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Copyright: © Beowulf Rochlen
In this episode of Good News for Lefties, we dive into some uplifting updates that are sure to brighten your day! A recent Fox News poll reveals that Donald Trump's approval ratings have hit a new low, with only 38% of Americans satisfied with his economic handling. Meanwhile, a federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to reconsider deportation protections for vulnerable young immigrants, ensuring their futures are not jeopardized.
Additionally, the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate Workers Union has overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike, highlighting the ongoing struggle for fair wages and benefits in academia. In a landmark decision, a bankruptcy judge has approved a $7.4 billion settlement to address the opioid crisis, holding Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family accountable.
We also share an inspiring story from Athens, Georgia, where every high school senior now has an investment portfolio, thanks to the Gifted Savings program, aimed at enhancing financial literacy among youth. Plus, Santa Fe City Council has raised its minimum wage to $17.50, becoming the first city to factor housing costs into future wage calculations.
Join us as we celebrate these victories and more, and remember to rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform to help spread the positivity!
Today's Stories:
Trump’s Handling of Economy Gets Lowest Mark of All Time in New Fox News Poll
Government ordered to resume deportation protection program for vulnerable immigrant youth
Penn graduate student union overwhelmingly authorizes strike as contract negotiations continue - The Daily Pennsylvanian
Sackler family, Purdue Pharma's $7.4B settlement plan wins bankruptcy judge's approval | Fierce Pharma
What if every teen graduated with $1K and an investment portfolio?
With new ordinance, Santa Fe becomes first city to tie minimum wage to rental costs | News | abqjournal.com
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A federal judge has ruled that Donald Trump’s deployment of more than 2,000 National Guard troops to police Washington. Federal prosecutors have moved to drop criminal charges against Marimar Martinez, a woman who was shot multiple times by a US Border Patrol agent last month in Chicago’s Brighton Park neighborhood. That and much more!
Join us as we celebrate these inspiring stories that remind us of the strength found in community and the ongoing fight for justice. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! Reach out to us at 202-656-6271 or via email at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
Today's stories:
https://www.commondreams.org/news/judge-halts-trump-dc-takeover
https://www.commondreams.org/news/marimar-martinez-charges-dropped
https://wnyt.com/top-stories/columbia-county-sheriffs-race-faces-two-law-enforcement-veterans/
https://www.idahopress.com/elections/ada/boiseans-pass-clean-water-and-open-space-levy-with-overwhelming-support/article_864c28c1-6361-4ef8-b148-47d8bab767dc.html
https://midhudsonnews.com/2025/11/05/dutchess-dems-win-big-across-the-county/
https://wisconsinexaminer.com/briefs/palmyra-officials-say-village-will-not-go-forward-with-ice-partnership/
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The “department of government efficiency” or DOGE has apparently been dissolved with eight months still remaining on its contract, ending a drawn-out campaign of invading federal agencies and firing thousands of federal workers.
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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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Good News for Lefties strives to shine a light on the positive developments shaping our democracy. In this episode, host Wendy King takes listeners through a series of uplifting stories that not only celebrate progress but also inspire change.
One of the most significant stories is the resignation of Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. Once a staunch supporter of former President Trump, Greene's departure marks a notable shift within the Republican Party. Her resignation, driven by a public fallout with Trump, highlights the complexities of loyalty in politics. Greene's assertion that "loyalty should be a 2 way street" resonates with many who feel that representatives should prioritize their constituents over party allegiance.
The episode also delves into California's bold proposal for a billionaires tax. This initiative, spearheaded by a health care workers union, seeks to impose a one-time 5% tax on the net worth of billionaires. With California housing costs skyrocketing, the tax aims to address economic disparities and generate funds for essential services such as Medicaid.
Listeners are also introduced to local election victories in Wichita and Georgetown. The election of new school board members in Wichita, who prioritize student success and community engagement, reflects a growing trend of local governance focusing on the needs of the people. In Georgetown, the election of Jay Doyle as the new mayor signals a shift towards addressing utility costs and job creation, highlighting how local politics can lead to meaningful change.
Furthermore, the episode addresses the important issue of corporate accountability in the housing market. Colorado and several other states are pursuing a settlement with GrayStar Management Services for allegedly inflating rent prices through collusion. This legal action underscores the importance of protecting renters and ensuring fair competition in the housing market.
Another story focuses on several congressional Democrats who filed police complaints over social media posts from President Trump calling for them to face arrest and even punishment by death after they advised U.S. service members on a video to defy illegal orders.
In a world where political tensions often dominate the headlines, Good News for Lefties reminds us of the power of community, resilience, and the ongoing fight for justice. By sharing these stories, Wendy King inspires listeners to engage with their communities and advocate for the changes they wish to see. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on the good news that deserves to be heard!
Story Links:
https://apnews.com/article/marjorie-taylor-green-congress-resigns-trump-maga-5f42d4893343babc8e87da1491a0de2b
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/the-california-campaign-to-introduce-a-first-of-its-kind-billionaire-s-tax/ar-AA1QnQLg?ocid=BingNewsVerp&cvid=550759d7fcd145d189db58b458615ceb&ei=5
https://thesunflower.com/101410/news/two-newcomers-win-wichita-school-board-seats-two-incumbents-stay
https://www.postandcourier.com/myrtle-beach/politics/georgetown-mayor-council-election-incumbents-fall-sc/article_8db3a934-d158-443a-9746-14f7d10f841b.html
https://www.cpr.org/2025/11/19/colorado-greystar-rent-inflation-lawsuit/
https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2025/11/21/congress/democrats-trump-sedition-police-complaint-00665862
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We speak with Daphna Ziman. She is an award-winning writer, film producer, and humanitarian recently honored by First Lady Jill Biden for her decades of advocacy for women and children. She’s the founder of Justice for Women, a national initiative dedicated to reforming how the legal system treats survivors of abuse and exploitation. is the founder of an organization called Children Uniting Nations (CUN).
Songs:
Daphna Ziman - IN YOUR EYES
Humanity
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In a world often filled with negativity, it's crucial to seek out and celebrate the stories that uplift and inspire us. In the latest episode of Good News for Lefties, host Wendy King shines a light on several significant developments that not only bring hope but also demonstrate the power of community activism and progressive change.
One of the standout stories comes from Connecticut, where state lawmakers have passed a groundbreaking bill that limits the actions of ICE enforcement at courthouses. This legislation prohibits state agencies from sharing personal information of residents, ensuring that immigrants can access the court system without fear of being targeted. This change is a monumental step towards protecting the rights of immigrants and ensuring their safety within the judicial system.
Next, we celebrate Erica Deuso, who made history by becoming Pennsylvania's first openly transgender mayor. Deuso's election is not just a victory for the LGBTQ+ community; it represents a broader shift towards inclusivity in political leadership. Her campaign focused on infrastructure and environmental resilience, proving that representation matters across various issues. As she stated, her victory serves as a reminder that everyone’s voice matters in the decision-making process.
Another great story shows how faces are changing in Kansas as voters in Wichita have now elected 2 new progressive women to their school board who promise change in the school system.
Also, a heartwarming story about a disabled sport coordinater at a rehab center who got together with his buddy who owns a off-road driving school and they created a new vehicle called a TRACKCHAIR. This clever all terrain wheelchair helps disabled people enjoy the great outdoors.
Additionally, we discuss the reversal of a book ban in Maryland schools, which highlights the importance of access to diverse literature for all students. The state school board's intervention marks a significant moment in the fight for educational freedom and reflects the community's desire for transparency and fairness in school policies.
Lastly, the transformation of the historic Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx into a community hub is a beacon of hope for urban development. With plans for affordable housing and community space, this project aims to revitalize the area while providing essential services to residents.
These stories remind us that change is possible when communities come together to advocate for justice and equality. Tune in to this episode for a dose of positivity and to learn how these developments are shaping a better future for all. Together, we can continue to spread good news and inspire others to take action for the causes they believe in.
Story Links:
https://ctmirror.org/2025/11/13/ct-legislature-special-session-immigration/
https://www.them.us/story/erica-deuso-elected-downington-pennsylvania-mayor-trans
https://thesunflower.com/101410/news/two-newcomers-win-wichita-school-board-seats-two-incumbents-stay
https://www.theguardian.com/world/ng-interactive/2025/nov/08/off-road-wheelchair-trackchair-hiking
https://www.thebanner.com/education/k-12-schools/harford-county-school-book-ban-reversal-YP6WTYZ3CBGTDHLL4XJMRVOULM/
https://www.timeout.com/newyork/news/this-historic-military-facility-in-the-bronx-will-transform-into-a-giant-event-venue-and-rec-center-110325
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Loses for ICE in court and possibly in Maryland as well as some lefty wins in the election this month you may not have heard about yet.
Join us as we celebrate these inspiring stories that remind us of the strength found in community and the ongoing fight for justice. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform! Reach out to us at 202-656-6271 or via email at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com.
https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-new-york-court-0fbeadb881da5a4c1a7e871784f09545
https://marylandmatters.org/2025/11/14/billl-to-ban-local-police-cooperation-with-ice-to-return-with-important-new-support/
https://www.11alive.com/article/news/politics/elections/democratic-socialist-kelsea-bond-atlanta-city-council-district-2-victory/85-9e2d9d18-b65a-4879-9001-32a146227cde
https://www.thecentersquare.com/north_carolina/article_271791b6-d87b-4c95-a682-9449814150e6.html
https://archive.ph/pnPNp#selection-697.0-697.220
https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/oyster-clam-shell-recycling-program-jersey-shore-coastal-reef/4300210/
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.
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