Left of Lansing

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

Here's Episode 48 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!Happy Indictment Week III!I had so many words and thoughts to share as Donald Trump faces his third indictment this week. He's finally been charged for the role he played for the January 6th insurrection in an effort to steal the 2020 election. Despite getting indicted again, Michigan's GOP is all-in for Trump even though two more state Republicans face indictments for stealing voting machines. But while Republicans keep getting indicted, progressives keep doing the work to help everyone "Make It In Michigan."One big reason why progressives are scoring some major victories in the state is because of the impressive turnout by Generation Z voters in the 2022 election. They were key in getting abortion rights enshrined in our state constitution, in expanding voting rights and access to voting, and getting Democrats in control of state government. Jade Gray from Progress Michigan, and a Co-President of College Dems at the University of Michigan, joins me to talk about what issues are at the forefront for Gen Z. She also shares her thoughts on how Gen Z is not only pressing for progressive change, but refuses to sit on the sidelines. And as the Digital Organizer at Progress Michigan, Ms. Gray talks about their project to help progressives have a bigger digital presence throughout the state with Progressive Megaphone. If you want to learn more, [email protected] Last Call spotlights a groundbreaking program which provides pregnant Flint mothers a one-time $1,500 payment, and then a $500 per month for that child's first year with no strings attached! The program is called Rx Kids, and it has possibilities to improve the entire Flint community!Don't forget to visit [email protected]

It's episode 47 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!The Gotion electric vehicle battery component plant is causing a rift in the Big Rapids area, located in Mecosta County. Local Republican leaders jumped at the chance to have the California-based company build the new plant in their area--an area in which 18% of its residents live in poverty. But because Gotion's parent company is from China, right wing Republican politicians and officials, along with those from the right wing echo chamber, are using scary xenophobic and anti-Asian rhetoric to prevent the plant from being built. Anna Gustafson from Michigan Advance wrote an extensive and informative piece on this entire saga, and she joins me to talk about how the right wing became galvanized to try to stop the plant, and how congressional and state senators and representatives have joined in the fight, despite originally backing the plant! Anna's also written many other interesting and important stories across the entire state of Michigan. Please, read her stories at Michigan Advance!Anna Gustafson of Michigan AdvanceMy opening monologue talks about how not only as right wing billionaire Elon Musk destroyed Twitter, or "X," but he's using the platform to spew right wing nonsense and conspiracy theories. I discuss how his anti-vaccine stances, and many other anti-vaxxers on the right, have led to more Republican voters dying from COVID after the vaccines were made available. And my "Last Call" puts a bookend on my talk with Ms. Gustafson as my Republican congressman, John Moolenaar of Midland, continues to fight against Gotion. It's strange he's fighting against this plant from being built in his district since he's never attacked Dow Chemical from working with Chinese businesses. Visit: leftoflansing.comEmail: [email protected]

Here's the 46th episode of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!I start-out this week talking about taking the battle to the right wing forces in our state. I illustrated why state Senator Mallory McMorrow's "We will not let hate win," speech went viral. It resonated with millions across the country because McMorrow did what so many of us want to see from Democrats: fighting back. In Michigan, progressive Democrats did fight back, take over the state government, and are now making the lives of millions of people better by reinvesting in them. And that's why the right wing is trying to recall five Democratic state house representatives. I then have a talk with Sam Inglot, executive director of Progress Michigan. We cover state Attorney General Dana Nessel's announcement of charging the 16 Michigan Republican officials who tried to act like fake electors in their attempts to steal the 2020 election for Donald Trump. We also highlight how we're expanding voting rights in the state, and some of the other work Progress Michigan is doing both across the state, and on the local level. To contact Progress Michigan, visit their website, or visit Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The "Last Call" further illustrates how the right wing Michigan GOP continues to double-down by trying to add more guns in their quest to... quell our gun violence in our state?You can contact me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and email [email protected]

Here’s the 45th installment of Michigan’s premier progressive podcast!Democratic State Rep. Betsy Coffia from the 103rd District joins me this week. Rep. Coffia’s district contains Leelanau, Grand Traverse, and Benzie Counties. She’s been a journalist, a social worker, and a Grand Traverse County commissioner. And now, she’s in Lansing trying to make a difference on a variety of fronts. We discuss the Traverse City hair salon owner who’s refusing to serve transgender people, why bigotry is bad for business, the budgets Democrats passed, her work on the school aid budget to help kids and families in northern Michigan, allowing 16-year olds to pre-register to vote, and more.You can follow Rep. Coffia on Twitter.My opening segment concentrates on how the right wing has always used “fear and anger” to get-out its voting base. Nothing has changed in the last 40 years when it comes to the Republican Party’s values. Donald Trump wasn’t some anomaly. The party was always a Trump party, and he emboldened Republican voters to finally say the quiet things out-loud. Party insiders are trying to silence those voices, but it’s too late, now!The “Last Call” continues my opening segment argument that Michigan Republicans stand for nothing, and have zero constructive policy ideas designed to help people.You can always email me at [email protected], visit leftoflansing.comThank you, and please subscribe to the podcast as well!

Here's episode 44 of Michigan's premiere progressive podcast! Strong progressive policies continue to not only get introduced, but continue to pass in the state legislature as we witnessed with the expansion of the Hate Crimes Law. The Democratic majority passed a historic budget last week, and I highlight how they not only spent time and energy reinvesting in our teachers and students, but they're also reinvesting in the environmental well-being of our schools. I also explain how progressives have swung the pendulum in the other direction after 40 years of Republican rule. And progressives are fighting back more on the local level, too, particularly in Ottawa County! The focus then switches back to the clean and affordable energy and climate package of bills state Democrats recently introduced. Charlotte Jameson--Chief Policy Officer of the Michigan Environmental Council--joins me to talk about why the MEC is supportive of these measures. Plus, she goes into further detail on how making schools more energy efficient, and the controversial aggregate mining bill that seems to have divided some legislative Democrats. Click here to learn more about the Michigan Environmental Council. This week's "Last Call" deals with my confusion as to why Governor Whitmer's "Growing Michigan Council" only has one member under 40 so far, but also why she is asking people like Bill Parfet to join the council. Enjoy! [email protected]

Progressive changes continue in our state thanks to the Democratic majority in the state legislature as both the general and education budgets passed this week. These budgets provide significant funding boosts for K-12 spending, including more per-pupil funding and universal free breakfast and lunch. And the general budget provides more funding for roads, infrastructure, health care workers, the environment and more. Plus, Democrats repealed the awful "No Stricter Than Federal" law Republicans passed during the 2018 lame duck.Then, I speak with Durrell Slaughter, who is Michigan's clean energy advocate with the Natural Resources Defense Council, on a package of historic and bold clean energy and climate change bills Democrats have introduced in the state legislature, which have a goal of making the state carbon-free by 2035.. Mr. Durrell spoke in favor of these bills during a committee session. And he also talks about the importance of getting involved in local politics. My "Last Call" talks about how the President Biden's Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is providing high speed Internet access to 200,000 residents in Michigan, helping low income families.There's so much going on inside our state government, and much-needed changes making Michigan a better and more welcoming place to live. And it's all thanks to strong progressive, and popular, policies! Please, have a safe and great Fourth of July holiday [email protected]

We're officially in Summer, and I'm serving up the 42nd episode of the weekly podcast!My opening monologue deals with why I'm supporting the Michigan Multimedia Jobs proposal, which provides tax credits for companies wanting to make movies, shows, commercials, and other multimedia productions in the state. Michigan Democrats are busy helping people, including providing free meals for all public school students, but why in the world are Republicans against it? Then, Democratic state Senator Stephanie Chang joins me to discuss how the Democratic majority in the state legislature is getting stuff done on environmental justice, education, LGBTQ+ rights, voting rights, hate crimes, and the state budget. Senator Chang also shares her thoughts on keeping Generation Z voters engaged. The "Last Call" highlights a speech by Democratic State Representative Laurie Pohutsky, who introduced a house resolution declaring June as Pride Month. Enjoy!

Here's Episode 41 of the podcast devoted to highlighting the progressive fight to revive and restore Michigan's greatness! My opening monologue describes how old time Michigan Republicans have no power in their party anymore, and they have nobody to blame but themselves as the extremists lead the party. And I explain how these extremists are hurting our abilities to reverse the population and brain drain Michigan has been experiencing after 40 years of Republican rule. One way to reverse the population is perhaps through a new multimedia incentives program that's quite different from the state's film incentives a decade ago. Alexander Page from the Michigan Film Industry Association joins me to explain this new incentives proposal, which will soon be introduced in the state legislature. To learn more about MiFIA and the new multimedia incentives proposal, click here. The "Last Call" celebrates how Michigan Democrats are easing the workload for county clerks across the state by allowing them more time to process and tabulate absentee ballots. [email protected] Enjoy!

Here's the 40th episode!!! In this week's episode, I share some thoughts on WJR-AM's "next generation" of talk show hosts, which kinda sounds like the same as the last generation. I also talk about how former Republican "Nerd" Governor, Mr. Flint Water Crisis, himself, Rick Snyder is back in the news, announcing that he's helping Michigan Republicans take over the state legislature in 2024! Then, Dr. Joshua Cowen, Professor of Education Policy at Michigan State University, joins me to talk about the right wing movement--or war--to eradicate public schools across the country. Dr. Cowen has spent nearly two decades researching school choice and voucher programs, and how vouchers don't live up to the hype. I've included some of Dr. Cowen's articles in the show notes at the bottom of the page. And please, follow Dr. Cowen on Twitter! This week's "Last Call" delves into how former Michigan Republican Congressman Fred Upton will back a candidate from the so-called "No Labels" party. But I show how "No Labels" is primarily concerned with aiding and abetting its corporate donors, but how it hurts average Americans on a daily basis. Thank you for listening, and please subscribe to the blog and podcast. Plus, if you're feeling generous, feel free to provide a small donation! Enjoy!

Wow, 39 episodes are in the can!This week, I speak with progressive activist Joe Spaulding on the right wing movement happening with the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners as they passed a resolution declaring the county a "constitutional county." It's quite similar to what the equally extreme right wing Livingston County Board of Commissioners recently did as well. Joe Spaulding talks about how he and others are trying to fight back in that western Michigan county. And Joe gives shares some of his experiences while working on the "Voters Not Politicians" ballot proposal, which ended our state's gerrymandering in 2018. Plus, he gives his thoughts on the Republican effort to ban TikTok in the United States, which is really an attack on younger voters.Please, follow Joe Spaulding on Twitter!I talk about how refreshing it is to be a progressive broadcaster after spending years in the corporate right wing radio world. I share my ambivalence with the Mackinac Policy Conference, particularly since one of the most consequential and disastrous bills signed into law happened during that same conference a few years ago. That's when Gov. Whitmer signed the awful auto insurance "reform" bill. What makes it worse is who surrounded her as she signed the bill. The "Last Call" focuses on how "Greedflation" is the true mechanism which caused inflation.Enjoy!

Here's the 38th episode of Left of Lansing! Coming back to the podcast is veteran business writer, Rick Haglund. He writes the "Micheconomy" on Michigan Advance, and has been covering the state's economy, and the auto industry, since the 1980's. We talk about Michigan's population problem in which not only are people leaving, but we're becoming an older state. We discuss ways Michigan could reverse that trend, and if the Democratic Trifecta in state government is going in the right direction by advertising Michigan as the anti-Florida. Please, follow Rick on twitter: https://twitter.com/rhaglund And follow Michigan Advance!

A new episode of the Left Of Lansing Podcast is posted.This week, progressive activist Kasey Helton joins me to talk about life as a progressive in ruby red Republican Livingston County. We talk about Livingston County politics, why it's been difficult for progressives to make a dent there, but how progressives are beginning to find ways to post some victories there. She also shares some ideas and strategies that progressives can take to make change in Michigan's red counties. Please, follow her on Twitter! twitter.com/KaseyHelton05My opening monologue deals with my two week battle with COVID, which is why I missed a podcast last week! Sitting around in bed as I deal with COVID for the first time since the pandemic broke, I recalled how the right wing did everything in its po to ensure the virus killed and sickened as many Americans as possible because "cruelty is the point."My "Last Call" deals with how a simple school millage became an ideological battle in Livingston County's Heartland Township. The county Republican Party fought against the millage because they objected over "woke" books. But this should serve as an illustration for all progressives on the importance of local politics because the right wing is so far out-maneuvering the left on city, county, and school boards. Enjoy!

If we're not helping to protect our kids, honestly I don't know what the hell we're doing here in Lansing because that should be our number one priority. -Kelly Breen- On this week's LOL Podcast, Democratic State Representative Kelly Breen from from the 21st House District.Rep. Breen and I discuss the gun safety reform bills Democrats passed, and were signed into law by Governor Whitmer. Rep. Breen played a key role in passing the Extreme Risk Protection Order law, which is headed to the Governor's desk. We also discuss mental health, education, dealing with today's Michigan Republican Party, and the importance of getting involved in local politics. My opening monologue highlights how state Democrats are offering serious solutions during serious times, and Rep. Breen is a shining example.My "Last Call" deals with the misguided "old and tired trope" that state Democrats are going too far. Nothing could be further from the truth, and some in our Lansing media should begin to realize that fact. Show notes are at the end of this [email protected]

In this week's episode, Pat Johnston covers how Democrats are fixing what Republicans destroyed during their 40 years of power in Lansing. He covers how Republicans across the nation are working to erase American history, ban books, silence their opponents, and destroy the public school system. Pat also gives another shoutout to Democratic State Rep. Dylan Wegela for introducing a bill stopping police from lying to minors to obtain a false confession. [email protected]

This week, I discuss how young people showed-up at the polls in a big way in Michigan, which helped Democrats pull-off the trifecta in state government. But despite the Generation Z breaking for Democrats in the last few elections, Democrats must continue showing that they are helping keep that critical voting bloc on their side.Then, State Representative Dylan Wegela joins me. He represents District 26, which comprises of Garden City, Inkster, Romulus and Westland. In the "Last Call," I explain how Michigan Democrats continue helping Michiganders while Republicans continue to act... weird.Hope you enjoy this week's podcast. Show notes are located on leftoflansing.com

Michigan Democrats are banking on Gov. Whitmer's slogan that "Bigotry Is Bad For Business." Pat Johnston explains why being the anti-Indiana, the anti-Ohio, and the anti-Florida is the best strategic move for Michigan--both morally and economically. By becoming a more welcoming state for women who want to make their own medical decisions, and a more LGBTQ-friendly state, Michigan Democrats are illustrating that our state is best for businesses and workers because Michigan believes in freedom. And Pat highlights how there are now 13 Starbucks stores in Michigan that voted to unionize!

LOL's Pat Johnston talks about how Michigan Democrats are giving state Democratic parties across the nation a blueprint for electoral success. If Democrats succeed in showing how they will improve the lives of their constituents, they will remain in power. But we must always take the battle to the right-wing forces.

LOL's Pat Johnston highlights how Michigan Democrats are using their legislative majority to enact real change when it comes to curbing gun violence. It's a start.

Pat is back with a new episode! He goes after Michigan's GOP as it tried to steal the election from Joe Biden. He offers a counterpoint on why the "AOC WING" of the Democratic Party is indeed changing things for the better. And more!

Pat's back and ready to call-out Michigan's right-wing forces that did nothing to help Gov. Whitmer's efforts to combat COVID-19, and how the right-wing remains tone-deaf on race issues. Then, Jody LaMacchia joins Pat to discuss her run for the state house in the 46th District. Finally, Pat shows how Michigan's Republican Party remains in the past while Michigan pushes ahead on LGBTQ issues.

Pat Johnston talks about how Michigan Republicans rely on The Trump Cult to stop Gov. Whitmer from protecting the state against this pandemic.

Pat is geeked that Michigan will play a crucial role in the 2020 Democratic Presidential Primary. Candidates should know about the Blue Wave of 2018 in Michigan, partially because we know the Devos family! Dave Wagner from Indivisible Michigan is the guest this week. And Pat reminds everyone how Democratic Presidents used to fight for Medicare 4 All.

Pat Johnston says Michigan Democrats Must put Republicans on defense regarding health care and treatment of women. Pat wonders why some Michigan Democrats are backing Michael Bloomberg for president despite his obvious flaws. And Pat argues why Democrats taking-on Democrats in other primary races is democracy in action!

Julia Pulver talks with Pat Johnston about her quest for the state house seat in Michigan's 39th district. Ms. Pulver also covers health care, charter schools, and more. Pat describes why the 2020 state races are just as important as the Presidential election. And Pat talks about that green ooze on I-696 last month, and how it's the perfect metaphor for Republican environmental policies.

The 24th episode of The LOL Podcast features Pat Johnston with an epic rant about how progressives can no longer afford to be "civil" anymore. They must Fight Back against 40-years of radical right-wing activism. Christine Barry from Michigan Policast joins Pat to discuss that topic, and other issues affecting Michigan. And then, Pat highlights how young people are shying away from the teaching profession in Michigan. [email protected]

Hello fellow LOLers! Pat's back with a new podcast. This week, Pat hails Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib for being one of the first voices to call for Trump's impeachment! Anna Clark is Pat's guest this week. She wrote: "The Poisoned City: Flint Water and the Urban Tragedy." And a district judge places a temporary injunction on Michigan AG Dana Nessel's rule that adoption agencies receiving state contracts can't discriminate against LGBTQ couples hoping to adopt.

Pat goes solo this week to share his thoughts on how the Koch-DeVos Libertarian Utopia has been an unmitigated disaster for everyone., He then explains Michigan's fights to fix our roads, schools, and environment is all about ending years of Republicans Running Michigan On The Cheap. And Pat highlights how the right wing is fighting to stop Michigan's new redistricting committee from ever forming.

On the 21st episode of the Left of Lansing Podcast, Pat highlights how "cruelty" is the top priority for the right wing. Democratic State Rep. Jon Hoadley talks with Pat about why he's running for U.S. Congress in 2020! And Pat praises Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib!

Pat Interviews Emily Durbin from the Michigan chapter for Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense In America. Pat also explains why the right wing points to "mental illness" whenever a right wing terrorist attacks America. Plus, Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow provides a rallying call to fight for real gun reform in Michigan.

Pat Johnston speaks with former Michigan DNC Chair Mark Brewer on Rick Snyder turning down Harvard appointment; voting rights; Whitmer & GOP budget fight; and the direction of Michigan's Democratic Party. Plus, Pat attacks anti-democratic Republicans. And, Pat criticizes national Democratic leaders for voting for Mitch McConnell's border bill.

Pat Johnston talks with Sharon Dolente, who is the Voting Rights Strategist with the ACLU of Michigan. Sharon played a pivotal role in helping get the Promote The Vote initiative on the 2018 ballot, which won by overwhelming numbers. Pat talks about why Michigan Republicans are trying to stifle the vote rather than WIN votes. And Pat rants about how Medicaid Work Requirements are doing exactly what conservatives wanted by hurting working families.

Pat brings more progressive insight with an edge this week as he rails against Michigan GOP efforts to disenfranchise young voters, and Democratic voters, general. He delves into the reasons why charges have been dropped in the Flint Water Crisis. And he praises a couple of Michigan Congressional Democrats for finally joining the fight to impeach Trump!

Julia Pulver is this week's guest. Julia is an RN, political activist, and former Michigan State Senate candidate, barely losing in the 15th district. She shares her experience running a progressive campaign in a red district. And she doesn't hold back on her opposition to the recently signed auto insurance reform bill. I remind everyone about how Rick Snyder took part in the biggest political scandal--The Flint Water Crisis. And I praise Governor Whitmer for (so far) sticking to her promise to close Line 5!