Left of Lansing

#Podcast #Michigan #Politics #MichiganPolitics #Progressives #News #Democrats #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #WorkingClass #Teachers #CorporateWelfare #WhitmerHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for November 15, 2024!The Michigan Democratic House majority only has a little time left to pass some good legislation in the lame duck session before the MAGA Republicans gain control at the New Year. But the Democratic leadership seems mired to its old ways of ensuring that they pass corporate subsidies and corporate welfare bills, first and foremost. Meanwhile, many progressive members of the caucus are urging the leadership to pass bills that put the working class first. It's like the Michigan Democratic Party leadership is ignoring what the voters were telling them just a week ago: Stop handing out wasteful and failing corporate welfare, and reinvest in the people!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.comNOTES:"GM to lay off roughly 1,000 people globally with majority working out of Warren." By Kalea Hall of The Detroit News "Democrats have a few weeks to finish economic policies. Businesses are wary." By Paula Gardner of Bridge Michigan "Corporate subsidies cost Michigan $335M; 40% of deals create low-paying jobs." By Paula Gardner of Bridge Michigan "Controversial bills changing who issues permits for gravel mines pulled from consideration for now." By Tracy Samilton of Michigan Public Radio "Lawmaker Wants 10 Percent Corporate Income Tax to Give Teachers $20K Raise." By MIRS Michigan Democratic State Rep. Betsy Coffia tweet on mining bills.

#Podcast #Politics #PoliticalNews #Michigan #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #LeftOfLansing #Election2024 #WorkingClass #Economy #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #DirtroadDemsHere's Episode 111 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-15:36: Democrats Losing Working ClassIn the opening segment, Pat Johnston talks about how Democrats are losing the working class, and why it's unconscionable since Trump & MAGA's policies help only the rich, corporate donor class. Pat highlights how one progressive Michigan Democratic State House Representative won reelection in a rural area by running as a real, working class Democrat. 15:37-39:03: Kasey Helton InterviewProgressive Livingston County activist and influencer, Kasey Helton, gives her assessment on how Democrats must learn to get back in touch with the working class. She talks about how constant mixed messages from national Democrats ended-up hurting them in this election. Watch Kasey's Facebook Live video on where and how Democrats went wrong in this election.39:04-42:20: Last Call LetterPat shares a listener email, which lifted his spirits after a very rough post-election week.42:21- 44:47: 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.comNOTES: "Auchter's Art: We never left." Via Michigan Public Radio "Rural voters drove Michigan’s record turnout and helped hand Trump victory." By Dustin Dwyer and Adam Yahya Reyes of Michigan Public Radio "Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says she's looking for 'shared priorities' with Trump." By Craig Mauger of The Detroit News

#Politics #News #Election2024 #Democrats #Michigan #Progressives #Media #CorporateMedia #PodcastHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for November 11, 2024.There are many reasons as to what led to the Democratic Party's demise in the election. Many of which are being discussed everywhere with many people pointing the fingers at each other.But Pat believes there's one reason for Trump's victory, and it's a reason everyone can agree on: Disinformation.It's a problem. Now, all we have to do is find a way to solve 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.comNOTES:"2024’s other big loser? The mainstream media. Is there any path forward?" By Will Bunch of The Philadelphia Inquirer "America's political discordance: The Trump voters who want progressivism." By Amanda Marcotte of Salon "We’ve lost our shared reality. That can have deadly consequences." By Susan J. Demas of Michigan Advance

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for November 8, 2024Democrats are busy picking-up the pieces after getting trounced in this presidential election year, and that includes Michigan Democrats losing their majority in the state House. While there's much to be said about how and why we got here, the Democratic majority in Lansing still has six weeks to pass important laws in the lame duck session.Pat lists-off those laws which must pass because not only will those laws help the state, but we're not sure when Democrats will have this chance again.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.com

#Election2024 #Politcs #Progressives #Michigan #Republicans #DemocratsHere's Episode 110 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast.Pat gives his insights into America choosing four more years of Donald Trump and MAGA politics, and Michiganders giving the state House majority to MAGA Republicans as well.Where do progressives and the Democratic Party go from here? Pat shares thoughts.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.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for November 4, 2024.The final "Monday Musing" before Election Day 2024.Pat explains why he's voting for Harris. Not only is Harris pushing a progressive domestic agenda (which includes abortion rights, manufacturing here at home, in-home care for seniors), but she's fighting to preserve democracy and decency. It's really a slam-dunk kind of a case that doesn't have to be made. 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.com

#Election2024Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for November 1, 2024.The final EPIC-MRA-Detroit Free Press poll shows Kamala Harris leading Trump by three-percentage points. Harris has seen improved numbers within the African American community, and with women voters, in general. Meanwhile, Democrat Elissa Slotkin has opened-up a 5% lead over MAGA Republican "Florida" Mike Rogers for Michigan's U.S. Senate race. If these numbers are true, then Democrats could have a very good night in Michigan.But there's only one way to know for sure, and that is voting!Visit MichiganVoting.org for additional voting information.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.comNOTES:"Kamala Harris leads Donald Trump in Michigan by 3 points in final Detroit Free Press poll." By Todd Spangler of The Detroit Free Press"Rubin: How many trans girl athletes does it take to spark campaign ads?" Neal Rubin of The Detroit Free Press

Here's Episode 109 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-21:06: Democracy vs. Fascism We're just a few days away from the biggest and most consequential election since Abraham Lincoln's victory in 1860. It's amazing how the United States is close to installing a true fascist movement into the White House. But Pat gives some optimism and puts his faith in the American people to do the right thing, and trounce Dear Leader Trump and his White Christian Nationalist MAGA cult which is bankrolled by billionaire donors. Pat refuses to downplay the threat Trump and MAGA are to this country, unlike Ana Kasparian on The Young Turks. This election is about saving democracy while finding solutions to help hard-working Americans gain opportunities to better their lives. It's about The People vs. The Billionaires. It's about Sanity and Normalcy vs. Insanity and Corruption. It's about Freedom vs. the fascist Christian Nationalist "Project 2025" playbook. It's about the future. 21:07-38:13: Keep Michigan House Blue! Pat explains how important down-ballot races for the power of the Michigan State House are in this election. Democrats have a slim two-seat majority, and are not only hoping to keep the gavel, but are hoping to increase their majority. Pat highlights how two strong progressive Democratic State Reps (Emily Dievendorf and Betsy Coffia) worked to improve the lives of thousands in their districts during the last two years, and why it's imperative that they are reelected. He also highlights two young progressive Democrats (Sarah May-Seward and Austin Marsman) are trying to unseat two extreme MAGA state reps in less than a week. Keeping the state legislature Blue is just as important as the presidential race! 38:14-43:40: Corporate Media FailedPat spends his "Last Call" covering how hundreds of thousands of Americans canceled their subscriptions to The Washington Post and L.A. Times after both papers refused to endorse a presidential race. These papers, like many legacy media outlets, are owned by billionaires, and these billionaires are fine with a little fascism just as long as they become more powerful. But the people are fighting back against the billionaire class, and moving beyond the failed corporate legacy media.43:41-45:53: 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.com"Workers Say They Were Tricked and Threatened as Part of Elon Musk’s Get-Out-the-Vote Effort." By Jake Lahut of Wired.comMAGA Fascist debate between TYT's Cenk Uygur and Ana Kasparian."State removes Rock River Township clerk, deputy clerk from election duties." By the TV 6 News Team"How Many of Us Have to Die?" By Jessica Valenti in Abortion, Every Day"More than 250,000 Washington Post readers cancel subscriptions in revolt over non-endorsement." By Liam Reilly of CNN"Trombley, Coffia paint contrasting pictures for northern Michigan." By Izzy Ross and Ed Ranco of Michigan Advance"Nessel, House LGBTQ+ Caucus warn that Trump and GOP endanger hard-fought rights." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Polluter pay bills aim to give Michigan regulators more authority, tools for environmental cleanup." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance"Michigan bill could help keep homes, farmland in the family after a loved one's death." By Doug Tribio and Caoilinn Goss of Michigan Public Radio"Ness-Smith challenging Dievendorf for District 77 seat." By WILX TV 10 in Lansing

Here's the Left Of Lansing "Monday Musing" for October 28, 2024!Nearly 2-million Michiganders have already voted. As predicted, making it easier for people to vote is not only getting more people involved in our democracy or making it easier for county clerks across the state, but it's extremely popular!Thanks to progressive activism in the last decade, and a Democratic Party majority in Lansing, voting rights in Michigan have expanded. Michigan has now broken voting turnouts in 2020 and 2022. These new voting laws are working as intended.But remember, it could've always been this way had Michigan Republicans, like MAGA Republican U.S. Senate candidate "Florida" Mike Rogers, not worked tirelessly for years to make voting harder, especially for younger Michiganders.Voting rights is also on the ballot! Remember who's fought for those rights, and who's fought against them. 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.comNOTES: "What’s not to love about early voting?" By Susan Demas of Michigan Advance "Rogers says he didn’t violate voter registration law he helped to pass." By Jon King of Michigan Advance

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for October 25, 2024. As some polls suggest that Trump and MAGA Republicans are making some inroads with Generation Z men, Pat wonders what can be done to dissuade these young men from going down the White Christian Nationalist Dude-bro MAGA Republican path. Maybe it's what Paul Waldman writes this week when he says they will suffer from the same grift as many rural Americans suffered after throwing their hopes and dreams into Trump. They'll realize how he played into their dude-bro culture belief that "The Others" are to blame in society, and not how he and his billionaire friends enriched their lives and outcomes while the rest of us continued fighting with each other. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

Here's Episode 108 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! Visit MichiganVoting.org for voting information. 00:00-19:07: Trump's Fascism/Rick Snyder's Sad Pat Johnston begins the episode talking about how Dear Leader Trump's former Chief Of Staff, John Kelly, called his former boss a fascist. And even though Trump has praised Hitler, the MAGA Republican Party continue to rush to his defense. That's why the story of Trump calling deceased U.S. Army soldier Vanessa Guillen an "F-ing Mexican," is celebrated within MAGA circles rather than reviled. Pat also talks about former Michigan Republican Governor Rick Snyder's crusade to help MAGA Republicans take control of the state house. Snyder, who spent years painting himself as a moderate "nerd," is proving there's no difference between he and MAGA. That's what Pat's always been saying! 19:08-36:55: Sam Inglot of Progress Michigan Sam Inglot, Executive Director of Progress Michigan, joins the show to talk about the importance of getting people to the polls this election. Pat and Sam talk about that while the presidential race is important, the down-ballot races are just as vital. Elections for who takes over Congress, the state House, and the State Supreme Court are important to Michigan's future when it comes to the economy, social justice rights, union rights, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental justice, clean energy economy, and more. Plus, Sam also shares how the ultra-right wing Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025" will attack Michigan's rural and farming communities, as well as the more populated areas across the state. Please, make sure people get to the polls! Visit MichiganVoting.org for voting information. 36:56-42:41: Last Call--Democrats Losing Gen Z Men? This week's "Last Call" deals with a post declaring that the Democratic Party is losing male Gen Z voters, and they've got to do more to reach them. Pat wonders how, exactly, are Democrats supposed to reach this voting bloc, which is supposedly voting more MAGA. 42:42-45:29: Ending/UM-MSU Prediction Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left Of Lansing "Monday Musing" for October 21, 2024!Michigan MAGA Republican candidates are real quiet this year when it comes to abortion rights, or in their case, banning abortion rights. Despite spending years fighting to ban abortion care altogether, these same people are suddenly telling voters that abortion bans are not on their radar this year. Of course, the Michigan Right To Life doesn't exactly believe them since the group is proudly and enthusiastically endorsing these same anti-choice and anti-freedom candiates.And we don't believe them either. 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.comNOTES:"On abortion, some Michigan candidate claims conflict with records." By Jordyn Hermani of Bridge Michigan"Opinion: Michigan Republican candidates are suddenly chill about abortion this election." By Nancy Kaffer of The Detroit Free Press"Trump Backtracks On Comments About Abortion And 'Punishment' For Women." By Brian Naylor of NPR"Women Voters Revisited: Inflation, Abortion, and Increased Motivation in the 2024 Election Countdown." By KFF"Are women over 50 the critical voter group no one is talking about?" By Amanda Becker of The 19th

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for October 18, 2024!Dear Leader Trump doubled-down on trashing the City of Detroit this week, saying if Vice President Kamala Harris wins the election, the entire country will look like Detroit.And then there's former New Jersey Republican Gov. Chris Christie attacking our beloved Detroit Lions, especially Head Coach Dan Campbell, for beating-up on his poor, little Dallas Cowboys in front of nation last week.With all of this Detroit-bashing, it's no wonder why a new poll shows 50% of Michiganders saying they are less likely to vote for Trump.I'm not sure of the Republican strategy to attack Detroit when Michigan is a key battleground state in the election, but I say... keep doing it, Trump and the rest of MAGA! 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.com

Here's Episode 107 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-16:00: Ottawa Impact/Close Election Expected Ottawa County, Michigan, provides the perfect and poignant case study on how the MAGA ideology is not only destructive, but it's expensive! Thanks to the outstanding reporting by Sarah Leach, the MAGA Ottawa Impact majority on the county board has spent over $3 million in lawsuits, and other unexpected costs! Now, the OI faction will lose its majority on the board in a few weeks, but the damage is already done. Check-out Sarah Leach's substack, The Sentinel Leach, to learn more about western Michigan politics, and politics in general. Pat reminds you to help-out those Michigan Democratic State House candidates, who are trying to defeat MAGA across the state. And Pat tells everyone to chill-out about the closeness of the presidential election because no matter what, it was always going to be a close one. 16:01-38:58: Interview w/ Peter Sinclair Environmental activist, climate change educator, science journalist, and videographer, Peter Sinclair joins the podcast. Peter talks about how Michigan is NOT living in a climate change haven despite all of the destructive storms hitting the southeast portion of the country right now. As we deal with a higher number of severe storms and warmer winters, Mr. Sinclair describes how climate change isn't just affecting Michigan's environment and economy, but it's affecting our culture. Sinclair also explains how the MAGA ideology's main goals is to discredit the scientific experts, just as they're working to discredit the experts in other fields. Check-out Peter Sinclair's blog called, "This Is Not Cool," for a daily update on how the climate change crisis is changing our country and world, and why we must act to combat it now! 38:59-44:07: Last Call on Project 2025 Goal To Eliminate NOAA Pat's last call highlights an op-ed by Peter Sinclair on the Heritage Foundation's blueprint to dissolve the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Why? Because the fossil fuel industry says the NOAA is part of the climate change "alarm industry." This is part of the corporatist and Christian Nationalist playbook that could be put into motion if Dear Leader Trump wins the election! 44:08-46:28: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" on October 14, 2024 Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled a new plan where Medicare would cover the costs for in-home elder care, and also for people with disabilities. Nine in 10 Americans say they're unable to cover the costs to care for a senior family member, which is why Harris introduced her proposal. Yet, for all of the pearl-clutching by the corporate political media over how Harris must release detailed policy plans, whenever she does introduce said policies, there media loses interests. Of course, it never makes the same demands on their Dear Leader Trump, and I think we know why. And so do you. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for October 11, 2024.The "Abandon Harris" campaign this week officially endorsed Green Party presidential nominee, Jill Stein, in Dearborn, MI. But one of the co-founder's of the campaign clearly explained the point of the movement: to hand the state of Michigan to Dear Leader Trump this November.This is despite the fact that Trump throws all of his support to Israel's continued destruction of Gaza, while also promising to expand another Muslim ban in the country, and to deport millions of immigrants. It's also another example of how Jill Stein's Green Party movement's real goal is to damage Democrats.And it's noteworthy to mention how she and Trump are both admirers of Vladimir Putin, whom Stein refuses to call a war criminal.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.comNOTES:Mehdi Hassan's "Mehdi Unfiltered" episode featuring Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein and vice presidential candidate Butch Ware."Abandon Harris endorses Green Party nominee Jill Stein." By Jon King of Michigan Advance"At the Center of the Right-Wing Revival? Hating Immigrants." By Isabela Diaz of Mother Jones

Here's Episode 106 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast.00:00-30:45: Harris Leads Trump in MI/Slotkin-Rogers Senate DebatePat's got lots to say this week about the presidential race in Michigan, and why Harris is now leading Trump in the Michigan polls. He talks about Trump-Vance's anti-EV Car stance, which is also another anti-union stance. But it's also an anti-Michigan stance. Pat also brings-up how Dear Leader Trump tried to steal the 2020 election in Michigan, and will try it again. He also talks about how climate change is causing these violent hurricanes this season, and how Republicans worked hard to defund FEMA only to blame it's not working like it should. And Pat concludes by recapping the U.S. Senate seat debate between Democrat Elissa Slotkin and MAGA Republican "Florida" Mike Rogers, and did Rogers commit voter fraud?30:46-35:21:Last Call: Go Dirt Road Dems!In this week's "Last Call" segment, Pat puts a spotlight on those rural Democrats who are putting their names on ballots in districts they know will be hard to win, but they do it to help Democrats at the top of the ticket while building a "blue foundation" in their areas for years to come.35:22-37:40: Go Tigers!/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.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for October 7, 2024.Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign has been playing a bit prevent defense for my taste of late, but she seems to be getting back on the offense in a smart and calculated way.Along with making appearances on CBS's "60 Minutes" this week, Harris is also appearing on Alexandra Cooper's "Call Her Daddy" podcast, as well as on Howard Stern's show. By bypassing the broken traditional corporate media world, Harris is finding a way to engage with millions of potential new voters. She's not going to change many minds on CNN, Fox News, or MSNBC. But she could by visiting non-traditional media platforms.It's not only the right strategy, but it's the smart strategy. 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.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for October 4, 2024.Yet another solid jobs report for the American people, and it's due in-part to smart economic policies put in motion by a Democratic administration in The White House.After Dear Leader left the country in economic ruin, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris passed strong and sensible job and economic growth bills, such as The Chips Act, the infrastructure bill, and the Inflation Reduction Act. And we're feeling those benefits in Michigan, too, thanks in-part to a Democratic Governor, and a Democratic majority in the state legislature.How many more times do we have to learn the lesson of watching Republicans destroy the economy, and then voting for Democrats to clean-up the Republican mess. It's already happened three times in my lifetime!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.comNOTES:"Employers added 254,000 jobs in September, reflecting strong gains as election nears." By Lauren Kaori Gurley of The Washington PostWashington Post economist Heather Long's tweets on the September of '24 jobs numbers."GDP: US economy grows at 3% annualized pace in second quarter." By Josh Schafer of Yahoo Finance"Consumer prices rose 0.2% in August as annual inflation rate hits lowest since early 2021." By Jeff Cox of CNBC"Michigan marks lowest unemployment rate in past 20 years as job growth slows, report says." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance

Here's Episode 105 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast. 00:00-18:17: VEEP Recap/MAGA Attacks Immigrants & Abortion Rights The first segment features Pat Johnston giving his review of the Vice Presidential Debate between Democratic Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and MAGA Republican Dude-Bro J.D. Vance. Pat highlights where Walz scored some major points, and where he fell short, in his debate against Vance. Pat also talks about how the Dear Leader Trump/Vance attacks on immigrants is leading to violent threats. 18:18-40:48: Interview w/ Amanda Mazur on Abortion Rights Our guest this week is Amanda Mazur, who's an abortion rights activist as well as the Vice President of Northwest Michigan For Reproductive Freedom. Amanda gives her takes on how abortion was covered during the Veep debate, and she shares thoughts on how MAGA Republicans are definitely not "pro-family," and how progressives and Democrats should talk about abortion rights this election year. 40:49-46:11: Last Call: Mike Rogers Wants Higher Drug Prices In the "Last Call," Pat talks about how MAGA Michigan Republican U.S. Senate candidate "Florida" Mike Rogers is "passionately against" allowing Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices. He criticizes Democratic U.S. Senate candidate, and Michigan congresswoman, Elissa Slotkin's backing of the Inflation Reduction Act, which gave Medicare the power to lower the prices of different prescription drugs in the future. Let's see how the voters react to "Florida" Mike's stance on that one. 46:12-48:28: Ending/Go Tigers! Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for September 30, 2024.MAGA Michigan GOP Chair Pete Hoekstra is telling Republican voters that Democrats "will steal some votes" this election.Of course, like Dear Leader Trump, and several other of his failed cult member, there's absolutely ZERO evidence that Democrats are stealing votes. It's just the MAGA way of letting their people know that voters aren't gravitating towards their weird and warped campaign "policies." Instead, they'd rather sew doubts in this country's democratic institutions, and free election system. And we wonder why MAGA resorts to violence, or at least violent rhetoric.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.comNOTES:"Top Michigan Republican already warns of a stolen election." By Craig Mauger and Hannay Mackay of The Detroit News"MIGOP chair accuses Democrats of stealing votes ahead of 2024 election." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance"Michigan election workers fear threats to their own safety as November approaches, one group is trying to help." By Associated Press"Trump Camp Says State Menstrual Surveillance Programs are A-OK." By Josh Marshall of Talking Points Memo

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for September 27, 2024.A new NBC Poll shows Vice President Kamala Harris enjoying a whopping 21% lead over Dear Leader Trump with women.Why?Because women aren't backing the weird and warped Christian Nationalist philosophy that believes men are the bosses of women.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.comNOTES: NBC's Steve Kornacki tweet on Kamala Harris's lead over Trump with women."Donald Trump and Bernie Moreno rage at "crazy" female voters who refuse to fall in line." By Amanda Marcotte of Salon"The 15 most offensive things that have come out of Trump’s mouth." By Nick Gass of Politico"Read every horrible thing Donald Trump has said about women and tell me he's not a sexist." By Dylan Matthews of Vox"Sarah Huckabee Sanders Takes Dig at Kamala Harris for Not Having Children." By Anna Commander of Newsweek

Here's Episode 104 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-19:15: MAGA Plans To Destroy Economy & Women's FreedomsThe award-winning Pat Johnston highlights Project 2025's goals to destroy unions if Dear Leader Trump gets back into office. He also stresses the importance of the Michigan Supreme Court races, and to vote for Kyra Harris Bolden and Kimberly Thomas. Pat shows how MAGA Michigan Republican attacks on immigrants will hurt our state economy. And he closes the segment showing how Michigan Democrats keep producing results that actually helps the people and the state.19:16-35:40: The Smearing of Rashida TlaibThis week's elongated "Last Call" has Pat talking about the disgusting smear attacks against Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. Tlaib criticized Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel for charging pro-Palestine protesters on the University of Michigan campus. She gave an interview with The Detroit Metro Times' Steve Nealing in which Tlaib continued her criticisms of Nessel. That criticism led to the corporate media pressing a narrative that Tlaib used antisemitic language in her attacks against Nessel. However, Steve Nealing himself took to social media to attack media organizations, like CNN, for accusing Tlaib of antisemitism by claiming she said something... she never said! And even worse, a couple of Michigan Democrats jumped aboard the smear before ever reading the story. Nealing provided a "fact-check" piece to this story as well.35:41-37:56: 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.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for September 23, 2024. Former New Jersey Republican Governor Chris Christie levied some harsh words for his former boss, and the extreme MAGA Republican North Carolina gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson. Christie blasted Dear Leader Trump for supporting and endorsing Robinson, who's own extreme past comments, including how he's a "Black Nazi," might cost Republicans the state of North Carolina this election season. But while Christie tries to blame Dear Leader for the MAGA-ization of the Republican Party, Christie should also look inward, and also blame himself for his party's trip towards embracing right-wing, Christian Nationalist extremism. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! "Top staffers on Mark Robinson campaign quit after reports of offensive remarks." By Edward Helmore of The Guardian "Mark Robinson's History of Controversial Claims." By Tom Norton of Newsweek "Will the Mark Robinson revelations tank Republicans in a key battleground state?" By Maria Narea of Vox

Here's the Left of Lansing Friday Short for September 20, 2024.The International Brotherhood of Teamsters is in danger of damaging itself into perpetuity because of its fear of the possibility of either another Dear Leader Trump administration, or that the next President of the United States will be a black woman.Or both.The Teamsters leadership is hurting its cause.--PatPlease, 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.comNOTES:"Michigan Teamsters council bucks national union, endorses Kamala Harris." By The Detroit Free PressMichigan Teamsters Joint Council 43 Facebook endorsement of Kamala Harris."Trump claims to be pro-worker. His record says he’s anti-union." By Chris Isidore of CNN"UAW files federal labor charges against Donald Trump and Elon Musk after threatening workers on X interview." By David Goldman of CNN"Teamsters leader says Harris, Trump wouldn’t ‘commit.’" By Taylor Giorno of The Hill

Here's Episode 103 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-14:28: Huckabee-Sanders Weirdness/Abortion & IVF/Yard SignsWe begin this week criticizing Arkansas MAGA Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee-Sanders's attack on Vice President Kamala Harris for not having biological kids while attending a Dear Leader Trump rally in Flint, MI. Pat then exposes the hypocrisy of the White Christian Nationalist MAGA "pro-life" stance, and how MAGA continues to lose the women's vote. Pat also follows-up on the lack of Elissa Slotkin for Michigan's U.S. Senate Seat yard signs in rural parts of the state. 14:29-38:02: Dr. Josh Cowen InterviewPat talks with Dr. Josh Cowen on his new book titled, "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 school voucher movement. In his book, Dr. Cowen gives an insightful breakdown of the group of right-wing billionaires who've been behind the "school choice" movement for years, and how they've worked together on the school voucher scheme as part of their ongoing right-wing culture war in America.38:03-44:03: Last Call/MAGA BullyingIn this week's "Last Call," Pat exposes how MAGA bullying is a cover for MAGA Snowflake behavior. He talks about how neighbors are getting their Harris/Walz signs stolen, and how this is reminiscent of when his Gretchen Whitmer for Michigan Governor signs were destroyed two years ago. 44:05-46:41: Ending/Polls/Go 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!leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing Monday Musing for September 16, 2024!There's a belief that the weird, warped, right-wing MAGA will disappear after Dear Leader is defeated and gone. Nothing could be further from the truth.Just look at the absurd lengths many in MAGA World will go to protect Dear Leader Trump now. That kind of absurdity will not end After Trump for them.Why?Because MAGA has always been what the Republican Party is all about, and will always be about. Make no mistake!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.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for September 13, 2024!There's an important U.S. Senate race in Lansing between Democratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and MAGA Republican "Florida" Mike Rogers. The winner of the race takes the seat of retiring Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow.There's a slew of reasons as to why Florida Mike is the wrong choice for Michigan, and the rest of the country.But a recent expose by Bridge Magazine detailing how Rogers played a role in the nation's opioid crisis, while raking-in tons of campaign cash from the pharmaceutical industry, provides further illustration on the kind of person Rogers truly is.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.com

Here's Episode 102 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-23:27: Harris-Trump Debate ReactionIn the first segment, Pat begs the Elissa Slotkin campaign to help push her candidacy for the U.S. Senate by sending-out yard signs to rural Democrats across the state. It's a crucial race, and we progressives want to help her defeat "Florida" Mike Rogers. Then, Pat gives his reactions to the Presidential Debate in which Kamala Harris made minced meat of Donald Trump. No wonder he doesn't want any more debates unless some right-wing media hacks moderate it.23:28-32:01: Last Call: Michigan's Clean Energy Economic BoonNext, Pat highlights an article by Michigan Advance's Kyle Davidson, which details how Michigan's clean energy policies are providing an economic boon! Thanks to clean energy bills passed by state Democrats, and by congressional Democrats, Michiganders will save on their energy bills in the future. These initiatives are also providing thousands of clean energy jobs while making Michiganders healthier! Had MAGA Michigan Republicans been in-charge, we'd be stuck in a 20th Century economy.32:02-34:41: Ending and Go 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!leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing Monday Musing for September 9th, 2024!The much-anticipated Kamala Harris debate against Dear Leader Trump happens this week. But the corporate media are busy helping set the terms of who'll win, and who'll lose this debate. And as usual, the media are placing heavy expectations for Harris to meet while giving Trump virtually a free-ride. Let me know what you think!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.comNOTES:"7 things to watch at the Kamala Harris-Donald Trump debate." By Phillip M. Bailey of USA TodayWajahat Ali tweet Pat highlighted.

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for September 6, 2024.This week, New York Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez took Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein to the woodshed for Stein's predatory political maneuvering every four years. AOC rightly notes how Stein is only out there for her own brand and exposure, while never doing anything to help her party grow on a local and state level.It's almost as if Jill Stein's running to hurt the very people she claims to be fighting for. Actually, she is hurting the very people she claims to represent. Thank you, AOC!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.comJill Stein Photo: "Jill Stein" by Gage Skidmore is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Here's Episode 101 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!00:00-14:15: Another School Shooting/More Media Election FailuresPat Johnston begins this week's show by talking about another school shooting in the United States in America. This time, four students were killed in a Georgia high school. Pat illustrates how Michigan Democrats are at least trying to curb the gun violence epidemic in the state, and how MAGA Republicans are beholden to the gun manufacturing lobby. And then, Pat highlights another week of failed media coverage by the corporate media. 14:16-34:57: Michigan Advance's Jon King InterviewJon King from Michigan Advance is our guest this week, as he's provided some outstanding coverage surrounding the controversy circling around Livingston County Sheriff, and MAGA Republican, Mike Murphy after he invited Dear Leader Trump to visit Howell a few weeks ago. And now, Sheriff Murphy learns how backing Trump gets you into nothing but trouble! And Jon talks about another story he published detailing the dark money forces funneling money to MAGA Michigan Supreme Court candidate Andrew Fink. 39:32-39:56: Last Call--MI Oxfam Ranking DropIn this week's "Last Call," Pat covers another story by Michigan Advance's Jon King, which describes how Michigan dropped to #31 in Oxfam's "Best States To Work Index." However, Michigan's ranking may improve next year thanks to a recent Michigan Supreme Court ruling. And it's strange how the states ranking dead-bottom are red states.39:57-42:03: Detroit Lions Prediction/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.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for August 30, 2024.Vice President Kamala Harris's campaign has done a stellar job at keeping Dear Leader Trump and the Republicans on the defensive since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee. One area where Harris and her campaign could improve, and really put Dear Leader on the defensive, is on the issue of immigration.And Harris could do it without adopting all of the MAGA scary talking points and disgusting tropes about undocumented immigrants. I explain how.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.comNOTES:"Senators unveil bipartisan bill to impose tougher asylum and border laws." By Sahil Kapur, Julie Tsurkin, and Julia Ainsley of NBC News"Trump delivers marathon speech in Potterville railing against Harris: ‘She just doesn’t care.’" By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance"Study says undocumented immigrants paid almost $100 billion in taxes." By Casey Quinlan of States Newsroom (via Michigan Advance)

Here's Episode 100 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!And what a show we have in-store for your on this monumental episode!00:00-9:35: Michigan Reading Scores/Corp. Price-GougingThe episode opens-up by sharing the news that third-grade reading efficiency is at a 10-year low in Michigan. That's not good news at all, and of course, MAGA Michigan Republicans jumped all over this report to declare Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Democratic legislative majority are failing our kids. However, Michigan Democrats only gained the state's government trifecta last year, and it's difficult to completely reverse 40-years of Republican failure in the state. Pat also covers a huge news story detailing how Kroger used "greedflation" to justify why they jacked-up prices since the pandemic. 9:36-36:44: Clint St. Mosley InterviewDemocratic candidate Clint St. Mosley talks with us about his run to take-on MAGA Michigan Congresswoman Lisa McClain in the state's 9th congressional district. Mr. St. Mosley shares his life experiences, and why he not only wants to oust McClain, but what he hopes to accomplish in Congress to help improve the lives of those in the 9th District and across the country. McClain has served as Marjorie Taylor-Green's sidekick by wasting time investigating Hunter Biden while voting against bills to help her district. St. Mosley wants to bring sensible, common sense solutions to the Thumb Region, but he can't do that without your help. Visit his campaign site to volunteer and donate, and help this dirt-road Democrat flip a congressional seat from red-to-blue.36:45-49:06: Do Better Local Michigan Media!In this week's "Last Call" segment, Pat illustrates how local Michigan media failed in covering a recent visit by Dear Leader Trump's VP pick, Senator JV Vance . It's time for media to do better, and that goes for the local media in Michigan, too, as you'll hear. That being said, Pat explains why the Harri-Walz campaign should still do as many local interviews as possible while ignoring the corporate national media.49:07-51:35--Ending/Football Predictions!!!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.com

Here's this week's Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for August 26, 2024."Florida" Mike Rogers is hoping to become Michigan's next U.S. Senator after leaving our state for years to rake-in loads of cash in defense contractor lobbying.Meanwhile, Democratic candidate, Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin who worked in military intelligence and then joined Congress to help improve the lives of Michiganders and the rest of the country. Slotkin said at last week's Democratic Party Convention that America leads, and she's proving it by fighting for people. However, like his Dear Leader Trump, "Florida" Mike has made a career of using government to help himself while making it harder for government to help the rest of us. Let's help Elissa Slotkin defeat "Florida" Mike Rogers this November by donating to her campaign!Not only that, but "Florida" Mike's got some unseemly Michiganders helping his campaign, including the vile and ignorant Meshawn Maddock.Let's help Sarah-May Seward defeat Maddock's husband, Matt Maddock, in the 51st State House District this November by donating to her campaign!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!

Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for August 23, 2024.Vice President Kamala Harris gave her acceptance speech as the Democratic Party's nominee for President last night at her party's convention in Chicago, Illinois.On the whole, Harris delivered and memorable and effective speech.Most importantly, Harris has Trump and MAGA on the run because her campaign is playing Offense, something many national Democrats fail to do. But she's also reclaimed patriotism for the Democratic Party while also reassuring voters that America's best days are ahead.I explain how.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.com

Here's Episode 99 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!00:00-14:24: Trump Visits Howell Pat opens the show talking about the first couple of days of the Democratic Party Convention in Chicago. He also shows how beloved Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is within the party. Then, he covers Dear Leader Trump's sham of a "non-political event" this week in Howell, MI. Why did Trump visit the very town in which white supremacists marched through the downtown area just a month ago? 14:25-42:50: Christiana Reynolds InterviewChristiana Reynolds joins the show to discuss her run for House District 108. Reynolds is the Democratic candidate for the seat, which is currently being held by MAGA Michigan Republican Dave Prestin. She's been involved in U.P. politics for quite some time, including helping co-found Delta County Citizens for Ethical Leadership which led to the successful recall of three MAGA commissioners. Now, she's trying bring a sense of normalcy back to the 108th by unseating Prestin, and introducing smart, progressive, and common sense policies to help the next generation of Yoopers.Visit her campaign site, and Facebook page to view her weekly "Tea Time" show!42:51-48:22: Last Call--"School Choicers" Demand Free Lunches!In the Last Call, Pat covers the comic story where private school leaders are demanding tax dollars pay for free meals at their schools after viewing the successful and popular program happening in public schools. The school voucher scammers originally fought against free public school meals, but now they want the same at their schools! Pat explains why.48:23-50:41--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.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Short" for August 19, 2024. Vice President Kamala Harris introduced a rather solid populist, progressive, common sense, and popular economic agenda last week. Tax breaks to build three-million homes, $25k to help first-time homeowners with a down payment, $6k if a low-income and middle class family has a baby, an a $36-hundred child tax credit extension. Harris's populist tone has put the MAGA Trump/Vance on the defensive as they defend corporate price gouging, and declare their opposition to her plans. It's a smart, bold, but wise strategy. Democrats are getting back to their working class roots. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

Here's the Friday Short for August 16, 2024.Left of Lansing is tired of hearing "old" Republicans complain about MAGA since their actions of the last 50 years led to the MAGA takeover of their political party.However, it's not because they despise the MAGA's policies since there's no daylight between either faction's policies. They despise how upfront and open MAGA is about their policies against working and marginalized Americans, and also their dreams for Christian Nationalist Authoritarianism. Look at Michigan, where an extreme MAGA faction on the Ottawa County Commission lost its majority, but don't hold your breath for these "old" Republicans to change much in terms of policy.And former Republican Governor Rick Snyder, who once touted himself as a business "nerd" kind of a Republican, is now raising money to put MAGA Republicans in power in the State House. The transformation is complete. Old Republicans are MAGA. Same as it ever was.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.comNOTES:"With Ottawa Impact set to lose majority on county commission, Dems look to pick up more seats." By Sarah Leach of Michigan Advance"Opinion: Rick Snyder is fundraising for Michigan GOP. Oy." By Nancy Kaffer of The Detroit Free Press"Chairman of Snyder's PAC accused of sexual harassment." By Paul Egan of The Detroit Free Press"Former Gov. Snyder, Kalamazoo businessman to lead Republican fundraising campaign." By William Sylvester of Up North Live TV 7& 4

Here's Episode 98 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast with Pat Johnston!00:00-7:38: Weird MAGAS JV Vance/Matt HallPat talks about J.D. Vance (or J.V., as Pat calls him) visited Michigan again to unload another uninspired, dark, and untrue version of America that he and Dear Leader Trump envision. Pat then highlights weird MAGA Michigan Republican State Rep. Matt Hall, and how he's spent his time opposing ways to make Michigan a more prosperous, safe, and free state. He's even vowing to gut the new minimum wage increase and Earned Paid Sick Leave laws scheduled to go into effect this coming winter. Once again, like Dear Leader Trump and J.V. Vance, Matt Hall proves Republicans are about Punishing the working class in Michigan.7:39--18:19: Interview w/ Danielle Atkinson of Mothering JusticeCo-Founder of Mothering Justice, Danielle Atkinson, talks about the enormous Michigan State Supreme Court decision declaring how the Republican majority in Lansing back in 2018 acted unconstitutionally when they adopted and altered higher Minimum Wage and Earned Paid Sick Leave ballot initiatives. She talks about how Republicans gutted those laws, damaged the democratic process, and how these new laws will be a boon for both workers and businesses in Michigan.18:20-42:14: Austin Marsman InterviewPat next talks with Austin Marsman, Democratic State House candidate of House District 42. Marsman will face the disastrous and disturbing Republican House Minority Leader, Matt Hall. Marsman is hoping to become one of the few Gen Z members in the State House, which desperately needs the voice and perspective of younger Michiganders. He's spent his young professional life improving the lives for people in Allegan County, and now wants to improve the lives of thousands in both Allegan and Kalamazoo Counties. He believes in problem-solving, and being part of a freedom-based agenda Democrats across Michigan and the country are pushing. Donate to Austin Marsman's campaign!41:00-51:38: Last Call-Harris Owes The Press Nothing!In this week's "Last Call," Pat goes after the corporate media for its demands that Vice President Kamala Harris must do a press conference immediately. Considering their many, many failures in covering Trump, and covering for Trump, Harris is finding other ways to bypass the old media structure--a structure designed to report on the horse race, and help Republicans.51:39-52:48: 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!leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for August 12, 2024.Gaza Protesters have been appearing at Harris/Walz rallies, just as they protested President Biden many times during his term. While Left of Lansing agrees with the protesters, and has called for a ceasefire while also voting "uncommitted" in Michigan's presidential primary, LOL also says it's time for Gaza protesters to hold MAGA's feet to the fire in the exact same way as they're doing with Harris and the Democrats. 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.comNOTES:"Harris and Walz hold Las Vegas rally and match Trump pledge of no tax on tips." By Nina Lakhani of The Guardian"Harris and Walz meet with ‘uncommitted’ leaders, union members during Detroit campaign stop." By Russ McNamara of Detroit Public Radio"In Detroit, Harris and Walz talk about the Midwest, the middle class and voters in the middle." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance

Here's episode 97 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!00:00-14:36: Harris Picks Tim Walz/MI Primary ResultsPat discusses why VP Kamala Harris made a brilliant pick to make Minnesota Governor Tim Walz her running mate atop the Democratic presidential ticket. Populism is taking over the country. Rather than shunning that move, Harris embraced it by choosing the common sense progressive Governor. It helps paint a stark contrast both in style and policy between them and the rich and elite Dear Leader Trump-J.D. Vance MAGA ticket. And Pat covers some of the Michigan primary results.14:37-38:38: Distill Social's Gina KellerPat talks with Gina Keller, co-founder and Digital Director of the powerful progressive outfit known as Distill Social. Gina's also the co-host of the Point of Disorder podcast, which covers Michigan and national politics. Pat & Gina talk about what Distill Social's been up to, the podcast, the idiocy of trying to ban TikTok, the new energy infusion from the Harris-Walz ticket, and more. Distill Social works on spreading the progressive message and activism happening in the state through social media. 38:39-42:38: Last Call on Florida Mike's Saudi TiesDemocratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin will face MAGA Republican "Florida" Mike Rogers this November for Michigan's U.S. Senate seat being vacated by the retiring Debbie Stabenow. Rogers, who once criticized Dear Leader Trump, is now Dear Leader's buddy. But while he's ostensibly against America doing business with China and other overseas businesses, Florida Mike certainly didn't mind doing business with China AND Saudi Arabia during his post-Congressional years.42:39-44:31: 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!leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing Monday Musing for August 5, 2024.CNBC is reporting how Tesla and "X" owner Elon Musk's Pro-Trump Super Pac, called America PAC, is deceiving potential voters by claiming to help them to register to vote, only to keep their personal information while never helping them register. This not only doesn't help register voters, but it helps Musk and his right-wing authoritarian allies' ultimate goal and hunger for authoritarian power. With the help from fellow billionaire vulture capitalists, like Peter Thiel," Musk is using his Super Pac and social media company to drive an all-out, pro-Trump-Vance message while trashing VP Kamala Harris and the Democrats. The marriage between Big Tech & MAGA is a dangerous one, and it's one everyone must understand in this election. 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.comNOTES: "Michigan officials investigating Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC that claims to help register voters." By Jon King of Michigan Advance"What's Actually At Stake: MAGA and Tech Fascism." By Jared Yates Sexton of Dispatches From a Collapsing State"Is J.D. Vance’s Biggest Donor Right That America Started Going Downhill When Women Got the Vote?" By Ben Mathis-Lilley of Slate

Here's the Left of Lansing Friday Short for August 2, 2024.It's another week where MAGA Republicans' fake populism stance stood exposed once again.Michigan MAGA Republicans are outraged over a State Supreme Court ruling that Republicans acted unconstitutionally in blocking and watering-down minimum wage increase and earned paid sick leave ballot proposals in 2018. This means hundreds of thousands of Michigan workers will now earn more of a living wage, and earn time to care for themselves or sick loved ones. This also means Michigan MAGA Republicans are fired-up, not for the workers, but in trying to find ways to stop what the people wanted in the first place!Combine that news with the news of U.S. Senate MAGA Republicans blocking the expansion of the Child Tax Credit, and you've got more examples of how MAGA Republicans don't care about the economic well-being of hard-working Americans. 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.comNOTES:"Michigan Supreme Court ruling will result in big minimum wage hike next year." By Craig Mauger, Marnie Munoz, and Julia Cardi of The Detroit News"Senate rejects legislation that would expand child tax credit and restore business tax breaks." By Kevin Freking of The Associated Press

Here's Episode 96 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-20:56: Why Not Whitmer for Vice President? While she has steadfastly refused to be Vice President Kamala Harris' own pick for VP, some of us wonder, "Why Not Whitmer?" Michigan Advance's Editor-in-Chief, Susan Demas, joins the first segment to discuss how and why Michigan Governor Whitmer would be such an asset for the Democratic ticket this Fall. We also cover some of Whitmer's liabilities as well. But ultimately, Susan and Pat believe Governor Whitmer's experiences, and progressive resume, are something Democrats can learn from across the country. 20:57-39:40: MAGA & Tech Fascism w/ Jared Yates Sexton Writer and podcast Jared Yates Sexton wrote an important piece on the marriage between MAGA and Tech Fascism on his Dispatches From a Collapsing State" substack page. Jared's also part of the Muckrake Political Podcast, which helps bring a little order to these crazy political times. Pat and Jared talk about how the tech oligarchs, like Peter Thiel and Elon Musk, are the new robber-barons of this time, and why they see Trump and J.D. Vance as a conduit to their anti-democratic goals. 39:41-45:54--Last Call on Min Wage Victory! The Michigan State Supreme Court rules this week how a Republican move to block voter-driven proposals to raise the minimum wage, and for paid family leave days, was unconstitutional! Pat explains why this is a major victory for Michigan workers, and for the entire state! 45:56-49:00: UAW Endorses Harris/Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

Here's the Left of Lansing Monday Musing for July 29th, 2024.A recent WDIV-TV/Detroit News poll reveals that Michigan voters are split on Dear Leader Trump's plans to deport 11-million immigrants.However, when asked if voters support a secure border AND a pathway to citizenship for those who've committed no crimes in the country, over 70% of Michiganders agreed!!!Which goes to show that progressives, independents, and also some Republican voters are refusing to go along with the MAGA White Christian Nationalist hate-filled anti-immigration rhetoric, or so-called solutions. 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.comNOTES:"Michigan Dems reintroduce legislation allowing driver licenses regardless of immigration status." By Jon King of Michigan Advance"Michigan lawmakers want undocumented immigrants to be able to get driver's license, ID." By Arpan Lobo of The Detroit Free Press"Farmers push for immigration reform to counter labor shortages and rising food prices." By Safia Samee Ali of NBC News

Here's Episode 95 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-14:21: Rally Against Project 2025/Biden Steps Down//Matt Maddock ExtremismPat opens the show this week by talking about the Rally Against Project 2025 event happening across the state of Michigan on Saturday, July 27th. It's put-together by our good, progressive fans from Distill Social! Pat also talks about President Joe Biden's decision to step aside, and pass the torch to Vice President Kamala Harris in the Presidential election. Pat notes how he correctly predicted a new candidate would inject a jolt of enthusiasm and hope into the Democratic Party base. Then, Pat reviews the extreme MAGA record of Michigan Republican State Rep. Matt Maddock.14:22-41:35: Interview w/ Sarah May-SewardSarah May-Seward is running to become the Democratic candidate for the 51st House District in Michigan, which is currently held by MAGA Republican Matt Maddock. Sarah shares her bio, her campaign priorities, her years working in the service industry, why she is running to defeat Matt Maddock's years of "absentee representation," and her reaction to President Biden's decision to step-down. To learn more, or volunteer, or to donate to her campaign, visit her campaign site.41:36-48:15: Last Call: Michigan Is a Pro-LGBTQ+ StateIn this week's "Last Call," Pat highlights a new study declaring Michigan a friendly state for the LGBTQ+ community, and that's due in a huge part to the many pro-LGBTQ+ policies that Michigan Democrats have passed in the last two years.48:16-50:46: 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.comNOTES:Visit Sarah May-Seward's campaign site."Rally Against Project 2025 Rally" by Distill Social on Saturday, July 27, 2024. Sign-up to register and attend!!!

Here's the Left of Lansing Monday Musing for July 22, 2024.President Joe Biden made his decision to drop-out of the race, and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic nominee. And as I suspected, with Biden doing the honorable thing, a new jolt of energy is reverberating across the Democratic Party voting base. It also allows us to stop the infighting, and turn our focus on Dear Leader Trump and his Maga minions. 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.comNOTES:"Live updates: Harris, Democrats net $100 million in online donations after Biden exits race." By CNBC"Govs. Whitmer, Pritzker, Walz and Evers endorse Harris for president." By Jon King of Michigan Advance"Former Democratic presidential candidate endorses Whitmer for VP." By Andrew Roth of Michigan Advance

Here's the Friday Short for July 19, 2024!Many Biden supporters argue that Democrats can't ask him to step aside, and they risk replaying the 1968 Democratic Convention, in which the eventual nominee, Hubert Humphrey, lost to Republican Richard Nixon.But I feel like we're forgetting the events leading to the '68 convention, and other reasons why it didn't help Democrats that year. However, it had nothing to do with Lyndon Johnson stepping aside.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.com

Here's Episode 94 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-14:36: Trump Shooting/MAGA Violence/Neil FriskePat opens the show talking about the assassination attempt on former President Trump, and how MAGA Republicans (with the help from corporate media) are trying to blame the Left for the shooting. It's an absurd attack considering how MAGA extremists have been using violent and threatening rhetoric for years. And in many cases, have engaged in political violence in Michigan, and across the nation.15:24-40:51: Democratic State House Candidate Jodi DeckerPat talks with Democratic Candidate Jodi Decker of the 107th House District, which is currently being represented by MAGA extremist Neil Friske. He was recently arrested for allegedly getting into an altercation with an adult entertainer, and a gun may have been involved as well. Well, Jodi doesn't want to bring that kind of shame to her district. Instead, she wants to be an advocate for families, and to give families a voice. She also wants to focus on public transportation, housing, and foster care reform. Jodi simply wants to give a voice to those who feel like their voices are rarely heard. 41:15-46:34: Last Call on Sean O'Brien's Misguided RNC SpeechIn this week's "Last Call," Pat takes Teamsters President Sean O'Brien to task for his speech at the Republican National Convention. It baffles Pat since it's been the Biden-Harris administration, and Michigan Democrats, who've passed several policies designed to help union workers, including axing Right To Work For Less in Michigan.46:59-48:29: ConclusionPlease, 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.com