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Copyright: © Beowulf Rochlen
Kash Patel may be on the way out at the FBI. Plus, people supporting immigrants in a year of ICE raids and a firing in the soup industry.
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King shines a light on stories that inspire hope and action among progressives, liberals, and all those striving for a better future.
The episode kicks off with a significant legal victory as Judge Tanya Chutkin orders an expedited process for the release of Epstein files, following a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit by Democracy Forward. This case not only highlights the importance of government transparency but also scrutinizes the administration's credibility and accountability.
Next, we travel to Iowa City, where the city council's decision to eliminate bus fares has transformed public transportation. The two-year pilot program has proven so successful that it is being extended, resulting in increased ridership and decreased emissions. This initiative serves as a model for other cities considering similar measures to promote sustainable transit options.
The episode also addresses a pressing issue: medical debt. In Nevada, a coalition has successfully partnered with Undue Medical Debt to forgive $133 million in medical bills, providing much-needed relief to struggling families. This story underscores the ongoing battle against healthcare costs and the importance of community support in tackling such burdens.
Calvin Duncan's inspiring journey from wrongful conviction to becoming the city’s chief criminal court record keeper is another highlight. His election victory demonstrates resilience and the power of fighting for justice, serving as a beacon of hope for those who have faced similar injustices.
Additionally, the episode discusses a coalition's efforts to challenge the Trump administration's attempts to dismantle the Department of Education. This ongoing legal battle emphasizes the significance of maintaining robust educational policies that serve all students effectively.
Finally, we celebrate National Secondhand Sunday, encouraging listeners to embrace secondhand gifting as a sustainable and community-focused practice during the holiday season. This initiative not only supports local economies but also promotes environmental sustainability.
Join us as we explore these inspiring stories that remind us of the power of collective action and the importance of staying informed and engaged in our communities. Together, we can continue to spread positivity and work towards a brighter future for all.
Story Links:
https://www.newsweek.com/judge-chutkan-orders-expedited-process-epstein-files-11105315
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/18/climate/iowa-city-free-buses.html?unlocked_article_code=1.2k8.I246.DbjQFRMnmFDL&smid=url-share&ck_subscriber_id=2496857656&utm_source=convertkit&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The%20Disney%20Imagineers%E2%80%99%20next%20project%20-%2019777348
https://nevadacurrent.com/2025/11/26/latino-civic-group-partners-with-nonprofit-to-buy-down-medical-debt-for-128000-nevadans/
https://penncapital-star.com/2025/11/26/repub/suit-to-block-education-department-closure-expanded-amid-agency-transfers-plans/
https://apnews.com/article/new-orleans-clerk-calvin-duncan-dc0ca1c86bcc313b4e5af43ed623fa15?link_source=ta_thread_link&taid=691a49f10204a30001653495&utm_campaign=TrueAnthem&utm_medium=AP&utm_source=Threads#
https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-secondhand-sunday-sunday-after-thanksgiving
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Amanda Jones has been an educator for 22 years and is the President of the Louisiana Association of School Librarians. She was the 2021 School Library Journal Co-Librarian of the Year, 2021 Library Journal Mover & Shaker, and 2020 Louisiana School Librarian of the Year. She co-founded the Livingston Parish Library Alliance to defeat censorship attempts in her community. She is the author of the memoir, "That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America."
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King takes us on an inspiring journey through diverse stories that uplift and empower.
One of the most compelling stories discussed is the resignation of Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, which has exposed deeper fractures within the GOP. As reported by Punchbowl News, many Republican representatives are feeling disrespected and sidelined, leading to a wave of potential resignations before the midterms. This situation serves as a wake-up call for GOP leadership, illustrating that the party's internal discord may have serious implications for their future.
The episode also covers a unique protest led by the National Day Laborer Organizing Network at Home Depot. In an effort to stand against the increased presence of ICE at their stores, participants bought and immediately returned 17-cent ice scrapers, creating chaos at the registers. This bold action sends a clear message about the importance of community solidarity and the fight for immigrant rights.
Wendy shares the inspiring work being done by Free Rent, a nonprofit in Atlanta that provides rental assistance to families facing housing instability. Their grant program aims to cover a year's worth of rent for eligible families, helping them achieve financial stability during tough times. This initiative exemplifies the power of community support and the importance of helping those in need.
Additionally, the episode discusses a significant lawsuit filed by Oregon's Attorney General to restore a Coast Guard helicopter that was removed from the Newport Air facility. This helicopter is crucial for search and rescue operations along the dangerous Oregon coast, and its removal has raised serious safety concerns. The community's united front in this legal battle underscores the importance of advocacy and standing up for essential services.
Also, she covers an important story for peace and civility worldwide. Pope Leo has denounced the misuse of religion for ‘justifying’ war, violence or fanaticism. The pontiff has called on worshippers to enable “dialogue and cooperation” between different communities and see the humanity in others.
Lastly, Wendy touches on the importance of supporting small businesses during the holiday season, highlighting a campaign encouraging shoppers to pay in cash to help offset credit card processing fees. This grassroots effort not only supports local businesses but also fosters a sense of community resilience.
Overall, this episode is a powerful reminder that amidst the challenges we face, there are countless stories of hope, activism, and positive change. Tune in to Good News for Lefties for your dose of optimism and to learn how you can be part of the movement for a better future.
Story Links:
https://newrepublic.com/post/203596/house-republican-more-explosive-resignations-coming-marjorie-taylor-greene
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/ice-protest-home-depot-california
https://www.blackenterprise.com/free-rent-atlanta-nonprofit-reopens-grant-program/
https://www.doj.state.or.us/media-home/news-media-releases/ag-rayfield-announces-lawsuit-to-return-newports-search-and-rescue-helicopter/
https://www.cnn.com/2025/11/26/middleeast/pope-leo-turkey-lebanon-first-trip-intl-cmd
https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/personalfinance/2025/11/27/cash-small-business-saturday-texas/87466353007/
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States talk withholding taxes, the Nevada Supreme Court moves towards justice, furnaces become more efficient, and North Carolina resists.
Email good news to bepowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com or message it to 202-656-6271.
Today's stories:
https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/new-jersey-may-stop-paying-federal-taxes-under-new-governor/ar-AA1QUF33
https://www.politico.com/news/2025/11/13/nevada-supreme-court-2020-fake-electors-00651642?ceid=24376453&emci=52057389-b2c1-f011-8196-6045bdfe8e9c&emdi=7cb965aa-b2c1-f011-8196-6045bdfe8e9c
https://apnews.com/article/kansas-newspaper-raid-press-freedom-c18f46a215908198335ca6f608c3360b?emci=52057389-b2c1-f011-8196-6045bdfe8e9c&emdi=7cb965aa-b2c1-f011-8196-6045bdfe8e9c&ceid=24376453
https://appliance-standards.org/document/court-upholds-furnace-efficiency-standards-set-cut-household-bills
https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/charlotte-north-carolina-ice-church
https://www.ijpr.org/education/2025-11-19/oregon-colleges-say-no-to-trump-administration-higher-ed-compact
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we highlight some significant shifts in the political landscape and community initiatives that are making waves for positive change! A recent Pew Research Center report reveals that a strong majority of Latinos now disapprove of Donald Trump's economic and immigration policies, marking a notable shift in voter sentiment since the 2024 election. This change comes as Trump’s earlier support among Latino voters dwindles in light of his administration's controversial decisions.
In a groundbreaking move, the Los Angeles City Council has overhauled its rent control rules, significantly lowering the annual rent increases for tenants in one of the nation's priciest cities. This decision is a victory for tenant organizers and reflects a growing national focus on housing affordability, especially as cities like New York also see progressive leadership changes aimed at tackling housing issues.
We also discuss the latest in Trump's legal challenges, as a federal appeals court dismisses his defamation lawsuit against CNN, affirming the protection of free speech in political discourse. Meanwhile, in Maryland, a school board has reversed a controversial book ban, reinforcing the importance of access to diverse literature for students.
Listeners will also hear about an exciting clean energy initiative in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where a historic cogeneration station is transforming into a clean district energy system, promising to deliver sustainable heating throughout the city.
Finally, we celebrate Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's annual turkey distribution event, which has expanded to feed even more families in need this Thanksgiving season, showcasing the power of community support.
Join us as we delve into these uplifting stories and their implications for our society. Don’t forget to rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform to help spread the good news!
Today's Stories:
Majority of Latino voters disapprove of Trump, Pew study finds | Donald Trump | The Guardian
Los Angeles limits rent hikes in historic vote - POLITICO
Trump’s Defamation Case Against CNN Falls Flat
In first for state, Maryland’s school board reverses Harford County’s book ban - The Baltimore Banner
Boston’s century-old steam heat system is getting a… | Canary Media
AOC donates 1,600 Thanksgiving turkeys in New York
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In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we explore a range of uplifting stories that shine a light on the resilience of communities and the ongoing fight for justice. A new transparency feature on Twitter has revealed that many influential figures in the MAGA movement are actually based outside the U.S., raising questions about authenticity in political discourse. Meanwhile, Donald Trump's approval ratings continue to plummet, with voters expressing dissatisfaction with his economic management as we approach the 2026 midterm elections.
In positive news, faculty members at Harrisburg Area Community College have approved a tentative agreement that includes raises and back pay, averting a potential strike. Additionally, Democrat Maureen Rowan has made history by winning her race for State Assembly in New Jersey, becoming the first Democratic woman to represent Atlantic County in the Legislature.
We also highlight the remarkable efforts of Patagonia, which has restructured to allocate a significant portion of its profits to combat climate change, and the innovative Justice Bus in Oregon, providing legal assistance to those in need. Finally, we celebrate the grassroots Adopt a Ranger campaign, which connects furloughed National Park rangers with community support during tough times.
Join us as we reflect on these inspiring stories and their implications for our communities. Don’t forget to rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform to help spread the good news!
Today's Stories:
Many prominent Maga personalities on X are based outside US, new tool reveals | US politics | The Guardian
7 polls that show Donald Trump in deep trouble - Newsweek
Faculty union approves contract agreement with HACC
Democrat Maureen Rowan ousts GOP lawmaker in Atlantic County district - New Jersey Globe
Three years in, Patagonia says its radical ownership model is paying off for the planet - Fast Company
'The Fifth Amendment does not take a vacation day': Justice Bus puts justice on wheels throughout Oregon
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