Left of Lansing

#podcast #politics #Michigan #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #CharlieKirk #GunViolence #Authoritarianism #GovernmentCorruption #FreeSpeech #Censorship #Extremism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the September 15, 2025 edition of the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing." This week's "Monday Musing" examines how, despite all evidence to the contrary, MAGA Republicans are proclaiming right-wing propogandist Charlie Kirk's murder to be the work of left-wing violence. Yet, so far, it appears to be the opposite. In fact, the alleged murderer appears to have been even further right than Kirk, and other MAGA Republicans and influencers. It's part of the authoritarian playbook of using tragedy to silence the opposition, which is strange considering how MAGA claims that Kirk supported debate and discourse.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Matt Maddock criticizes Democrats and communists in August 2025 social media posts." By The Pontiac Times "Teen Colorado school shooting suspect reportedly fixated on Columbine attack." By The Associated Press

#podcast #progressives #politics #freespeech #politicalviolence #Democrats #Republicans, MAGA, #Trump #Charlie Kirk #GunViolence #Democracy #Authoritarianism #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for September 12, 2025. Pat Johnston explains how, as predicted, MAGA Republicans are using the Charlie Kirk assassination to shut-down progressive speech. So much for the Freedom Of Speech warriors.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #progressives #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentGreed #MalloryMcMorrow #Election2026 #Gaza #AIPAC #Israel #WorkingClass #Tariffs #HealthCare #CharlieKirk #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 147 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-09:58: Charlie Kirk Murder Pat Johnston shares his thoughts on the assassination of MAGA Republican influencer Charlie Kirk. 09:59-41:48: What Does Mallory McMorrow Stand For? In this segment, Pat offers both praise and criticism for Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow, who's running in the Democratic Primary for Michigan's U.S. Senate seat in 2026. McMorrow's focusing on the working class issue of affordability, which is smart considering how the Trump Regime is tanking the economy. But McMorrow's not offering real solutions to help make things more affordable. Even more, McMorrow is trying to take a "centrist" position on Gaza, and she won't back universal health care plans to combat our worsening health care system in the country. What and Who is Mallory McMorrow fighting for? 41:49-45:54: MI Fake Electors Escape Justice In the "Last Call," we highlight how a judge dismissed all of the charges against those 15 MAGA Michigan fake elector defendants who tried to help the Trump campaign steal the 2020 election.  45:01-48:05: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michigan Democratic Senate Candidate Privately Drafted “Outstanding” AIPAC Position Paper, Supporter Claims." By Ryan Grim of Drop Site For Sake Of The Argument Podcast (a Distill Social Production):  "Democrats & Disillusion with State Senator Mallory McMorrow."  "Mallory McMorrow is wrong for Michigan Democrats." By Gabe Efros of Michigan Daily "‘I never endorsed her': Local Michigan leader disavows Haley Stevens' U.S. Senate campaign claim." By Jon King of Michigan Advance Berrien County Commissioner Chokwe Pitchford's endorsement of Mallory McMorrow for U.S. Senate "Judge: Alleged Michigan Republican false electors will not face trial." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance

#podcast #politics #progressive #transgender #LGBTQ #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Oligarchy #GovernmentCorruption #CorporareGreed #CorporateCorruption #Authoritarianism #WhiteChristianNationalist #WorkingClass #MattHall #Trump #Fascism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for September 8, 2025. MAGA Michigan House Republicans passed a bill banning Transgender youths from using the bathrooms of their gender identity in schools. Instead, they're being forced to use the bathrooms of their assigned sex at birth.  They passed the bill in efforts to hide how their own state budget proposal seeks to gut the working class in a myriad of ways, but also in hopes to divide and distract the working class just enough so that they'll be successful in further enriching their corporate authoritarian donor base.  And if they're successful at further demonizing Transgender Americans, which group of marginalized Americans are next on their list? Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michigan House Republicans OK transgender school bathroom ban." By Simon D. Schuster of Bridge Magazine "Michigan House GOP scapegoats trans youth to mask budget stalemate." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Trump DOJ is looking at ways to ban transgender Americans from owning guns, sources say." By Evan Perez and Hannah Rablnowitz of CNN "About 5% of young adults in the U.S. say their gender is different from their sex assigned at birth." By Anna Brown of Pew Research

#podcast #politics #economy #workingclass #HigherEducation #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Democrats #FreeSpeech #InternationalStudents #Michigan #Whitmer #RickSnyder #Tariffs #Jobs #Authoritarianism #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for September 5, 2025. A story in Bridge Michigan today explained how The Trump Regime's policies in blocking international students from attending Michigan higher education institutions is having devastating economic effects on both our higher education system, but also Michigan's overall economy. Combine that with the MAGA Murder Budget, Dear Leader's insane tariff scheme, and The Regime's overall attacks on higher education, Michigan is bearing the brutal brunt of the failed Trump economy that's leaving the working class behind. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michigan may lose millions as universities see drop in international students." By Kim Kozlowski of Bridge Michigan "Employers added 22,000 jobs in August, falling short of forecasts, as labor market cools." By Aimee Picchi of CBS News "Michigan manufacturer warns Trump tariffs threaten small business survival." By Dan Louallen of ABC News

#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #DemocraticSocialist #Republicans #Michigan #Detroit #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentGreed #DenzelMcCampbell #WorkingClass #Authoritarianism #GovernorWhitmer #Vaccines #HealthCare #Trump #MAGA #KarenWhitsett #RashidaTlaib #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 146 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-12:20: Haley Stevens Senate Campaign Fails Pat Johnston opens the show by highlighting a very bad and embarrassing week for Establishment Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Haley Stevens. It shows again how corporate Democrats find progressive candidates more of a threat than the Trump Regime's authoritarianism. Pat talks about how MAGA "Democratic" State Rep. Karen Whitsett proudly voted for the MAGA Michigan House budget that'll hurt Detroiters, and all of Michigan. And now, she's running for the Detroit City Council District 7 seat. But, Detroiters have an alternative to Whitsett. A working class alternative. 12:21-36:30 Denzel McCampbell Interview Democratic Socialist Denzel McCampbell earned a surprising primary victory over Karen Whitsett for the Detroit City Council District 7 seat. McCampbell and Whitsett will face-off again in the general election in November. Denzel joins Pat on the show this week to talk about his run for the Council seat, and why his campaign is resonating with so many working class Detroiters. Click here to check-out Denzel McCampbell's campaign. And visit his Facebook page. 36:31-46:37: RFK Jr. anti-vax insanity In the "Last Call," Pat covers how Health & Human Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. is creating a national security emergency by restricting the COVID vaccine, and by defunding vaccine research. 46:38-49:15: Ending/Lions Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "How a Democratic Socialist Won a Detroit City Council Primary." By Sam Robinson of Michigan Chronical "Is Denzel McCampbell Detroit's Zohran Mamdani?" By Malachi Barrett of Bridge Detroit "See who's funding Detroit City Council candidates." By Malachi Barrett of Bridge Michigan "Southeast Michigan pediatrician offers insight as FDA restricts COVID-19 vaccine eligibility." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Michigan physician builds coalition to counter RFK Jr.'s 'dire' vaccine restrictions." By Kristen Jordan Shamus of The Detroit Free Press "DeSantis and Ladapo aim to make Florida first in US to end all vaccine mandates." By Kirby Wilson & Romy Ellenbogan of The Miami Herald "Outbreaks of rabies seem to be rising across the U.S., CDC surveillance shows." By NBC News "GOP-authored Michigan bill would legalize discriminating against women who receive abortions." By Richard Eberwein of Heartland Signal

#podcast #politics #progressives #workingclass #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Unions #Medicaid #Michigan #Economy #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Democrats #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for September 1, 2025. On this Labor Day 2025, Pat Johnston reviews how the Trump Regime has enacted the most anti-worker, anti-union, pro-corporate greed and corruption agenda in recent memory.  Whether it's the insane tariff scheme, the gutting of the National Labor Relations Board, or the MAGA Murder Budget, Dear Leader Trump's "economics" is hurting workers across the country, and especially in Michigan. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Labor Day report: Michigan has fourth-highest unemployment rate in U.S., wage disparities persist." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Labor Day Report: A Snapshot of Michigan's Workforce." By Michigan League For Public Policy "Labor Day Spotlight: Trump promised to revive manufacturing. Will he deliver?" By Kelena Thomhave of Michigan Advance "The UAW at 90: Still fighting for the middle class—and its own future." By Rick Haglund of Michigan Advance "Trump's shock-and-awe tariffs haven't fueled a manufacturing jobs boom." By Matt Egan of CNN "Trump Celebrates Labor Day as the Most Anti-Union President Ever." By Harold Meyerson of American Prospect

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #MAGA #Republicans #Guns #GunViolence #SchoolShootings #ToxicMasculinity #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for August 29, 2025. MAGA Republicans are trying to blame the entire Transgender community for the school shooting at a Catholic Church in Minneapolis this week in which two children were killed while 17 others were injured. The shooter, if reports are accurate, was a transgender female.  But as Pat Johnston explains, by directing their bigoted ire towards transgender Americans, MAGA Republicans and influencers are trying to get you to ignore the real culprit behind America's gun violence epidemic: Guns. Well, guns combined with men appears to be the main culprit behind this uniquely American problem. And much could be done to fix it, but MAGA Republicans are more beholden to the gun than they are to the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness of others.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Ex-husband, alleged accomplice charged in killing of woman inside Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit." By Brandon Carr of WDIV-TV, Channel 4 News in Detroit "Mass Shooters Are Not Disproportionately Transgender." By Abby Vesoulis of Mother Jones "Mario Green charged in fatal shooting of ex-wife; Records show victim sought help." By Nushrat Rahman, Andrea May Sahouri, and Kristen Jordan Shamus of The Detroit Free Press

#podcast #politics #Progressive #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #Budget #WorkingClass #Medicaid #HealthCare #DanaNessel #GretchenWhitmer #Detroit #KarenWhitsett #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Gaza #Israel #Election #Fascism #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 145 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-17:23: MAGA MI Republican Budget Pat Johnston breaks down the MAGA Michigan Republican budget, which state House Speaker Matt Hall unveiled this week after delaying and delaying all summer long. Only one Democrat in the State House voted with Republicans, and it was none other than Detroit's Karen Whitsett. She's running for a Detroit City Council seat, but she's facing a young and energetic Democratic Socialist in Denzel McCampbell. That race is happening this November. 17:24-36:57: Whitmer Special Election Folly Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer continues to delay calling a special election for a state Senate seat that was last held by a Democrat. And by delaying this election, Whitmer is costing Democrats more than possibly losing the seat. Pat wishes Gov. Whitmer could be as bold and inspirational as other Democratic governors, like Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. We applaud MI Democratic State Rep. Laurie Pohutsky for trying to limit The Trump Regime's authoritarianism. And the Democratic National Committee remains miles apart from Democratic & Independent voters on Gaza. 36:58-41:37: Bought & Paid For Influencers A recent story by Taylor Lorenz in Wired details how a dark money Democratic group is paying liberal podcasters and influencers to push the Democratic Party line. Pat promises you that he'll never make such a move, and explains why. 41:38-43:36: Football/Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michigan residents show support for Gaza aid, according to recent poll." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Trump raises questions with move to fire Cook over unproven accusations of mortgage fraud." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Michigan House passes full budget as talk of government shutdown hit a fever pitch." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Legislative extortion is happening in Lansing: Distill's Crazy Day At The Capitol." By Distill Social "Michigan Democrats take aim at use of National Guard troops." By Colin Jackson of Michigan Public Radio "Michigan House GOP budget cuts spending, workers and DEI to pave way for roads.' By Simon D. Schuester in Bridge Michigan "GOP state budget plan includes billions in cuts. Here's what would get axed." By Paul Egan of The Detroit Free Press "DNC panel rejects Israel-Gaza resolutions; chair instead calls for task force." By Michelle Griffith of The Maine Morning Star "Gov. Whitmer on calling a special election to fill Michigan Senate seat: 'Stay tuned.'" By Clara Hendrickson of The Detroit Free Press

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Authoritarianism #GretchenWhitmer #Rural #HealthCare #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Immigration #Labor #Inflation #WorkingClass #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for August 25, 2025. Dear Leader Trump forgot Governor Gretchen Whitmer's name today. And while it serves as a reminder of Trump's obvious mental decline, let it serve as a reminder to Governor Whitmer that for all of her graveling to Dear Leader this year, he's hurting Michigan's working class in both urban and rural areas... let alone forgetting who she is. Whether it's health care, worker rights, environmental and economic security, the taking over of the free marketplace, and also immigration, The Trump Regime's policies--aided and abetted by MAGA Republicans in Congress, are leading to dire consequences to every working class Michigander.  My only question is does Gov. Whitmer understand that reality yet? Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Health insurance will cost more for millions of Americans — especially rural residents." By Shalina Chatlani of Michigan Advance "Whitmer appeals FEMA denials for disaster aid for Northern Michigan ice storms." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "'Kristi' Whitmer? Trump misidentifies Michigan governor during Oval Office ceremony." By Jalen Williams of The Detroit Free Press

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Detroit #MikeDuggan #Democrats #Republicans #Progressives #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Crime #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #WorkingClass #Moderates #LeftofLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for August 22, 2025. Today, The Trump Regime's FBI raided the home of The Regime's former national security advisor John Bolton over classified documents, or something like that.  While no fan of Mr. Bolton's, Pat Johnston explains how this move is another authoritarian step by the Trump Regime, and it shows why we need strong political leaders to combat this kind of corporate authoritarianism combined with White Christian Nationalism from gaining more of a grip on the country.  Sadly, in Michigan, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is running a pro-corporatist campaign to become Michigan's next governor, and is signaling how much he'd like to work with Trump. When you've got a choice to fight-back against authoritarianism, or to join it, Mike Duggan's choosing to join it.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Republican megadonors are bankrolling Mike Duggan's independent Michigan gubernatorial race." By Richard Eberwein of The Heartland Signal "No, Mayor Duggan, Trump gets no credit for Detroit violent crime reduction | Opinion." By Alia Harvey-Quinn of The Detroit Free Press

#politics #podcast #Michigan #progressives #Democrats #Lansing #KellivanGinhoven #Republicans #MAGA #GovernmentCorruption #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #RuralVoters #DirtRoadDems #Escanaba #Democracy #WorkingClass #MikeDuggan #Detroit #GavinNewsom #MAGAMurderBudget #PublicSchools #unions #Voting #RankedChoiceVoting #LeftofLansing 00:00-16:46: Detroit Politics/Gavin Newsom/MI MAGA Defunding Schools Pat Johnston opens the show discussing some Detroit politics, and he wonders if corporate "independent" gubernatorial candidate Mike Duggan will back Democratic Socialist Denzel McCampbell's campaign to win Detroit's 7th District on the City Council. Don't hold your breath! Pat takes Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to task for refusing to call an election for a state senate opening. And Pat explains how Michigan MAGA House Republicans are working to defund public schools. 16:47-46:52: Kelli van Ginhoven Interview Democratic state Senate candidate Kelli van Ginhoven talks with Pat about her decision to run for the open seat in 2026. Ms. van Ginhoven's currently the Delta County Commission's vice-chair after she helped spearhead an effort to defeat the commission's MAGA majority. Kelli's a former preschool teacher and a former small business owner. She's been involved in several governmental boards and charities both in Escanaba and Delta County, and now wants to use her experience, expertise, and passion to push a working class agenda for the 38th Senate District. If you'd like to help Kelli van Ginhoven out, visit her Act Blue page. 46:53-52:00: Last Call on Corporate Mike Duggan The "Last Call" continues highlighting how Detroit Mayor, and "independent" gubernatorial candidate Mike Duggan, is a pure corporatist politician. He has no working class agenda, and that's why he's receiving lots of MAGA donor support. 52:01-56:31: Ending/Betsy Coffia Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Entering The Race: Escanaba Woman Runs For State Senate." By Daily Mining Gazette "They Can't See What I See." By Jess Piper in The View From Rural Missouri "Fentanyl came to a tiny UP town. Then the funerals began." By Ron French in Bridge Michigan "Republicans push ranked choice voting through Michigan House along party lines." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Is Denzel McCampbell Detroit's Zohran Mamdani?" By Malachi Barrett of Bridge Detroit "Republican megadonors are bankrolling Mike Duggan's independent Michigan gubernatorial race." By Richard Eberwein of Heartland Signal "Michigan residents sue Whitmer for failing to call special election in state Senate district." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance

#podcast #politics #energy #CleanEnergy #Democracy #Democrats #Progressives #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #BillHuizenga #FossilFuel #Pollution #GovernmentCorruption #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #Michigan #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for August 18 2025. The Trump Regime's energy department ordered the antiquated J.H. Campbell coal-fired power plant in Ottawa County to remain open despite the plant-owner Consumers' Energy's decision to shut it down for good last May.  The Regime cited some unknown "energy emergency" for its decision. But as Pat Johnston explains, there is no "free hand of the marketplace" with The Trump Regime. Our economy is directed by Dear Leader's (tiny) hand of the marketplace, and it's having devastating effects on the working class. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Protestors rally in Holland, call for Campbell coal plant to close." By Sarah Leach of The Ottawa News Network "Study: Electricity costs would rise more than $3 billion if DOE keeps more coal plants running." By Tracey Samilton of Michigan Public Radio "How the ‘Big Beautiful Bill' will increase Michigan power costs." By Brian Allnutt of Bridge Detroit "When L'État C'est Trump, the U.S. Goes in for State Capitalism." By Harold Meyerson of The American Prospect

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #Economy #WorkingClass #MAGAMurderBudget #Medicaid #Jobs #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #MAGA #Republicans #MattHall #Trump #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for August 15, 2025. MAGA Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall is proudly joining his Dear Leader Donald Trump in punching the state's working class in the gut.  Hall hailed the MAGA Murder Budget is a "win" for Michigan, even though hundreds of thousands will lose their Medicaid and food assistance. Even more, thousands of jobs are getting slashed due to The Regime's war on clean energy.  Hall and his MAGA supporters in the Michigan House are willing to shutdown the state government unless Democrats agree to slash spending for schools, health care, and jobs so that the corporate donor base receives another tax cut.  Hall's been described as the "Trump before Trump." Judging how Trump's so-called economic policies are damaging Michigan to no end, it's imperative that Democrats re-take the state House to stop Hall. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Matt Hall storms Lansing: Insulting, unapologetic and 'winning every week.'" By Jordyn Hermani of Bridge Michigan "Citizens Research Council: Trump tax, spending plan will mean $1.1B hit to Michigan budget." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Trump admin cancels $156M Michigan solar program as coal plant decision looms." By Kelly House & Jordyn Harmani of Bridge Michigan

#podcast #politics #Michigan #news #WorkingClass #Economy #Tariffs #MAGAMurderBudget #Democracy #Fascism #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Epstein #Immigration #Progressives #Democrats #Republicans #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for August 11, 2025. Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer made her third trip to visit the Trump Regime in Washington, D.C. last week. Apparently, Whitmer made the visit in an attempt to plead with Dear Leader how his tariffs were destroying Michigan's already struggling economy.  But what is Michigan getting out of this capitulation? And at a time when we need fighters for democracy in these perilous times, Whitmer's failing at this critical juncture in American history.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #Michigan #Economy #Tariffs #WorkingClass #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Epstein #Inflation #Jobs #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for August 8, 2025.  A recent Morning Consult poll shows what most sane Americans already know: The Trump Regime's Oligarch Economy is getting a major thumbs-down from the American People. Considering how tariffs are already driving-up costs while driving down job production, it's no wonder Americans are regretting putting The Regime back in power. In Michigan, we're feeling the pain of Trump's tariffs, and economic policies (so-called). Now, is the time for some real Democratic Party leaders to step-up and fight against this fascism for the people. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Trump to blame for high cost of living, Americans say in new poll." By Michael Sainato of The Guardian "Michigan Democrats slam Rogers for backing Trump tariff policies." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Trump's broad tariffs go into effect just as US economic pain is surfacing." By Josh Boak of Associated Press

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #economy #workingclass #Populism #ClimateChange #EPA #Trump #Republicans #MAGA #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #Detroit #MikeDuggan #2026Election #Auto #Jobs #Democracy #CanadianWildfires #Democracy #Fascism #Authoritarianism #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode #143 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-13:37: Canadian Wildfires/Betsy Coffia ICE Mask Ban Pat Johnston begins the show pointing-out the sheer ignorance and hypocrisy by some Michigan MAGA Republicans who are really upset by these Canadian Wildfires polluting Michigan's summer skies. If only they'd review their own anti-climate change voting records! Pat summarizes the Detroit Mayoral Primary results. And he highlights a bill introduced by Democratic State Rep. Betsy Coffia that would've banned ICE agents from wearing masks. Naturally, the MAGA Michigan House killed the bill. 13:38-34:06: Michigan Advance MichEconomist Rick Haglund Michigan Advance's Rick Haglund joins the episode to give his takes on Trump's firing of the BLS Director, Michigan Republicans hopes to end the state income tax, and how Trump's EPA is gutting climate change rules that's hurting both automakers and the environment. Check-out Rick's story that we highlighted this week. 34:07-48:46: Last Call-Mike Duggan's A Corporate Republican In this week's "Last Call," Pat tackles this opinion column by Andrea Bitely in the Detroit Free Press. Ms. Bitely argues that since MAGA Republicans in the Michigan House are refusing to introduce budget bills, voters will blame "both sides" for the stalemate, and will turn to Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan to lead the state next year. Pat opines why voter anger within the Democratic Party means they're going to back someone who's receiving large campaign cash from MAGA Republicans! 48:47-50:41: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Duggan's campaign draws big money from Trump supporters and wealthy GOP donors." By Steve Nealing of Detroit Metro Times "Michigan House GOP sidelines bill to ban masked cops, require ID." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Republican Karen Notices Climate Catastrophe. Demands to See Manager." By Peter Sinclair from This Is Not Cool

#podcast #politics #Progressives #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #Economy #BLS #CorporateAuthoritarianism #Authoritarianism #Fascism #WorkingClass #GovernmentCorruption #MAGAMurderBudget #Michigan #CleanEnergy #Labor #LeftofLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for August 4, 2025. Last week, Dear Leader Trump fired the Bureau of Labor Statistics chief after the BLS reported-out poor economic news on the jobs front.  Rather than take responsibility for how his Regime's insane tariff scheme and several other insane corporate authoritarian policies are hurting the working class, Dear Leader decided to fire the messenger of his failures. This is what authoritarianism looks like, and we're living in it.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #politics #Michigan #News #Progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Gaza #Israel #Palestinians #Genocide #GovernmentCorruption #ElissaSlotkin #BreakingPoints #Centrism #Democracy #WorkingClass #Epstein #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for August 1, 2025. Michigan's Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin's push to show the coolness of centrism to younger and independent voters isn't going as smoothly as she and her people are pushing.  LOL's Pat Johnston devotes a little more time than usual in this "Friday Short" to describe how Slotkin's failing in these chaotic and scary times which call for stark moral clarity.  Slotkin is using critical words against Israel's actions in Gaza, but refuses to show-up to vote on a resolution blocking offensive weapons to Israel. Nor will she declare Israel's actions in Gaza as a genocide. The lack of moral clarity as fascism takes over in the United States isn't leadership.  It's cowardice.  NOTES: To view the entire "Breaking Points" interview featuring Michigan Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFrEJTFbSTc&t=962s "32% in U.S. Back Israel's Military Action in Gaza, a New Low." By Megan Brenan of Gallup "Environmental group disappointed by Elissa Slotkin's vote to eliminate California's emissions waiver." By Tracy Samilton of Michigan Public Radio "Slotkin says she'd have backed Israel arms block resolutions after missing votes for TV appearance." By Jon King of Michigan Advance

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #WorkingClass #Jobs #Tariffs #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #MAGAMurderBudget #Medicaid #CleanEnergy #EnergyCosts #Fasicsm #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing for July 28, 2025. Michigan Maga Republican and House Speaker Man-Baby Matt Hall last week touted the Trump Regime is supposedly making it "easier" and "more attractive" to create jobs in America. Are you sure about that because Pat Johnston brings some receipts as to how The Regime is harming Michigan's economic present and future. Whether it's his tariff scheme which is a regressive tax on the working class, or how he's gutting clean energy jobs while raising energy rates... The Regime is doing the exact opposite of making it easier to create jobs in Michigan, and the nation.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Lawmakers respond as Sandisk pulls out of Mundy Township semiconductor project." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Michigan health insurers seek more double digit rate hikes for 2026." By JC Reindl of The Detroit Free Press "How the ‘Big Beautiful Bill' will increase Michigan power costs." By Brian Allnutt of Planet Detroit

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #CorporateMedia #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #PoliticalEstablishment #Theater #LeftofLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for July 25, 2025! Pat Johnston explains how and why he quit subjecting himself to the sham that is the Sunday political talk show. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #politics #Progressives #Democrats #Economy #WorkingClass #Tariffs #GovernmentCorruption #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Genesee #CorporateWelfare #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for July 21, 2025. Sandisk Company's decision to reverse course on a planned semiconductor mega site in Genesee County's Mundy Twp. is another harsh example how Trump's tariff scheme hurts Michigan's economy.  But it's not just Trump's tariff scheme that failed Michigan's working class. It's also Michigan's decades-long reliance on corporate welfare, and how it rarely results in a high number of good-paying jobs.  This is what happens when two horrible economic theories collide, and the working class is caught in the middle.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Lawmakers respond as Sandisk pulls out of Mundy Township semiconductor project." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Michigan loses massive semiconductor plant. Whitmer blames ‘national economic turmoil.'" By Paula Garnder of Bridge Michigan

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #Michigan #MEDC #SOAR #MAGA #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #CorporateWelfare #Whitmer #RickSnyder #Jobs #Inequality Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for July 18, 2025. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat, opened a criminal investigation on the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's grant to Fay Beydoun's nonprofit business. Beydoun is a longtime Democratic Party donor, and an appointee to the MEDC by Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Beydoun allegedly used the grant money for her nonprofit, Global Link International, to pay for first class plane tickets, her $500k salary, and a $4,500 coffee maker! But as Pat Johnston explains, the MEDC was put-together to attract businesses and jobs in Michigan, but it has done neither. Even more, this so-called "public-private" entity faces little-to-no government oversight. And it's been championed by both Democratic & Republican governors. Something's got to change because someone's making it rich, and it's not the working class. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Beydoun grant scandal could lead to needed state economic development reforms." By Rick Haglund of Michigan Advance "MEDC silent on whether it will seek appeal in search warrant battle over Beydoun grant." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #MagaMurderBudget #Medicaid #RuralHospitals #Epstein #HaleyStevens #Republicans #ElissaSlotkin #JohnMoolenaar #CleanEnergy #TimWalberg #MAGA #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentGreed #Democracy #Fascism #FossilFuels #ClimateChange #Gaza #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 142 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-17:17: Epstein/Haley Stevens/Schumer Failure Did you really believe MAGA Congressional Republicans would defy their Dear Leader Trump by releasing the Epstein investigation files? What is Haley Stevens' campaign angle in her run to become Michigan's Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate as she says Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's doing a great job? How the MAGA Murder Budget could possibly cut three rural hospitals in Michigan. 17:18-45:22: Frank Houston, BlueGreen Alliance Interview BlueGreen Alliance's Michigan Senior State Policy Manager, Frank Houston, talks about how the Trump-MAGA Republican budget bill will slash thousands of clean energy jobs in Michigan. And that will not only hurt the state's economy, but it'll harm the state's environmental future as well.  45:23-50:00: Last Call-Slotkin Gaza Turn? Pat admittedly was caught off-guard by Michigan Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin's criticisms of the right-wing Israeli government's constant attacks on Palestinians trying to receive humanitarian aid, and how Israeli settlers killed a Palestinian-American this week. Is Senator Slotkin changing her mind on what's happening in Gaza?  51:14-53:12: Ending Last new show until August 6. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Walberg says years of bad decision making may doom some rural hospitals." By Brett Briscoe of WTVB in Coldwater, MI "US Supreme Court allows Trump to carry out plan to dismantle Education Department for now." By Shauneen Miranda of Michigan Advance "211 House Republicans Vote to Block Release of Epstein Files." By Malcolm Ferguson of The New Republic "Trump Medicaid cuts could risk closing three Michigan hospitals." by Anna Busse of Michigan Public Radio "Trump administration tells states it's freezing $6.8 billion for K-12 school programs." By Shauneen Miranda of Michigan Advance "Trump Vows to Create More Blackouts." By David Dayen of The American Prospect

#podcast #progressives #politics #Michigan #Texas #TexasFlood #ClimateChange #CleanEnergy #WorkingClass #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #KristiNoem #FlintWaterCrisis #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for July 14, 2025. Over 130 have died from the flooding in central Texas with another 150 still missing.  Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has repeatedly stated how she wants to end FEMA as we know it. And now, Texans are finding it difficult to get help.  Even more, we've learned that Kerr County commissioners denied federal funds to upgrade their emergency systems for weather events because it was viewed as "Biden money." At a time when we're seeing 500 year storms happening every year, perhaps now is not the best time to gut FEMA funding, or clean energy funding? And maybe it's never a good time to let MAGA Republicans get power? Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #politics #Progressives #DemocraticSocialism #Michigan #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #Medicaid #UBI #Republicans #MAGAMurderBudget #Oligarchy #Devos #Populism #Epstein #Elites #UniversalHealthCare #IvanDiaz #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 141 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-19:06: Epstein/Corporate Authoritarians/Nessel Goes After MEDC Pat Johnston opens by illustrating how Dear Leader Trump's decision to not release the Epstein Files shows how the elite, untouchable, oligarch class are always out to protect themselves. We saw that happen in real time when Dear Leader signed the MAGA Murder Budget into law. It's a major giveaway to the corporate class, such as providing tax write-offs for buying private planes. Very working class, indeed. Pat applauds Michigan AG Dana Nessel for going after corruption inside the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. 19:07-44:00: Ivan Diaz, Democratic Socialist Candidate For MI State Senate Seat 29 Democratic Socialist Ivan Diaz, who's running for the Michigan Senate Seat in the 29th District, joins the show to talk about his campaign, and why he believes Now is the right time to represent a transformative working class agenda for his district. Pat and Mr. Diaz discuss his agenda, how to reverse MAGA Republicanism, how to reverse neoliberal policies, and how Democrats can best reach the working class. They also talk about where Democrats fell short in Michigan, and how he'll convince voters that Democratic Socialism serves all people. 44:01-50:00: Last Call-Populism Wins The "Last Call" argues how Americans are in a populist move, but while MAGA Republicans offer fake-populism, Democratic Party leaders and consultants refuse to back populist economic policies.  50:01-52:54: Ending/Tigers Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES:

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Democracy #Immigration #WhiteChristianNationalist #Immigration #Trump #MAGA #StevenMiller #Michigan #WorkingClass #Fascism #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for July 7, 2025. A new MLIVE story over the weekend detailed how ICE arrests of Michigan immigrants has increased by 154% in the last few months.  Make no mistake: This was never about deporting criminals. It was always about kidnapping and humiliating immigrants due to the White Christian Nationalists inside The Trump Regime. It's not only a human rights crime, but it's also hurting the state's economy.  It's 21st Century Fascism. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Patriotism #Democracy #Fascism #WhiteChristianNationalism #WorkingClass #MAGAMurderBudget #Mamdani #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for July 4, 2025. A new Gallup Poll on this Independence Day holiday reveals that American Pride is at an all-time low. That's not surprising with everything that's happened in the first half of this year, and with the passage of the MAGA Murder Budget which steals from the working class safety net and further enriches Old Money. Yet, despite feeling dispirited, millions of Americans oppose this fascist takeover, and are demanding for real, economically progressive change. And a majority of Americans refuse to give-up, and to allow MAGA Republicans to own the American flag and define what real patriotism is.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "National pride is declining in America. And it's splitting by party lines, new Gallup polling shows." By Linley Sanders and Amelia Thomson-Deveaux of The AP

#podcast #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #MAGAMurderBudget #BigBeautifulBill #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Medicaid #WorkingClass #SNAP #CleanEnergy #Jobs #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Oligarchy #CorporateAuthoritariansim #JohnMoolenaar #RashidaTlaib #ElissaSlotkin #Populism #LeftOfLansing Here's the Episode 140 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast for July 3, 2025! 00:00-17:23: MAGA Murder Budget Destroys Clean Energy Pat Johnston highlights how the MAGA Murder Budget will decimate investments into our growing clean energy industry in Michigan, and across the nation. At the same time, MAGA Republicans in Congress are providing major subsidies for the coal & oil industry. This won't just harm Americans on a public health and environmental front, this will destroy jobs and our nation's economy. Even more, thanks in part to my MAGA Republican Congressman John Moolenaar, Republicans are handing China a big economic victory while hurting America. 17:24-36:21: MAGA Murder Budget Is Pro-Oligarchy Pat shows how Michigan MAGA Republicans in the State House failed to pass a budget by the July 1 deadline. Like Congressional Republicans, Michigan Republicans are trying to steal from the working class safety net, and funnel money up towards their rich & elite donor base. Pat highlights how the MAGA Murder Budget attacks Medicaid, and how Republican arguments for work requirements is another way to humiliate the working class. 36:22-46:01: Last Call-Sen.Slotkin's "Economic War Plan" Review In the "Last Call," Pat gives a review of Michigan Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin's "Economic War Plan." He points-out where he agrees with her, and where and why some of her incremental plans fail the moment we're in as a country. 46:02-47:54: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Senate passes ‘big, beautiful bill:' What it means for Michigan." By Lauren Gibbons of Bridge Michigan "Climate change triggers earlier mold allergy season, say Michigan scientists." By Emilio Perez Ibarguen "Michigan is energized: Report ranks state 6th in nation for clean energy jobs." By Michigan Department of Energy, Great Lakes, and Energy "More Than 100,000 Michigan Residents Nearly Lost Medicaid Coverage Under Work Requirements." By Robert Gordon of The Commonwealth Fund "Michigan Dems excoriate passage of ‘big, beautiful' tax and spending bill as GOP applauds action." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Is the Republican Party a Chinese Communist Conspiracy?" By Ryan Cooper of The American Prospect "Anti-Gotion activists speak out at Michigan House subcommittee as project remains on hold." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance Political Contributions to Michigan Republican Congressman John Moolenaar via Open Secrets

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #WorkingClass #Economy #WealthInequality #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #Mamdani #ElissaSlotkin #Medicaid #TaxCuts #leftoflansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for June 30, 2025. The Republican Congress is pushing ahead and trying to pass the MAGA Murder Budget this week. The MAGA Murder Budget attacks the working class safety net while funneling billions up to their rich, elite corporate donor base. This shows how far-right the political pendulum has switched, which has been a work in progress for the last 50 years. It's time for Democrats to switch the pendulum back towards the left, and back towards the working class.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com "Trump's “big beautiful bill” could lead to 16 000 extra deaths a year, say researchers."

#podcast #politics #Michigan #WorkingClass #Education #Oligarchy #WealthInequality #Corruption #Taxes #FlatTax #Billionaires #Election2026 #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for June 27, 2025. A progressive coalition known as Invest In MI Kids is pushing a proposal to appear on the 2026 Michigan ballot that would end the Michigan's regressive flat tax, and replace it with a 5% surcharge on couples earning $1 million.  The money would be used to help replenish the state's dwindling education funding, which has been hurt significantly thanks to tax cuts for the rich and elite in the state.  And at a time when the working class is suffocating while the oligarchy gains more wealth and power, this kind of a progressive proposal is what the working class needs now more than ever.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Group launches ballot initiative to fund public schools by taxing wealthy Michiganders." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Michigan proposal to tax the rich, fund schools raises questions with business groups." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance "MSU study: Michigan public schools face nation's sharpest decline in state funding." By Virginia Gordon of Michigan Public Radio

#podcast #politics #Michigan #EnvironmentalJustice #Economics #WorkingClass #MAGAMurderBudget #MAGA #Democrats #Progressives #Mamdani #NYC #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #Democracy #FossilFuel #NRDC #Environment #TedNugent #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 139 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-20:28: Nugent In Lansing/Mamdani NYC Victory Pat Johnston opens the show highlighting how Michigan MAGA Republicans welcomed old age rocker, Ted Nugent, to the State House this week to complain about things. Pat explains how Nugent and Dear Leader Trump are very much alike, and not in flattering ways. Pat then talks about how nearly half of Detroit's apartment complexes are without air conditioning, and Michigan's high unemployment rate. He concludes by underlining the big time victory of Democratic Socialist Zohran Mamdani in the NYC mayoral race, and how it's yet another example of how progressive economic populism is not only popular, but it WINS elections! 20:29-42:23: Derrell Slaughter of NRDC-Michigan Interview Derrell Slaughter is the Michigan Policy Director for Climate & Energy at the Natural Resources Defense Council. Slaughter co-wrote a blog post on the NRDC site called, "Trump Administration's DOE Is Forcing Coal Plants To Remain Open. Michigan Is The First Target." Pat and Derrell discuss how Trump's Energy Dept. is forcing an old Consumer's Energy plant in Ottawa County to remain open even though the plant was scheduled to shut-down last month. Slaughter explains why this unprecedented move will cost Michiganders both economically and environmentally. 42:24-48:04: Last Call on Unhinged Democrats The "Last Call" this week spotlights those Democrats who view progressive Democrats, like Zohran Mamdani, as more of an enemy than they view MAGA Republicans as the real opposition to the working class, to liberty, and to democracy.  48:05-50:30: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Trump Administration's DOE Is Forcing Coal Plants to Stay Open. Michigan Is the First Target." By Derrell Slaughter and Casey Roberts of the NRDC of Michigan "New Detroit mayoral poll signals Sheffield, Kinloch, Craig are top contenders." By Malachi Barrett of Bridge Detroit "Failing air conditioners, extreme heat have City Council concerned." By Malachi Barrett of Bridge Detroit "The Doublespeak of Energy Secretary Chris Wright." By Abraham Lustgarten of Pro Publica "Nessel challenges order to keep J.H. Campbell Plant open as energy experts predict price hikes." By Sarah Leach of The Ottawa News Network "We can have nice things." By Marisa Kabas of The Handbasket "As Ted Nugent rails against Michigan wildlife regulations, Dems call hearing ‘absurd' and ‘shameful.'" By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Don't Forget Who They Are: Political Amnesia in Times of Crisis." By Jared Yates Sexton in Dispatches From A Collapsing State

#podcast #Politics #Michigan #Progressives #Trump #OttawaCounty #PowerPlant #Campbell #Wright #FossilFuels #Pollution #Environment #CorporateCorruption #HealthCare #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #CleanEnergy #DanaNessel #Trump #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for June 23, 2025. Michigan's Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel is fighting-back on the Trump Regime's move to block the scheduled closing of a West Michigan Power Plant. How is The Regime's action to stop a company from closing down its own fossil fuel plants an example of small government? Answer: Look who runs The Regime's energy department. To learn more about the struggle to close the J.H. Campbell Power Plant in Ottawa County, Michigan, please check-out Sarah Leach's story in The Ottawa News Network. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "The Doublespeak of Energy Secretary Chris Wright." By Abrahm Lustgarten of ProPublica

#podcast #politics #progressives #workingclass #Michigan #Democrats #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #DonovanMcKinney #Fascism #Democracy #ShriThanedar #Primary #2026Election #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for June 20, 2025. Michigan Democratic State Rep. Donovan McKinney is challenging incumbent Democratic Congressman Shri Thanedar in Michigan's 13 Congressional District primary next year. McKinney's challenge is part of the overall fight for the future of the Democratic Party. Some 62% of Democrats in a recent poll said the party needs new leaders. Donovan McKinney is trying to do just that by pushing a true, populist, progressive, working class agenda against Thanedar's agenda of just enriching himself. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Donavan McKinney gets endorsement of Bernie Sanders in effort to primary Shri Thanedar." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Progressive Democrats target 70-year-old incumbent with a primary challenge." By Russell Payne of Salon

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #NoKinds #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Democracy #WorkingClass #Michigan #Medicaid #Immigration #ICE #CarrieRheingans #Whitmer #MattHall #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Authoritarianism #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 138 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-15:11: No Kings Success/Where Were Dem Leaders? Pat Johnston applauds the No Kings rallies, but wonders if some Democratic Party "leaders" on both the state and national level are rising to the occasion of the moment. He also covers the hypocrisy of MAGA Michigan Republicans who push for Medicaid & SNAP work requirements while they left Lansing for a field trip to visit the Trump Regime this week. And Michigan Republicans are not backing down from their support of the MAGA Murder Bill. 15:12-46:13: Democratic State Rep. Carrie Rheingans Michigan progressive Democratic State Rep. Carrie Rheingans from 47th House District joins the show. Rep. Rheingans is a staunch advocate for the working class, and a staunch advocate to pass a Medicare For All bill in Michigan. And she provides ideas on how to both oppose MAGA while pushing progressive, common sense, working class policies. Rep. Rheingans talks about her MICare plan, as well as the uptick in political violence in the country, the failed leadership of MAGA Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall, the inspiration she saw at the "No Kings" rallies, and which direction Democrats must go in order to effectively fight back against the MAGA movement. 46:14-50:53: Last Call-Baldwin ICE Prison Pat's "Last Call" focuses on the reopening of an ICE detention facility in Baldwin, MI. 50:54-53:11: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Rheingans Reintroduces MiCare." From Michigan House Democrats "House GOP K-12 budget targets DEI, wraps school meals, other programs into per-pupil funding." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Back from DC, Michigan GOP leader backs Medicaid, food assistance cuts." By Jordan Hermani of Bridge Michigan "As resistance grows, Michigan Dems disagree on path to ‘take back our country.'" By Simon D. Shuster of Bridge Michigan "As ICE plans to move into Baldwin prison, residents hope jobs will stay." By Claire Keegan-Kugam IPR, Maxwell Howard of Bridge Michigan "ACLU Opposes Opening of North Lake Correctional Facility, the Largest Immigrant Detention Center in the Midwest." By ACLU of Michigan "State Rep. Carrie Rheingans holds coffee hour, decries “authoritarianism,“ calls on people to “march.'" By Fritz Swanson of The Manchester Mirror

#podcast #politics #progressives #NoKings #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for June 16, 2025. Pat Johnston explains how the highly successful, and peaceful, "No Kings" rallies in Michigan and across the nation illustrated a stark difference between the two sides of the political spectrum. One side is standing up for freedom, and standing up for the entire working class. What does the other side really stand for other than "owning the libs?" Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michiganders show up across the state to oppose Trump policies and say ‘No Kings.'" By Erick Díaz Veliz and Jon King of Michigan Advance

#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #Authoritarianism #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #Immigration #WorkingClass #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #ElissaSlotkin #KristenMcDonaldRivet #Centrism #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for June 13, 2025. Does Michigan Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin, and Congresswoman Kristen McDonald-Rivet understand the fight we're in right now? The Trump Regime's authoritarianism must be challenged on all fronts, particularly after California Senator Alex Padilla was thrown-down and arrested by federal officials after he tried asking Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem a question. Yet, Slotkin and McDonald-Rivet repeatedly vote ALONG with Dear Leader on a range of issues, as Pat Johnston explains this week.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Democrats Help Push Crypto Industry Reward Bill To Finish Line." By Arthur Delaney and Igor Bobic of The Huffington Post "Senate OKs arms sales to Qatar and UAE despite deals that benefit Trump." By Jeff Gould of Politico Video of Trump praising Slotkin on California EV Car vote via Aaron Rupar

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #WhiteChristianNationalism #WhiteNationalism #Immigration #Racism #Authoritarianism #Masculinity #Education #PublicSchools #MattHall Here's Episode 137 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-24:44: Trump Authoritarianism On Steroids/Centrism's Failures Pat Johnston talks about how the Trump Regime's White Nationalism is on overdrive as it sends ICE to terrorize and rip-apart families of undocumented citizens. While this is the kind of authoritarianism most Americans are rejecting, it's also harming our nation's economy. Pat also explains how so-called "centrist" Democrats not only helped give us Donald Trump (twice!), but how they have no new ideas on capturing the working class vote. And Pat concludes by talking about masculinity, and how to win back some of the male vote. 24:45-34:16: No Kings Rallies on 6/14/25 There are hundreds of "No Kings" rallies taking place this Saturday, June 14, 2025, and over 70 such rallies are happening across Michigan. These rallies will be a repudiation of the Trump Regime's authoritarianism, and also of his wasteful and North Korean-style military parade in Washington, D.C. Click here for a map of all of the scheduled rallies, and find out where there's one happening close to you! 34:17-38:40: MI Repubs Unveil Public School Cuts The "Last Call" focuses on the MAGA Michigan House Republican plan to gut public school funding, and funneling that money to private institutions.  38:01-40:21: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: Click Here For a Map of "No Kings" Rallies happening on June 14, 2025! "What Is Centrism?" By Hamilton Nolan of How Things Work "Trump wants a concentration camp nation." By LOL GOP in The Farce "House GOP K-12 budget targets DEI, wraps school meals, other programs into per-pupil funding." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Michigan lawmakers decry federal deployments in California, urge non-violent ‘No Kings' protest." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than U.S.-born Americans, studies find." By Jasmine Garsd of NPR "There Are No 'Distractions' In A War, Only Fronts." By Oliver Willis in Oliver Willis Explains Michigan State Senator Roger Hauck's tweet on upcoming "No Kings" rallies

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Democrats #Republicans #Trump #Tariffs #Lobbying #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for June 9, 2025. A recent Lake Effect Poll by our friends from Progress Michigan reveals something we've already known: Many working class Michiganders don't get all that excited about the Mackinac Policy Conference. It's a corporate-backed conference featuring lobbyists and lawmakers, who get to spend three fun-filled days on Mackinac Island's luxurious Grand Hotel. And it shouldn't be breaking news to these elitists since the revolving door between lawmaker and lobbyist in Lansing isn't just out in the open, it's celebrated by many Lansing insiders. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michiganders Not Keen on Mackinac Policy Conference." By Progress Michigan "'No One Will Know': Records Reveal Secret Money Flowing Through Lansing." By Craig Mauger of The Detroit News

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Democrats #Women #Birth #Economy #Family #WorkingClass #ChildTaxCredit #PaidSickLeave #MAGA #MAGAMurderBudget #ChildCare #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for June 6, 2025. Bridge Michigan's Astrid Cole wrote an expose on the number of Michigan adults who are choosing to not have kids. These Michigan adults are trending with other adults across the nation who are choosing NOT to start a family. But the reasons shouldn't be that surprising since MAGA Republicans care more about investing in Elon Musk and Betsy Devos rather than the nation's children! Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michigan wants to grow its population, but more adults say no thanks to kids." By Astrid Cole of Bridge Michigan "Millions of U.S. kids could lose the Child Tax Credit under GOP budget bill, experts say." By Aimee Picchi of CBS News

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #WorkingClass #ClassPolitics #Democrats #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #Trump #MAGA #Democracy #RuralAmericans #Farmers #Masculinity #Race #Economy #Republicans #MAGAMurderBudget #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 136 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-06:32: MAGA Working Class Frauds Pat opens the this week's show explaining how MAGA Republicans, especially MAGA Michigan Republicans, are working class frauds. Whether it's the MAGA Murder Budget that rips away Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, and food assistance spending for cutting Elon Musk's taxes, or if it's ripping away a farmer's property rights to save their land, MAGA Republicans work only for their corporate masters.  06:33-33:00: Joan C. Williams "Outclassed" Interview Author Joan C. Williams joins the show to talk about her new book, "Outclassed: How the Left Lost the Working Class and How to Win Them Back." Professor Williams gives examples of how progressives and Democrats lost touch with working class voters, and explains how MAGA Republicans utilize class warfare to win elections. Her book is a guide on how progressives can build a multi-racial and class-conscious movement to achieve progressive goals. And she doesn't sugarcoat how Democrats' embrace of failed neoliberal policies lost working class voters in Michigan and the country. Also, visit The New Class Bubble Quiz that Professor Williams created to gauge where you class bubble you fit into. Reveal: Pat is 50% working class culture and 50% culturally elite.  33:01-49:10: Last Call: Pat's Interview Takeaway In the "Last Call," Pat provides some takeaways from his discussion with Professor Joan C. Williams on where he agreed and somewhat disagreed with her ideas. Overall, Williams is spot-on because Democrats keep losing the working class, and a shift is much-needed. 49:11-51:21: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Outclassed: How the Left Lost the Working Class and How to Win Them Back" By Joan C. Williams "More than 3 million people would lose SNAP benefits under GOP bill, nonpartisan report says." By Jacob Fischler of Michigan Advance "Trump-Musk Civil War Gets $2.4 Trillion of Fuel on the Fire." By Sarah Ewall Wice of Daily Beast "Republicans offer proposal to block locals from banning natural gas." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance

#podcast #Michigan #Pennsylvania #WesternPA #Coal #Energy #CleanEnergy #WorkingClass #Unions #CorporateGreed #Medicaid #MAGAMurderBill #MAGA #Trump #Democrats #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for June 2, 2025. During my travels through Western Pennsylvania this weekend, I observed many Trump signs, flags, and banners. I wondered why there so much love for Trump in a country that's continued to suffer from his first term, and during his second term. I try to offer answers, but maybe some of you can provide answers. Leave them on You Tube, or email me.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Democrats #WorkingClass #Economy #Environment #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #Musk #MAGAMurderBill #Medicaid #FossilFuels #CleanEnergy #SarahLeach #OttawaCounty #Libraries #Democracy #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #CorporateCorruption #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 135 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-16:00: Musk Gone/MI Dem Sen Polls Pat talks about Elon Musk may be leaving, but he's left pain in his wake for millions of Americans. He also brings up new polls showing how Michiganders have a souring mood about the economy, and who's currently winning the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate race. 16:01-34:27: Trump Blocks Coal Plant Closure w/ Sarah Leach Sarah Leach is the Executive Editor of the Ottawa News Network, and she joins the show to discuss her coverage of the Trump Administration's energy emergency order to delay a closure of the Campbell coal plant in Port Shelton Twp., MI. It's an attempt to keep coal-fired power plants opened even though the companies running them are trying to transition to a cleaner energy future. Sarah also has a podcast called, "The Two J's Podcast," which provides a behind-the-scenes at what's happening in Ottawa County.  34:28-40:40: Last Call--MAGA Hates Libraries & Democracy Michigan MAGA Republican State Rep. Matt Maddock wonders if we need public libraries.  40:41-42:36: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com

#podcast #politics #ElissaSlotkin #Michigan #WorkingClass #FossilFuels #Environment #Economy #California #Emissions #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #GovernmentCorruption #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for May 23, 2025. It's another edition of, "Michigan Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin Goes Full MAGA!" This week, Slotkin was the ONLY Democrat in the U.S. Senate to vote in favor of ripping-away California's tailpipe emissions standards for cars and trucks--a standard that 17 other states adopted. Slotkin claims to be protecting the interests of Michigan since we're the auto capital of the world. Yet, with climate change hurting her state in a number of ways, wouldn't moving away from the fossil fuels of the 20th Century ensure our economic & environmental survival in the 21st Century? Yet, Slotkin joined MAGA Republicans in gutting this EPA waiver to California that was issued during the Biden Administration. Who's side is Slotkin on? It's not working class Michiganders.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "U.S. Senate vote to nix California tailpipe emissions standard blocks 17 other states." By Jacob Fischler of Michigan Advance

#podcast #politics #Progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA Trump #ElonMusk #Medicaid #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #WealthInequality #WorkingClass #Unions #TaxCuts #RashidaTlaib #Weather #ClimateChange #Michigan #SNAP #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 134 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-11:47: Why? Pat Johnston uses the opening segment examining the massive cuts The Trump Regime's Elon Musk is leveling on the National Weather Service. It's happening as Michigan's already experienced 25 tornadoes this year, and when tornadoes are increasing across the country thanks to climate change. Why is Elon gutting an essential service that helps warn people of incoming threatening storms, and when climate change is hitting every part of the country? Why? 11:48-38:32: MAGA Murder Budget Republicans passed the MAGA Murder Budget, which guts programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and SNAP while providing lavished tax breaks for Elon Musk, Betsy Devos, and the entire untouchable elite donor class. Pat explains why he backs calling it the MAGA Murder Budget, and asks where has safe moderation gotten Democrats in the last 50 years as MAGA Republicans embrace fascism by the day. And how does granting more tax breaks for rich people, and for corporations, amount to Republicans being the populist party? 38:33-42:40: Last Call on Dying Democrats In the "Last Call," Pat covers the most recent death of a Democratic congressman, and how the three deaths of Democrats in Congress helped Republicans pass their MAGA Murder Budget. Maybe DNC Vice Chair is correct in advocating for some new blood in the Democratic caucus. 43:01-44:42: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Whitmer requests federal disaster aid for northern Michigan ice storm damage." By Michael Kransz of MLive.com "U.S. House Republicans push through massive tax and spending bill slashing Medicaid." By Jennifer Shutt and Ashley Murray of Michigan Advance "These 16 Democratic Senators Deserve a Primary." By Ryan Cooper of The American Prospect "Medicaid work requirements could mean 200K Michiganders lose coverage." By Kate Wells of Michigan Public Radio Messaging Guru Anat Shenker-Osorio on "MAGA Murder Budget" framing. Full video of Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib speech on how the MAGA Murder Budget's affects on her district. "More tornadoes and fewer meteorologists make for a dangerous mix that's worrying US officials." By Seth Borenstein in The AP

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Medicaid #WorkingClass #Farmers #Education #Tariffs #MAGA #Democrats #Republicans #Budget #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for May 19, 2025. Tariffs could lead to 13,000 less jobs in Michigan. Some 750,000 Michiganders could lose their Medicaid under a rushed-through MAGA Republican budget bill. State universities are getting grant funding slashed, leading to further job loss and uncertainty and pain for farmers. And the state's unemployment rate keeps rising. Is this what winning feels like in Michigan under the Trump Regime? Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Battle over Medicaid boils over in DC; what it means for Michigan." By Robin Erb of Bridge Michigan "Uncertainty marks Michigan's future as economists estimate tariffs could cost the state 13,000 jobs." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance "‘Gutted.' Michigan losing $200M in fed research funding, with more in limbo." By Rob French and Robin Erb of Bridge Michigan

#podcast #politics #JoeBiden #Progressives #Democrats #Election2024 #Trump #leftoflansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for May 16, 2025. Pat Johnston offers-up a Mea culpa on not being honest with you, but worse with himself, on President Joe Biden's ability to run for reelection last year.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com Here's Pat Johnston's "Friday Short" on "Why I'm Voting For Biden," from May 3, 2025.

#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Democrats #Farming #Rural #Medicaid #Environment #Economy #RenewableEnergy #WorkingClass #Tariffs #WorkFromHome #Oligarchy #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Musk #Trump #MAGA #LeftOfLansing 00:00-21:28: MAGA Attacks on Rural Michigan/Dems Attack David Hogg Pat Johnston talks about how MAGA Michigan Republicans are passing bills hurting farmers, while also passing bills that have zero benefits to working class. The same goes for the MAGA Republicans in Congress, who are trying to pass $880 billion in Medicaid funding--funding that'll be devasting to rural Michigan residents with hospital closures. And why are Republicans gutting health care for the working class? So, they can pass trillions of $$$ in tax cuts for the elite donor base, like Elon Musk and Betsy DeVos. And Pat's incensed over the DNC's moves to oust party vice-chair David Hogg. 22:29-38:37: Michigan Farmers Union's Bob Thompson Michigan Farmers Union President Bob Thompson joins the show to talk about how Trump & Elon's cuts are adding pain to Michigan farmers, and rural Michigan. Thompson shares his views on topics such as: tariffs, cuts to USAID and USDA, cuts to NOAA and the Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab, and cuts to universities that perform studies designed to help farmers. To learn more, visit the Michigan Farmers Union. 38:38-44:57: Last Call on At-Home Work The "Last Call" is on the MAGA Michigan Republican House majority's demands that state employees come back to Lansing for a five-day work-week. Pat explains why this is beyond idiotic. 44:58-46:40: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "5 Calls" Site where you can call your Congressional Representative and tell them NO to the MAGA Republican Budget.  "MDHHS Report: 750K Michiganders on Medicaid stand to lose coverage if federal cuts are finalized." By Steven Bohner of ABC 13 News in Grand Rapids "U.S. House GOP mandates Medicaid work requirements in giant bill slashing spending." By Jennifer Shutt of Michigan Advance "Democrats are deeply pessimistic about the future of their party, an AP-NORC poll finds." By Steve Peoples and Linley Sanders of The AP "Anti-PFAS coalition decries Trump Administration's rollback of drinking water regulations." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Children's health services could see trims even under scaled-back Medicaid cuts." By Shalina Chatlani of Stateline "MSU researchers, administrators cope with estimated $82 million lost in funding cuts." By Hannah Locke of State News "5 Key Facts About Medicaid Work Requirements." By Elizabeth Hinton & Robin Rudowicz of KFF "Trump Is (One) Logical Endpoint of the GOP." By Noah Bertlaski of Everything Is Horrible "DNC panel opens the door to removing David Hogg from his national post." By Andrew Howard of Politico "People who work from home all the time ‘cut emissions by 54%' against those in office." By Patrick Barkham of The Guardian "Off The Record with Tim Skubick--Season 54, Ep: 44" by WKAR

#podcast #politics #Democrats #Michigan #Slotkin #Progressives #CorporateCorruption #Cryptocurrency #BigTech #Trump #Republicans #Economy #WorkingClass #GovernmentCorruption #BillMaher #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for May 12, 2025. Last week, Bill Maher lauded Michigan Democratic U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin on his HBO show because of her criticism of how her party appears "weak and woke" by the electorate. But other than the fact that Slotkin swears and cusses at times, what exactly is she pushing on a policy front that helps working class Michiganders and Americans? How will her "moderation" help bring people towards Democrats when she's currently supporting a cryptocurrency bill that Republicans, including President Trump, are pushing to please the Big Tech donor base? How does joining with Trump help fix that "weak" image Slotkin is crying about? Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Slotkin co-sponsors bill targeting Trump's crypto coin, cites risks of foreign influence." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Democrats Cave, Prepare to Rubber-Stamp Trump Crypto Corruption." By David Dayen of The American Prospect

#podcast #politics #economy #Progressives #FlatTax #CorporateGreed #Michigan #Minnesota #ProgressiveTax #PaidSickLeave #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for May 9, 2025. Michigan ranks 39th in per capita income, proving that a billion dollars in corporate subsidies, and the state's regressive flat tax, aren't working to help the working class. Pat Johnston explains why Michigan should be more like Minnesota, and reinvest in the people. But that'll mean repealing the flat tax, and replacing it with a progressive tax to make the system more fair for the working class.  Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Michigan in 39th, Minnesota is 12th." By Lou Glazer of Michigan Future, Inc.

#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Environment #ClimateChange #GreatLakes #Michigan #Jobs #WorkingClass #DOGE #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #MAGA #Republicans #AnnaClark #ProPublica #Budget #CorporateGreed #FreeSpeech #Gaza #Farmers Economics #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 132 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-20:01: UofM Ono Out/Nessel Mistake/Trump Tariffs The opening segment concentrates on University of Michigan President Santa Ono's sudden exit, and why that's a good decision. Ono acted weak in the face of the Trump Regime's threats while also going after Pro-Palestinian student protesters. And sadly, Michigan Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel went along with it by charging seven of those students. Although, she dropped all charges this week. Pat also covers how MAGA is echoing Dear Leader's "sacrifice" mantra even though that message was never pushed during the election. 20:02-38:06: ProPublica's Anna Clark Interview Anna Clark from ProPublica talks about her article on how Trump & Musk have been busy gutting the funding for the Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab in Michigan. The Lab provides research and solutions for dangerous algae bloom in the lakes, invasive species entering the lakes, and continued clean drinking water. The Lab's work helps all of the coastal towns that reside, and rely on, the Great Lakes! This is part of the Trump Regime's anti-science movement that was all spelled-out in The Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025."  38:07-42:43: Last Call-Republicans Attack Farmers Pat's "Last Call" covers how the extreme MAGA Michigan Republican House majority passed a bill last week that would repeal a farmer's right to use their land for large wind and solar farms. What happened to the days of Republicans fighting for property rights? And why are they fighting to block farmers from making money while helping the state's move towards becoming carbon-neutral? Guess. 42:44-45:49: Ending Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can! leftoflansing@gmail.com Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well! leftoflansing.com NOTES: "Millions of People Depend on the Great Lakes' Water Supply. Trump Decimated the Lab Protecting It." By Anna Clark of ProPublica "The Poisoned City: Flint's Water and the American Urban Tragedy." By Anna Clark "Trump Administration's planned budget cuts threaten key Lake Michigan data network." By Heather VanDyke of Michigan Advance "Nessel's office drops charges against University of Michigan Diag protestors." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "U.S. Electricity From Fossils Fuels Dips Below 50% for the First Time Ever." By Robert Rapier of Oil Prices.com "Matt Hall says he's playing long game in passing solar siting repeal Senate won't take up." By Jordyn Hermani of Bridge Michigan "Michigan AG drops all charges against seven pro-Palestinian protesters." By Tom Perkins of The Guardian "Collections on millions of student loans risk slowing the economy, experts say." By Max Zahn of ABC News