In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a hopeful selection of stories that demonstrate the power of progress and community action in the face of adversity.

We kick off with the Pentagon's announcement of a significant drawdown of federalized California National Guard troops in Los Angeles, a move hailed by local leaders as a step towards restoring civil rights and community healing after months of protests against immigration enforcement.

Next, we delve into a federal judge's challenge to the Trump administration regarding the dismantling of the Voice of America, emphasizing the importance of independent journalism and the need for transparency in government funding. This legal battle, supported by unions and advocates, seeks to protect a vital resource for global democracy and information equity.

Oregon's Governor Tina Kotek is also making strides in addressing the state's housing crisis with new legislation aimed at increasing affordable housing options, particularly for middle-income families. This initiative is crucial as Oregon grapples with soaring home prices and a pressing need for diverse housing solutions.

We explore compelling research showing that strengthening collective labor rights can significantly reduce economic inequality, highlighting the vital role of unions in advocating for fair wages and working conditions.

Listeners will also hear about Father Joe's Villages in San Diego, which is expanding its dental care services for the homeless, thanks to a generous grant. This expansion aims to tackle the overlooked issue of dental health within vulnerable populations, providing essential care that can transform lives.

Lastly, we celebrate Ichiro Suzuki's historic induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame, a milestone that not only honors his remarkable career but also symbolizes greater representation for Asian athletes in sports.Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of resilience, progress, and the belief that change is not only possible but actively happening across America!

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].

More about these stories here:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/public-safety-and-emergencies/general/1-350-more-national-guard-members-withdrawn-from-los-angeles/ar-AA1JFNKZ    
                       
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5429420-trump-adminsitration-voa-funding/      
                     
https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2025/07/29/gov-kotek-signs-laws-to-boost-housing-supply-but-more-work-to-be-done-to-solve-crisis/   
                       
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/labor-rights-reduce-economic-inequality                            
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/free-dental-care-for-homeless    
                       
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/ichiro-suzuki-becomes-1st-asian-mlb-hall-famer-asian-players-rcna220513                            

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-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Did you know that Good News For Lefties is featured on the Progressive Voices Network? That's right, every Saturday and Sunday from 12 - 1pmET/9-10amPT, 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

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen showcases a series of uplifting stories that remind us of the positive strides being made across America. 

Join us for this inspiring episode filled with stories of progress, community action, and the belief that change is possible and happening every day across America!

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].
        
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-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen showcases a series of uplifting stories that remind us of the positive strides being made across America. We start with Pennsylvania's lawmakers who are gearing up to introduce bipartisan legislation aimed at establishing comprehensive guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare. This initiative seeks to protect patient rights by ensuring that human oversight is integral to AI-driven decisions, especially those affecting insurance and medical care.

Next, we highlight the ongoing negotiations between Stater Brothers Markets and the United Food and Commercial Workers union, which represents thousands of employees. Following a significant strike authorization vote, union members are advocating for better wages, healthcare, and working conditions, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment for workers and a better customer experience.

We also celebrate Chappell Roan's upcoming concert series, "Visions of Damsels and Other Dangerous Things," which aims to support trans youth through direct donations from ticket sales. This tour not only showcases Roan's commitment to community engagement but also emphasizes the importance of accessible entertainment for fans.

In a significant development for solar energy, new analysis suggests that DIY solar plus battery systems can provide an affordable alternative for homeowners looking to bypass the high costs and barriers traditionally associated with rooftop solar installations. This innovative approach empowers individuals to harness renewable energy without complicated regulations.

A listener-suggested story from Ellen in Virginia highlights the community's successful push against Amazon's proposed data center, demonstrating the power of grassroots advocacy in preserving local character and promoting sustainable development. This victory reflects a broader movement towards responsible land use planning.

We also discuss the innovative detention hike program at Morse High School in Bath, Maine, which transforms traditional detention into a restorative experience by allowing students to explore nature while reflecting on their actions. This initiative fosters emotional resilience and personal growth among students.

Join us for this inspiring episode filled with stories of progress, community action, and the belief that change is possible and happening every day across America!

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].

More about today's stories here:

https://www.altoonamirror.com/news/local-news/2025/07/pa-house-ai-guardrails-health-care/                        
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/stater-bros-employees-to-resume-contract-talks-today/3756523/                
       
https://www.thepinknews.com/2025/07/25/chappell-roan-us-concerts-trans/                        
https://prospect.org/environment/2025-07-28-far-cheaper-way-to-do-rooftop-solar/                        
https://virginiamercury.com/2025/07/28/amazon-pulls-louisa-county-data-center-proposal-after-strong-resistance/            
           
https://www.mainepublic.org/education-news/2025-06-18/in-bath-students-choose-a-hike-over-detention                        

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-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 positive changes occurring across America, reminding us that hope is alive and well. We kick off with the announcement from former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, who has declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in 2026. His extensive experience and commitment to economic justice position him as a formidable contender in a crucial battleground state.

Next, we turn our attention to the courageous union workers of Hawaii Teamsters Local 996, who have joined a nationwide strike against Air Gas. This collective action underscores the ongoing fight for fair labor practices and highlights the resilience of workers demanding respect and better working conditions.

In a significant move for voting rights, New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlon has firmly declined the DOJ's request for the state's voter registration list, standing up for state privacy laws and pushing back against federal overreach. This decision aligns New Hampshire with other states advocating for voter protection amid ongoing national debates on election integrity.

We also celebrate Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker's signing of two new gun safety bills aimed at promoting responsible firearm storage and enhancing law enforcement's ability to trace illegal firearms. These measures represent meaningful steps toward preventing gun violence and ensuring community safety.

A listener-suggested story highlights Reno, Nevada's innovative use of goats for wildfire prevention, showcasing a low-tech, environmentally friendly approach to managing vegetation and reducing fire risks in residential areas.

Lastly, we discuss the impressive role of clean energy technologies during recent heat waves, demonstrating how solar panels and battery storage have helped maintain grid stability while saving consumers millions.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of progress, resilience, and the belief that change is not just possible, but actively happening across America!

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].

More on today's stories here:

https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-senate-roy-cooper-tillis-49e7b69b20db803f75a1893e1e890f18


https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2025/07/29/this-is-enough-union-workers-go-strike-against-airgas/


https://www.democracydocket.com/news-alerts/new-hampshire-defies-doj-push-for-voter-data/


https://chicago.suntimes.com/illinois-governor/2025/07/28/illinois-governor-jb-pritzker-gun-safety-bills-safe-gun-storage-act


https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/goats-assigned-reno-wildfire-prevention-work


https://www.semafor.com/article/07/29/2025/us-clean-energy-helps-prevent-blackouts-during-heatwave


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-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen dives into an array of uplifting stories that demonstrate the power of progress amidst challenging times. We start with the remarkable rise of Zorhan Mamdani, a 33-year-old assemblyman and proud Democratic socialist, who is making waves in New York City politics. Recent polling shows him leading the mayoral race with an impressive 50% support, signaling a strong desire for transformative change among voters. His campaign is not just about winning an election; it's a movement redefining what's possible in the nation's largest city.

Next, we celebrate the Safeway grocery workers in Northern California who have successfully negotiated a tentative agreement with the company, averting a strike. This hard-fought victory includes significant wage increases and improved working conditions, underscoring the power of union solidarity and community support in the face of rising living costs.

We also discuss a coalition of nearly two dozen states, including New York and California, that are suing the Trump administration over a controversial provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill act that threatens to defund Planned Parenthood. This legal challenge highlights the ongoing fight for reproductive rights and essential healthcare services for low-income communities.

In a landmark move, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, has forgiven nearly $66 million in jail debts owed by formerly incarcerated individuals, a decision that aims to alleviate the financial burdens that often hinder successful reentry into society. This progressive step reflects a growing momentum for reform in the criminal justice system.

We also feature a listener-suggested story about New York's lawsuit against the USDA, challenging invasive data collection demands on SNAP beneficiaries, which critics argue could lead to discrimination and undermine trust in vital assistance programs.

Lastly, we highlight California Assembly Bill 1127, which seeks to ban the sale of new Glock-style pistols that can easily be converted into fully automatic weapons, a significant step toward enhancing gun safety in the state.

Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of resilience, hope, and the belief that change is not only possible, but actively happening across America!

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].

More on theses stories here:

https://www.newsweek.com/zohran-mamdani-andrew-cuomo-eric-adams-nyc-mayor-2105971                    

https://www.ktvu.com/news/safeway-worker-strike-deadline-looms      
             
https://www.stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2025-07-17/missouri-ends-luxury-tax-on-menstrual-products-diapers                    

https://boltsmag.org/jail-debt-and-pay-to-stay-in-dauphin-county-pennsylvania/                    
https://www.timesunion.com/state/article/new-york-suing-usda-requested-immigration-status-20790292.php                    

https://calmatters.org/politics/2025/07/california-glock-ban-kamala-harris-newsom/                    
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-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shines a light on the inspiring progress being made across America, despite the overwhelming challenges we face. We begin with the exciting news of billions in school grants being released, providing essential resources for educational programs nationwide. From summer camps to adult literacy initiatives, these funds are revitalizing learning opportunities and fostering equity in education.

Next, we discuss the significant decline in Donald Trump's public approval ratings, particularly among independent voters. As concerns grow regarding his administration's handling of key issues, this shift opens new doors for Democratic strategists looking ahead to the midterms.

Oregon receives much-needed federal assistance following devastating floods, showcasing the importance of community resilience and government support in recovery efforts. Meanwhile, Illinois takes a bold stand for LGBTQ youth by maintaining and expanding its 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline services, ensuring that vital mental health support remains accessible even amidst federal cutbacks.

We also highlight a listener-suggested story about New York City's innovative "Food as Medicine" program, which prescribes free fresh produce to patients, promoting holistic health and addressing chronic conditions through nutrition.

Lastly, we celebrate Missouri's recent legislative victory in ending the luxury tax on essential items like menstrual products and diapers, affirming the necessity of these items for families and promoting health equity.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of hope and resilience that remind us that positive change is not only possible but actively happening every day!

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].

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-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

Did you know that Good News For Lefties is featured on the Progressive Voices Network? That's right, every Saturday and Sunday from 12 - 1pmET/9-10amPT, 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

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

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a series of inspiring stories that illuminate hope and progress in the face of adversity. We kick off with a significant legal victory as a third federal court blocks Donald Trump's executive order aimed at restricting birthright citizenship. This ruling reinforces the constitutional guarantee enshrined in the 14th Amendment, demonstrating the resilience of our judicial system in protecting fundamental rights.

Next, we celebrate a temporary win for voting rights advocates as the Supreme Court intervenes to preserve the ability of private parties, including Native American tribes, to challenge discriminatory election maps under the Voting Rights Act. This decision highlights the ongoing fight for fair representation and the importance of safeguarding democratic principles.

In Los Angeles, we discuss the challenges federal prosecutors face in securing indictments against anti-ICE protesters, reflecting the community's support and the complexities of politically charged legal actions. The low indictment rate showcases the judicial system's reluctance to pursue cases perceived as politically motivated.

We then shift our focus to the striking DreamWorks Animation workers in Glendale, who are advocating for fair wages and better working conditions. Their action underscores a broader movement toward labor rights within the entertainment industry, emphasizing the essential contributions of all workers behind the scenes.

Listeners will be inspired by Oregon's pioneering legislation establishing a comprehensive framework for microgrids, enhancing energy resilience and community self-reliance in the face of climate-related challenges. This ambitious policy aims to empower local governments and tribes to maintain essential services during emergencies.

Finally, we delve into a recent study revealing that a majority of Americans prefer a more ethnically and religiously diverse society, challenging prevailing narratives of division and highlighting a widespread aspiration for inclusivity.

Join us for this empowering episode filled with stories of resilience, unity, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!

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://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5421154-court-blocks-trump-birthright-citizenship-nationwide-injunction/


https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5418738-supreme-court-halts-appeals-ruling/


https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/la-grand-juries-refusing-indict-135108921.html


https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/dreamworks-commissary-workers-strike-amid-171706994.html


https://stateline.org/2025/07/17/oregon-approves-nations-first-framework-for-microgrids/


https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/diversity-in-america-study


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-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen offers a refreshing perspective amidst the chaos of today's headlines, focusing on the positive strides being made toward a better America. We start with encouraging news on public safety, as violent crime rates are showing a significant decline across the nation, with homicides dropping by 16% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This marks one of the largest decreases since 1960, reflecting the effectiveness of community-focused policing and social programs that prioritize safety and resilience.

Next, we celebrate Connecticut's recent legislative victories in maternal health, with the signing of two crucial bills aimed at addressing disparities affecting women of color. These laws will enhance access to birth centers, improve Medicaid support for doulas, and establish a task force to review perinatal mental health care, marking a pivotal step toward equitable maternal care.

We also highlight the growing movement across states to tackle the retirement savings crisis through the implementation of automatic Individual Retirement Accounts (auto IRAs). Nevada's recent launch of its program aims to benefit approximately 500,000 workers, ensuring more Americans have access to retirement savings regardless of their employer's offerings.

In a groundbreaking effort to combat the effects of addictive social media, New York State Senator Andrew Gonardez has introduced legislation requiring warning labels on platforms with addictive design features and allowing users to opt out of algorithmic content. This progressive initiative seeks to prioritize user well-being and combat the mental health challenges associated with social media usage.

We also share a listener-suggested story about the profound benefits of nature for maternal health, particularly for Black women facing systemic challenges. Programs that connect women with green spaces are proving vital in reducing stress and improving birth outcomes, emphasizing the need for equitable access to nature.

Lastly, we delve into exciting research from Emory University revealing the potential anti-aging effects of psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms. This study opens the door to new possibilities for promoting healthier aging and longevity, highlighting the importance of rethinking legal barriers surrounding psychedelics.

Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of hope, resilience, and the belief that positive change is not only possible but actively unfolding around us!

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.goodgoodgood.co/articles/violent-crime-rates-decrease-covid-19


https://www.nhregister.com/connecticut/article/lamont-signs-maternal-health-care-bills-20780440.php


https://nystateofpolitics.com/state-of-politics/new-york/politics/2025/07/22/n-y--state-senator-aims-to-create--user-first--digital-landscape


https://stateline.org/2025/07/23/americans-havent-saved-for-retirement-states-are-creating-automatic-savings-plans/


https://reasonstobecheerful.world/black-women-maternal-health-nature/


https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/psychedelic-mushrooms-reduced-human-cellular-aging-by-57-increased-lifespan-in-mice-30/


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-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.