Left of Lansing

Here's Episode 73 of Michigan's Premier, Progressive Podcast! As we've covered on the show, Michigan Democrats passed a rather robust package of clean energy bills last year. Many of those laws will go into effect later this year, including the 100% clean energy standard by 2040, energy efficient programs, increases in the state's energy reduction program, and removing the power of local governments to block large clean energy projects and placing that power in the Michigan Public Service Commission. Many right-wing local governments, driven by misinformation and fear, have rejected plan-after-plan to allow wind turbines or solar farms in their areas. This not only hurts the state's abilities to march towards a cleaner and more efficient energy program of the future (not to mention blocking thousands of green energy jobs), but it hurts family farmers who would allow their lands to be used for these projects. Montcalm County farmer, and Chair of Patriots for Montcalm, Dick Farnsworth joins me this week to talk about why he and so many other farmers not only want to be part of these projects, but also how these projects will help combat climate change and help them keep their land! Michigan Democrats made that happen while Republicans tried to block it. However, right wing forces, backed by some big money from the fossil fuel industry, have started an effort to repeal this law by collecting signatures so they can put it on this November's ballot. Mr. Farnsworth and I discuss how he and others are trying to fight back to combat climate change, and save family farms I open-up the show by talking about how Democrats have been given a great opportunity here in Michigan to show how the many policies they passed are helping hard-working Michiganders. By effectively communicating their achievements, Democrats will help President Biden's chances in this state. I close by giving my take on Jon Stewart's return to The Daily Show, and why I think we as progressives can't be so thinned-skin when he and other comedians make fun of our side. However, that still doesn't mean Stewart's takes are iron-clad, as I discuss. Take the battle to them! Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] leftoflansing.com

Here's episode 72 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! In my opening segment this week, I talk about the appalling and Islamophobic Wall Street Journal column declaring Dearborn, MI as the "America's Jihad Capital." Islamophobia within the right wing world never left, and it's putting lives in danger. I then cover some of the many new laws scheduled to go into effect in the state on February 13th, including the repeal of the anti-union "Right To Work (For Less) law, expanded voting rights, expanded LGBTQ+ rights, and an expansion of the state's Earned Income Tax Credit. Again, these laws passed thanks to progressive Democrats in the state legislature. Then, Dr. April Zeoli joins me to discuss some of the state's new gun safety laws that will also go into effect on Feb. 13th. Dr. Zeoli is the Policy Core Director for the Institute for Firearm Injury Prevention at The University of Michigan. She has spent years researching policies designed to decrease gun violence on the state-level, particularly in areas of interpersonal firearm violence. I conclude the episode by explaining how the Inflation Reduction Act, which congressional Democrats passed and President Biden signed into law in 2021, is already having a huge impact on tax cheats. Thanks to additional funding for the IRS as part of the IRA, the IRS will collect $561 billion dollars from rich tax cheaters. And of course, Republicans are trying to strip that funding away from the IRS! Don't forget to vote on the weekly LoL Twitter Poll on guns. Take the battle to them! Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] leftoflansing.com

Here's this week's LoL Friday Short.It's being reported this week that Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib has raised nearly $4-million in campaign contributions in the last three months. That's despite House Republicans censuring her last Fall for her stance against Israel's bombardment of the Gaza Strip. And that's despite being hung-out to dry by some in her own party.But why does Tlaib garner so much support and vitriol?Because she's a threat to the donor base, and stands-up for the voiceless. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Here's episode 71 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!Please vote on this week's LoL Twitter Poll: What is the biggest winning issue for Michigan Democrats heading into the November election? If you have others, leave them in replies Susan Demas, Editor-in-Chief of Michigan Advance, joins Pat this week. Michigan Advance is a progressive, nonprofit news site dedicated to covering policy and politics across the state. Susan is a veteran of the Michigan political news scene, and we discuss how traditional, corporate-driven media are failing us, but how publications, like Michigan Advance, are filling the gaps where corporate media (purposely) falls short. We also discuss the disaster that is the Michigan Republican Party, how Michigan Democrats can better message their major policy victories, and her take on whether or not President Biden's poll numbers will improve by November in Michigan.My opening segment covers some ideas I have on how Michigan Democrats can highlight their victories, which will help show voters how they not only compare and contrast with extreme Christian Nationalist Michigan Republican Party, but will also help show HOW these policies are helping hard-working Michiganders.My "Last Call" talks about some good and bad news for President Biden's numbers in Michigan, and why he and the Democratic Party cannot ignore the anger within the Arab-American community within the state when it comes to what's happening overseas.And I close by giving you some optimism after a tough loss for our Detroit Lions!Take the battle to them!Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Thanks for listening to this week's LoL Friday Short!The Justice Department released a damning report citing "cascading failures" in the way authorities handled the Uvaldi school shooting massacre in 2022. Like other school shootings, this was another example where "good guys with guns," didn't stop the bad guy with a gun. The common denominator with many mass shootings is military-style weapons, like the AR-15. Republicans treasure the gun more than they treasure lives. Michigan Democrats have enacted some smart gun safety measures after school shootings in this state, and Governor Gretchen Whitmer is signaling how she'd like to go after assault weapons. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Here's episode 70 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!Please vote on this week's poll question: Polls show President Biden's losing to Donald Trump in Michigan. How do you feel about these numbers less than 10 months from Election Day?On this week's episode, I cover how Democrats across the country have been given a beautiful chance to show why they're on the side of workers, and how and why Republicans are always on the side of the rich and the connected. JP Morgan CEO Jamie Dimon this week complained how he believes Democrats are just mean to Trump's Christian Nationalist MAGA movement. Dimon then said Trump was right on so many different issues. This again proves that the rich, elite, corporate class is o.k. with a little fascism, just as long as they receive tax cuts and other benefits from the government. And they know they'll get that with Trump.My "Last Call" follows up on the worries I voiced last week over numerous polls showing President Biden losing to Donald Trump in the state of Michigan. I read an email from a listener who agrees with my premise that Democrats, and all progressives, must do a better job at messaging.And I close with another Detroit Lions playoff prediction!Take the battle to them!Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Here's this week's LoL Friday Short.Michigan Democrats are hoping to make the new and popular free public school breakfast and lunch program a permanent fixture in the education budget.But that's making the right wing furious, not because of their daily abject cruelty, but because they know the program is a big hit with voting age parents. Also, they know a successful programs such as this hurts their voucher scams. Michigan Democrats scored a big win on this issue, and it's one they must hammer home from now to the November election!Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Here's Episode 69 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!I'm thrilled to have Democratic State Representative, and Speaker Pro Tempore, Laurie Pohutsky back on the show this week! We cover a range of topics including abortion rights, clean energy and climate change, if the Michigan Democratic Party's messaging machine is improving, the establishment and progressive factions of the party, and how she's changed since her upset victory as a progressive outsider back in 2018. I open-up the show by explaining how Donald Trump is not only boasting how his hand-picked Supreme Court reversed abortion rights for women across the country, but how his Christian Nationalist right-wing base wants to enact a federal ban. I also discuss the ridiculous infighting inside the ridiculous Michigan GOP, but I also share another disturbing poll showing Trump beating President Biden in the state. The "Last Call" covers how despite this occasional struggle between moderate/establishment Democrats and the party's progressive wing, progressive policies sailed through the state legislature in 2023. Does this prove progressives are winning? I think so. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

My first Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for 2024 deals with GOP Presidential candidate Nikki Haley's failure to flat-out say the American Civil War was fought over the right for Southern states to continue the practice of slavery. But there's a reason why Haley couldn't give a straight answer to that simple question. She, like all of her Republican cohorts, are afraid of angering and losing their white Christian Nationalist base. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] leftoflansing.com –Pat

Happy New Year, and here's Episode 68 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast! This week, I have lots to say after taking some time-off for the holidays. We have to cover the hypocrisy of Michigan's right wing, in particular the Christian Nationalist Moms For Liberty chapters throughout the state. As you'll hear, while they've been busy banning books, intimidating teachers, and trying to dismantle the public school system, they aren't exactly practicing what they're preaching. We also cover how Michigan Republican Congressman Tim Walberg visited Uganda to support that country's hateful Anti-Homosexual Act, which also includes the death penalty. We illustrate how Moms For Liberty, or many Republicans such as Walberg, or many rich, right wing donors are working hard to erase the histories of marginalized Americans from American History because they believe they are the true Americans. That's why the right wing tried to steal the 2020 election. That's what this year's election boils down to: a fight to save America's democratic institutions from fascism. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] leftoflansing.com –Pat

Here's the final LoL "Friday Short" for 2023! To close-out the year, I talk about a story in Michigan Advance which details how business lobbyists formed a coalition in the hopes of stifling bills proposed by Michigan Democrats. These business lobbyists fail to understand that Michigan Democrats are simply passing pro-worker and pro-growth policies that are popular with Michiganders. Have a Happy Holiday Season! Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! [email protected] leftoflansing.com –Pat

Here's the 67th, and the final episode for 2023, on Michigan's premier progressive podcast!Livingston County progressive activist Kasey Helton returns to the podcast this week as we discuss how "dirt road" Democrats are trying to move the political needle towards the progressive side in rural Michigan. And we've seen some of that hard work pay-off with Democrats winning some key races in Livingston County, which has been a reliable red county for Republicans. We also discuss how out of touch Livingston County Republicans are with the people on issues like abortion, and how Democrats are trying to save family farms with the recently passed Clean Energy and Climate Action bill package. Plus, Kasey talks with me about a podcast she hosts with Jace Arledge and Ella Nikitin, called "The Stir Podcast." Listen and subscribe on their website: https://thestirpod.transistor.fm/My opening segment deals with Michigan Democrats passing bills repealing Republican laws forcing women to purchase "rape insurance." It's just another example of how Democrats are helping women, and value women's economic and medical freedoms. In fact, this year Michigan Democrats are working to move the Overton Window by going on the offense, and passing common sense progressive bills that will help hard-working Michiganders.And my "Last Call" continues to talk about how allowing family farmers to join in the clean energy future in Michigan is a freedom issue, and how it's puzzling Republicans voted against the right of farmers to allow wind turbines and solar farms in their fields. What happened to property rights, Republicans?Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Listen to this week's Left of Lansing "Friday Short."Right after its inexplicable decision to build a tunnel around the Line 5 oil pipeline in the Straits of Mackinac, the Michigan Public Service Commission granted DTE Energy's rate hike request totalling over $360 million. Despite DTE being part of the reason why Michigan has the most expensive energy in the Midwest, and is also one of the least reliable states to provide energy to its citizens, DTE got its rate hike.It's business as usual where corporations' needs always come before the needs of the people.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

It's Episode 66 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!This week, I can't hold back my disdain for the Michigan Public Service Commission's decision to green-light an expensive, and short-sighted, tunnel project for the stretch of the 70-year old Line 5 oil pipeline in the Straits of Mackinac. Despite studies showing why the pipeline must stop operating, and that shutting-down the pipeline wouldn't lead to drastic energy increases, the MPSC chose a corporation's needs over the needs of Michigan's natural resources and the people relying on it. Then, progressive Democratic State Rep. Emily Dievendorf from the 77th House District, joins me to discuss a range of issues, including how that disastrous decision will hurt not just Michigan's environment, but for those people whose livelihoods depend on our Great Lakes. Rep. Dievendorf also talks about how progressives can push the Overton Window away from the extreme right wing, which is where it's been here in Michigan for the last half century. We also cover corporate welfare, voting rights, and protections for low-income land owners.The "Last Call" covers how, thanks to some strong progressive leadership, both inside and outside of Lansing, the Overton Window might already be moving slightly.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Listen to this week's Left of Lansing "Friday Short," where I highlight a major UAW organizational push to attract thousands of non-union workers with other automakers. Also, notice again how Republicans across the board are AWOL when it comes to standing up for workers' rights.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!–[email protected]

Here's episode 65 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed some long overdue, albeit imperfect, clean energy legislation into law this week. I've covered the path The Clean Energy and Jobs Act had to take in Lansing throughout the year on the podcast. And while I believe Democrats missed an opportunity to pass some meaningful, and stronger, progressive clean energy bills that included game-changing environmental justice for those dealing with polluted low-income areas, this act is at least a step in the right direction. There's no way Republicans would ever pass these bills!I also discuss how the clean energy bills should also coincide with a new transportation and infrastructure future which includes bold investments in mass transit throughout the state.Finally, the "Last Call" deals with a Washington Post editorial that begs Gen Z women to marry their Gen Z male counterparts, even though Gen Z males are trending more and more right wing. Why would Gen Z trash their values for men who don't value women whatsoever? Instead of asking what's wrong with Gen Z women, the real question is, "What's the matter with right wing Gen Z men?"Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]

Here's episode 64 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!It's great to have author and Pro-Publica reporter Anna Clark back on Left of Lansing this week. Anna's written an insightful article on Michigan's Emergency Manager Law, which allows state government to erase democracy by completely taking-over financially-strapped cities. Anna highlights how despite Michiganders voting to eliminate the law a decade ago, Republicans not only reinstated the law, but ensured voters could never have a say again. Emergency managers were used in Detroit's bankruptcy, and of course, in Flint which led to that city's man-made water crisis. Please, read Anna's Pro-Publica article, and read her book on the Flint Water Crisis, titled "The Poisoned City: Flint's Water and the American Urban Tragedy." To learn more about Anna, and to get a copy of her fantastic book, please visit her site, annaclark.net.My opening monologue celebrates Governor Gretchen Whitmer signing bills that bans convicted domestic abusers from owning guns for eight years. It's another victory for Michigan progressives when it comes to gun safety in the state.And my "Last Call" deals with younger voters, and why they are souring some on President Joe Biden.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]–Pat

Listen to my "Monday Musing," in which I agree with a Detroit Free Press column by Michael Griffie, who serves as Detroit Metro Leader for AECOM--an American multinational consulting firm. Mr. Griffie is pressing the need for a massive reinvestment in Michigan's lacking mass transit system, particularly in the entire Metro Detroit region. If we're going to stop Michigan's brain and population drain, spending more on mass transit is a necessary step considering how Millennials and Gen Z Americans are searching for places to live featuring reliable and affordable mass transit. It's the common sense approach. It's the Progressive approach.--PatPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected]"Gov. Whitmer, it’s time to think big on public transportation in Michigan | Opinion." By Michael Griffie in The Detroit Free Press

Listen to my LoL "Friday Short" on while the Michigan Democrats' clean energy bills are indeed imperfect, they mark an important step towards much-needed changes in the state's energy and economic future. Yes, the bills fall short in many areas, like considering natural gas "clean energy," and ignoring environmental justice provisions to help those in low-income areas affected the most by years of polluted fossil fuels. But they do bridge the gap between unions and environmentalists, and that could pay dividends for years to [email protected] leftoflansing.com

Here's Episode 63 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!Michigan Democrats passed a package of clean energy and affordable energy bills last week. While these bills are for sure a step in the right direction in revamping our antiquated energy grid, these bills still fall far short of the aggressive push many progressives were hoping would happen. Joining me this week to talk more about these bills, and how corporate pressure helped water them down, is Roshan Krishnan, policy associate for The Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition. My opening segment deals with how pathetic former Michigan Republican Congressman Peter Meijer sounds while pining for the Christian Nationalist Trump voters in his bid to become Michigan's next U.S. Senator. He's trying to sound all MAGA in his campaign rollout, but Trump voters despise Meijer for voting to impeach Trump back in 2021. Poor Peter. No one on the right, middle, or left ever asked him to run, yet here he is. And my Last Call details how Ottawa County residents are learning a valuable lesson of what happens when you put Christian Nationalist right wingers in-charge of local government. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you [email protected] leftoflansing.com--Pat

The Left of Lansing Friday Short this week applauds a trio of state Senate Democrats (Mary Cavenagh of Redford Twp., Kevin Hertel of St. Clair Shores, and Veronica Klinefelt of Eastpoint) for introducing the Death with Dignity Act. If passed, Michigan would become the 11th state to grant terminally ill patients the power to make their own end-of-life decisions.Since the legislative calendar is finished for the rest of this year, the bills will have to wait until next year. But it ought to pass in bipartisan fashion.It's about personal freedom, and it's about compassion.Thanks for [email protected] leftoflansing.com

It's episode 62 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!MAGA Republicans suffered another beatdown at the polls this past Election Day, and once again, abortion rights proved to be the key reason. Abortion rights scored a major victory in Ohio, and played a major role in Democrats retaining the Virginia state legislature. Yet, MAGA is doubling-down on putting government in-between a woman and her doctor as Right To Life of Michigan filed a lawsuit to nullify a woman's right to choose which Michiganders enshrined into the state's constitution in 2022. What do you know? Republicans don't like democracy when they lose, so they try to erase the will of the people!I also criticize the 22 U.S. House Democrats who joined with MAGA Republicans to censure Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib over statements she made regarding the current war between Israel and Hamas. Tlaib is the only Palestinian-American in Congress, and that's why Republicans censured her thanks to the help of those House Democrats. She's an effective representative in her district, but she's a strong progressive who stands up for the people in her district. Congresswoman Tlaib will always have my support here on Left of Lansing.Finally, I applaud the Democratic majority in Lansing for passing a long-overdue bill that ends immunity protections for Big Pharma. The bill has been on the books since the Republican John Engler administration. It's another example where Michigan put people over profits. Suggestions? Criticisms? Guest or story ideas? Email: [email protected] leftoflansing.com--Pat

In this week's "Monday Musing," I discuss an amendment introduced by Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor-Green would block the removal of monuments. MTG and her MAGA allies are outraged Charlottesville, Virginia decided to remove a statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. That statue was the focus of what led to the killing of a protester by a right wing terrorist in Charlottesville back in 2017. Even more, the amendment says it'll protect monuments of our founding fathers, even though Lee was not a founding father, illustrating the point that rather than banning books, MAGA should pick up a book and learn about this country's history. [email protected] leftoflansing.com

My Left of Lansing "Friday Short" covers a sad ending to the Flint Water Crisis, in which not one public official will face prosecution for their role in one of the greatest man-made disasters the state of Michigan, and the country, has ever experienced. Former Michigan Republican Gov. Rick Snyder won't have to face any kind of punishment for the crisis he and his administration caused. Meanwhile, as Allen Overton, pastor of Flint’s Christ Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church told Bridge Magazine: “Injustice, in this community, has been the norm,” “This just continues to show us that this legal system that we call justice is not really justice at all."Nothing could be more true. People like Rick Snyder can walk between the raindrops, untouched by the same justice we must follow. It's a tragic ending to a tragic story he and his people caused. [email protected] leftoflansing.com

Welcome to Episode 61 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Politics!This week, I breakdown how the right wing Republican Party has always worked on behalf of the elite class to eliminate government assistance for working Americans. They've done it by whittling-down the New Deal and Great Society programs through the years, and they've done it using racist tropes, like the mythic "welfare queen." But now, working Americans are fighting back thanks to the UAW's victory against the Big Three Detroit Automakers. We're also noticing positive results as other non-union carmakers are beginning to raise wages for their workers as they try to stave-off unionization attempts. Meanwhile, right wing Republicans were nowhere to be found during the UAW's strike, but they are trying to gut IRS funding to help their tax cheating, rich donor base!I also cover how Democrats are trying to strengthen abortion rights in Michigan, and how right wing Christian Fundamentalists continue using the non-medical term known as "partial birth abortion," which does not exist.Finally, I cover the disturbing news on how President Biden's support from the Arab American community is dropping due to his unwavering support for Israel, and what that could mean in Michigan in 2024. Please, don't forget to subscribe to Left of Lansing, and give it a good review. And subscribe to leftoflansing.com!--Pat

The Left of Lansing Friday Short this week celebrates a judge's ruling in which he dismissed a lawsuit over so-called "pornographic" books in Kent County's Rockford Public Schools District.A right-wing Christian Nationalist group wanted to ban 14 books, most of which dealt with LGBTQ+ stories. The judge ruled the books as a whole have literary value.It was a harsh defeat for those seeking to silence and erase marginalized voices in our nation's history and society. It was a victory for freedom, and it's that very freedom that MAGA Christian Nationalists are hoping to [email protected] leftoflansing.com

It's episode #60 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!Michigan Democrats continue working on clean and affordable energy bills in the state legislature. They must get some of these bills passed before the November adjournment date, or else everything will get pushed back until next year. The main goals of these bills are to make Michigan caborn-free by 2035 or 2040, pushing for strong energy efficient standards to help low income areas, and to hold DTE and Consumers Energy more accountable. Derrell Slaughter, Michigan Advocate at the Natural Resources Defense Council returns to give an update on whether or not these bills will pass soon. I share a few observations on the new Republican Speaker of the U.S. House, Mike Johnson of Louisiana, and how he's not Vulgar MAGA, but he's Refined MAGA, as The Washington Post's Greg Sargent called it. I describe how corporate media have been working against the UAW during its strike against the Big Three Detroit Automakers. And I discuss how Michigan Republicans have no solutions to revamp our aging energy grid. Meanwhile, Democrats, who hold the majority in the legislature, are working to pass meaningful clean energy standards. Finally, in my Last Call, I push for Democrats to pass real transparency reform laws, which is what we Michiganders called for when two-thirds of us voted to pass Proposal 1 in 2022. Michigan has the worst record when it comes to government transparency and accountability. But the legislature appears to be trying its best to cut some corners, which is not what we voted for. Please, email me if you'd like to further discuss whatever I brought-up in the episode.And I'd appreciate it if you could subscribe, and give a Five Star review of the podcast as well!Take the battle to [email protected] leftoflansing.com--Pat

Listen to my inaugural Left of Lansing "Monday Musings!"I talk about how local Maga governments throughout Michigan are fighting against solar and wind farms in their areas. Democrats have proposed one solution to remedy this problem: put the state in control of large scale clean energy projects, which overrides a local government's powers. Democrats want to put the power of allowing farmers and developers the right to take part in large-scale solar and wind projects into the hands of the Michigan Public Service Commission. Local governments would still have power over small-scale clean energy projects. The right wing argues these decisions should remain in the hands of local communities. However, Michigan Republicans don't have the best record when it comes to supporting local communities.And, we're trying to move Michigan into the clean and affordable clean energy future. We don't have time to wait any longer.Get this done, [email protected] leftoflansing.com

Here's the LoL Friday Short on this October 20th, of 2023Democrats in the Michigan Legislature have introduced bills to abolish former Republican Gov. Rick Snyder's "Polluter Panels."Snyder and the MAGA majority back in 2018 created a panel filled with industry and commercial insiders with the main goal of slowing down or stopping any real, meaningful protections for the environment and every Michigander.But thanks to the new Democratic majority, steps are finally happening to eliminate these panels, and to leave the decision making to qualified people within the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy--or EGLE.Now, we understand why Rick Snyder is working with the rich donor class to reinstall MAGA into the majority in Lansing next fall. It's all about profits--and saving his sad and sorry legacy. [email protected] leftoflansing.com

It's the 59th episode of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!My returning guest this week is Michigan Democratic State Rep. Dylan Wegela from the 26th House District. We talk about his plans to thwart the state's two main utility companies--DTE & Consumers Energy--from using dark money to influence Lansing, especially at a time when Michiganders want our lawmakers to hold them accountable. We also discuss corporate welfare, the continuing UAW strike, and his push for what he calls "compassion economics."My opening segment deals with how the U.S. House is still without a Speaker thanks to Republican incompetence, and how the GOP's battle to have Congressman Jim Jordan as the next Speaker is completely on-brand for today's Republican Party. And I remind you that when it comes to the GOP, it's always projection with them. In the meantime, Michigan Democrats continue to pass legislation designed to help people, and to help this state!My "Last Call" details what steps I believe Democrats in the U.S. House could play hardball to get Republicans to make concessions in exchange for helping them elect a House Speaker. Let me know what you think!Email me: [email protected] leftoflansing.com--Pat

The Left of Lansing "Friday Short" this week puts a spotlight on UAW President Shawn Fain's effective messaging campaign during the union's strike against the Big Three Detroit automakers. Fain isn't allowing right wing forces, including the Republican Party or Donald Trump, to pit worker against worker, or the union against environmentalists. He's clearly defining who the real opponent is in the UAW's strike: The Big Three and their CEO's. And Fain's disciplined messaging campaign is why a majority of Americans back the UAW's strike. And please, don't forget to listen to this week's podcast featuring Sarah Lazare from Workday Magazine as we delve deeper into the UAW Strike, and why unions, in general, are enjoying a resurgence ever since the [email protected]

Episode 58 of Michigan's Premier Podcast is posted! In my opening segment, I discuss the lunacy of Livingston County Republicans, and why some GOP state representatives voted against a bill delivering clean water to schools and day care centers. Seems like an odd strategy, but let's see how it'll work out for them! Plus, I talk about the need for Michigan Democrats to keep pressing for passage of the Reproductive Health Act, despite complete Republican opposition, and even opposition from one Democrat. Then, the second segment covers the importance of the UAW strike, and how it'll move the needle towards more rights for workers. Sarah Lazare is the editor for Workday Magazine, and she joins me to discuss why the UAW strike is receiving strong support. She also shares her thoughts on how the Big Three Detroit Automakers are trying to divide the union and environmentalists, and she talks about her research into how assembly line workers suffer debilitating injuries through the years. And in my Last Call, I share some thoughts on the tragic Hamas terror attack in Israel, and how it'll continue to lead the circle of violence that region has experienced for decades with no end in sight. Please, give the podcast a good rating! --Pat [email protected] leftoflansing.com

My Friday Left of Lansing Short is on Democratic State Representative Dylan Wegela's efforts on stopping the dark money influence DTE and Consumers Energy utilizes in Lansing. Rep. Wegela outlined how he intends to do that by introducing a bill preventing DTE and Consumers Energy from using dark money PAC's, which will help ensure that our politicians put their constituents' concerns over the concerns of these utilities that struggle to provide reliable and affordable energy. Let's hope every progressive in Lansing joins Rep. Wegela's fight! --Pat [email protected] leftoflansing.com

Here's episode 57 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!I tackle The Fall of Kevin McCarthy, and why House Democrats made the right move by refusing to give him a life line. McCarthy voted against certifying the 2020 election, he called for impeachment hearings into President Biden despite a lack of evidence, and he did the bidding of Donald Trump. So, so long, Kev!As 2024 nears, I have to admit that I'm getting a touch nervous over President Biden's struggling poll numbers. Is it time Democrats begin thinking about a Plan B, and just in case, ask others to consider running next year if Biden decides to bow-out? Or, am I overreacting, and the threat of an autocracy run by the fascist MAGA Christian Nationalist Republican Party is enough to get voters to the polls next year?I also discuss how Michigan Democrats are moving on legislation designed to lower prescription drug costs in the state. It's another example of Michigan Democrats proving how government can help people through good governance. Same for how state Democrats are trying to pass a clean and affordable energy plan to lower costs and combat climate change. However, right wing forces are doing everything in their power to stop Michigan from moving into the future.And finally, I talk about that no matter how divided we may be, is it possible we can find some common ground in other areas of life? Please, give Left of Lansing a 5-star review, and subscribe to [email protected] --Pat

My Friday LOL Short this week deals with the uncomfortable subject of what will Democrats do if President Biden's poll numbers keep struggling in early 2024?As someone who believes the Biden Administration has exceeded my expectations, the facts are that Biden remains neck-and-neck with Trump in several polls. Which is why I don't think it's wrong for Democrats to strategize a Plan B in case Biden's numbers remain low. We're talking about fighting against the MAGA Christian Nationalist fascist movement, and saving our democratic institutions. Even more, Democrats have a deep bench of strong future leaders who are already fighting against MAGA in their home states, and scoring major victories, including Michigan Gov. Gretchen [email protected]

It’s the 56th episode of Michigan’s Premier Progressive Podcast!I’ve been looking forward to this episode because I’ve wanted to talk with Michigan Advance reporter Jon King for quite awhile. Jon’s been busy covering MAGA right wing Millennial presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy speech at the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference, Mike Rogers’ steep chances at winning the Republican nomination for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat next year, and speaking with parents fighting against the so-called “parental rights” movement. Jon’s also got experience at working in right wing terrestrial radio for years in Livingston County, until he was pushed-out because the snowflake right wing audience and advertisers didn’t like the way John reported on facts.My opening monologue talks about how legislative Michigan Democrats are pushing ahead on passing their clean and affordable energy bills, which will help lead our state in the future for energy generation and conservation, and also on combating climate change. These bills won’t just help create a cleaner environment and more reliable energy for the people, but it’ll also help create thousands of jobs, many of them union jobs. And speaking of unions, I highlight President Biden’s appearance at the UAW picket lines in Wayne, MI, and how that contrasted with Trump’s anti-union rally this week in Macomb County.Finally, in my Last Call, I discuss how right wing Republicans celebrated the news that Ford was pausing its EV car battery plant in Marshall. I posted a tweet asking why these Republicans want EV battery plants being built elsewhere in other states, leaving our workers out to dry. I received many, many right wing responses, and I share some of them with you.Please, give a good rating wherever you get this podcast.Take the battle to [email protected]

This week's Left of Lansing Short deals with how Democratic State House Rep. Karen Whitsett from the 4th district in Detroit not only voted against the Reproductive Health Act in House Health Policy Committee this week, but she's signaling she's vote against the RHA when it comes to a vote on the House floor! And with Democrats holding a narrow lead in the House, that would very well defeat the bill. To hear an even more lenghty discussion of the bill, please listen to to Episode 53 with Ashlea Phenicie, VP of Communications and Interim VP of Public Policy for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and Planned Parenthood of Michigan. It's one thing for MAGA Christian Nationalist Republicans to vote to push women's health and economic rights back to the 19th Century. But it's a betrayal when a so-called "Democrat" joins in that effort. --Pat leftoflansing.com [email protected]

Here's Episode 55 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!Paid Family and Medical Leave is one of the important policies Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer mentioned in her "What's Next" speech last month. If Michigan's Democratic majority in the legislature can pass State Sen. Erika Geiss's paid family and medical leave bills, Michigan would join 11 other states which have already passed similar laws. Passing these bills would guarantee 15 weeks paid leave for ALL workers, and help guarantee that workers won't have to choose caring for a loved one or having to work. And since the United States remains the only developed nation not to guarantee some form of paid family and medical leave, or paid sick leave, it's up to the states to get something done.Making paid family and medical leave a reality is a priority for the nonprofit organization Mothering Justice from Detroit. National Executive Director, and Founder, Danielle Atkinson, joins me to talk about why this legislation is of the utmost importance for Michigan's marginalized citizens, and for all families. We also discuss the frustration with the recent jump in child poverty after Republicans, and a few Democrats in D.C., refused to expand the highly successful Child Tax Credit.And in my Last Call, I highlight how MAGA Republicans are pawns for the corporate class as they refuse to support the UAW strike against the Big Three Detroit Automakers.Please, don't forget to subscribe and give the podcast a good rating, too!Take the Battle to [email protected] leftoflansing.com

The Left of Lansing Short on this Friday September 15, 2023 deals with the UAW's request for a 32-hour work week for its members. It's not that crazy of an idea, and the data shows that workers are happier and more productive when they work four days a week. If that's the case, then why aren't we doing it!The UAW officially started its "Stand Up Strike" against the Big Three automakers late Thursday night. In addition to the four-day work week, the UAW is asking for a 40% increase in wages, paid time-off, better pensions, and more.Auto corporations are demanding their workers earn less while working longer hours as their CEO's earned 40% raises over the last decade. [email protected] NOTES:"Why a 4-day workweek is on the table for autoworkers." By Andrea Hsu of Michigan Radio"32-hour work week would be the end of Detroit." By James David Dickson of Michigan Capitol Confidential"Strike! United Auto Workers declares historic strike against Detroit Three automakers." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance"Electric Vehicle Factories Are Overwhelmingly Nonunion. The UAW Strike Could Change That." By Dianne Feeley of Jacobin"The UAW Strike Matters for the Entire US Working Class." By Alex N. Press of Jacobin

It's episode 54 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!It's a solo episode this week as I spend time taking the Michigan GOP to task for being absent on supporting the UAW (and unions, in general) in its fight for fair wages, pensions, and paid time-off against the Big Three automakers. Progressives always support unions. Michigan progressive lawmakers and activists support unions, but not one Republican shows up to help strengthen the solidarity for the working class. They don't care about the working class. They care only about the donor class. I take Republican state representatives Bill Schuette, Matthew Bierlein, and Graham Filler to task on their Midland Daily News op-ed criticizing legislative Democrats' clean and affordable energy plans. It's unconscionable how these right wing Republicans dare to scare readers by claiming clean energy results in higher energy prices when Michigan already pays the 12th highest energy rates in the country!!! And, it's not reliable energy either!Finally, in my "Last Call," I take Detroit Free Press columnist Mitch Albom to task for complaining how much younger people criticize and mock older people, while he simultaneously mocks and criticizes younger people. Please, don't forget to give this podcast a good rating, and don't forget to [email protected]

The "Friday Short" highlights the Reproductive Freedom Act, which Democratic State Rep. Laurie Pohutsky formally introduced this week. The RFA would reverse many hurtful abortion access restrictions put in place by Republicans through the years as they tried to enact their view of Christian Nationalism on the rest of the state. Please, listen to this week's Left of Lansing episode with Ashlea Phenicie, VP of Communications and Interim VP of Public Policy for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and Planned Parenthood of Michigan, as we discuss the RFA in more detail. [email protected]

It's the 53rd installment of Michigan's premier progressive podcast! I start out mocking the right wing Michigan Republican Party for claiming to care about working Michiganders on this past Labor Day. Then, I talk about the latest from the nutty right wing Ottawa Impact faction, which is working to defund the Ottawa County health department all because it took steps to protect its citizens during the pandemic. I conclude my monologue by highlighting that while the right wing is busy trying to hurt Michigan and her citizens, progressive policies are doing the exact opposite. Governor Gretchen Whitmer made her key "What's Next" speech last week, calling on the state legislature to pass bills for cleaner energy, codifying major parts of the Affordable Care Act, paid family and medical leave, and for passage of the Reproductive Health Act. The RHA would reverse many of the Republican draconian laws which made it difficult for women trying to find abortion access. Ashlea Phenicie, VP of Communications and Interim VP of Public Policy for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and Planned Parenthood of Michigan joins me to talk about the RHA, and other reproductive issues in the second segment. The Last Call deals with former Michigan Republican Congressman Mike Rogers, who announced his candidacy for the state's open U.S. Senate seat in '24. Thanks for listening, and please, give the Left of Lansing a good review, and subscribe! And take the battle to them! leftoflansing.com [email protected]

It's the Friday Left of Lansing Short!I discuss my support to have Michigan join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact.This would allow states to award their electoral college votes to the presidential candidate who won the national majority vote. Right now, states allocate their electoral college votes to the candidate who won their state. Democratic State Representative Carrie Rheingans talked about why she's leading this effort with HB 4156 on this week's Left of Lansing podcast. Please, listen to the episode as we discuss this topic, and many others, in greater detail.She argues by joining this compact, more people will feel engaged, and that includes here in Michigan as candidates in the past have stayed away if they believed they had zero chance at winning. It would give us a better system than the current broken and antiquated system, and it would finally allow the majority of voters to have a say on who should lead the country. [email protected]

Episode 52 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast is a little longer than normal, but well worth the listen!I take DTE Energy and Consumers Energy to task for failing to keep the lights on after storms rolled through the state. Despite keeping hundreds of thousands of customers in the dark, both energy companies are asking government officials to give the green light on more rate hikes! Perhaps this is the time we finally pass a clean energy bill to revamp the failing energy grid while lowering energy costs. I also discuss more right wing violence happening across the country, how we should expect more of it. And I talk more Ottawa Impact shenanigans as the right wing majority is gutting the Ottawa County Department of Health to pre-pandemic levels! Insanity!But we've got some strong progressives who are delivering results to each and every Michigander. One of them is Democratic State Rep. Carrie Rheingans of the 47th District, which comprises of Jackson and Washtenaw counties. Rep. Rheingans is part of the Democratic majority which has been busy reversing years of Republican mismanagement. She discusses the need for climate change policies, the frustration at DTE and Consumers Energy, her plans to create a single-payer health care plan called MiCare, her support for the state to join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, and allowing college athletes to unionize. The "Last Call" applauds Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's calls to codify some important parts of Obamacare, but how I want to fight for Rep. Rheingans' MiCare plan so we can provide health care protections for ALL Michiganders, while providing major cost savings for everyone. Please, give the podcast a great [email protected]

My Left of Lansing "Short" this Friday is about Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy's proposal to ban anyone under 25 from voting, unless they fulfil specific requirements, including passing a citizenship test. Generation Z is not only a politically active voting bloc, especially in Michigan, but it's also a highly progressive voting bloc. Rather than fight for their vote based on their hate-filled policies, Ramaswamy's brilliant idea is taking away their voting rights. Gina Keller from Distill Social talked about how progressives are doing a better job at connecting and messaging with Gen Z voters, as we witnessed in the 2022 midterm elections.And that scares the right wing, which is why it's trying to silence young [email protected]

Here's another exciting and informative episode of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!The Christian Nationalism that has overtaken the Michigan Republican Party is trying to take control of the entire state. While Democrats have control of state government for the first time in 40 years, and progressive values have achieved some major victories, right wing Christian Nationalist are taking control of local governments throughout the state. And they are leveling their extreme and dangerous worldview on the people through book bans, defunding of libraries, defunding of local health departments, attacks on public schools and teachers, and by attacking marginalized people. The Christian Nationalist movement is backed by a rich donor base, which wants to divide us just enough so they receive more power and massive tax cuts. But what's worse, is that all of these attacks on marginalized citizens throughout right wing media leads to violence, which is another dangerous aspect of right wing, white Christian Nationalism. That's why we progressives can't afford to be on the defensive, and we must as I always say, "take the battle to them!" Progressives win by pushing our narrative straight to the people, and bypassing the corporate media structure which remains stuck in pushing a corporate right wing agenda. That's what this podcast is about, but it's what other great progressive organizations are about, too, like Distill Social. Gina Keller, co-founder and Digital Director of Distill Social, joins me to talk about the organization, and how it's utilizing digital media to reach progressives, younger voters, and independents. Distill Social is becoming a force in our state politics because they helping progressives connect, communicate, organize, and more importantly, win through effective messaging!My Last Call wraps-up how the right wing only cares about dividing people through fear, racism, and fear. Meanwhile, they have no agenda to help people, and have no desire to improve the lives of working Michiganders. For example, Michigan's congressional members are silent when it comes to the UAW fight against the Big Three automakers. If the right wing truly cares about average Michiganders, they'd be voicing their support for the UAW, and unions in general. But they remain quiet because the main goal is to enrich its rich donor base.Please, give the podcast a good rating and subscribe, [email protected] --Pat

The "Friday Short" puts a spotlight on Michigan Republican Congressman John Moolenaar's hypocrisy when it comes to the proposed Gotion electric battery plant in Big Rapids. Moolenaar hopped-aboard the right wing xenophobia bandwagon since Gotion's parent company is from China. Yet, Moolenaar never once uttered a word of skepticism over other Chinese companies which set-up shop here in our state, nor did he once criticize former Republican Governor Rick Snyder over his numerous trade mission trip to China! But now, Moolenaar says he opposes the project because Gotion will pay workers in the area less than it originally said. Some state senate Democrats voted against the project for that very reason a few months ago. Moolenaar suddenly sounds like progressives in opposing corporate handouts in exchange for cheap labor. But in reality, John is only appearing to be pro-worker because he's trying to show he's strong against China. If Moolenaar is such a pro-worker kinda guy, I can't wait for him to publicly back the UAW's labor fight against the Big Three auto companies. But I'm not holding my breath. --Patleftoflansing.com

Here it is! The 50th episode of Michigan's premier progressive podcast! I love that I've made it to 50 episodes, and I'd love to thank everyone who helped me get this little project off-the-ground. And, I'd love to thank you for listening, and to helping spread the word of this podcast. In this episode, I put a spotlight on the extreme right-wing Christian Nationalist movement, which is spreading inside the national Republican Party, and especially inside Michigan's Republican Party. This movement scored some wins in local governments, including the far right Ottawa Impact group which is now the majority on the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners. And with Donald Trump's fourth indictment this year, I discuss how the Christian Nationalist movement will go to any length to be on the winning side, even if that means resorting to violence. Part of the Christian Nationalist movement's battle against democracy is by attacking local libraries and librarians, and by banning books. That's been happening in many areas across the state, but the Michigan Libraries Association is trying to stop these attacks with the MI Right To Read coalition. Mi Right To Read is a way to help connect those of us who value libraries across the state, and value the First Amendment. Debbie Mikula from the Michigan Libraries Association joins me to discuss more about this campaign. Then, the "Last Call" puts an exclamation point on my interview with Debbie Mikula by showing how these so-called "grassroots" book banning groups are backed by rich, right wing donors. They are hoping to silence marginalized voices by banning books on race, religion, LGBTQ+ rights, gender rights, and anything else they deem a threat to their mythic and bigoted Christian Nationalist movement. Thanks for listening, and don't forget to give this podcast a great [email protected]

It's the 49th episode of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!I celebrate Ohio's decision to hand the state Republican party a humiliating defeat at the polls this week, when voters rejected the GOP's efforts to raise the threshold to pass a state referendum from 50-to-60%. Ohio Republicans were hoping to hurt the chances of enshrining abortion rights into Ohio's constitution in November. But they failed miserably, and like Michigan Republicans, they will suffer again when voters back a woman's right to choose. Yet, the legacy media didn't seem to cover another huge victory for choice and democracy because it only wants to cover Trump, Trump, Trump, and more Trump.I also highlight the big news Democratic State Senator Mallory McMorrow's endorsement of Democratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin in her bid to win Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow's seat, which opens-up in 2024.Then, Sean McBrearty, who is the campaign director of the anti-Line 5 oil and natural gas pipeline group called Oil & Water Don't Mix, joins the podcast to discuss the latest in the efforts to close down that old and dangerous pipeline located at the bottom of the Straits of Mackinac. Despite efforts by Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel to shutdown Line 5, it's still transporting oil and gas as Enbridge is fighting in the courts. That's why Sean argues that President Biden use his power and intervene to close the pipeline. Sean McBrearty. Photo courtesy of Clean Water Action MichiganSean is also the legislative director for Clean Water Action Michigan, which works to protect the health of Michigan's waters. My "Last Call" puts an exclamation mark on the importance of closing down Line 5, and how it'll be up to progressives to get the job done to protect the future of our environment. And I celebrate how Gen Z voters are playing a key role in helping fight for environmental rights and justice. If we want to keep and attract younger people in Michigan, a clean water infrastructure is a good start!And I bid farewell to a favorite Canadian musician of mine, and a longtime Detroit Tigers fan favorite. Visit leftoflansing.comEmail: [email protected]

This week's "Short" deals with the Republican effort to ban TikTok in the United States. Ostensibly, they argue it's to protect our privacy since TikTok is a Chinese company. But the main reason Republicans are fighting for a ban is to take-away a major communication tool from Generation Z voters, who are by far the most progressive voting bloc in the country. Generation Z played a key role in helping get Democrats victories across the country in the last few election cycles. And that's particularly true here in Michigan, as Gen Z voters showed up in greater numbers than in any other state in 2022. Rather than win over some Gen Z voters with policy ideas of their own, Republicans believe shutting down those voters' favorite mode of communication will help their party in the future. I also talked about this topic on this week's episode of the podcast with Progress Michigan's Jade Gray, and I'll post that episode below as well. --Pat NOTES: "On the Cusp of Adulthood and Facing an Uncertain Future: What We Know About Gen Z So Far." By Kim Parker and Ruth Igielnik of Pew Research Center "Montana becomes the first state to ban TikTok." By Ayana Archie of NPR Erin Reed Tweet Ben Collins Tweet