camp podcast for more insights into banned literature!

bannedcamppodcast.com

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