Secular Left

We take a deep dive into the recent election and its ramifications, focusing particularly on the Democrats' surprising loss and the implications for future campaigns. We look at both the evident and subtle factors that contributed to this outcome. Being a black woman was a significant hurdle for Vice President Kamala Harris, which I argue led to a disheartening decline in support from key demographics, particularly among white women.

We reflect on the expansive backing Harris had throughout her campaign—endorsements from high-profile figures, a massive fundraising effort, and relentless campaigning in critical swing states. Despite these advantages, we dissect several conventional narratives that emerged post-election, including claims about "wokeness" hurting her candidacy. These perspectives fail to recognize the historical biases that women, and especially women of color, face in political arenas. The correlation between Harris's identity and the voting decisions by constituents shines a light on the entrenched prejudices in the electorate.

The the role of the media can't be overlooked in shaping public perception and the electoral outcome. We draw stark contrasts between how the media covered the candidacy of Trump versus Harris. The disparity in coverage serves as a significant barrier to the Democrats' message and outreach. Right-wing media not only sets the news agenda but also propagates narratives that undermine Democratic candidates.

We highlight the absurdity of critiques directed at Democratic strategies, especially in the face of a system that fundamentally prioritizes white male leadership and often disregards the complexities of intersectionality in politics.

There is a vital requirement for a counterbalance to the dominant right-wing platforms that distort narratives for political gain. If the Democrats are to regain ground, establishing robust media channels to promote liberal perspectives and to advocate for equitable policies is paramount.

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We speak with secular political activist Sarah Levin about the evolving landscape for secular voters within the Democratic Party, the implications of interfaith coalitions, and the role of non-religious constituents in upcoming elections.

We also explore Sarah's substantial activism, including her role as founder of Secular Strategies and her efforts to establish secular representation within the Democratic National Committee (DNC). She emphasizes the significant strides made since her last appearance, particularly the inclusion of non-religious voices in the DNC’s interfaith efforts and the official endorsement of the principle of separation of church and state in the party's platform for the first time. Doug and Sarah also discuss the challenges that still exist, including the perception issues surrounding secular candidates among both voters and the party apparatus.

Sarah reflects on the importance of building a political identity that resonates with both non-religious voters and religious individuals, stressing the necessity of intersectionality in politics. We also focus on voter engagement and the upcoming elections.

A critical segment of the conversation addresses the complex U.S. relationship with Israel amidst the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Sarah articulates her belief that while the U.S. has historically provided unquestioned support to Israel, this is a moment for reevaluation—especially in light of the potential ramifications of a Trump administration, which promises more extreme measures than current policies.

Finally we encourage listeners to actively participate in the political process, follow updates on secular candidates, and engage in conversations that amplify the non-religious voice. With Sarah Levin's groundwork laying the foundation for future progress, this episode serves as a clarion call to recognize both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for secular individuals in politics.

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We look into the murky waters of political dishonesty prevalent during the current election cycle, particularly focusing on the blatant lies propagated in political advertisements. With election day swiftly approaching, it’s easy to lose sight of the facts amidst the barrage of misleading ads from large PACs like the Congressional Leadership Fund and American Prosperity Fund. Unlike other forms of advertising that are subject to regulatory scrutiny, political ads enjoy the protections of the First Amendment, allowing candidates to misrepresent facts without penalty.

Then we look at the recent vice presidential debate, which we approach with skepticism, arguing that these events are mere vehicles for candidates to produce soundbites for future commercials rather than genuine discussions of policy. C.F. Vance’s performance is scrutinized, particularly his fabrications regarding Trump’s stance on Obamacare. The focus shifts to Trump’s ongoing legal battles, highlighting the critical distinction made by prosecutor Jack Smith about what constitutes official actions versus private actions in the context of election interference. It’s crucial for voters to grasp that the president's attempts to influence the election were not part of his official duties—a point we argue could play a significant role in the upcoming election.

Next we grapple with the aftermath of a devastating hurricane that recently struck Florida and made its way through the southeast. The political ramifications of disaster recovery aid, particularly the outrage from conservatives about federal assistance, are examined. We  clarify the purpose of the $750 immediate assistance offered by FEMA, juxtaposing it against the broader and more complex recovery efforts needing more time to be processed. This sense of urgency is contrasted with the indifference displayed by congressional leaders who postpone aid packages for political gain.

Lastly, we celebrate a recent victory for school districts standing up against LifeWise Academy — an evangelical initiative that seeks to impose religious instruction during the school day, rather than as an extracurricular activity. We break down the controversy surrounding a school board in Westerville, Ohio, which voted to rescind its policy that allowed LifeWise to operate during school hours. This decision was driven not only by concerns over curriculum disruption and liability but also by broader implications about maintaining the secular integrity of public education. LifeWise’s attempts to portray itself as a victim of circumstance and its extensive funding sources underscore the lengths to which such organizations will go to infiltrate public schools.

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We look at the alarming trend of Republican rhetoric surrounding immigration, particularly their attempts to vilify Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. Drawing comparisons to the divisive strategies of Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, we explore how the GOP is leveraging fear and misinformation to distract voters from their lack of substantial policy proposals.

During the debate, Trump absurdly suggested that immigrants in Springfield were resorting to eating pets—a claim that sparked ridicule from Vice President Kamala Harris and has since been debunked by local authorities and independent fact-checkers. The persistence of such lies indicates a broader strategy by Republicans to unite their base through fear-mongering and scapegoating marginalized communities. With no concrete plans for critical issues like healthcare or the economy, the GOP resorts to these gimmicks to rally support.


Republican Vivek Ramaswamy hosted a town hall event, where local residents expressed concerns about the integration of immigrants. Notably absent from this discussion were representatives from the Haitian community, which raises questions about the inclusivity of the dialogue surrounding immigration. While Ramaswamy blamed the role of federal policies in the situation, much of the conversation was steeped in fear and blame directed at the newcomers rather than seeking solutions collaboratively.

We then expose the hollow messages underpinning the campaign of Derek Merrin, a Republican candidate for Ohio’s 9th Congressional District. Marrin focuses on immigration as a key issue while neglecting to address pressing concerns like economic development and resources for existing residents. His vague promises of returning high-paying jobs to the area are juxtaposed against a history of Republican governance that has failed to deliver tangible results.

The current immigration discourse often overlooks the positive contributions of immigrants, focusing instead on exaggerated fears. This conversation serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue grounded in facts and compassion rather than fear and misinformation.

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We investigate the political tactics of the Republican Party as we approach the election season, highlighting their reliance on divisive rhetoric around immigration rather than substantive policy proposals. With a convicted felon leading the party, it's become apparent that their strategy is to invoke fear rather than offer solutions. We examine how they've resurrected the illegal immigrant narrative to scare voters, particularly targeting older white demographics and the more gullible segments of their base. We debunk the myths surrounding undocumented immigrants voting, emphasizing the legal complexities and safeguarding mechanisms in place that prevent such occurrences.

Transitioning to a critical toolkit developed to counter the rise of Christian nationalism in public education, we share insights from Doug's involvement with the Honesty for Ohio Education advocacy group. This toolkit serves as a comprehensive guide for parents, educators, and community members looking to navigate the treacherous waters of Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) policies, which allow students to leave school for religious instruction during the day. We explain the manipulative strategies deployed by groups like Lifewise Academy, which disguises its religious agenda under a veneer of character-based education, while the reality is an aggressive attempt to convert schoolchildren to Christianity.

A major component of the tool-kit is a critical review of the data backing Lifewise Academy’s claims of positive outcomes for students participating in their program. By exposing the statistical manipulation and selective reporting methodologies, we argue that such claims are more about marketing than genuine educational benefits. Good education should prioritize the well-being and development of the student, free from religious indoctrination.

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We Don't Want Empty Promises, Party Manipulations, Or Politcal Bridge Burning

We look into the ongoing political landscape in Ohio, dissecting the implications of a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at curbing gerrymandering that could potentially end the Republican supermajority in the state. The Ohio Ballot Board's recent attempt to manipulate the ballot summary for this measure raises serious concerns about transparency and fairness. We examine the political maneuvering behind this effort and discuss how it fits into the larger narrative of electoral integrity.

We reflect on Senator Chuck Schumer's remarks to reporters during the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Schumer's bold assertion that voting Democrat in November will lead to significant changes in the filibuster deserves scrutiny. We explore the skepticism that surrounds these promises, given past experiences where similar assertions did not materialize into action once the Democrats had power. The question remains: can we trust the Democratic leadership to follow through on commitments that can reshape legislative processes critical to our democracy?

Then we unpack the disappointing political ad from Rep. Marcy Kaptur, a longtime House Democrat facing re-election. The ad's attempt to appeal to conservative constituents while alienating progressives highlights a troubling trend within the party. Kaptur's rhetorical decisions, particularly her invocation of "the far left," indicate a strategy that sacrifices progressive values in a bid for political survival. We analyze the implications of such messaging and question whether it will succeed in winning over voters who are fundamentally opposed to her party's principles.

Throughout the episode, we engage with the underlying themes of accountability, representation, and the challenges facing candidates in a polarized political environment. As Ohioans prepare for a pivotal election, the conversations surrounding these issues become increasingly crucial. How can we encourage a more inclusive political discourse that genuinely represents the diversity of opinions and needs within our communities?

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In this spicy episode, we give you many reasons why voting for Donald Trump in the upcoming election is not a wise choice. We look into the history of the 2024 presidential election, highlighting the lack of merit in considering Trump as a viable candidate due to his questionable character and numerous controversies during his previous presidency. We call out the absurdity in Trump's behavior, highlighting his divisive rhetoric and lack of concern for the well-being of the American people.

We look at the potential implications of a Trump presidency, drawing parallels to historical events and emphasizing the dangers of embracing divisive ideologies. We urge listeners to critically analyze the information presented to them, especially in the age of social media where misinformation can easily spread. Additionally, we touch on the importance of understanding the motives behind political posts and the responsibility of individuals to engage in meaningful conversations based on facts and context.

We then highlight the potential scenarios surrounding the upcoming election, expressing concerns about possible election interference and the need for vigilance in protecting democracy. We emphasize the importance of making informed choices and not falling prey to divisive tactics or fear-mongering strategies employed by certain political factions. Consider the long-term implications of your voting decisions and prioritize the well-being of the country and future generations by making informed and thoughtful choices at the ballot box.

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In this jammed packed episode, we talk with Zach and Molly, parents who are taking a stand against LifeWise Academy, an evangelical Christian nationalist group that has found a way to seep into public schools through a legal loophole. They have formed Parents Against LifeWise to shed light on the group's questionable tactics, lack of background checks on members, and the concerning activities they are engaged in. The episode paints a grim picture of how school districts are turning a blind eye to the situation, emphasizing the urgent need for public awareness and action to combat the influence of such groups in educational settings.

We touch on the frustrating moments of silence encountered when reaching out to organizations like FFRF and Ohio ACLU, who have failed to address the issues at hand adequately. This inaction leaves children vulnerable and without proper representation, highlighting the crucial role parents play in advocating for their rights. The responsibility falls on schools to ensure they are held accountable for any violations, rather than letting external groups like LifeWise escape blame for any harmful activities.

The discussion exposes the deceptive nature of LifeWise, presenting itself as non-denominational while promoting exclusive evangelical beliefs, potentially preying on susceptible communities. Their curriculum, based on the Southern Baptist Convention, spreads harmful ideologies among impressionable young minds, as evidenced by documents detailing their damaging teachings. The podcast also shines a light on individuals like Joel Penton, involved in the group's questionable practices under the guise of motivational speeches with underlying religious agendas. The dubious funding sources and misleading petition strategies employed by LifeWise raise significant concerns about their true motives.

We finally explore the legal challenges faced by Zach, who shared LifeWise's curriculum online and is now embroiled in a lawsuit with the group. Despite accessing the material lawfully and with no profit motive, Zach finds himself in a legal battle against LifeWise, showcasing the community rallying behind him for support. We touch on a recent scandal involving a former LifeWise employee, adding layers of complexity to the situation. Zach expresses gratitude for the solidarity received and discusses avenues for assistance in his legal defense as the podcast concludes with well-wishes for his upcoming court proceedings, directing listeners to their website for further information and updates.

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In this episode, we open with noting a recent US Supreme Court decision in a social media censorship case. Then we discuss the hysteria in Ohio over trans women playing sports and the unconstitutional Ten Commandments law recently enacted in Louisiana. We explore how these laws are impacting individuals and communities, especially the LGBTQ+ community, and the arguments against them.

The discussion highlights the origin story of the anti-trans athlete hysteria in Ohio and how misinformation led to legislative actions. The episode also covers the significance of the Ten Commandments law in Louisiana and its potential unconstitutionality, drawing parallels to historical cases and legal precedents. We delve into the implications of displaying religious texts in public schools and the violation of religious freedom for students.

Moreover, the conversation touches on the motivations behind these initiatives, such as Christian nationalism and power dynamics. The focus on history and tradition in legal arguments is critiqued for distorting facts and misrepresenting the founding principles of the country. The role of separation of church and state in ensuring individual freedoms is emphasized, contrasting with attempts to influence laws based on religious beliefs.

Constitutional lawyer Andrew Seidel's perspective on the Ten Commandments law and the legal challenges it may face adds depth to the analysis. The conversation also delves into the broader context of conservative legal strategies, including originalism and the manipulation of history to advance specific agendas. Ultimately, the episode advocates for upholding secular foundations and individual rights enshrined in the Constitution, emphasizing the relevance of separation of church and state in protecting diverse beliefs and promoting equality.

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A recent bill introduced by Christian Nationalists in Ohio labels the existence of trans individuals as obscene. We look into the implications of such legislation and questions the necessity for laws that perpetuate bigotry towards the LGBTQ community. The significance of Pride Month in June is highlighted, emphasizing the celebration of the LGBTQ community's progress and their ongoing fight for acceptance and equal rights. The origin of Pride events stemming from the Stonewall Riots in 1969 is discussed, shedding light on the struggles faced by the community in the past.

The episode revisits historical events such as the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, demonstrating the ongoing marginalization faced by the LGBTQ community. The discussion also touches on the resistance faced by Pride festivals in conservative towns like Celina, Ohio, where Christian Nationalists attempted to obstruct drag performances under the guise of obscenity. We dissect the motives behind such legislation and expose the underlying bigotry and discrimination embedded within.

The subsequent introduction of Ohio House Bill 245 to ban drag performances in the presence of children is scrutinized, with a focus on the testimonies provided during the bill's hearings. We look into the arguments presented by proponents of the bill, highlighting the discriminatory nature of the proposed legislation. The episode outlines the concerns raised by lawmakers and activists regarding the potential impact of such laws on the LGBTQ community, emphasizing the need to combat institutionalized discrimination and bigotry.

Our overarching theme of promoting inclusivity, acceptance, and equal rights for all individuals, irrespective of their gender identity or sexual orientation, is reiterated. The call to action to challenge discriminatory laws and elect representatives who champion equality and diversity forms a pivotal message, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for LGBTQA+ rights and the importance of fostering an inclusive society.

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