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Copyright: © Beowulf Rochlen
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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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King brings you a collection of inspiring stories that highlight the ongoing fight for justice and equity in America.
We kick things off with the latest developments surrounding billionaire Leon Black, who faces subpoenas from Congress as they investigate his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and the troubling non-disclosure agreements associated with his dealings. The pressure is mounting for transparency, as Congressman James Comer emphasizes the importance of understanding these agreements in the context of Epstein's victims.
Next, we turn our attention to a pressing issue highlighted by the United Nations, which is calling for independent investigations into the deaths of individuals in U.S. immigration custody. With 19 deaths reported this year alone, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights stresses the need for accountability and justice for the victims' families.
Moving forward, we celebrate the efforts of Congressional Democrats, led by Senator Chris Murphy, who are advocating for the Living Wage for All Act. This groundbreaking legislation aims to raise the federal minimum wage to $25 an hour, ensuring that all workers can afford a decent living. Murphy's statement resonates with the struggles of working families, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change in wage policies across the nation.
We also shine a light on the impactful work of Union del Barrio, a community organization in San Diego that has been conducting neighborhood patrols to protect immigrant communities from aggressive federal enforcement actions. Their commitment to documenting federal violence and supporting vulnerable families serves as a powerful reminder of grassroots activism in the face of adversity.
Next, we share a heartwarming story from the Florida Aquarium, where a sea turtle named Dark Blue Yellow is on the road to recovery after suffering severe injuries from a boat strike. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of veterinarians and wildlife specialists, this turtle is set to return to the ocean, embodying hope for marine life and the importance of conservation.
We conclude with the exciting news that the Darlington African American Museum in South Carolina has broken ground on a new facility, aimed at preserving and celebrating the rich history of Black South Carolinians. This cultural hub promises to be a vital resource for education and community engagement.
Today's Stories:
Leon Black subpoenaed by Congress in Epstein investigation | CBS News
UN calls for investigations into US immigration deaths | Reuters
Senator Murphy introduces Living Wage for All Act | Midas News
Union del Barrio's community patrols in San Diego | Bolts Magazine
Florida Aquarium's success with sea turtle recovery | GoodGoodGood
Darlington African American Museum breaks ground on new facility | WMBF
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
In this week's episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen takes you on a global journey, uncovering inspiring stories that showcase progress and positivity. We start with a significant ruling from Brazil's Supreme Court, sentencing Eduardo Bolsonaro to over four years in prison for attempting to solicit U.S. interference in his father's coup trial. This marks a pivotal moment in Brazil's political landscape as the former president faces justice for his actions.
Next, we celebrate a historic achievement in Denmark, where Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has unveiled a new cabinet with 52% female representation, a first for the Nordic nation. This milestone reflects Denmark's commitment to gender parity in leadership roles, aligning with its progressive values.
Turning to Nigeria, we highlight the passage of a groundbreaking wildlife legislation aimed at combating illegal trafficking and protecting endangered species. This new law strengthens the country's commitment to international conservation efforts, ensuring better enforcement and clarity in wildlife protection.
In Papua New Guinea, plans have been revealed to protect 200,000 square kilometers of ocean waters from destructive activities, establishing a marine protected area that underscores the nation's dedication to ocean conservation.
We also discuss the impressive growth of electric vehicle sales globally, with a record 28% of new cars sold this year being battery powered, contrasting sharply with the U.S. market's slower adoption rate. Countries across Asia, particularly China, are leading the charge in EV sales, showcasing the potential for a cleaner future.
Finally, France has announced the creation of seven new biological reserves, expanding protections for thousands of hectares of forest as part of its commitment to biodiversity and ecological preservation.
This Weeks Stories:
Jair Bolsonaro’s son sentenced to four years in jail for seeking US interference in father’s Brazil coup trial | Jair Bolsonaro | The Guardian
Women Take Majority of Cabinet Seats in First for Denmark | Financial Post
Nigeria aims for stronger wildlife protections with sweeping new law
Electric cars are starting to take over the world | Canary Media
Thai island community rallies to protect beloved dugongs, revive declining seagrass
France adds 157,000 hectares of protected forest as nature preserves face pressure elsewhere | Euronews
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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 for a lively discussion about the latest developments in book banning and censorship. Kicking off with exciting news from Massachusetts, we celebrate the state House's overwhelming approval of a bill designed to protect public and school libraries from the rising tide of book bans. With a vote of 153 to 3, this legislation empowers school library professionals to determine age-appropriate materials based on their expertise, not personal beliefs, ensuring that young readers have access to a diverse range of books.
We delve into the specifics of the bill, which includes a robust review process for challenged materials, ensuring transparency and accountability in the fight against censorship. As Beowulf shares insights on the importance of librarians in this battle, he also highlights the need for solid procedures and good people to uphold these vital protections.
Join us for this engaging conversation that blends humor with critical issues surrounding freedom of expression and access to literature.
Don't forget to check out the Banned Camp podcast for more fun discussions on banned books!
bannedcamppodcast.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 Wendy King brings you a collection of inspiring stories that shine a light on progress and justice.
We begin with a significant court ruling demanding the Justice Department release unredacted documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, ensuring accountability in the face of redactions that have hindered transparency. This pivotal decision follows a lawsuit by journalist Katie Phang, who highlights the importance of access to information for accurate reporting.
Next, we turn to Michigan, where a proposed law aims to establish a "right to disconnect," preventing employers from contacting employees outside normal working hours. This initiative, championed by Senator Erika Geiss, seeks to promote work-life balance and respect employee boundaries, setting a precedent for workplace rights.
In education news, Forsyth Technical Community College announces its commitment to making college affordable through the new Workforce Pell program, which expands federal grants to cover non-degree job training programs. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap for lower-income learners and address the rising skepticism surrounding the value of higher education.
We also cover the closure of the controversial "Alligator Alcatraz" immigration detention center in Florida, a facility criticized for its inhumane conditions. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared its purpose fulfilled, but advocates stress the need for continued accountability and humane treatment for detainees.
Then, we celebrate a listener-suggested story about the defeat of a discriminatory bathroom bill in New Hampshire, thanks to Governor Kelly Ayotte's veto. This marks a significant win for LGBTQ rights, as advocates continue to push back against regressive legislation.
Finally, we celebrate the creative resilience of communities in Florida and Texas, where residents have found innovative ways to promote LGBTQ visibility despite recent government orders to remove pride-themed street art. From rainbow bike racks to colorful streetlight decorations in El Paso, these grassroots efforts exemplify the spirit of pride and community support.
Today's Stories:
Judge orders Justice Department to release Epstein documents | CBS News
Michigan Senate considers 'right to disconnect' bill | Detroit News
Forsyth Tech offers free college under new Workforce Pell program | Hechinger Report
Closure of 'Alligator Alcatraz' detention center announced | PBS
New Hampshire Governor vetoes transgender bathroom bill | News From The States
Communities push back against removal of pride art in Texas/ Good Good Good
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