Championing Secular Schools, Progressive Candidates, and Community Action

Good News For Lefties (and America!) - Daily News for Democracy

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen delivers a refreshing roundup of stories that highlight progressive victories and community resilience across America. We kick off with a landmark decision from the U.S. Supreme Court, which has blocked the establishment of the nation’s first taxpayer-funded religious charter school, reinforcing the vital separation of church and state. This ruling upholds the Oklahoma Supreme Court’s stance that public funds should not support religious education, ensuring that public schools remain inclusive and secular.
Next, we celebrate a notable shift in Democratic politics as veteran strategist James Carville expresses support for Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, should she run for president in 2028. This endorsement reflects a growing recognition within the party of the need for bold, progressive leadership that resonates with the base and addresses the pressing issues of our time.
In Brooklyn, Democrats achieved a stunning victory as Sam Sutton won a special election for New York State Senate District 22, a seat previously dominated by Republicans. Sutton’s win underscores the power of community-driven leadership and progressive policies, demonstrating that voters are ready to embrace change even in traditionally conservative areas.
We also highlight environmental activist Emma Dendler, who is creatively mobilizing grassroots action by encouraging people to transform everyday trash into postcards addressed to politicians. Her initiative not only promotes environmental awareness but also empowers citizens to make their voices heard in the political arena.
Listeners will be inspired by a vibrant Day of Drag protest at the University of Texas, where students rallied for free expression and LGBTQ rights in response to a newly enacted ban on drag performances. This powerful display of solidarity showcases the determination of young activists to protect diversity and inclusion on campus.
Finally, we share exciting news from New York, where over 8 million residents are set to receive direct inflation refund checks as part of a groundbreaking initiative from Governor Kathy Hochul. This program aims to alleviate the financial burden on families while promoting economic justice and affordability.
Join us for this uplifting episode filled with stories of hope, resilience, and the power of community action!
This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/Lefties

If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at [email protected]
You can find out more about GNFL's daily news stories here:
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/22/supreme-court-religious-charter-schools-ruling

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5310861-carville-suggests-support-ocasio-cortez-democratic-nominee/

https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/5310726-democrat-sam-sutton-wins-new-york-seat/

https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/postcards-from-trash-hack-recycling-politicians

https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2025/04/30/university-of-texas-students-protest-drag-ban-ut-system-austin/83344010007/

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/06/new-york-inflation-refund-checks-kathy-hochul

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If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties!

Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance.
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