Stay ConnectedPositive, progressive news for democracy daily! Democrats, Leftists, liberals, and democratic socialists welcome. A respite from troubling headlines in difficult times. Sure, read the bad news, but then listen to us! Send good news tips to beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com or 202-656-6271
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Copyright: © Beowulf Rochlen
Livcor, a major property management company, has been ordered to pay $7 million to Oregon and eight other states for using software that artificially inflated rent prices. In Rhode Island, where new legislation has been passed to protect public libraries from restrictive digital licensing agreements that hinder access to ebooks.
Today's Stories:
Oregon reaches $7 million settlement with property management company for hiking rent prices | News From The States
Rhode Island joins multistate push to rein in e-book licensing costs for libraries | News From The States
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen delivers a series of uplifting stories that highlight significant victories for progressives and advocates of social justice. We start with a federal appeals court decision that blocks the Trump administration from cutting the workforce at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), ensuring the agency can continue its vital work in consumer protection.
Next, we celebrate a Democratic victory in a special election in Georgia, where banker Adrian White secured a narrow win, aided by the campaign efforts of Keisha Lance Bottoms. This win is a beacon of hope amid a challenging political landscape.In Portland, Oregon, the Sunshine Division has opened a new free food market designed to serve 100,000 households, providing a grocery store-like experience for families in need. This initiative reflects a growing commitment to addressing food insecurity in the community.
We also highlight the launch of commercial production of silicon solar cells by QCells in Georgia, marking a significant milestone in the U.S. solar supply chain and showcasing the country's commitment to renewable energy.
A listener-suggested story brings us to the world of theater, where Qween Jean has made history as the first openly trans woman to win a Tony Award for her costume design in "Cats," a moment celebrated for its impact on representation in the arts.
Finally, we discuss California's Tumbleweed Project, which has become the first major battery installation in the U.S. capable of discharging power for up to eight hours, a crucial advancement in clean energy storage.
Today's Stories:
Federal appeals court blocks CFPB job cuts
Democrat wins Gwinnett County-based state Senate special election after close call • Georgia Recorder
Look inside Sunshine Division’s new free food market in Slabtown, built to serve 100,000 households this year - oregonlive.com
New Qcells plant doubles current US capacity to make… | Canary Media
Costume Designer Qween Jean Becomes First Openly Trans Tony Award Winner
Pioneering grid battery nudges California closer to… | Canary Media
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In New York City, three congressional candidates endorsed by Mayor Zoran Mamdani triumphed in their primaries. A pivotal War Powers Resolution passed by the U.S. Senate, limiting President Trump's military authority regarding Iran, as four Republicans broke ranks to support the measure.
Mamdani-backed candidates sweep Democratic primaries in New York City | New York | The Guardian
US Senate passes war powers resolution challenging Trump’s Iran war authority | Donald Trump | The Guardian
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a refreshing dose of optimism amidst the daily barrage of negative headlines. We start with the latest approval ratings for Donald Trump, revealing a significant 66% disapproval rate among Americans, underscoring a potential shift in political sentiment as the nation gears up for future elections.
Moving to immigration policy, we celebrate the cancellation of plans for a massive detention center in Social Circle, Georgia, a decision made by the Department of Homeland Security that reflects a reversal of previous administration policies. This victory for local communities comes after widespread opposition to the proposed facility that would have strained resources and increased local tensions.
In tech news, Meta has removed a controversial face recognition feature from its AI app after public scrutiny, showcasing the power of consumer advocacy in holding tech giants accountable for privacy concerns.
Jersey City takes a bold stand by divesting from Citizens Bank due to its financial ties to private prison companies, reinforcing a commitment to social justice and immigrant rights. This unanimous city council decision marks a significant step towards ethical banking practices.
We also highlight a listener-suggested story about the defeat of freshman State Representative Luke Rankin in South Carolina, a pivotal moment reflecting the changing political landscape in the state.
Additionally, New York State has enacted a groundbreaking law requiring transparency in advertising that uses AI-generated performers, setting a precedent for ethical practices in the digital age.
Finally, we share encouraging news from the U.S. Supreme Court, which upheld a New York law allowing lawsuits against the gun industry, affirming the importance of public safety in gun sales.
Today's Stories:
Trump Job Approvals and The National Economy
Revolt in small Georgia town appears to ward off ICE detention center | Georgia | The Guardian
Meta Deletes Face-Recognition System From Its Smart Glasses App After WIRED Report | WIRED
Jersey City to Pull Millions From Bank Over ICE Detention Financing
State Rep. Luke Rankin loses reelection in Laurens County | The State
'Synthetic performers' in ads must be identified as AI as new New York law takes effect | AP News
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A significant ruling from a federal judge has dismissed the Department of Justice's lawsuit seeking Maryland's unredacted voter registration list, a move that further weakens Trump's efforts to obtain voter data. Ariana Grande launches the Brighter Days Ahead Foundation, which aims to support youth mental health, arts, education, and community initiatives.
DOJ now 0-9 in voter roll cases after Trump-appointed judge tosses its Maryland demand - Democracy Docket
Ariana Grande Launches Brighter Days Ahead Foundation
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen delivers a series of uplifting stories that shine a light on positive developments in the political landscape. We kick off with an NBC News poll revealing that independents favor Democratic control of Congress by a 12-point margin, signaling a shift in voter sentiment as the midterms approach. With Donald Trump's approval ratings faltering amidst rising gas prices and discontent over the war in Iran, the GOP finds itself in a precarious position.
Next, we celebrate a significant victory in Michigan as Attorney General Dana Nessel announces that ICE has abandoned plans to convert a Romulus warehouse into a large detention center, a decision praised for its positive impact on the local community.
In the race for Michigan's governor, progressive candidate Abdul El Sayed continues to gain momentum, polling ahead of his opponents and demonstrating strong support for Medicare for All among younger voters.
We also highlight Redemption Bank's innovative King Card debit card, designed to empower single mothers living in subsidized housing, providing them with the resources needed to break the cycle of poverty.
Additionally, a federal judge's ruling prevents the transfer of transgender women to men's prisons, marking a significant step forward for LGBTQ rights and protections.
Finally, we celebrate a Democratic victory in Lewiston, New York, where residents elected Dan Kota as mayor, signaling a shift in local governance and a commitment to community engagement.
Today's Stories:
Poll shows independents favor Democratic-controlled Congress
ICE scraps plans for Romulus detention center, AG says | News From The States
Surging in Michigan Senate Primary, El-Sayed Best Positioned to Beat Republican: Polls | Common Dreams
Black bank card program to help single mothers with children | AP News
Trump's anti-trans prison policy halted by court
Election 2026: Democrats sweep in Lewiston
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A significant ruling from a federal judge in Washington, D.C. has blocked the Department of Homeland Security from misusing its citizenship database to purge voter registration rolls. Unionized concessions workers at Target Field in Minneapolis, organize a historic one day strike, demanding fair wages and health insurance.
In blow to Trump, federal judge blocks DHS from using citizenship database to purge voters - Democracy Docket
Concessions workers strike at Target Field during Twins vs. Dodgers game | News From The States
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a series of inspiring stories that highlight resilience and progress in the face of adversity. We begin with the heartwarming news of Salah Sarsour, a prominent Muslim leader in Milwaukee, who has been ordered released by a federal judge after community support and legal advocacy underscored the importance of free speech in the fight for Palestinian rights. This ruling marks a significant victory for civil liberties.
Next, we discuss a landmark decision by the Washington State Supreme Court, which upheld the state's campaign finance laws and imposed a hefty fine on Meta for failing to disclose essential information about political advertisements. This ruling reinforces the importance of transparency in political funding, ensuring that voters have access to crucial information.
In California, a new bill aims to protect the role of human educators in the classroom amidst the rise of artificial intelligence. Senate Bill 928 mandates that only qualified human instructors can teach courses at California State Universities, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of personal connections in education.
We also share updates on the Department of Homeland Security's decision to sell off two large warehouse facilities in Pennsylvania, previously intended for detention centers. This move reflects a shift in immigration policy and a response to community concerns.
A listener-suggested story highlights the ongoing challenges faced by coal plants in Indiana, where federal mandates clash with operational realities, showcasing the transition to renewable energy sources.
Finally, we take you to Soulfire Farm in New York, where participants engage in hands-on farming experiences that reconnect them with ancestral agricultural practices, particularly for Black, Indigenous, and people of color. This initiative fosters healing relationships with the land and emphasizes the critical role of women in food production.
Today's Stories:
Salah Sarsour released from ICE detention after pressure from family, supporters, elected officials | News From The States
WA Supreme Court upholds $35M fine against Meta | The Seattle Times
New bill would mandate CSU courses be taught by humans | Sacramento Bee
ICE plans to offload Berks County and Schuylkill County warehouses, report says | News From The States
Indiana coal plant that Trump forced to stay open is… | Canary Media
Black Women Farmers Are Reclaiming the Land
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a landmark ruling from U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz in Minnesota dismissed multiple grand jury subpoenas issued by the Department of Justice targeting Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. In Center City Philadelphia, hotel workers at the Sheridan Philadelphia Downtown have initiated a strike, demanding fair wages and benefits in line with their unionized counterparts.
Today's Stories:
Federal judge quashes Trump DOJ subpoenas aimed at Minnesota's Tim Walz, Jacob Frey
Hotel workers in Center City go on strike amid World Cup, America 250 celebrations - 6abc Philadelphia
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a collection of uplifting stories that highlight significant strides for progressives and advocates of social justice. We kick off with the Cook Political Report's recent analysis showing a shift in seven House races toward Democrats, signaling a potential path for regaining control of the House in the upcoming elections. This shift reflects a changing political landscape as competition heats up in traditionally Republican-held districts.
Next, we discuss a pivotal decision by the United Auto Workers, who voted to amend their constitution to prohibit investments in Israel bonds, marking a significant shift in union politics and a commitment to international solidarity. This decision is expected to lead to a divestment of at least $400,000, showcasing the union's alignment with the growing support for Palestinian rights.
We also delve into the introduction of the Jawbone Act by Senators Ted Cruz and Ron Wyden, aimed at curbing government coercion against free speech on tech platforms. This bipartisan effort seeks to protect First Amendment rights and hold officials accountable for censorship attempts, garnering support from diverse advocacy groups.
In Minnesota, an innovative green ammonia production facility is set to revolutionize agriculture by utilizing wind energy to create a sustainable fertilizer alternative, demonstrating the state's commitment to clean energy and self-sufficiency.
Additionally, we highlight New Jersey's new bipartisan legislation requiring public schools to prominently display links for subsidized school meal applications, ensuring that families in need can access vital nutrition resources.
Lastly, Arizona is making strides to reduce wildlife vehicle collisions through dedicated funding for wildlife crossings, demonstrating a commitment to both safety and environmental conservation.
Today's Stories:
Cook Political Report shifts 7 House races toward Democrats
UAW votes to divest from Israel bonds
Ted Cruz and Ron Wyden try to fight censorship with bipartisan JAWBONE Act - Ars Technica
Minnesota now has a wind-powered green ammonia plant | Canary Media
Gov. Sherrill signs law to boost subsidized school meal participation | News From The States
Arizona is building its 27th wildlife crossing
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