The Struggle For Real Religious Freedom: A Talk With Andrew Seidel Secular Left podcast

38:24

We're calling out the blatant hypocrisy of Congressman Bob Latta and the GOP's latest con: rebranding Trump's tax cuts. They're trying to sell you a "Working Family Tax Cut," but the truth is, it's a handout to the rich that guts vital programs like Medicaid and SNAP. We'll expose how they're twisting the truth, even when the polls show that most people—including Republicans—aren't buying it. Are you ready to see through the smoke and mirrors? Then, we're turning the spotlight on the dangerous game of putting questionable characters in charge of our health. We're talking about Robert Kennedy Jr. and his anti-vax agenda. We'll look at the consequences of promoting conspiracy theories and the very real threat of diseases making a comeback. Finally we'll expose a shocking betrayal: an Ohio Union Council endorsing Vivek Ramaswamy, a self-proclaimed "tech bro" whose party has a history of stomping on workers' rights. Get ready to have your mind blown! This episode is your wake-up call. Are you ready to listen? Full show notes and links used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

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The Vanishing Voice of Liberty: Where Did the Libertarians Go? 31:35

28 days ago31:35

31:35

We plunge headfirst into the alarming surge of authoritarianism gripping society, pointedly highlighting the conspicuous silence of self-proclaimed libertarians in the face of blatant governmental overreach. As federal troops patrol urban communities, we question the deafening quiet from those who ostensibly champion individual freedoms and civil liberties. It is perplexing to see libertarian support for figures like Donald Trump, whose policies have often expanded, rather than curtailed, governmental powers. It is argued that libertarians have seemingly abandoned their core principles in favor of populist sentiments, failing to uphold the traditional pillars of liberty amidst shifting political alliances. We also dissect the controversial figure of Representative Jim Jordan, scrutinizing his role in defending individuals with deeply troubling pasts, including the recently spotlighted case of Ghislaine Maxwell. We expose the profound irony of Jordan advocating for a known sex trafficker, especially given his own historical allegations of turning a blind eye to sexual abuse during his tenure as a wrestling coach. This stark juxtaposition not only dismantles the credibility of his narrative but also ignites serious questions about accountability and integrity within the highest echelons of political discourse. Further unsettling revelations emerge with the spotlight on LifeWise Academy, a Christian nationalist initiative that has amassed a staggering $35 million in donations. The operation is unflinchingly likened to a pyramid scheme, where local communities bear the brunt while the organization reaps substantial profits from their efforts. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

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Politicians and MAHA Influencers: Masters of Science Misinformation 35:07

7 weeks ago35:07

35:07

Congressman Mike Flood's recent town hall, promoting Medicaid work requirements, wasn't just a political event; it was a microcosm of the war on facts. Flood, while commendable for engaging directly with constituents, peddled a narrative devoid of scientific backing, painting a picture of able-bodied individuals leeching off the system. This blatant disregard for the reality that many Medicaid recipients are already working multiple jobs, juggling financial precarity and healthcare needs, is a dangerous form of political theater, designed to scapegoat the vulnerable and further erode the social safety net. The performative outrage surrounding Medicaid conveniently ignores the complexities of healthcare access in America. Flood's arguments, echoing a chorus of conservative voices, rely on a simplistic, misleading narrative that conveniently ignores the data. Organizations like the Kaiser Family Foundation have repeatedly debunked the myth of the 'lazy' Medicaid recipient, showcasing the reality of individuals struggling to balance work, family, and debilitating health conditions. Flood's town hall, rather than a genuine attempt at policy discussion, served as a platform for disseminating misinformation and fueling divisive rhetoric. Dr. Jessica Nurick's counterpoint provides a crucial antidote to this manufactured outrage. Her work dismantling health misinformation, whether tackling the manipulative narratives of social media influencers or clarifying the science behind nutrition and funding, is a beacon of reason in a sea of manufactured controversy. The attacks on evidence-based science, exemplified by Flood's rhetoric, are not merely political; they are an assault on public health. By highlighting the dangers of relying on simplistic narratives and embracing evidence-based policymaking, Dr. Nurick offers a vital path towards a more informed and equitable healthcare system. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

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Donald Trump Is A Pedophile - Allegedly 34:37

9 weeks ago34:37

34:37

The walls are closing in on Trump, and the Epstein files are the wrecking ball. The longer he hides those documents, the deeper he sinks into the muck of child sex abuse allegations. It's a delicious irony, isn't it? The self-proclaimed anti-establishment champion brought down by his own shadow. This isn't just a political scandal; it's a Shakespearean tragedy unfolding in real time. Conservative leaders preaching morality while secretly indulging in depravity? Shocking? Not really. It's a pattern as old as time. These so-called moral guardians are nothing but a pack of wolves in sheep's clothing, their public piety a thin veil over their private perversions. Their hypocrisy is so blatant it's practically a neon sign flashing: 'LIAR!' Their outrage over other people's sins is nothing but projection. They're terrified of being exposed. Finally, the debate with Mehdi Hassan was a train wreck of epic proportions. Watching far-right conservatives, some openly embracing Nazi ideology, throw their support behind Trump was like watching democracy die a slow, agonizing death. The casual disregard for the Constitution, the gleeful embrace of authoritarianism – it was horrifying. One guy actually said he didn't care about the Constitution if it meant supporting Trump. The applause that followed was the sound of American ideals crumbling to dust. This isn't a fringe group; this is the face of modern conservatism. And it's terrifying. Full show notes and links used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
The God of the Upside Down: Weaponizing Faith to Starve the Poor and Steal Our Rights 44:26

11 weeks ago44:26

44:26

This isn't about policy; it's about power. A cabinet secretary's casual suggestion to replace deported farm-workers with able-bodied Medicaid recipients is a chilling glimpse into a heartless agenda. This isn't just incompetence; it's cruelty dressed up as a solution. They expect the poor to pick up the slack created by their own inhumane policies. It's a sick joke, and it's a blatant disregard for human dignity. But it's not just about cheap labor. It's about dismantling the social safety net, brick by brick. Christian nationalists are using their influence to exploit loopholes and undermine the Johnson Amendment. They're trying to transform churches into political action committees, blurring the lines between faith and fascism. Pastor Ralph Drollinger, the so-called spiritual advisor to Congress, is preaching a gospel of poverty as punishment. His twisted interpretation of scripture justifies starving the poor to line the pockets of the wealthy. And who benefits from this? The rich, of course. Tax cuts for the wealthy are their holy grail, even if it means sacrificing the vulnerable to the altar of greed. They're betting that you'll be too distracted by culture wars to notice them looting the treasury. They're selling you a snake oil solution to a problem they created. Don't fall for it. This isn't about economics; it's about a systematic dismantling of compassion and justice. It's time to fight back before it's too late. Full Show Notes and Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

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1
Trump's Religious Liberty Commission: An Obvious Trojan Horse for Christian Supremacy 42:25

13 weeks ago42:25

42:25

The so-called "Religious Liberty Commission," born under Trump, isn't about freedom; it's a brazen power grab cloaked in piety. This Washington D.C. gathering, a veritable who's who of the Christian right, from Dan Patrick to Dr. Phil (?), convened to lament America's perceived lack of Christianity. But behind the hand-wringing, a sinister agenda brews: to enforce a Christian nationalist vision, silencing dissent and rewriting the rules to their liking. This episode rips the mask off this charade, exposing the commission's blatant disregard for anyone outside their narrow religious circle. Witnesses like Fish Stark and Rachel Laser reveal a rhetoric of conspiracy and persecution, as these self-proclaimed victims twist reality to fit their narrative. We see this play out in Ohio, where the Center for Christian Virtue pushes a budget that betrays true Christian values, slashing funds for the vulnerable while advancing an anti-abortion crusade. From Ohio's voucher programs to Tennessee's assault on trans youth healthcare, the episode lays bare the consequences of weaponized religious fervor. It's a fight for the soul of America, a battle against those who would twist religious freedom into a tool of oppression. This isn't about faith; it's about control, and it's time we call it what it is. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

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Revenge on California: How Personal Grievances Creates Policy 40:48

15 weeks ago40:48

40:48

We start with Doug's past as a member of the College Republicans, a segment of his life that seems almost distant now but also eerily relevant to the political climate we face today. His college experience at Ohio State in the mid-'80s was marked by a growing awareness of the discrepancies in the political narrative he had been raised with. Doug recounts how the rising tide of conservatism he once embraced began to clash with the realities he encountered—especially when it came to grappling with issues of race, free speech, and the responsibility of politicians towards their constituents. Then we examine the current political theater in Los Angeles, where President Trump's administration has been deploying the National Guard to suppress protests—despite local law enforcement asserting that the situation was under control. This aggressive response is less about maintaining order and more about sending a message, punishing California for its dissent against Trump's dictatorial tendencies. The reckless display of power raises critical concerns about a government that no longer feels the need to ask for cooperation but rather demands compliance. Digging deeper into the issue of immigration enforcement, we highlight the detrimental impact of ICE’s recent actions in Los Angeles, a situation that reflects a broader pattern of racial profiling and abuse of power. The targeting of undocumented workers not only perpetuates a cycle of fear but also threatens the very fabric of our economy, as these individuals contribute significantly to industries that many Americans overlook. Local economies are disrupted, and the communities that rely on these workers suffer as well. We draw parallels between my college disillusionment and the current political landscape, where the values we once accepted are now recognized as harmful to the principles of justice and equity. Through personal anecdotes and current events, we emphasize the importance of free speech and peaceful protest, recalling a significant moment during Doug's college years when a counter-protester challenged a political figure's narrative. It served as a crucial reminder of the necessity for dissent in a democracy, a point that resonates strongly with the protests happening in response to Trump's actions today. We must resist the toxic mix of nationalism and authoritarianism that has taken root in our political discourse. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

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Biden’s Mind, Tapper’s Goldmine: The Ethical Collapse of Election-Year Journalism 40:51

17 weeks ago40:51

40:51

In this episode, we look at the State of Utah’s Health Department-commissioned review, which confirmed the safety and mental health benefits of gender-affirming treatments for youth. Despite its clear findings, the review was dismissed by lawmakers determined to uphold a state ban, highlighting a disturbing political hypocrisy. This resistance to science in favor of ideological control exposes a deeper moral failure among those in power who choose to ignore expert guidance to further political ends. On the national political stage, we analyze the 2024 election and President Biden’s decision to endorse Kamala Harris. The media's fixation on Biden’s mental fitness, as detailed in Jake Tapper’s book, reflects a shallow narrative more interested in spectacle than substance. We critique the media’s failure to prioritize pressing issues—like civil rights and healthcare—in favor of sensationalist coverage about President Biden while President Trump has escaped the same kind of drum beat over his mental issues. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
Dark Money, Divine Lies: The Right-Wing Plot to Kill Democracy and Public Schools 30:30

19 weeks ago30:30

30:30

We start by focusing on the ongoing debate around school vouchers in Ohio, particularly as the state legislature is poised to debate the new budget bill, which proposes cuts to public school funding while simultaneously increasing financial support for private institutions. We clarify how these so-called "scholarships" are essentially vouchers that funnel taxpayer dollars into private religious schools, often in direct violation of the constitutional separation of church and state. Currently, despite 90% of students attending public schools, nearly $900 million has been funneled into private school vouchers, highlighting a bizarre funding disparity that raises questions about equity and accountability. There are stark statistics illustrating that the majority of voucher funds benefit families already enrolled in private institutions. This misleading premise of "school choice" is particularly concerning for low-income families and those in rural areas, where no private options are available. Then we look at the ramifications of the 2010 Citizens United Supreme Court decision, elucidating how it has contributed to the erosion of our democracy and facilitated the ascent of figures like Donald Trump. The decision has fundamentally altered campaign finance laws, allowing unlimited corporate spending in elections, which has skewed the political landscape in favor of wealthy interests and diluted the voices of the average citizen. We discuss the broader implications of campaign finance reforms, the necessity for rigorous regulations to ensure that the influence of money doesn't overshadow the democratic process. We advocate for constitutional amendments that clarify the rights of corporations versus individuals to establish a fairer electoral landscape. Full Show Notes & Links Used Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
The 100 Day (so far) Trump Dumpster Fire 33:05

21 weeks ago33:05

33:05

We start this episode by discussing the ongoing controversy surrounding Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) in Ohio, spearheaded by LifeWise Academy. This initiative allows public school students to leave school for religious education in the middle of the day, exploiting legal loopholes to introduce religious content into public education. As part of my advocacy against these policies, we expose the tactics being employed by LifeWise representatives, including aggressive legal threats aimed at school districts adopting more cautious policies, particularly concerning promotional materials like treats and trinkets that facilitate recruitment into their programs. Then we do an analysis of President Donald J. Trump's approval ratings after his first 100 days in office during his second administration. We provide insights into how these ratings can serve as a barometer for his political effectiveness, drawing comparisons with historical figures and past administrations. The consensus is clear—Trump's numbers are significantly underwater, reflecting dissatisfaction across multiple demographics and even within core support bases. We assess what Trump's low approval ratings mean for the Republican Party and democracy at large. By drawing parallels with Trump's past actions and the historical context of his presidency, we convey a sense of urgency regarding the potential consequences of his policies and rhetoric. Recent protests against his administration's immigration policies highlight the public’s growing discontent and the strategic missteps that may lead to political upheaval. We conclude with a sobering reflection on the tumultuous first 100 days of Trump's presidency and provide a call to action for listeners to engage with their political communities actively while remaining informed. Full Show Notes & Links Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
Cradle Seculars & Cultural Shifts: A Deep Dive with Dr. Juhem Navarro-Rivera 48:23

23 weeks ago48:23

48:23

We mark the 100th episode of Secular Left with a reading from the show manifesto that was read in Episode 1 in April 2020. We highlight its birth during a tumultuous time marked by political uncertainty and a public health crisis. The initial goal was to provide a platform to voice critical perspectives against the tide of misinformation and extreme conservatism proliferating in mainstream discourse, especially during the latter stages of the 1st Trump administration. We also revisit memorable moments throughout the first episodes, like the establishment of our guiding manifesto, which articulates our commitment to progressive values and the importance of secularism in navigating social issues. Our guest is Dr. Juhem Navarro-Rivera, Political scientist and partner at Socialanalitica Research, who walks us through the latest Pew Research Religious Landscape Survey. He sheds light on the trends reflected in the Pew survey, most notably the rise of what he terms "cradle seculars." This demographic, comprised of individuals raised without religious affiliation who remain non-religious into adulthood, is growing at an unprecedented rate. The survey indicates an impressive upward trajectory: from 16% of the population identifying as secular in 2007 to nearly 29% in 2024. This surge challenges long-standing assumptions about religious identity, suggesting that many young people are increasingly less likely to return to religious practices as they age. Delving into methodological considerations, Dr. Navarro-Rivera discusses the shift from telephone surveys to more inclusive methods incorporating online and paper formats. This change may have important implications for survey responses, particularly concerning sensitive topics like religious affiliation. We explore the effect of social stigma on reporting non-religious identities, emphasizing the need for transparency in polling methodologies to achieve more accurate insights. As we unpack the nuances of the survey, our guest emphasizes the significance of understanding the growing secular identity not merely in terms of percentages but as a profound cultural shift representing approximately 76 million individuals in the U.S. We examine the evolving landscape of religious affiliation, noting a decline in Christian identification among younger demographics, and discuss how these trends can inform strategies for fostering secular communities that resonate with new generations. Full Show Notes & Links Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
We Said Farewell: Lessons from the Venezuelan Diaspora for Today’s America with Amanda Quintero Aguerrevere 29:31

25 weeks ago29:31

29:31

Amanda Quintero, an economist and author, is our guest and we explore her powerful new book, "We Said Farewell." Having left Venezuela during its tumultuous transition into authoritarianism, Amanda shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her collection of fictionalized short stories. The narratives stem from real experiences of her friends, illustrating the dire consequences of political oppression and the erosion of democratic values in Venezuela. Amanda wrote the novel with a desire to document the struggle for freedom and to counter the prevailing narratives that misrepresent the Venezuelan reality. Through the stories, she captures the complexities of life under an authoritarian regime, weaving together the frustrations of her own experiences with those of her friends to create compelling narratives steeped in truth and emotional resonance. The heart-wrenching accounts of kidnappings, political imprisonment, and the gradual disintegration of the rule of law serve as stark reminders of how quickly a democracy can devolve into tyranny. Throughout our conversation, we discuss the broader implications of these stories, as Amanda insights how authoritarianism manifests in various contexts, including the United States. Her reflections on personal experiences encourage listeners to recognize the fragility of democratic institutions and how complacency can lead to disastrous outcomes. The exploration of economic inequality as a root cause of political instability further enriches our discussion, offering nuanced perspectives on the intersection of economics and governance. Amanda expresses her hopes for readers to grasp the speed at which democracies can crumble and the critical importance of safeguarding rights and freedoms. Full Show Notes & Links Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
DOGE Is So Ohio 37:23

28 weeks ago37:23

37:23

Recent decisions that can significantly impact public welfare have emerge from a lack of contextual awareness. We explore the dangerous consequences of this mismanagement, particularly with the current administration’s interactions with Elon Musk, who has been given unwarranted access to vital government resources without accountability. We recount the chaotic beginnings of the Trump administration, laying bare the questionable movements made during high-profile meetings, such as the infamous one with Ukrainian President Zelensky, which underscores the abysmal state of media influence and misinformation. An alarming trend emerges where individuals associated with the administration, lacking real expertise or credibility, direct crucial governmental maneuvers with minimal oversight, raising significant concerns over the vulnerabilities within our institutions. There is an alarming trend of “slash and burn” approaches by Musk and his DOGE incels, who are indiscriminately accessing sensitive personal private information held by the Federal government. The implications of their superficial cuts are dire—jobs eliminated in vital sectors, such as the Veterans Administration, without understanding the significance of those roles. Reforms should stem from legislative actions and not arbitrary dismissals by unqualified individuals. We look at a push, in the Ohio legislature, for the display of specific historical documents in public schools. This initiative serves as a front for instituting religious ideologies—specifically the Ten Commandments—under the guise of educational reform. We dissect this bill, explaining the historical context of legislative overreach and drawing parallels to past incidents where the separation of church and state has been tested and challenged. We examine the motivations behind such legislative efforts, challenging the idea that simply placing these texts in schools could enrich the moral fabric of society. Instead, we argue that true education should empower students through critical thinking and contextual learning, rather than a superficial introduction to selected historical texts. The drive for these displays is less about education and more about a strategic push from Christian nationalist groups seeking to embed specific ideologies in public institutions. Full Show Notes & Links Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
Tyrant In A Top Hat: Radical Ideas for a Fractured Nation? 47:08

30 weeks ago47:08

47:08

In this episode, we engage with Martin Armitage, co-author of the book "Tyrant in a Top Hat," which challenges the conventional narrative surrounding President Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. We delve into thought-provoking questions: Did Lincoln ignite a civil war unnecessarily? Are the consequences of that conflict still reverberating through our society today? And could the United States benefit from a reevaluation, perhaps even division, based on differing cultural values? Armitage, bringing a rich background in history and political service, aims to encourage listeners to think critically about Lincoln's decision-making in 1861. His book seeks not to indoctrinate its readers with a particular viewpoint but rather to provoke discussion and self-reflection regarding historical interpretation and its implications for modern governance. We explore the historical context in which Lincoln operated, including the possibility that alternative measures could have been taken to address rising tensions rather than resorting to war. One of the compelling arguments in the book is the exploration of Lincoln’s suspension of habeas corpus, a controversial move that prioritized national security over individual rights during a time of crisis. Armitage explains the significance of habeas corpus as a cornerstone of civil liberties, and we discuss whether Lincoln's actions set a troubling precedent for future governance. As our conversation evolves, we also touch upon Armitage's proposals for how modern-day America, which he describes as a "fractured nation," might navigate its profound ideological divides. He suggests the potential for regions within the U.S. to separate based on cultural lines, advocating for a new political structure that emphasizes local governance while maintaining overarching national protections for rights. While these ideas might seem radical, they stem from a desire to find practical solutions to contemporary issues of polarization and disenfranchisement. Throughout the episode, listeners are invited to engage with these challenging concepts and to reflect on what they mean for our understanding of modern democracy. At the end of the interview, Doug provides his own perspective, critiquing Armitage’s conclusions while acknowledging the value of his inquiries. Doug emphasizes the importance of spirited debate and the necessity for a strong central government dedicated to protecting universal rights for all citizens, expressing his belief that the fight for equality and civil liberties must continue unabated. Full Show Notes and Links Send us a text Support the show Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch Follow us on Bluesky Find us on Twitter (for now) Find us on Instagram Find us on Counter Social Find us on Mastadon…

Secular Left

1
So, How is that protest vote over Gaza working out for you? 42:21

33 weeks ago42:21