Left of Lansing

#Podcast #Politics #Progressives #Michigan #MichiganPolitics #MichiganNews #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #CorporateCorruption #MichiganDemocrats #Republicans #Immigration #Oligarchs #TechBros #Democracy #WorkingClass #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 20, 2025.On this second Inauguration Day for Donald Trump, Pat Johnston explains why he can't get behind a wasted "Resistance 2.0." battle cry.Because, unless progressives fight for some real, populist change inside local, state, and national Democratic Party offices, no resistance movement is going to stop what's going to happen for the next few years. 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

#Podcast #Politics #Economics #Progressives #Democrats #WorkingClass #CorporateGreed #Donors #Republican #RepublicanCorruption #MAGA #Michigan #MichiganPolitics #MinimumWage #PaidSickLeave #News #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left Of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 13, 2024.The new MAGA Michigan Republican majority in the state House is supporting the working class by... watering down minimum wage raises and paid sick time leave?Michigan House Republicans are taking their marching orders from the powerful restaurant lobby by working to oppose what the voters in the state wanted: a $15 minimum wage by 2028 including a phase-out of tipped wages as well, and paid sick time increases. Because when in doubt, you can always count on corrupt Republicans to hurt the working class while supporting management. 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: "GOP-led Michigan House creates special committee tackling tipped wage and sick leave policies." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance "At least five states are considering requiring full minimum wages for tip earners this year." By J.J. McCorvey of CNBC

#Podcast #Politics #Progressive #Democrats #ProgressivePodcast #News #Michigan #MichiganNews #MichiganPolitics #MAGA #Eggs #Economy #Republicans #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for January 10, 2025.The Michigan MAGA Propaganda Machine was in full anger overdrive over a new law requiring eggs sold in Michigan to come from hens raised in cage-free housing. Michigan MAGA tried to blame big government state Democrats for the law. However, if someone just did a little reading, the law was scrambled-together by, and sponsored by, a Republican state Senator, who's also a farmer!The worst part, though, is that Michigan MAGA tried to blame this brand new law for rising egg prices in the state when it's the spread of avian flu that's to blame. 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: "Eggs Hitting $6 A Dozen ... And It's Not Whitmer's Fault." By Mirs News "Michigan makes the transition to cage-free eggs." By Candice Williams of The Detroit News "Michigan's cage-free law: Why eggs are more expensive - and harder to find." By Fox 2 Detroit

#Podcast #Politics #Media #LegacyMedia #News #Michigan #MichiganPolitics #MAGA #Oligarchs #ElonMusk #Zuckerberg #FreeSpeech #WorkingClass #Economy #Immigration #Extremism #LeftOfLansingHere's Episode 116 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-16:00: Dems Acting Like "Maga-Dems"The first segment features Pat Johnston sharing his thoughts on both Michigan and national Democrats running as "MAGA" Democrats, and how detrimental that will be to a Democratic Party struggling to attract new voters. It'll be difficult for Democrats to differentiate from MAGA Republicans if they adopt MAGA policies. Pat points-out how three Michigan Democrats are jumping aboard a MAGA deportation bill, and how joining Republicans will further anger those voters they told Republicans and Trump were an existential threat to our country. And Pat talks about how Michigan Democrats in Lansing failed to pass important progressive bills, like affordable water, polluter pay, and government transparency, but they did pass a massive corporate handout to Big Tech for data centers.16:01-43:58: Guest--Jennifer Schulze on Big Tech's Power GrabThe second segment features a discussion between Pat and Jennifer Schulze on Big Tech's power grab in government, and whether or not the media is set-up to cover this merger between the Big Tech Bros and the incoming Trump Administration. They discuss her Heartland Signal article, "Welcome To The United States of Elon," in which Ms. Schulze writes how Musk has bought Trump and the Republicans, and she's unsure if today's mainstream media is ready to take a strong stance in covering this reality. Click here for a complete archive of Jennifer Schulze's writings on the Heartland Signal.Click here to visit Jennifer's Substack "Indistinct Chatter."43:59-49:52: Last Call--The New Robber Baron AgeIn this week's "Last Call," Pat explains how Mark Zuckerberg's announcement to turn Facebook into Musk's Twitter simply illustrates how all of these Tech Bros are sticking together. They are the New Age Robber Barons, and it's time for us to realize they are fighting for a stronger billionaire class while determined to hurt the working class.51:00-52:18: 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:Elon Musk Picture: "Elon Musk at the 2016 Tesla Annual Shareholders' Meeting" by jurvetson is licensed under CC BY 2.0."What They Always Wanted: Zuckerberg, Trump, and the New Normal." By Jared Yates Sexton in Dispatches From a Collapsing State."House passes Laken Riley Act, which heads to Senate with increasing Democratic support." By Fernando Cervantes, Jr. of USA Today House Vote of Lakin Riley Act (Michigan Reps.)."Rhetoric versus reality: Addressing common misconceptions about immigration." By Gloria Rebecca Gomez of The Arizona Mirror via Michigan Advance

#Podcast #News #Politics #Progressives #Democrats #Trump #Michigan #January6th #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 6, 2025.As Vice President Kamala Harris certified her election loss to Donald Trump in Congress today, many who voted for her (or against Trump) are wondering how we're at this place just four years after Trump orchestrated the January 6th insurrection.Pat Johnston believes it's a myriad of factors, including incompetency from Democratic leadership both on the federal and state level. 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 115 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-26:52: Where Will Democrats Go In 2025?Pat begins his final monologue of 2024 wondering what, or if, the Democratic Party in Michigan, and across the country, has learned anything after its deflating defeat to MAGA Republicanism in the election. Judging from how the D.C. Democratic leadership stifled Progressive Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from becoming vice-chair of the House Oversight Committee, and how Michigan's Democratic House leadership fumbled the ball at the one-yard line during the Lame Duck session, it appears maybe they haven't. Which is why 2025 will be a crucial year to watch what Democrats have learned as we get ready for Round Two of Trump in the White House.26:53-29:07: Ending

#podcast #Politics #ProgressivePolitics #Michigan #MichiganPolitics #Trump #CorporateMedia #Media #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for December 16, 2024! With ABC announcing its settlement with Donald Trump over George Stephanopoulos' statement that Trump was found liable for rape in the E. Jean Carrol civil trial case , ABC joins the rest of the corporate media's plans to normalize Trump as much as possible. However, the corporate media's collective bending of the knee to Trump should come as no surprise to anyone. The corporate media needs Trump in the White House, and Trump needs the corporate media. Get ready for some real state-run media for the next four years. 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

#Podcast #Progressives #ProgressivePodcast #Politics #news #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #Trump #Whitmer #CorporateDonors #Populism #CorporateGreed #WorkingClass #BigTech Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for December 13, 2024. Michigan Democrats are about to give Big Tech billionaires are huge victory this Lame-Duck session as a bill granting millions of dollars in corporate welfare for Big Tech to set-up environmentally-draining data centers is headed to Governor Gretchen Whitmer's desk. Not only will it fail to deliver on the number of jobs it promises to create, but it's basically a handout to some of Trump's billionaire tech bros, and that includes his sudden warming-up relationship with Meta's Mark Zuckerberg. Why are Michigan Democrats helping Big Tech Trump backers? 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! NOTES: "$90M data center tax break plan headed to Gov. Whitmer after final passage." By Kelly House of Bridge Magazine "Michigan lawmakers approve tax breaks for ‘hyperscale’ data centers." By Garrett Ellison of MLive.com

#podcast #politics #Michigan #MichiganPolitics #ProgressivePolitics #Democrats #Republicans #WorkingClass #Populism #Populist #Economy #Election2024 #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #Lobbying #Republicans #MAGA #TheAmericanProspect #DavidDayen Here's Episode 114 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-13:16: Michiganders Want Populist Policies! After pointing-out more absurdity from Ohio Republicans, who've introduced a bill banning flag-planting on football fields, Pat Johnston turns his attention back to Michigan, and the many progressive bills that Democrats must pass while they still have the majority in Lame Duck. Pat talks about a Progress Michigan-backed poll showing how Michiganders support state Democrats passing progressive legislation in these final days of 2024. Many of these bills, like Polluter Pay, Paid Family Leave, water affordability, reproductive protections, and others have taken a back seat to more bills directing millions of dollars in corporate welfare. 13:17-34:15: TAP's David Dayen Interview The American Prospect's executive editor, David Dayen, joins the show to talk more about his recent piece titled, "Michigan Democrats Deliver Lame-Duck Disappointment: The first Democratic trifecta in 40 years is ending with internal dissent, stalled legislation, and up to $10 billion in corporate subsidies." Mr. Dayen illustrates how satisfying the corporate donor base is the top priority for the Democratic leadership, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and that's causing dissension with the progressive wing of the caucus. And, Mr. Dayen talks about how the more Democrats cozy-up to corporate-backed interests, the more they keep losing working class voters both in Michigan, and the rest of the United States. Don't forget to check-out David Dayen's "Organized Money" podcast! 35:00-39:00: MI Dems Pass Unemployment Boost In the "Last Call," Pat shares the great news that Michigan Democrats did pass a solid bill boosting to Michigan's Unemployment benefits this week. The bill not only extends unemployment by six more weeks, but it also boosts the payments. The legislation is on its way to Governor Whitmer's desk. Now, this is how it's done, Michigan Democrats! More of this, please! 40:00-41:39: 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 NOTES: David Dayen's "Organized Money" Podcast "Michigan Democrats Deliver Lame-Duck Disappointment: The first Democratic trifecta in 40 years is ending with internal dissent, stalled legislation, and up to $10 billion in corporate subsidies." By David Dayen of The American Prospect "Supreme Court order complicates conversation as paid family leave bills move to Senate floor." By Kyle Davidson and Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance "Push to pass Drive SAFE bills continues as time for legislative action runs short." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance

#politics #podcast #HealthCare #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #ProgressivePodcast #Progressives #TrumpHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for December 9, 2024.The reaction to the murder of United Health Care CEO Brian Thompson exposed the collective anger shared by millions of Americans when it comes to the health care industry. And while progressives never believe murder is the answer to fixing America's problems, this murder also revealed another tragedy for millions of Americans. That tragedy is that Donald Trump and the Republican Party will not lift one finger to limit the greed of the for-profit, and failed, private health care industry. Another tragedy is that D.C. Democrats don't want to lift a finger to place more power into the peoples' hands. 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: "Mitch Albom: Death of health care CEO unleashes a sad fury of frustration." By Mitch Albom of The Detroit Free Press

#podcast #politics #News #Michigan #Progressives #ProgressivePolitics #ProgressivePodcast #Democrats #Republicans #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for December 6, 2024.Pat piggybacks on some thoughts shared by Michigan Democratic Party Rural Caucus Chair (and candidate to become the next MDP Chair) Mark Ludwig on this week's show. Ludwig believes Michigan Democrats must do a better job at fighting for every district, including traditionally strong Republican districts. Some within the party believe Democrats should concentrate just on southeast Michigan.Pat agrees with Mr. Ludwig that it's time for Democrats to fight in every area of the state, and to field candidates in as many races as possible. Because refusing to do that will continue to spell electoral doom for state 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.comCheck-out this week's episode featuring Mark Ludwig and more!https://audioboom.com/posts/8619469-expanding-the-michigan-battleground-w-mdp-rural-caucus-chair-mark-ludwig

#podcast #politicalpodcast #politics #news #michigan #michiganpolitics #progressivepolitics #Election2024 #MichiganDemocrats #Democrats #Whitmer #CorporateGreed #Progressives #LeftOfLansing00:00-20:49: MI Dem Leaders Push Corporate SubsidiesPat reviews a fantastic piece by The American Prospect's David Dayen on how the Michigan Democratic leadership, which includes Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, are in serious danger of allowing major pieces of solid progressive legislation languish in favor of lavished corporate subsidies in the Lame Duck session. Satisfying the corporate donor base is apparently more important than passing bills such as affordable housing, polluter pay, criminal justice reform, transit funding, homeless bill of rights, water affordability, and more.20:50-47:21: Interview w/ MDP Rural Caucus Chair Mark LudwigThe Michigan Democratic Party Rural Caucus Chair Mark Ludwig joins the show to not only talk about what went wrong in 2024, but why he's running to become the MDP's next Chair. Mr. Ludwig's spent much of his political professional career connecting with rural voters across the entire state. Democrats underperformed in all regions, and Mr. Ludwig wants to find those voters who've tuned-out of the political process, and also talk with those who Democrats have lost through the years. Visit Mark Ludwig's Facebook page to learn more about his campaign. 47:22-50:54: Last Call: Detroit Mayor Duggan Runs as IndieIn this week's "Last Call" segment, Pat shares some of his thoughts on Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan's decision to run for governor as an independent. This will certainly hurt the Democrats' chances in 2026, unless they decide to run a vigorous populist campaign.50:54-52:59: 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:Mark Ludwig for MDP Chair Facebook PageMichigan Democratic Party Rural Caucus site"Michigan Democrats Deliver Lame-Duck Disappointment: The first Democratic trifecta in 40 years is ending with internal dissent, stalled legislation, and up to $10 billion in corporate subsidies." By David Dayen of The American Prospect"Whitmer signs auto insurance bill with legislative leaders by her side." By Nick Manes of Michigan Advance "The Metro: How Michigan’s insurance reform laws failed to protect Detroit drivers." By Anelle Scott of Detroit Public Radio "Contenders line up for Michigan Democratic Party’s top role." By Michael Kransz of MLive.com "Michigan lawmakers on “zombie bill” killing spree, seek to decriminalize adultery and sodomy." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance "Detroit Mayor Duggan, a longtime Democrat, will run for Michigan governor in 2026 as independent." By Corey Williams of The Associated Press "Party On The Peninsulas" Podcast with MDP Chair Levora Barnes episode featuring Michigan Democratic State Rep. Betsy Coffia

#Podcast #Politics #Michigan #Abortion #AbortionRights #AbortionCare #WomensRights #HealthCare #EconomyHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for December 2, 2024.A new state report shows abortions in Michigan neared a 30-year high in 2023. However, the report shows non-residents accounted for more of the state's abortions than they did in the previous year or years. As predicted, women from non-freedom states, like Indiana and elsewhere, are traveling to Michigan to receive abortion care, thanks to Michigan's voter-approved abortion rights initiative in 2022 which enshrined abortion rights in the state's constitution. But because of this past election, Republicans are feeling more emboldened than ever, and they will do what they can to make abortion access more difficult. 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 abortions neared 30-year high in 2023." By James P. Hicks of MLive.com "Ohio attorney general appeals ruling striking down statewide abortion ban." By The Associated Press (via ABC News)

#Podcast #PoliticalPodcast #ProgressivePodcast #Michigan #MichiganPolitics #News #MichiganNews #CorporateMedia #MSNBC #DemocratsHere's the "Monday Musing" for November 25, 2024. MSNBC's ratings are cratering, and perhaps that's due to its longtime viewers not buying what they were selling for the last few years. I am one of those viewers who has learned to turn-off the supposed "liberal" network after the election, and I'm better off for it. And you'll be better off, 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.com

#Podcast #Politics #news #Michigan #Progressives #Populism #Trump #KamalaHarrisHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for November 22, 2024.Recent surveys are showing Republican voters suddenly thinking the economy is better now than it was two weeks ago, which many of us predicted would happen.But remarkably, some 60% of Americans believe Trump will make good decisions on the economy, despite ruining the economy in 2020 and surrounding himself by corporate, neocon billionaire donors. How did the Democratic Party relinquish the populist label to Trump even though they passed some meaningful working-class legislation?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:"Delta CEO says the Trump administration will reverse government ‘overreach’ seen under Biden." By David Koenig of The Associated Press "Republicans Are Feeling Good Again, Driving Up Consumer Sentiment." By Harriet Torry of The Wall Street Journal

#Podcast #PoliticalPodcast #ProgressivePodcast #Politics #Michigan #News #Progressives #EmilyDievendorf #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #CorporateMoney #MoneyInPolitics #Rural #Agriculture #FamilyFarms #Farming #Election2024 #WorkingClass #LGBTQ+ #TransRights #NancyMace #Housing #Homelessness Here's Episode 112 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-8:50: MI Democrats Lame Duck HoldupPat opens-up the episode by covering how the Michigan Democratic state House majority is wasting time on passing meaningful legislation during its final days in lame duck session before MAGA Republicans take the majority in 2025. Progressive members are growing frustrated with Democratic leadership's constant moves to suppress good, progressive bills in favor of bills helping the corporate donor base. 8:51-39:30: Rep. Emily Dievendorf InterviewDemocratic State Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing) joins the show this week. The Representative introduced progressive, common sense bills on affordable housing, a homeless bill of rights, and helping families keep their land and homes. However, those bills can't get a vote on the House floor in the lame duck so far because they are either being pushed aside for other bills, or because of political games. Rep. Dievendorf also shares her frustrations on how "centrist" Democrats held-up many good, progressive bills designed to help Michiganders, and rather concentrated on corporate interests instead.39:31-45:00: Last Call on Disgusting Nancy MacePat's "Last Call" covers how South Carolina MAGA Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace introduced a resolution this week that would bar transgender women from using women's bathrooms in the U.S. Capitol. This disgusting move by Mace is being done because a transgender Democratic Congresswoman will soon be in Congress. However, Democrats are also to blame since their silence on trans-rights issues this election year allowed Republicans to bully trans-Americans. And now, these MAGA Republicans feel even more emboldened to attack another group of marginalized Americans.44:53-47:18: 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

#podcast #politicalpodcast #politics #CorporateMedia #CorporateCorruption #Progressives #ProgressivePolitics #Michigan #News #MSNBC #JoeScarborough #Trump #DemocracyHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for November 18, 2024.Many are stunned by MSNBC's Joe Scarborough & Mike Brzezinski decision to visit Dear Leader Trump at his Palm Beach, Florida home over the weekend. I am not stunned. I explain why I'm not, and why this is all part of a game between Trump and the corporate media. It's a game both sides hope we'll continue playing because both Trump and the corporate media machine will continue winning. One hand continues to wash the other. 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:"'Went to Mar-a-Lago': Morning Joe and Mika reveal weekend face-to-face meeting with Trump." By Travis Gettys of Raw Story

#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)