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Left of Lansing

Left of Lansing

397 episodes — Page 1 of 8

397: The Energy Is With Michigan Progressives? Senate Race Polls. Data Center Rejection

May 14, 202648 min

396: Monday Musing: Republican Clueless On Democrats' Michigan State Senate Blowout Win

May 11, 20266 min

395: Friday Short: MAGA Always Uses Racism To Divide Working Class

May 8, 20268 min

394: MI State Senate Reaction; AIPAC Doubles-Down on Haley Stevens; Taxpayers Fund Trump Ballroom

May 7, 202641 min

393: Friday Short: "Moderate" Kristen McDonald-Rivet Capitulates To Trump Regime, MAGA

May 1, 20267 min

392: Senate Race, Gas Prices, Voting Rights, Ballrooms, and Progressive Ivan Diaz for Michigan State Senate

Apr 30, 202650 min

391: Monday Musing: Trump Uses Assassination Attempt For Ballroom Push, Silencing Dissent

Apr 27, 20266 min

390: Amplifying Michigan's Working Class Voice w/ Aisha Farooqi For Congress

Apr 23, 202652 min

389: Monday Musing: Major Progressive Victories At Michigan Democratic Party Convention

Apr 20, 20265 min

388: Friday Short: Democratic Primaries Are Crucial For Real Working Class Change

Apr 17, 20264 min

387: MI Progressive William Lawrence For Congress, Trump's Failing Economy, New MI Senate Poll

Apr 16, 202656 min

386: Monday Musing: Working Class Americans Can't Afford Kids!

Apr 13, 20264 min

385: Friday Short: In What World Are MAGA Republicans "Fiscally Responsible?"

Apr 10, 20265 min

384: Kasey Helton Report On The Abdul El-Sayed & Hasan Piker UofM Rally

Apr 9, 202647 min

383: Monday Musing: Trump's Easter "Message" Reveals MAGA True "Values"

Apr 6, 20265 min

Ep 382382: Friday Short: How Did Dems' Moderation On Immigration Work-Out?

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for April 3, 2026!While establishment-corporate Democrats capitulated to MAGA Republicans in election-after-election, they can't be surprised why the nation kept creeping further and further to the right.By refusing to take bold stances for the working class, and for marginalized citizens, Democrats ceded ground and allowed Republicans to control The Overton Window.And rather than argue to working class voters what they stood for, establishment Democrats only argued why Trump and MAGA Republicans sucked. How'd that strategy work-out for everyone?Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/join

Apr 3, 20265 min

Ep 381381: Kyle Blomquist and his Progressive America First Campaign In Northern Michigan

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's Episode #172 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-19:15: John James, Elissa Slotkin, & No Kings RecapPat Johnston opens this week talking about Trump's and the right-wing Israeli government's War on Iran, and how it's costing working class Americans while thousands of Michiganders are losing their health care and paying higher gas and energy prices. He covers how MAGA Michigan Republican Congressman John James, who's running for governor, has missed many votes while in Congress. He briefly covers why Progressive Senate candidate Dr. Abdul El-Sayed is brilliantly bringing progressive Hasan Piker aboard for a college campaign tour. And Pat recaps a couple of mid-Michigan "No Kings" protests.19:15-49:00: Kyle Blomquist For Congress InterviewProgressive Democratic candidate for Michigan's 1st Congressional District Kyle Blomquist talks with Pat about his campaign for the northern Michigan seat held by MAGA Republican "Louisiana" Jack Bergman. Mr. Blomquist is running on a Medicare For All, affordable housing, abolishing ICE, and ending aid to Israel agenda. He explains how his progressive "America First" and working class agenda will help Democrats not only win in northern Michigan, but in other red areas in the state and country. Visit Kyle's campaign on InstagramVisit Kyle's campaign on FacebookVisit Kyle's campaign on X49:12-55:38: Last Call-MAGA Attacks Rx KidsIn the "Last Call," another MAGA Michigan state legislator makes-up stories about the successful Rx Kids program.55:39-57:55: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:Kyle Blomquist For Congress"Kyle Blomquist on Running in Northern Michigan." From For Sake of the Argument with Lori Goldman "IM council member running for Congress." By Betsy Bloom of The Iron Mountain Daily News "‘Abolish ICE’ vs. 'Deport illegals': UP candidates offer starkly different visions on immigration." By WJMN & WBUP in Marquette, MI "Fewer Americans calling themselves Republicans or Republican-leaning independents since 2015: Gallup data." By Emily Guskin & Elizabeth Schreier of ABC News "Michigan’s El-Sayed unfazed by backlash against upcoming campaign event with Hasan Piker." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "John James Has Missed More Roll Call Votes Than Any Other Michigan Congress Member." By Deadline Detroit "Michigan GOP lawmaker’s baseless Rx Kids abortion claim disputed by data, called ‘despicable.’" By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance #podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #MAGA #Republicans #WorkingClass #Economy #WealthInequality #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Trump #IranWar #Israel #HealthCare #MedicareForAll #Housing #KyleBlomquist #UpperPeninsula #JackBergman #AbolishICE #RxKids #ChildCare #AmericaFirst #FamilyValues #Fascism #Authoritarianism #JohnJames #ElissaSlotkin #AbdulElSayed #Election2026 #VotingRights #Democracy #LeftofLansing

Apr 2, 202657 min

Ep 380380: Monday Musing: What I Saw At Two Mid-Michigan "No Kings" Protests

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for March 30, 2026.LOL's Pat Johnston reviews his stops at a couple of mid-Michigan "No Kings" rallies on March 28, 2026. Not only was attendance impressive, not to mention the numerous car-honking from supporters who drove-by the protests, but Pat noticed how protesters voiced their specific demands for change. Those demands ranged from abolishing ICE and investigating The Epstein Class, to ending Trump's and the right-wing Israeli government's War on Iran while fighting against the Trump Regime's corruption. Protesters argued for a new direction where the working class is finally represented and seen. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/join

Mar 30, 20265 min

Ep 379379: Friday Short: The MAGA Republican Grifting Game--Michigan Style

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for March 27, 2026.It appears MAGA Michigan Congressman Tom Barrett is using the MAGA Grifting Game to help make both he and his wife some extra cash. Politico and Michigan Advance report how Barrett's campaign arm paid for services to a local law firm, and an international political software company in 2023-2024, just AFTER his wife started working at both places! I'm sure that was just by sheer coinicidence and dumb luck, right?Tom Barrett's scheme is part of the overall Michigan MAGA Grifting Game playbook that Pat describes in the "Friday Short."And please, donate and help progressive Democrat William Lawrence's campaign to unseat Tom Barrett this fall!Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:"Murphy on ‘$1.5 BILLION’ stock trade before Trump Iran announcement: ‘Mind blowing corruption.’" By Ashleigh Fields of The Hill "GOP Rep. Barrett scrutinized over payments to firms employing spouse." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance Politico story on Tom Barrett's payments to firms where spouse works.

Mar 27, 20265 min

Ep 378378: "No Kings 3" on March 28th w/ Traverse Indivisible's Leif Colt

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's Episode #171 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-19:52The current state of the Democratic Primary for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat will show the country where Democratic voters want to go in 2026. Pat Johnston talks about how progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed not only refused to accept corporate PAC money, but they also never took money from ICE contractors. The same can't be said for Ms. AIPAC, a.k.a. Congresswoman Haley Stevens. Also, the Trump Regime sends ICE into the nation's airports to perpetuate more chaos and fear on the working class. And working class Americans remain opposed to Trump's & Israel's War on Iran. 19:53-41:00: Leif Colt of Traverse IndivisibleInterview with Leif Colt, Communications Leader for Traverse Indivisible. Leif shares information about the "No Kings 3" march taking place in Traverse City at 1pm on March 28th. Leif explains what to expect at the march, and why it's important to show up either at the Traverse City march, but also to show-up at a "No Kings" rally or march near you. He also explains what Traverse Indivisible is about, and how it's part of the Indivisible movement's overall goal to give a voice for the working class in Michigan and the nation. Click here for info on a "No Kings 3" rally in your area in Michigan.Click here for Indivisible chapters in Michigan.Visit Traverse Indivisible on Facebook41:01-48:28: Last Call: Hall & Joe Tate Lansing CorruptionIn the "Last Call," current MAGA Michigan Republican state House Speaker Matt Hall said some kind words for outgoing former House Speaker, Democrat Joe Tate. Pat explains why that makes sense since both worked to perpetuate constant corporate and government corruption in Lansing. 48:29: 51:20: Tigers/EndingPat gives his win total prediction for the 2026 Detroit Tigers!Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:"Joe Tate’s tenure in focus as the Detroit representative makes moves to leave public life." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Two Michigan Senate hopefuls have shunned corporate PAC money. One is raking it in." By Melissa Nann-Burkey of The Detroit News "Former Michigan House Speaker gives Bridget Brink his seal of approval in 7th District race." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "'An Insult to Us': TSA Agents Slam ICE Arrival at U.S. Airports." By Philip Wang of Time Michigan MAGA Republican state House Speaker Matt Hall statement on Democratic State Rep. Joe Tate's retirement"Exclusive: Trump's approval hits new 36% low as fuel prices surge amid Iran war, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds." By Jason Lange & Bo Erickson of Reuters "Tate backs Haley Stevens in Michigan U.S. Senate race." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Michigan lame-duck Legislature: House Democrats revolt against Speaker Tate." By Jordyn Hermani of Bridge Detroit #podcast #politics #Progressives #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #Trump #MAGA #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #IranWar #GasPrices #Economy #workingclass #SenateRace #AbdulElSayed #MattHall #EpstenFiles #EpsteinClass #NoKings #ProtestMovements #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftofLansing

Mar 26, 202651 min

Ep 377377: Monday Musing: Michigan Pays Price For Trump's Anti-Clean American Energy Agenda

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing for March 23, 2026.Last week, we talked about how the Trump Regime's anti-clean energy agenda will lead to more deadly storms that Michigan's experienced in recent history.This week, Pat Johnston explains how that anti-clean energy agenda is hurting working class Michiganders' economically. By gutting clean energy jobs and initiatives, the Trump Regime is gutting Michigan's economic security and future. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:"Michigan lost billions in climate-related investments in Trump’s first year." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "Michigan gas prices surge 33 cents to highest point since 2023, AAA says." By Myesha Johnson of The Detroit News "Chang, clean energy advocates warn Detroit missed jobs, health gains after Fortescue exit." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "EPA pulls plug on ‘Solar for All,’ $156 million in Michigan projects cut" By Nina Misuraca Ignaczak of Planet Detroit #podcast #politics #michigan #Progressives #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #ClimateChage #CleanEnergy #IranWar #GasPrices #Economy #WorkingClass #Jobs #Solar #Wind #RenewableEnergy #EVCars #DataCenters #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #HealthCare #Environment #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansing

Mar 23, 20265 min

Ep 376376: Friday Short: Like Trump, Michigan's Matt Hall Protects The Swamp

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for March 20, 2026.Thanks to excellent reporting by The Detroit News' Beth LeBlanc & Craig Mauger, MAGA Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall received a government transparency award from a group... that doesn't exist!!!It's part of an effort of Matt Hall's to block much-needed Freedom of Information Act Reform bills in Michigan, which would end FOIA request exemptions for the state's executive and legislative branches. But protecting The Epstein Class Swamp is, like Dear Leader Trump, Matt Hall's main priority in Michigan. He'll even emulate Trump by giving himself made-up participation awards to celebrate something he didn't do. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:"Michigan House speaker claims he won transparency award. It might be fake." By Craig Mauger & Beth LeBlanc of The Detroit News (via The Lawton Constitution "Hall’s HEAT prevents FOIA reform in Michigan." By Madeline Burke of The Michigan Daily "It's Time for Michigan to Finally Finish FOIA." By The Michigan Campaign Finance Network

Mar 20, 20264 min

Ep 375375: Kasey Helton, Livingston County Progressive & Union Fighter

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's Episode #170of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-20:54: Pat Ran Into Who? Noah Arbit Attacks Dr. AbdulPat Johnston shared a plane ride back to Detroit with whom? The Iran War is already hurting the working class while making The Epstein Class very pleased. Democrats must stand against this war. And it's time to criticize those Democratic pro-right-wing Israeli government defenders who spend their time calling progressive Democrats "antisemites," like Michigan Democratic state House Rep. Noah Arbit did to progressive U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Abdul El-Sayed last week.20:55-50:09: Kasey Helton InterviewWe needed to hear from our good friend, and progressive and union voice in Livingston County, Kasey Helton this week. Kasey and Pat talk about how MAGA is rallying around The Trump Regime's War on Iran, the need to take-on AIPAC within the Democratic Party in Michigan, the Michigan U.S. Senate Democratic Primary race, and pressuring charter flight companies involved in the Trump Regime's fascist deportation program. Click here to learn more about "De-ICE These Flights."Visit Kasey on XVisit Kasey on Instagram50:10-54:27: Last Call-Mike Rogers' Banker BudsIn this week's "Last Call" covers this informative and telling story by Michigan Advance's Ben Solis on how MAGA Republican Florida Mike Rogers receives loads of cash from the banking and finance industry to fund his U.S. Senate race. 54:28-56:38: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:"Big investors, banking industry figures gave millions to Mike Rogers over decades in politics." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance"‘Something is broken’: Michigan lawmakers call for action on antisemitism after Temple Israel attack." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Poll: Nearly four in 10 US Jews say Israel has committed genocide in Gaza." By Times of Israel "‘We’re in it’: Democrats won’t rule out giving Trump more money for Middle East war." By Katherine Tully-McManus, Joe Gould and Jennifer Scholtes Michigan Democratic State Rep. Noah Arbit tweet attacking Dr. Abdul El-SayedMichigan Democratic State Rep. Noah Arbit tweet criticizing ADL#politics #podcast #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #IranWar #WorkingClass #GasPrices #Economy #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Israel #antiwar #AIPAC #Election2026 #HaleyStevens #NoahArbit #AbdulElSayed #MalloryMcMorrow #MikeRogers #ICE #Epstein #EpsteinClass #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing

Mar 19, 202656 min

Ep 374374: Monday Musing: Trump Clean Energy Cuts Leads To More Deadly Storms

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for March 16, 2026.Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer is demanding an investigation into whether or not the Trump Regime's budget cuts to the National Weather Service played a role in the lack of warning from the recent tornadoes which killed four people in West Michigan over a week ago. We do know the Trump Regime's cuts to the NWS, and other divestments in clean energy projects, will lead to further deadly and severe storms in the future.Not to mention, these cuts hurt Michigan's economic futures as well.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardClick here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinNOTES:"Michigan lost billions in climate-related investments in Trump’s first year." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "‘Zero to 60′ in seconds: Why there was no tornado watch before deadly Michigan twisters." By Aya Miller of MLive.com "Michigan officials have questions on NWS tornado warning system." By Rick Pluta of Michigan Public Radio #podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #ClimateChange #Economy #Michigan #Tornado #SevereWeather #ElonMusk #GretchenWhitmer #WorkingClass #CleanEnergy #SolarEnergy #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentGreed #FossilFuel #Pollution #HealthCare #EpsteinClass #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansing

Mar 16, 20264 min

Ep 373373: Friday Short: Pro-War Voices Use Synagogue Attack To Shut-Up Dissent

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for March 13, 2026.Pat Johnston uses a column by Nolan Finley of The Detroit News to highlight how Pro-Iran War and Pro-Extremist Israeli government types are using the recent synagogue attack in West Bloomfield, MI to try to shut-down dissenting voices. Those supporting the Israeli-U.S. War on Iran argue that those opposing Israel's right-wing genocidal government, and also the War on Iran, are responsible for antisemitism, including the antisemitic attack on that West Bloomfield synagogue by a U.S. citizen who was originally from Lebanon. But as Pat argues, criticizing the corrupt and genocidal right-wing Israeli government is not antisemitism.It's the right thing to do because it's standing-up for the American working class that's tired of funding overseas wars.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES: "Blame Temple Israel attack on antisemitism being fashionable | Opinion." By Nolan Finley of The Detroit News (via USA Today)"Palestine: UN rights chief highlights suffering, atrocity crimes ‘that remain unpunished.’" By The United Nations "Ayman Mohamad Ghazali, alleged attacker at Temple Israel. What we know." By Detroit Free Press Staff

Mar 13, 20267 min

Ep 371371: Monday Musing: The MAGA Michigan Cult Hypocrisy On Protecting Kids

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for March 9, 2026.The Trump Regime's Department of Justice is investigating three different Michigan public school districts over whether or not the districts "sexual orientation and gender ideology (SOGI) content" in their sexual education classes.Parents are allowed to opt-out in Michigan, but that's not enough for the Christian Nationalist within the Trump Regime. They want to erase marginalized people, and scaring public school districts with "investigations" is just one way to do it. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES: "DOJ investigating 3 Michigan districts for ‘sexual orientation and gender ideology’ content." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Why the Hell is the Justice Department Targeting What Local Schools Teach?" By Josh Cowen in The Forum with Josh Cowen #podcast #politics #progressives #DemocraticSocialism #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Michigan #Education #SexEducation #Discrimination #LGBTQ #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #AricNesbit #ChristianNationalism #Race #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing

Mar 9, 20264 min

Ep 372372: Friday Short: Florida Mike Rogers Says We're Living In "The Golden Age"

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for March 6, 2026.MAGA Michigan Republican U.S. Senate Candidate "Florida" Mike Rogers says the Trump Regime has brought "The Golden Age" to Michigan.Not sure if working class Michiganders will buy it, but it'll be fun to watch him try to sell this lemon to the voters. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES: "9 years through the revolving door: How the GOP's top Senate recruit in Michigan got rich after leaving Congress." By Brett Metzger of Business Insider "Moroun family backed Mike Rogers as he defends blocking Gordie Howe bridge." By Steve Neavling of The Detroit Metro Times #podcast #politics #Michigan #MikeRogers #Election2026 #MAGA #Republicans #Democrats #progressives #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentGreed #Iran #Moroun #EpsteinFiles #EpsteinClass #BillionaireClass #Economy #workingclass #Jobs #Tariffs #Taxes #MAGAMurderBudget #Authoritariansim #Fascism #Democracy #LeftofLansing

Mar 6, 20265 min

Ep 370370: Tax The Rich, Pay The Working Class w/ Erica Payne of Patriotic Millionaires

Click here to donate $5 on Left of Lansing on Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/15494297/joinHere's Episode #169 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-19:52: Iran War & Democrats/Line5/ICE CampsPat Johnston opens the show evaluating how Michigan Democrats are reacting to the Trump Regime's war on Iran. Not surprisingly, it appears progressive Michigan Democrats are providing a clear "No War on Iran" message. This war is another way to help the Epstein Class while the working class in America continue to suffer. Pat also covers the latest on Line 5, the Gordie Howe Bridge Fight, and ICE concentration camps, and how those three issues boil down to the Epstein Class vs. the Working Class.19:53-44:23: Erica Payne from Patriotic MillionairesErica Payne, CEO and Founder of Patriotic Millionaires, joins the show this week to share PM's ideas and plans to spread the wealth in this country. Through Patriotic Millionaires' "The Money Agenda," Erica explains how taxing the rich while paying the working class will lead to a more stable economy for the United States. Pat and Erica talk also talk about how The Epstein Files revealed how interconnected the Epstein Class is, and how it works to gain more power over the working class. Click here to read "The Money Agenda" by Patriotic Millionaires. https://patrioticmillionaires.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/America-250_-The-Money-Agenda-Exec-Summary.pdf44:24-53:12: Last Call-Bye, Karen WhitsettIn this week's "Last Call," crooked MAGA "Democratic" Michigan state Rep. Karen Whitsett announces she won't seek re-election. The state of Michigan collectively rejoices!53:13-55:48: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES: "Iran attack prompts war powers debate in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District race." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Detroit’s Whitsett not seeking reelection to state House in 2026, citing ‘spiritual’ reasons." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "DTE seeks another rate hike days after state regulators approved nearly a $250 million increase." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Why Can’t Top Democrats Just Say “No War With Iran”?" By Ben Johnson & Sarah Lazare of The Nation "‘We’re in it’: Democrats won’t rule out giving Trump more money for Middle East war." By Katherine Tulley-McManus, Joel Gould, and Jennifer Scholtes of Politico "Moroun gave $1M to PAC supporting Trump prior to president’s tirade over Gordie Howe Bridge." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "When a Corporation Decides States Can't Protect Their Own Waters." By David Holtz of The Current #podcast #politics #progressives #DemocraticSocialis #WorkingClass #TaxTheRich #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Republicans #MAGA #Michigan #Democrats #Iran #IranWar #WarPower #Israel #Epstein #EpsteinFiles #ElissaSlotkin #WilliamLawrence #Election2026 #Trump #WarSpending #Fascism #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing

Mar 5, 202655 min

Ep 369369: Monday Musing: Trump's War On Iran For The Epstein Class

#podcast #politics #progressive Michigan #WilliamLawrence #WarPowers #AbdulElSayed #DemocraticSoclialism #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Iran #War #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #EpsteinFiles #EpsteinClass #Billionaires #ICE #Freedom #Economy #WorkingClass #Neocons #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for March 2, 2026.The Trump Regime has started a war on Iran, and make no mistake, this is a war for the Epstein Class. It's a war pushed by the Israeli and Saudi Arabian government, as well as the billionaire class. Democrats must stand-up against this war since the war signifies a war against the working class in Michigan and the nation. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopard

Mar 2, 20266 min

Ep 368368: Friday Short: Working Class Push For Data Center Moratorium in Michigan

#podcast #progressives #politics #news #Michigan #Republicans #MAGA #datacenters #Protest #WorkingClass #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #CorporateWelfare #GovernmentCorruption #Authoritarianism #WealthInequality #Environment #Electricity #Costs #Economics #Freedom #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 27, 2026.A bipartisan group of Michigan legislators have introduced bills in Lansing that would place a moratorium on on new data center proposals in Michigan. This is due to the working class protest movement in blue and red areas across the state. The working class is fed-up being pushed around by the Billionaire Epstein Class Tech Bros, and those within state government, for building these massive hyper-scale A.I. data centers in secrecy. And that's led to both Democrats and Republicans to introduce bills to put a temporary halt to this data center expansion. That's bipartisanship I can support. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"‘Big Gretch Out’? — Sure, but Whitmer remains out of touch on data center issue." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Michigan House reps call for moratorium on data centers." By Emma J. Nelson of WKAR Public Media

Feb 27, 20264 min

Ep 367367: A Working Class Movement w/ Michigan State Rep. Dylan Wegela

#podcast #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Politics #News #DemocraticSocialism #DylanWegela #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #GordieHoweBridge #EpsteinClass #EpsteinFiles #BillionaireClass #WealthInequality #WorkingClass #Economy #Immigration #ICE #Farmers #Tariffs #BigTech #DataCenters #olympics ##Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode #168 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-15:30: More Epstein/Moroun Corruption/Tariffs/ICEPat Johnston discusses how it appears some information related to Dear Leader Trump in the Epstein Files was withheld. We learned how the MAGA billionaire family who owns The Ambassador Bridge gave $1million to a pro-MAGA PAC just before Trump announced his intentions to block a public bridge from opening. Supreme Court decides against the Trump Regime's insane tariff scheme, but he's already placed new tariffs to hurt the working class. And working class Michiganders showed up to protest a planned ICE detention center in Romulus. 15:07-38:02: State Rep. Dylan WegelaProgressive Democratic Michigan State Rep. Dylan Wegela of the 26th House District talks about why he's part of the Democratic Socialists of America, and how working class Michiganders are finding it harder to get ahead in an economy designed to work for the billionaire Epstein Class. Wegela talks about his work on reigning-in ICE activity in Michigan, and his fight against A.I. data centers. Sign the Mop-Up Michigan ballot initiative! 38:03-53:04: Olympics RantPat needed a little time to rail against MAGA hypocrisy and misogyny during the Winter Olympic Games. 53:05-55:21: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingVote on this week's Left of Lansing Poll! Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Hundreds rally as Romulus council rejects ICE detention center plan." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Data center moratoriums pile up in Michigan. No one knows if they’ll work." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "Michigan lawmakers unveil plan to repeal data center tax breaks." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "ICE detained a Minnesota teen, labeled him an ‘unaccompanied minor,’ and lost him." By Susan Du of The Minnesota Star Tribune "Why I And You Love Alysa Liu." By Joe Wrote in Joe Wrote "What Americans think of the Epstein files, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling." By Reuters "America needs immigrants — ICE is doing more harm than good." By Dr. Sheldon H. Jacobson of The Hill "Justice Department withheld and removed some Epstein files related to Trump." By Stephen Fowler of NPR "Moroun gave $1M to PAC supporting Trump prior to president’s tirade over Gordie Howe Bridge." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Soybean tariffs challenge Michigan growers." By Madison Merrill of Spartan Newsroom

Feb 26, 202655 min

Ep 366366: Monday Musing: Michigan Dems Must Oppose Data Centers in '26

#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Michigan #datacenters #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovenmentCorruption #BigTech #AI #WorkingClass #YousefRabhi #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 23, 2026.Washtenaw County Commissioner, and current candidate for Ann Arbor mayor, Yousef Rabhi, has a warning for Michigan Democrats: Oppose the big tech data center expansion in Michigan, or else face the wrath of working class voters this November. Rabhi's not wrong, and it's something that's bothered Pat Johnston for a long time.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Insider: Ex-lawmaker has warning for Michigan Democrats on data centers." By Craig Mauger, Beth LeBlanc, and Nina Burke of The Detroit News

Feb 23, 20265 min

Ep 365365: Friday Short: Don't Allow Epstein Class To Divide Michigan

#podcast #politics #Progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #MattHall #MichiganRepublicans #RxKids #WorkingClass #Economy #HealthCare #ACA #HealthCareForAll #Epstein #EpsteinFiles #Billionaires #oligarchy #DonorClass #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Authoritarianism #Devos #WealthInequality #AbdulElSayed #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 20, 2026.As working class Michiganders keep getting further behind while the billionaire Epstein Class keeps amassing more wealth and power thanks to the Trump Regime, Michigan MAGA Republicans are doing the Epstein Class's bidding by continuing to attack working class programs, like the successful Rx Kids. Pat Johnston explains how rather than taking action to help working class Michiganders while holding the Epstein Class accountable, MAGA Republicans are devising ways to divide the working class. We can't let that happen. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!To hear the complete episode featuring Dr. Abdul El-Sayedoron [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Abdul For Senate Website"It’s time for Democrats to play offense on healthcare." By Abdul El-Sayed in The Guardian "Hall’s baseless Rx Kids attack betrays Michigan’s most vulnerable, which seems to be the point." By Jon King of Michigan Advance

Feb 20, 20266 min

Ep 364364: Abdul El-Sayed: A Progressive Democrat Who Plays Offense

#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Election #Election2026 #DemocraticSocialism #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #EpsteinFiles #EpsteinClass #HealthCareForAll #HealthCare #WorkingClass #AbdulElSayed #Economy #Vaccines #RFK #Measles #JohnFetterman #HaleyStevens #ICE #ConcentrationCamps #Gaza #Israel #WealthInequality #Fascism #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's Episode #167 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-16:40: Measles Back/HaleyStevens' Pro-Israel PACsPat Johnston opens the show talking about how measles are making a comeback in the country thanks to RFK Jr.'s "leadership." Is that Making America Healthy Again? Then, Pat highlights how Michigan Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Haley Stevens collects pro-Israeli lobby cash in order to fund her campaign. And this week, Stevens visited an ICE concentration camp in Baldwin, MI, and sounded like she was impressed how that camp hired several female ICE agents. Stevens is the illustration of why Democratic base voters are frustrated with Democrats.16:41-38:30: Abdul El-Sayed InterviewMichigan Progressive Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Abdul El-Sayed talks with Pat this week. They discuss the concerns and frustrations he's been hearing on the campaign trail, why Medicare For All is what we need in this country, his response to those critical of Democrats who oppose Israel's genocide of Palestinians, and how to fight for the working class while the billionaire Epstein Class plays by different rules. Visit AbdulForSenate.comDr. Abdul will appear with Progressive Democratic State Senator Carrie Rheingans for a "Health Care For All" Town Hall on Sunday, February 22.38:31-47:00: Last Call-What's Going On With Gen X?In this week's "Last Call," Pat asks what's happened with Gen X, which appears to be the generation that most supports The Trump Regime's authoritarianism. 47:01-49:37: Ending/Next Show PreviewPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Abdul For Senate Website"It’s time for Democrats to play offense on healthcare." By Abdul El-Sayed in The Guardian "Michigan congresswomen get no answers on Baldwin ICE facility death during visit and tour." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Stevens’ Michigan U.S. Senate bid gets a boost from pro-Israel political action committee." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Michigan nurse goes without health insurance as ACA costs double for 2026." By Justin P. Hicks of MLive.com "‘Show Up for Us’: 13 Democratic Voters on Trump, ICE and Their Frustrations With the Democratic Party." By The New York Times "Where does Fetterman fit among Democrats? | The Conversation." By Dasha Burns of Politico "Primary Occupation." By Ryan Grim of The Intercept "RFK Jr.’s Anti-Vax Nonsense Has Helped Spread Measles to Mexico." By Ellie Quinlan Houghtaling of The New Republic

Feb 19, 202649 min

Ep 363363: Monday Musing: Congressman Tom Barrett Teaches High School Students Lesson on Authoritarianism

#podcast #politics #progressives #Michigan #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Authoritarianism #TomBarrett #Election #Election2026 #EastLansing #WilliamLawrence #Congress #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #Education #ICE #Protest #FreeSpeech #Democracy #PublicEducation #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 16, 2026.MAGA Michigan Republican Congressman Tom Barrett reportedly sent a FOIA Request to read the emails between an East Lansing High School Political Club its adviser, and a progressive Democratic candidate vying to unseat Barrett in this November's election. You see, the political club organized a student walk-out protest against the Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo, and it also invited progressive Democratic candidate for Tom Barrett's seat to speak at the protest event. Rather than celebrate the students using their patriotic free speech rights, Tom Barrett wants to intimidate the students and their public school. Which illustrates how Tom Barrett is working to keep and enforce the Trump Regime's authoritarianism rather than representing the people of his district. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Progressive Democratic candidate William Lawrence's site: https://wewill2026.com/"Barrett Campaign FOIAs High School Teacher's Email Over ICE Protest." By MIRS News

Feb 16, 20265 min

Ep 362362: Friday Short: Trump-MAGA Will Suppress The Vote To Protect Epstein Class

#podcast #politics #progressives #Michigan #DemocraticSocialism #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #SaveAct #WorkingClass #MinorityRights #VotingRights #VoterSuppression #ClassWarfare #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentGreed #ICE #Racism #PoliticalViolence #EpsteinFiles #EpsteinClass #WhiteSupremacist #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 13, 2026. The MAGA Republican U.S. House passed a voter suppression bill that'll require voters to produce their birth certificate or passport in order to register to vote. That's a poll tax on working class Americans. It's an effort to suppress the working class vote to protect the interests and power of the Epstein Class. As we all know, The Trump Regime and MAGA Republicans work on behalf to protect the billionaire Epstein class. They don't work on the behalf of the working class. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"US House approves bill mandating proof of citizenship for voting in federal elections." By Ashley Murray of Michigan Advance "A Vote for Republicans Is a Vote Against Democracy." By Thom Hartmann of The Hartmann Report

Feb 13, 20265 min

Ep 361361: MAGA Epstein Coverup; Trump & Detroit Bridge; Billionaires vs. Public Schools w/ Dr. Josh Cowen

#podcast #progressive #politics #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #EpsteinFiles #Billionaires #pedophilia #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #WeathInequality #WorkingClass #GovernmentCorruption #Authoritarians #Oligarchy #JeffreyEpstein #LisaMcClain #GordieHoweBridge #Michigan #RickSnyder #Whitmer #Education #Vouchers #BetsyDeVos #PublicEducation #RxKids #Teachers #Maroun #Ambassador Bridge #MattHall #Lutnick #DonorClass #LawandOrder #Fascism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's Episode #166 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-8:13: MAGA Epstein Pedophile ProtectorsLeft of Lansing's Pat Johnston opens the show by talking about how Michigan MAGA Republicans, like Congresswoman Lisa McClain, or Congressmen John Moolenaar, Tim Walberg, Bill Huizenga, Jack Bergman, and John James, are all protecting the billionaire Epstein Class. They claim to care about the safety of children, but their actions say otherwise.8:14-14:31: Trump Threatens New BridgeDear Leader out of nowhere this week declared he'd delay the opening of the publicly-financed Gordie Howe Bridge as a wink and a nod to the MAGA Michigan billionaire Maroun Family, which owns the Ambassador Bridge. Even though Canada paid for the bridge, and was negotiated by former Republican Governor Rick Snyder, the Marouns want it blocked. Notice how the Trump Regime moves quickly for its Epstein Class base supporters.14:32-42:24: Josh Cowen InterviewPat talks with Dr. Josh Cowen, who is the author of "The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers." Dr. Cowen is a professor of Education Policy at Michigan State University, and has written extensively on the failed billionaire Betsy DeVos' school voucher movement. Well, DeVos and other billionaires are finding ways to decimate public schools. Visit Dr. Josh Cowen's Substack: Josh Cowen's Newsletter.42:25-50:04: Last Call: Trump's Econ Hurts MIIn this week's "Last Call," Pat highlights new data showing how the MAGA Trump Regime's economy is leading to major job losses in Michigan. Tariffs, and continued tax cuts and corporate welfare are leading to expected results. 50:05-52:14: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Helping our children live better, more prosperous lives is the most basic, sacred obligation we have." By Dr. Josh Cowen of "Josh Cowen's Newsletter" Substack."Trump’s threat to block Gordie Howe bridge is pure oligarchy." By Steve Neavling of The Detroit Metro Times "Moroun cash ties Michigan GOP hopefuls to Trump’s Gordie Howe bridge standoff." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Trump cabinet member ensnared in Epstein scandal." By Judd Legam and Rebecca Crosby of Popular Information "High costs, uncertainty among local impacts of Trump tariffs." By Leo Kaplan of The City Pulse "Michigan loses more jobs than all but one other state, report says." By Todd Spangler & Adrienne Roberts of The Detroit Free Press "Mike Duggan ‘studying’ Trump school choice program for Michigan." By Simon D. Schuster of Bridge Michigan "Whitmer signs off on school cell phone ban set for next fall." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Michigan travel pitch draws Canadian criticism amid Trump trade tensions." By Janelle D. James of Bridge Michigan Gordie Howe Bridge Photo: "Gordie Howe Bridge 2025c2" by Antony-22 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Gordie Howe Bridge & Ambassador Bridge Exits Photo: Valaurian Waller/The Conversation, CC BY-ND (via Michigan Advance)

Feb 12, 202652 min

Ep 360360: Monday Musing: Democrats Must Tie Epstein Class Around Trump & MAGA

#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #WorkingClass #Economy #EpsteinClass #JeffreyEpstein #EpsteinFiles #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #WhiteNationalism #Oligarchy #DonorClass #WhiteChristianNationalism #WealthInequality #RoKhanna #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 9, 2026.Pat Johnston pleads with progressive Democrats, and even some "centrist" Democrats, to tie the Epstein Class around the Trump Regime and its MAGA Republican supporters. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Epstein declared bankrupt Detroit ‘desperate,’ worth experimenting in." By Violet Iconomova of The Detroit Free Press "Trump disapproval on economy hits new high: Survey." By Max Rego of The Hill "Michigan House OKs ban on child marriage." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance

Feb 9, 20265 min

Ep 359359: Friday Short: Be "Civil" While MAGA Fascism Marches On?

#podcast #progressive #politics #news #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #ICE #Voting #Civility #RickSnyder #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Fascism #Authoritarianism #JenniferGranholm ##Line5 #WorkingClass #Epstein #WealthInequality #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 6, 2026.Four of Michigan's former governors appeared at some "civility" conference to long for the good old days of civility where back room deals were made to screw over the working class. I think those are the days they're clamoring for.While they lecture all of us on the need to tone down the political tone in this country, we have white nationalist corporate authoritarianism marching all over the working class. The most ludicrous part about this call for "civility," is that each of these four past governors had no solutions on how this so-called civility can really defeat fascism. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Is civility still attainable in the era of Trump? Four Michigan governors think it’s possible." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance

Feb 6, 20265 min

Ep 358358: Pat's Michigan Senate Choice; Epstein Exposes Oligarchy; Kid Rock Super Bowl

#podcast #progressive #politics #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #MikeRogers #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #AbdulElSayed #MalloryMcMorrow #HaleyStevens #Senate #Election #Epstein #EpsteinFiles #Gaza #Israel #WorkingClass #Unions #AIPAC #MedicareForAll #DataCenters #BigTech #Oligarchy #DonorClass #ICE #PoliticalViolence #Immigration #KidRock #Fascism #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's Episode #165 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-25:40: Epstein Files & Billionaire ClassPat opens-up the episode sharing some of the newly released Jeffrey Epstein files that show how interconnected the billionaire and political oligarchy are around the world, and how they continued to remain in contact with Epstein even AFTER he was a convicted pedophile and registered sex offender. Yet, not one person in this cabal had any idea of Epstein's child sex trafficking? The reason why the Trump Regime fought to block the Epstein Files from being released was to protect this powerful cabal. That's why it's up to progressive movements to force change rather than waiting for corporate Democrats to do anything substantial.25:41-39:11: Pat on Senate Primary RacePat breaks-down the Michigan Democratic Party Senate Primary race between progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, State Senator Mallory McMorrow, and corporate Democrat Haley Stevens, and he explains why he's deciding to back one of them.39:12-44:30: Last Call on Has-Been Kid RockKid Rock is "headlining" a MAGA alternative halftime show in reaction to Bad Bunny hosting the Bowl That Is Super's Halftime Show. 44:31-46:31: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Can Fascists Still Be Shamed? A conversation with Chris Mathias, author of 'To Catch a Fascist'." By Hamilton Nolan of How Things Work "‘Understand the tactics of a fascist regime’: Hundreds attend Kalamazoo ICE forum." By Dave Anderson-Torrez of MLive.com "Latest Jeffrey Epstein file disclosures rock the rich and powerful: top takeaways." By Dareh Gregorian of NBC News "A list of powerful men named in the Epstein files, from Elon Musk to former Prince Andrew." By Philip Marcelo of The Associated Press via PBS "Here’s How Many Times Trump Is Mentioned in New Epstein Files." By Ellie Quinlan Houghtaling of The New Republic "Steve Bannon says ICE will ‘surround the polls’ as Trump doubles down on taking over elections." By Matt Cohen of Democracy Docket "Michigan’s U.S. Senate candidates have disparate perspectives on dealing with ICE overreach." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "ICE in Michigan: More arrests, detainees and protests." By Laura Gibbons, Jordyn Hermani, and Justin Hinkley of Bridge Michigan

Feb 5, 202646 min

Ep 357357: Monday Musing: Epstein Files Reveal Untouchable Oligarch & Political Cabal

#politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #ElonMusk #Israel #ChuckSchumer #MikeRogers #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovermentCorruption #BillClinton #JeffreyEpstein #EpsteinFiles #SexAbuse #WorkingClass #PoliticalPower #Authoritarianism #oligarchy #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 2, 2026.The release of 3 million pages from The Epstein Files reveals how there's a powerful billionaire oligarchy and political party bosses cabal that work hand-in-hand with one another at the expense of the working class. Even worse, it shows how little disdain this cabal had for Jeffrey Epstein, who was a convicted of sexual prostitution with an underage girl, and who had to register as a sex offender. It reveals that if we, the working class, want to regain the power, we have to defeat this cabal of billionaire and political party bosses. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"A list of powerful men named in the Epstein files, from Elon Musk to former Prince Andrew." By Philip Marcelo of The Associated Press via PBS "Jeffrey Epstein files: Tracing the legal cases that led to sex-trafficking charges." By Bill Chappell of NPR

Feb 2, 20266 min

Ep 356356: Friday Short: Mike Duggan Digs MAGA Dollars & Playbook

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #MAGA #MikeDuggan #Republicans #Election2026 #GovernorRace #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Trump #ICE #Immigration #WhiteChristianNationalism #WorkingClass #Race #CharterSchoolCorruption #Authoritarianism #FreeSpeech #LGBTQ+ #Fascism #Democracy #Left of LansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" on January 30, 2026.Pat Johnston shares details on how former Detroit Mayor, and current "Independent" Michigan gubernatorial candidate, Mike Duggan, is proudly dipping into the MAGA playbook to attack progressives while simultaneously collecting large amounts of campaign $$ from MAGA donors. Mike Duggan is no independent. He's taking MAGA money, and adopting MAGA language, which means he's fine with the Trump Regime's authoritarianism. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Duggan’s campaign draws big money from Trump supporters and wealthy GOP donors." By Steve Neavling of The Detroit Metro Times "Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan: City will continue to work with ICE." By Niraj Warikoo & Dana Afana of The Detroit Free Press "Duggan’s political makeover raises questions about who he really is in gubernatorial bid." By Steve Neavling of The Detroit Metro Times "Public money for schools buys private property." By Jennifer Dixon of The Detroit Free Press

Jan 30, 20266 min

Ep 355355: Why Protesting Matters To End ICE, Data Centers & Tyranny w/ Julia Pulver

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #JuliaPulver #Protesting #PoliticalViolence #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #ICE #Immigration #ElissaSlotkin #MAGAMurderBudget #Race #Racism #WorkingClass #Oligarchy #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Tyranny #Authoritarianism #WhiteChristianNationalism #Democracy #LeftofLansing 00:00-13:53: ICE Funding, ICE in MI, Duggan & ICEPat Johnston devotes his entire monologue on how ICE recruiting seems geared towards radical white supremacists while ICE received a mammoth boost in funding thanks to the Republican MAGA Murder Budget. But makes it clear that some Democrats refuse to our demands to Abolish ICE, including current Independent Michigan gubernatorial candidate Mike Duggan, who promised to work with The Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo while mayor of Detroit. 13:54-44:26: Julia Pulver on Protesting MattersMichigan progressive voice & activist, and RN, Julia Pulver, talks with Pat about why protesting matters in these times of Trump, ICE, data centers, and more. Julia says protesting is Democracy in Action, and the more we make our voices heard, the better a chance we have at forcing real political change. We're seeing that already in Minneapolis as protesting helped shine a spotlight on the brutal invasion of ICE in American cities. Visit Julia Pulver on BlueSkye.44:27-48:50: Last Call MI MAGA Attacks CourtsIn this week's "Last Call," the MAGA Republican majority in the Michigan House is threatening the state Supreme Court by saying it would cut judiciary funding if The Court rules in favor of a rule prohibiting ICE from arresting people in courthouses. 48:51-51:05: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Julia Pulver "Why Should We Continue Peacefully Protesting" speech at the Birmingham Unitary Church from January 25, 2026. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaYFYqIXFHg"Fallout from Alex Pretti killing: Trump administration facing widespread criticism." By Brian Martucci of The Minnesota Reformer "Anti-ICE Detroit protesters call on Peters and Slotkin to ‘stand firm’ in opposing DHS funding." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan: City will continue to work with ICE." By Niraj Warikoo & Dana Afana of The Detroit Free Press "Michigan House Republicans threaten judicial funding over proposed court rule on ICE arrests." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Trump's ICE force is sweeping America. Billions in his tax and spending cuts bill are paying for it." By Lisa Mascaro of PBS News "ICE “Wartime” Recruiting Effort Targets Gun & Military Lovers Using White Nationalist Messaging." By Democracy NOW! w/ Amy Goodman "Duggan’s campaign draws big money from Trump supporters and wealthy GOP donors." By Steve Neavling of Detroit Metro Times

Jan 29, 202651 min

Ep 354354: Monday Musing: ICE Killing Of Pretti Shows MAGA's Cards

#politics #progressives #Michigan #Minnesota #ICE #Authoritarianism #Fascism #PoliticalViolence #GunRights #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #Democrats #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #LisaMcClain #AricNesbitt #BillHuizenga #WhiteChristianNationalist #WhiteChristianNationalism #WorkingClass #Immigration #Minorities #Democracy #Freedom #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 26, 2026.The execution of Minnesota nurse Alex Pretti by the Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo, and the MAGA Republican defense of the shooting, proves the main goal about MAGA Republicanism is to destroy, and kill, those it views as the enemies within. MAGA's never been about gun rights, freedom of speech rights, or economic rights for the working class. It's been about making this a whiter America, and if white Americans get in their way, they'll be disappeared, too.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Fallout from Alex Pretti killing: Trump administration facing widespread criticism." By Brian Martucci of The Minnesota Reformer Michigan MAGA Republican Congresswoman Lisa McClain Facebook posting on her support for 2nd Amendment Rights.

Jan 26, 20266 min

Ep 353353: Friday Short: Democratic "Centrists" Vote For Trump's ICE Gestapo

#podcast #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #ElissaSlotkin #Slotkin #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #ICE #Immigration #HenryCuellar #WorkingClass #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Election2026 #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for January 23, 2026.Seven corporate Democrats (or Democratic "Centrists) in the U.S. House voted with the autocratic MAGA majority to shovel more money to the Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo in a spending bill this week. That bill now moves onto the Senate where other "centrists" Democrats, like Michigan's Elissa Slotkin, says she will never back a push to Abolish ICE.Thanks to some excellent reporting, we now know that those pushing Democrats to say "reform ICE," rather than to abolish it are lobbyists for the defense and surveillance industries. There's a big election coming up in 10 months, and working class Americans are hoping there'll be a true opposition party to Trump's MAGA, but some Democrats would rather play along with authoritarianism than fight against it. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Author of ‘Don’t Say Abolish ICE’ Memo Is a Corporate Consultant." By Whitney Curry-Winbush of The American Prospect

Jan 23, 20265 min

Ep 352352: The MAGA Media Propaganda Machine w/ Jennifer Schulze of Indistinct Chatter

#podcast #progressives #politics #michigan #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Greenland #AmericaFirst #WorkingClass #RxKids #MattHall #Whitmer #Election2026 #Inequality #WealthInequality #ICE #AbolishICE #Authoritarianism #Mothers #Immigration #ChildCare #WhiteChristianNationalism #TechBros #CBSNews #BariWeiss #Economy #Race #Racism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing00:00:15:37: Greenland? Attacks on RxKidsLeft of Lansing's Pat Johnston doesn't understand how spending around a trillion dollars to acquire Greenland to please billionaire Tech Bros helps working class Americans, who are struggling with high costs of food, electricity, child care, health care, and car insurance. And it took awhile, but MAGA Michigan Republicans are finally beginning to attack the successful RxKids program. Pat explains why. Because, it works!15:38-43:35: Jennifer Schulze InterviewLongtime Chicago journalist and media critic Jennifer Schulze joins the show to talk about MAGA media propaganda machine. On her Substack, Indistinct Chatter, Jennifer wrote an article on the MAGA political operative Nick Shirley, and how his propaganda videos on so-called "fraud" in child care facilities in Minnesota, led to the Trump Regime's Ice Gestapo invasion in Minneapolis. And Jennifer and Pat discuss the devolving of CBS News, which is becoming a Trump Propaganda News Network by the billionaire-picked News Director, Bari Weiss. 42:01-51:25: Last Call-Whitmer's SilenceIn this week's "Last Call," Pat criticizes Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer's continued refusal to stand-up for working class Michiganders, and all Americans, while the Trump Regime causes pain in a myriad of ways. 51:26-53:35: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Stop calling Nick Shirley a journalist. He's a MAGA political operative." By Jennifer Schulze of Indistinct Chatter "Goodbye Cronkite, Hello Trump." By Jennifer Schulze of Indistinct Chatter "Before Michigan moms in poverty get aid, cash flows through this NY group." By Beth LeBlanc of The Detroit News "Rx Kids expands unprecedented effort to support Michigan families." By Liam Boylan-Pett of MSU Today "Right-Wing YouTuber Behind Viral Minnesota Fraud Video Has Long Anti-Immigrant History." By Jonah Valdez of The Intercept "Advocates demand Wayne County Airport Authority halt ICE flights out of Willow Run airport." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Detroit Rejects Trump & ICE Invades Minneapolis." By the Point of Disorder Podcast "Three seconds on a Michigan factory floor told the truth too many in power won’t say out loud." By Jon King of Michigan Advance

Jan 22, 202653 min

Ep 351351: Monday Musing: More Insider Trading Allegations Surrounding Michigan Rep. Lisa McClain

#podcast #progressives #politics #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #InsiderTrading #WorkingClass #Oligarchy #Palantir #PeterTheil #ElonMusk #AI #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #LisaMcclain #Corruption #Congress #Election2026 #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 19, 2026.It appears Michigan Congresswoman Lisa McClain from the 9th congressional district is dealing with some more insider trading allegations. After being late on disclosing how she and her husband plugged-in around $900,000 in trades last year which included Peter Theil's Palantir, Lisa & her husband are in the news once again for more insider trading shenanigans. Just days before the Trump Regime's Pentagon announced plans to expand Elon Musk's xAI in the military, Lisa's husband apparently purchased between $100,000-$250,000 of the private xAI stock.I'm sure it was just dumb luck.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"House Republican Conference chairwoman Lisa McClain disclosed the purchase made just days before the Pentagon announced a major integration with xAI." By David Shaw of Sludge"Michigan’s McClain tells congressional clerk that she will avoid violating STOCK Act in the future." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Author of ‘Don’t Say Abolish ICE’ Memo Is a Corporate Consultant." By Whitney Curry Wimbush of The American Prospect

Jan 19, 20265 min

Ep 350350: Friday Short: Democrats Must Push To Abolish ICE In '26!

#podcast #progressives #Michigan #politics #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #ICE #ICEViolence #Authoritarianism #PoliticalViolence #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Immigrants #Race #WhiteSupremacy #WhiteChristianNationalism #Tryranny #MikeRogers #Election2026 #WorkingClass #Oligarchy #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for January 16, 2026.Polls are showing Americans are fed-up with the Trump Regime's Ice Gestapo, and polls show a split for those believing in abolishing, or preserving, ICE. There is heavy support to restrict ICE activities. Left of Lansing's Pat Johnston says now is the time for Progressive Democrats to push a bold and strong message to abolish ICE since it's against everything we value in our country and our democratic society. And we must say "No," to those corporate Democratic Party groups who say Democrats should push incremental changes to ICE this election year. Incrementalism is what got us here in the first place!Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:YouGov Survey on ICE and Its Practices

Jan 16, 20265 min

Ep 349349: Battling Oligarch Devos Family and ICE in West Michigan

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Vance #Oligarchy #TechBros #Media #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Michigan #ICE #Authoritarianism #PoliticalViolence #Immigration #GrandRapids #WestMichigan #DeVos #BetsyDevos #ElissaSlotkin #Education #WealthInequality #WorkingClass #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's Episode #162 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-9:54: Union Worker Heckles TrumpA union worker at Ford's Truck Plant in Dearborn called Dear Leader Trump a "pedophile protector," but has now been suspended by the automaker. However, working class Americans are showing their massive support by raising money for this union worker. This is another illustration how little the Trump Regime cares about working class Americans, and how the regime only works for the oligarch class. 9:54-39:09: Jeff Smith from GRIID InterviewJeff Smith is the founder and director of Grand Rapids Institute for Information Democracy, or GRIID, talks with Pat this week. Mr. Smith talks about his years of work exposing and highlighting the many different ways the DeVos Oligarch Family is ingrained in the state's economic and political power structure. He also talks about his work in helping protect undocumented citizens in West Michigan, and how you can help-out in your local community as well. 39:10-47:18: Last Call-Dems Cave To Corp ClassIn this week's "Last Call," Pat picks-up where Jeff Smith left-off on how some corporate Democrats continuously cave to the corporate class, like the DeVos Oligarch Family, The Trump Regime, and others. Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin is one of them.47:19-50:02: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Grand Rapids Institute For Information Democracy "The company at 545 Michigan in Grand Rapids that already has a contract with ICE, will now be using bounty hunters to track down immigrants for ICE." By Jeff Smith of GRIID "Why are we not focusing as much attention on the Billionaires in our own back yard as we are on Musk and Bezos?" By Jeff Smith of GRIID "Look at which groups are opposing the ballot initiative that would raise taxes for millionaires and billionaires in Michigan." By Jeff Smith of GRIID "A Ford worker called out Trump. The president flipped him off. Now, he’s been suspended." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "UAW backs Ford worker suspended for heckling Trump, condemns president’s ‘vulgar’ response." By Steve Neavling of Detroit Metro Times "The DeVos family publicly reengages in Michigan politics ahead of Election 2026." By Zoe Clark and Rick Pluta of Michigan Public Radio "Slotkin says she’s under federal investigation over illegal orders video." By Ashleigh Fields of The Hill "A Majority of Young Voters Now Reject Both Parties." By Ed Kilgore of The Intelligencer

Jan 15, 202650 min

Ep 348348: Monday Musing: Ice Brutality Is Why You Never Capitulate To Authoritarianism

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Vance #ICE #Immigration #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Donors #Oligarchy #WorkingClass #PoliticalViolence #WhiteChristianNationalism #Fascism #Authoritarianism #HaleyStevens #DemocraticSocialism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 12, 2026.Pat Johnston muses about inflicting cruelty and violence on both undocumented citizens AND American citizens is part of the Trump Regime's authoritarianism goal of silencing opposition. That's why several Democrats including Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens were completely derelict in their duty to oppose the Trump Regime's authoritarianism from the start. While progressive Democrats and Democratic Socialists are standing-up for those who don't have power in this scary time in American history, too many corporate Democrats believed capitulating to Authoritarianism was the best play. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"In a year, ICE arrested over 2,300 in Michigan – from teens at home to a dad getting coffee." By Rose White of MLive "Detroit councilwoman calls for limits on ICE operations following Minneapolis shooting." By WXYT News, Channel 7 in Detroit

Jan 12, 20266 min