Constitutional Crisis: Trump's Path to Power

If you are concerned that America is facing a constitutional crisis and heading towards a Donald Trump dictatorship, please check out this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast.

Attorney and legal thriller author Mark M. Bello says our country, indeed, is in a constitutional crisis spurred by Donald Trump's actions, all aimed at solidifying his path to unrestrained power.

In this episode, Bello and host Bob Gatty discuss Trump's invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport nearly 200 immigrants he claims are vicious gang members, his defiance of judicial orders, and the implications for U.S. democracy and the judicial system.

Bello says the recent Supreme Court's decision protecting the president from prosecution for official presidential actions, combined with the Republican-controlled Congress' failure to restrain him, means that America's system of checks and balances through three equal branches of government is in serious jeopardy.

The discussion also touches on public resistance, impeachment challenges, and the role of Elon Musk, whom Trump has put in charge of his plan to essentially dismantle the federal government.

Bello draws upon his wealth of experience to provide legal insights and hints at the parallels in his legal thriller series, with a special mention of his book 'Betrayal of Justice.' Here's a convenient link to his books on Amazon. https://amzn.to/4bSIxTU

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Trump's Constitutional Crisis

01:10 Introducing Mark M. Bellow

02:31 Trump's Actions and Legal Implications

06:59 Supreme Court's Role and Congressional Inaction

21:11 Public Response and Future Outlook

29:19 Mark Bellow's Literary Insights

33:56 Final Thoughts and Farewell

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

The Fairness Project: Fighting Back in the States

If you care about issues like abortion rights, minimum wage increases, and paid family leave, check out this episode of the 'Lean to the Left' podcast, which explores a proven strategy to overcome political odds to enact meaningful change.

Our guest is Kelly Hall, Executive Director of The Fairness Project, a national ballot measure organization that has triumphed in 39 campaigns across 20 states.

The Fairness Project uses citizen-initiated ballot measures to enact vital changes often overlooked or opposed by politicians on issues like abortion rights, minimum wage increases, and paid family leave. It's a highly effective tool for fighting back in the states, despite political opposition by those who have been elected to office.

Hall explains how ballot initiatives empower voters and shares insights into current and upcoming projects, including efforts to expand abortion access even in states with draconian anti-abortion laws and to tackle housing discrimination.

The episode demonstrates how grassroots movements can drive substantial political and social change despite difficult political odds, even in these challenging times.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Lean to the Left Podcast

00:11 Meet Kelly Hall and the Fairness Project

00:44 The Power of Ballot Measures

02:29 Why the Fairness Project's Work is Crucial Today

04:07 Success Stories and Campaigns

08:07 New Initiatives and Leadership Development

09:54 Fighting Housing Discrimination in Nebraska

11:46 Future Plans and Fundraising

13:41 The Team Behind the Fairness Project

15:58 Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

23:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

The Fight Against Modern Slavery

In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we dive deep into the alarming issue of human trafficking with modern slavery expert Matthew Friedman, CEO of Mekong Club.

With over 29 years of experience, Matthew shares his harrowing journey, shedding light on the exploitation of an estimated 50 million people worldwide.

From forced labor in fields and factories to commercial sex trafficking, Matthew reveals the grim realities faced by victims and the economic machinery behind these heinous modern slavery crimes.

Listen as he recounts stories from his tenure at USAID and the United Nations, describes the growing threat both globally and in the United States, and presents actionable steps individuals and businesses can take to help combat this vast modern slavery epidemic.

What will be the impact of Trump' closure of USAID? "People will die," says Friedman.

A real eye-opener into the dark world of human trafficking and modern slavery and the pitiful response to bring it to an end.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Human Trafficking

00:29 Meet Matthew Friedman: Modern Slavery Expert

01:23 Matthew's Journey: From Nepal to Activism

01:47 The Horrors of Human Trafficking

05:06 Global Statistics and the Fight Against Modern Slavery

06:55 Corporate Responsibility in Combating Trafficking

08:03 Human Trafficking in the United States

09:42 Forced Labor and Child Exploitation

13:56 The Role of USAID in Combating Trafficking

17:36 How Businesses Can Help

19:56 The Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime

20:50 New Forms of Human Trafficking: Scam Centers

26:02 Volunteerism and Individual Action

30:32 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Dixie Dems: The Trump Catastrophe with Michael Moore

Join us for a compelling conversation about the future of American politics and the need for active participation in democracy.

In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty of South Carolina welcomes special guest Michael Moore, a Democratic businessman from Charleston, South Carolina, who previously challenged MAGA Rep. Nancy Mace.

Joined by co-hosts Arthur Hill of North Carolina and Robert Thompson of Georgia, they delve into Donald Trump's presidency and its implications, the state of American democracy, and strategies for the Democratic Party.

Moore shares his candid thoughts on Trump's impact, the challenges of running for office, and the importance of broad civic engagement. The discussion covers a variety of pressing issues, from economic anxiety and healthcare reform to the role of billionaires like Elon Musk in politics.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Dixie Dems Podcast

00:44 Introducing Michael Moore

01:52 Michael Moore's Political Background

02:35 Discussion on Trump's Presidency

05:03 Impact on Government Officials

09:11 Economic Anxiety and Political Exploitation

13:43 Call to Action for Democrats

18:57 Financial Cuts and Government Chaos

22:45 Social Security and Government Policies

23:35 Medicaid and Healthcare Issues

25:15 Climate Change and Environmental Concerns

27:03 Political Protests and Public Sentiment

28:16 Democratic Party and Election Strategies

34:34 Republican Scandals and Controversies

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Trump Puts Home Construction in Crisis

Join us for a compelling conversation about the impact of the Musk/Trump administration's immigration, tariff, and federal workforce policies on the construction industry, especially housing.

.In a discussion with Brian Turmail, Vice President of Public Affairs at the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), the Lean to the Left podcast explores those issues, which he says have put home construction in crisis..

Turmail highlights a severe labor shortage exacerbated by restrictions on programs like the H2B visa and cancellations under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and DACA. This labor scarcity could lead to higher costs, longer construction times, and stalled community development projects.

The discussion touches on the broader economic consequences, such as increased housing prices, reduced funding for public education due to stagnant real estate growth, and the potential economic harm from tariffs on construction materials.

The AGC advocates for more investment in career technical education and a streamlined, lawful immigration pathway to address these workforce needs. The session concludes with a call to action for listeners to support these initiatives via the website WorkforceDoneRight.org.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Trump's Immigration Policies and the Construction Industry

00:58 Introduction to the Labor Shortage Crisis

01:35 Historical Context and Education Policies

02:56 Visa Programs and Their Limitations

06:50 Impact of Workforce Shortages on Communities

08:17 Potential Solutions and Policy Recommendations

20:37 Economic Consequences of Tariffs

26:49 Call to Action and Conclusion

About Bob Gatty

Bob Gatty is a former journalist and communications consultant, the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in calling out Trump, Musk & Co., who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

America Has No Kings: President's Day Protest to Preserve Democracy

Across the country, Americans took to the streets this Presidents’ Day to make one thing clear: America has no kings.

Here in Myrtle Beach, SC, hundreds joined the call, standing in solidarity against the dangerous alliance between Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Their message? Democracy, not dictatorship. Protesters rallied against Project 2025, a radical plan to strip away rights and reshape our government to serve the powerful.

For many, the stakes are personal. A local protester fears what another Trump presidency means for marginalized communities.

Protesters also voiced outrage at Elon Musk, whose growing influence over politics, social media, and even space technology has raised alarms about unchecked power and disinformation.

As chants echoed across the nation, the message was clear: Americans are ready to resist authoritarianism and fight for the future of democracy. The fight isn’t over—it’s just beginning.

f you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Confronting Injustice with Dr. Gail C. Christopher | Lean to the Left Podcast

Join us on the Lean to the Left podcast as Dr. Gail C. Christopher discusses the fight for justice, the impact of Trump's policies, and the irresistible force of our shared humanity. A must-listen for those passionate about change! #Justice #podcast

In this important episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, host Bob Gatty discusses key social issues, including Donald Trump's policies on healthcare, DEI, and government cuts.

Featuring Dr. Gail C. Christopher, Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity, the conversation spans topics from the National Day of Racial Healing to the profound influence of Jimmy Carter's values as they discuss the challenge of confronting injustice in health.

Dr. Christopher delves into the legacy of racial hierarchy and the ongoing struggles and strategies for health equity. The episode underscores the importance of unity and collective action to navigate current political challenges.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

00:38 Guest Introduction: Dr. Gail C. Christopher

01:28 National Day of Racial Healing and Jimmy Carter's Legacy

05:26 Trump's Impact on Healthcare and DEI

06:03 Mobilization for Justice and Democracy

07:55 Economic and Social Impacts of Policy Changes

10:29 Strategies for Coping and Resistance

11:13 National Collaborative for Health Equity

27:14 Racial Healing and Dr. Christopher's Book

33:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Spencer Critchley: What's a Liberal?

Our guest is Spencer Critchley, a writer, political analyst, and author known for his insightful takes on American politics, who explores the question, "What's a Liberal?" If you enjoy this episode, please share it on social media, comment, and subscribe to our channel.

In the episode, Critchley and host Bob Gatty discuss the alienation of Democrats and liberals, who Critchley argues have become overly rationalistic and out of touch with the emotional aspects that drive politics.

Critchley shares his views on the failures of the Democratic Party, their disconnect with everyday voters, and how emotional rhetoric often trumps rational policy debate. They delve into root causes of American political polarization, drawing from Critchley's books 'Patriots of Two Nations' and his upcoming work 'The Liberal Backbone.'

Critchley explains his unique approach to the new book, inviting public commentary on each chapter online and Substack.

This episode explores why Trump’s appeal persists, how Democrats can reconnect with voters, and the broader implications for American democracy.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Election Aftermath

00:31 Guest Introduction: Spencer Critchley

01:19 Democratic Party's Alienation Problem

04:17 Emotional vs Rational Politics

06:22 Marketing and Emotional Appeal in Politics

08:53 Trump's Charismatic Leadership

34:42 Counter-Enlightenment and American History

38:52 The Liberal Backbone: Interactive Writing Process

43:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Join us as we talk to Cesar Cardona, a musician, podcaster, and writer. Cesar shares his transformative journey from arriving in Los Angeles in 2014 to becoming a public speaker and educator focused on growth mindset, mindfulness, and social unification.

We also dive into his work as a boxing trainer and his new podcast 'Beauty in the Break,' which explores resilience and transformation through personal stories and launches March 3.

Discussing issues like Donald Trump’s presidency and its impact on America, Cesar offers insights on bridging political divides, navigating political challenges, the power of community, and the importance of voting with dollars.

Tune in for an enlightening dialogue about embracing clarity, connection, and purpose.

CHAPTERS;

00:00 Introduction to Cesar Cardona

00:28 Cesar's Journey to Los Angeles

01:29 Professional Endeavors and Mindset

03:13 Boxing Trainer Background

04:38 Political Climate and Trump's Impact

11:08 Voting with Our Dollars

23:05 Cesar's Personal Identity and Philosophy

26:09 Beauty in the Break Podcast

31:08 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts about Bridging Political Divides

About Bob Gatty

This video is presented by Bob Gatty, a former journalist and communications consultant, who is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of its podcast.

Lean to the Left pulls no punches in going after Trump and his pals who are turning our country into their own personal piggybank.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

If you enjoy this commentary, please visit, subscribe and share the Lean to the Left podcast. Meanwhile, please share your stories and experiences by commenting on this video and offering your thoughts. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.

Courts Block Trump's Controversial Proposals

Just as was the case when Donald Trump claimed he won the 2020 election against Joe Biden, federal court judges are rejecting some of his most controversial and potentially dangerous proposals.

In this episode of Lean to the Left, host Bob Gatty discusses the critical role of the courts as they block Trump's harmful policies, including the unfreezing of federal funds, the attempted end of birthright citizenship, and efforts to shut down websites that provide vital health information to the American people.

The episode also covers Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency and the judicial opposition it faced. The courts' actions underscore the importance of an independent judiciary in upholding the rule of law and protecting constitutional rights.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:20 Trump's Executive Order on Gender Issues

01:09 Federal Worker Buyout Controversy

01:50 Courtroom Showdown Over Federal Spending

02:22 Battle Over Birthright Citizenship

02:50 Elon Musk's DOGE and Treasury Access

04:13 Judicial Resistance and Broader Implications

04:28 Conclusion and Call to Action

About Bob Gatty

About Bob Gatty

A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

Please check out Bob's new book, Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness, now available on Amazon.com. Barnes & Noble and other outlets. Paperback: $11; Hardcover: $24. Digital version: $3.99. Here's a direct link: https://amzn.to/4eK8ghZ.

As we continue to explore pressing social issues, I encourage everyone to share their stories and experiences. Your voice matters!

DISCLAIMER: Some links in this description are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase through them, you won’t pay any extra – in fact, you may even save with a discount! Using these links helps support this channel, allowing us to keep providing free content to help you on your journey. Thank you for your support.