Good News for Lefties | Daily News for Democracy

A judge ruled that transgender people won’t face criminal charges for using Idaho public restrooms that match their gender identities and the Maryland State Retirement and Pension System divested approximately 85% of the Israeli bonds. 

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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on several uplifting stories that reflect progress and resilience in the face of adversity. We begin with the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to reject a gun industry challenge against New York's public nuisance law, which empowers citizens to hold gun makers accountable for safety violations. This landmark ruling is celebrated by advocates for gun control and public safety.

Next, we turn to the Washington, D.C. Democratic primary, where Janice Lewis George is leading the race to become the first Democratic Socialist mayor of the capital, thanks to her strong stance on affordability and labor rights.
In Michigan, Senate Democrats are celebrating the passage of a new Voting Rights Act aimed at protecting voter access amidst concerns over federal rollbacks of voting protections. This legislation seeks to ensure fair electoral practices for all citizens.
We also highlight the construction of the Wallace Annenberg Wildlife Crossing in California, a monumental project that aims to protect local wildlife by providing safe passage across busy highways, addressing the critical issue of habitat fragmentation.
Additionally, nurses at Jefferson Einstein Hospital in Philadelphia are taking a stand for better working conditions by voting to authorize a strike, advocating for staffing solutions and patient care standards.

Finally, we explore the rapid expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure across the U.S., with over 250,000 public charging ports now available, dispelling myths about the accessibility of electric vehicles.

Today's Stories: 

US supreme court rejects challenge to New York law allowing lawsuits against gun industry | US supreme court | The Guardian
Democratic socialist Janeese Lewis George poised to win D.C. mayoral race
Michigan Senate passes state Voting Rights Act as federal act loses teeth | News From The States
The world's largest wildlife overpass just got its first visitor
1,200 union nurses at Jefferson Einstein Philadelphia Hospital vote in favor of strike as bargaining continues
America's Charging Network Just Hit A Major Milestone

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 Ohio's changes their approach to capital punishment, as Republican Governor Mike DeWine calls for the abolition of the death penalty, citing moral concerns and a lack of deterrent effect. 
Arizona Attorney General Chris Mays announces plans for a new indictment against Donald Trump's allies involved in the 2020 election overturn efforts, following a setback in her previous case. 

Ohio Republican governor urges end to death penalty, saying it cannot be morally justified | US news | The Guardian

Georgia Republicans reject Brian Kemp's redistricting call

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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a wealth of positive updates that highlight the shifting tides in American politics and society. We start with a revealing Reuters survey showing Donald Trump's approval rating among rural Americans has plummeted, with discontent rising due to the economic impacts of the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict. Amidst these challenges, we celebrate the strong lead of Democrat Javier Becerra in the California gubernatorial race, showcasing the state's progressive values and voter engagement.
In a significant legal victory, a federal court dismisses a far-right group's attempt to ban Wisconsin from sharing vital voter information, reaffirming the importance of accessible voter registration. Meanwhile, the United Auto Workers successfully ratify a new contract with Dausch Corp, securing a substantial pay increase for workers, a testament to the power of collective bargaining.
We also highlight Mount Auburn Cemetery in Massachusetts, which has become the first cemetery in the U.S. to earn a Green Zone certification for its eco-friendly maintenance practices, setting a precedent for sustainability in landscape care.

Finally, we celebrate Bentley Hudgens, who is poised to make history as Georgia's first out transgender lawmaker, reflecting a broader acceptance and representation of diverse identities in politics.

Today's Stories: 

Trump's approval rating among rural Americans hits new low
Xavier Becerra leads CA governor’s poll against Steve Hilton – NBC 7 San Diego
Court sanctions far-right lawyers over ‘frivolous’ bid to force Wisconsin out of ERIC - Democracy Docket
UAW ratifies deal, ends strike at key GM axle supplier Dauch – Hartford Courant
Mount Auburn Cemetery becomes first in US to use all battery-powered equipment | GBH
Bentley Hudgins Is Poised to Become Georgia’s First Trans State Lawmaker | Them

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Exciting news from Montana, where campaigners have gathered nearly 50,000 signatures to place Initiative 194 on the ballot, aiming to curb corporate influence in elections by barring artificial persons from contributing to political campaigns.  In Maryland, top Democrats are preparing for a special session to potentially redraw the state's congressional map. 

Maryland GOP oblivious as Democrats eye July special session for redistricting
'Montana Plan' Targeting Corporate Money in Politics Secures Enough Signatures for Ballot | Common Dreams

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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a roundup of uplifting stories that highlight significant victories for progressives and the community at large. We kick off with a federal court ruling that blocks a controversial Trump-era health insurance rule, ensuring millions of Americans can maintain access to affordable healthcare. This ruling is celebrated by city officials from Columbus, Baltimore, and Chicago, who fought against the rule's harmful provisions.

Next, Pope Leo XIV issues a powerful call for the regulation of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for its developers to prioritize the common good over profit. His encyclical, "Magnifica humanitas," is poised to influence the ongoing debate around AI and its implications for society.
We also discuss the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' new maternal vaccination recommendations, diverging from the CDC's guidance and aiming to protect both mothers and newborns amidst rising vaccine misinformation.
In labor news, we cover the ongoing negotiations at Hershey Park, where union maintenance workers are advocating for better wages and benefits, facing potential strikes as they seek fair treatment.

Additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces critical habitat designations to protect the endangered rusty patched bumblebee, a crucial pollinator, in a bid to aid its recovery.

Finally, we celebrate the booming energy storage market in the U.S., with record installations indicating a strong move towards cleaner, reliable energy solutions.

Today's Stories: 

Court Blocks 'Illegal' Trump Rule That Created Barriers to Affordable Care Act Coverage | Common Dreams
Pope Leo XIV urges AI regulation for the common good | AP News
OB-GYNs release their own vaccine schedule, rejecting RFK Jr.'s meddling - Ars Technica
Hersheypark union workers reject a second agreement as contract talks stall
Endangered rusty patched bumble bee gets 1.5M acres in habitat protection across 6 states
US energy storage posts record start to 2026 as Trump administration attacks clean energy

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A court restores history after Trump censorship and John Oliver scores a legal win over a Medicaid segment. 

https://apnews.com/article/trump-national-parks-lawsuit-c39eee6f77c2e782fc494e2167bf5a39

https://latenighter.com/news/last-week-tonight-medicaid-lawsuit-dismissed/

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Today's Stories: 

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen highlights a series of inspiring stories that showcase the resilience and determination of progressives across the nation. We begin with an encouraging report revealing a record number of Democratic and women veterans running for federal office, signaling a significant shift in political engagement among younger veterans. This surge comes as the nation grapples with pressing national security issues ahead of the midterm elections.
In a significant legal victory, a federal judge in Massachusetts has ruled against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's attempt to silence the progressive fundraising platform ActBlue, affirming the importance of political fundraising as a form of free speech.
We also cover a one-day strike by over 500 concessions workers at Target Field, demanding better pay and health care, as they prepare to make their voices heard during a major baseball event.
Additionally, we celebrate record turnout in the Texas Democratic Senate primary, showcasing growing enthusiasm among voters, particularly in Latino communities, as Democrats aim to make significant gains this election year.
In a heartwarming story, the Twin Cities receive the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award for their brave actions in protecting their immigrant community during federal law enforcement operations, reminding us of the vital role of civic courage in democracy.
Lastly, country music star Brad Paisley joins the fight against a proposed data center near the Nashville Zoo, rallying community support and highlighting the importance of protecting local environments.

More women, Democratic veterans running for Congress this year - POLITICO
Ken Paxton's ActBlue lawsuit halted by federal judgeKen Paxton's ActBlue lawsuit halted by federal judge
Union of 500 Target Field concessions workers announces strike
Democrats set a turnout record in Texas, so is this the year it turns blue? | KOSU
JFK Profile in Courage Award presented to Twin Cities residents for ICE surge response
Brad Paisley criticizes data center planned next to Nashville Zoo

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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 Deep Dive episode, Beowulf Rochlen sits down with Chris Smalls, the founder and former president of the Amazon Labor Union. Chris shares his inspiring journey of unionizing an Amazon warehouse, his activism against corporate giants like Jeff Bezos, and his experiences with humanitarian missions in Gaza and Cuba. Tune in as Chris discusses the importance of grassroots organizing, the current state of labor rights, and his new book, When the Revolution Comes: A Fight for the Future of the Working Class. This episode is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for workers' rights and the interconnectedness of global activism.  

His new book is When the Revolution Comes: A Fight for the Future of the Working Class

https://bookshop.org/p/books/when-the-revolution-comes-a-fight-for-the-future-of-the-working-class-chris-smalls/24f9cfb924fdfc0a?ean=9780593700631&next=t

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