An insight into Michigan's progressive political and pop cultural scene. Pat Johnston highlights how the progressive movement is helping shape Michigan's political landscape with opinion and interviews. It's time to make Michigan's political machine work for the people!
#podcast #progressives #politics #news #Michigan #Republicans #MAGA #datacenters #Protest #WorkingClass #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #CorporateWelfare #GovernmentCorruption #Authoritarianism #WealthInequality #Environment #Electricity #Costs #Economics #Freedom #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 27, 2026.A bipartisan group of Michigan legislators have introduced bills in Lansing that would place a moratorium on on new data center proposals in Michigan. This is due to the working class protest movement in blue and red areas across the state. The working class is fed-up being pushed around by the Billionaire Epstein Class Tech Bros, and those within state government, for building these massive hyper-scale A.I. data centers in secrecy. And that's led to both Democrats and Republicans to introduce bills to put a temporary halt to this data center expansion. That's bipartisanship I can support. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"‘Big Gretch Out'? — Sure, but Whitmer remains out of touch on data center issue." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Michigan House reps call for moratorium on data centers." By Emma J. Nelson of WKAR Public Media
#podcast #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #Politics #News #DemocraticSocialism #DylanWegela #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #GordieHoweBridge #EpsteinClass #EpsteinFiles #BillionaireClass #WealthInequality #WorkingClass #Economy #Immigration #ICE #Farmers #Tariffs #BigTech #DataCenters #olympics ##Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode #168 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-15:30: More Epstein/Moroun Corruption/Tariffs/ICEPat Johnston discusses how it appears some information related to Dear Leader Trump in the Epstein Files was withheld. We learned how the MAGA billionaire family who owns The Ambassador Bridge gave $1million to a pro-MAGA PAC just before Trump announced his intentions to block a public bridge from opening. Supreme Court decides against the Trump Regime's insane tariff scheme, but he's already placed new tariffs to hurt the working class. And working class Michiganders showed up to protest a planned ICE detention center in Romulus. 15:07-38:02: State Rep. Dylan WegelaProgressive Democratic Michigan State Rep. Dylan Wegela of the 26th House District talks about why he's part of the Democratic Socialists of America, and how working class Michiganders are finding it harder to get ahead in an economy designed to work for the billionaire Epstein Class. Wegela talks about his work on reigning-in ICE activity in Michigan, and his fight against A.I. data centers. Sign the Mop-Up Michigan ballot initiative! 38:03-53:04: Olympics RantPat needed a little time to rail against MAGA hypocrisy and misogyny during the Winter Olympic Games. 53:05-55:21: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingVote on this week's Left of Lansing Poll! Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Hundreds rally as Romulus council rejects ICE detention center plan." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Data center moratoriums pile up in Michigan. No one knows if they'll work." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "Michigan lawmakers unveil plan to repeal data center tax breaks." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "ICE detained a Minnesota teen, labeled him an ‘unaccompanied minor,' and lost him." By Susan Du of The Minnesota Star Tribune "Why I And You Love Alysa Liu." By Joe Wrote in Joe Wrote "What Americans think of the Epstein files, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling." By Reuters "America needs immigrants — ICE is doing more harm than good." By Dr. Sheldon H. Jacobson of The Hill "Justice Department withheld and removed some Epstein files related to Trump." By Stephen Fowler of NPR "Moroun gave $1M to PAC supporting Trump prior to president's tirade over Gordie Howe Bridge." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Soybean tariffs challenge Michigan growers." By Madison Merrill of Spartan Newsroom
#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Michigan #datacenters #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovenmentCorruption #BigTech #AI #WorkingClass #YousefRabhi #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 23, 2026.Washtenaw County Commissioner, and current candidate for Ann Arbor mayor, Yousef Rabhi, has a warning for Michigan Democrats: Oppose the big tech data center expansion in Michigan, or else face the wrath of working class voters this November. Rabhi's not wrong, and it's something that's bothered Pat Johnston for a long time.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Insider: Ex-lawmaker has warning for Michigan Democrats on data centers." By Craig Mauger, Beth LeBlanc, and Nina Burke of The Detroit News
#podcast #politics #Progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #MattHall #MichiganRepublicans #RxKids #WorkingClass #Economy #HealthCare #ACA #HealthCareForAll #Epstein #EpsteinFiles #Billionaires #oligarchy #DonorClass #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Authoritarianism #Devos #WealthInequality #AbdulElSayed #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 20, 2026.As working class Michiganders keep getting further behind while the billionaire Epstein Class keeps amassing more wealth and power thanks to the Trump Regime, Michigan MAGA Republicans are doing the Epstein Class's bidding by continuing to attack working class programs, like the successful Rx Kids. Pat Johnston explains how rather than taking action to help working class Michiganders while holding the Epstein Class accountable, MAGA Republicans are devising ways to divide the working class. We can't let that happen. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!To hear the complete episode featuring Dr. Abdul El-Sayedoron YouTubeleftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Abdul For Senate Website"It's time for Democrats to play offense on healthcare." By Abdul El-Sayed in The Guardian "Hall's baseless Rx Kids attack betrays Michigan's most vulnerable, which seems to be the point." By Jon King of Michigan Advance
#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Election #Election2026 #DemocraticSocialism #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #EpsteinFiles #EpsteinClass #HealthCareForAll #HealthCare #WorkingClass #AbdulElSayed #Economy #Vaccines #RFK #Measles #JohnFetterman #HaleyStevens #ICE #ConcentrationCamps #Gaza #Israel #WealthInequality #Fascism #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's Episode #167 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-16:40: Measles Back/HaleyStevens' Pro-Israel PACsPat Johnston opens the show talking about how measles are making a comeback in the country thanks to RFK Jr.'s "leadership." Is that Making America Healthy Again? Then, Pat highlights how Michigan Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Haley Stevens collects pro-Israeli lobby cash in order to fund her campaign. And this week, Stevens visited an ICE concentration camp in Baldwin, MI, and sounded like she was impressed how that camp hired several female ICE agents. Stevens is the illustration of why Democratic base voters are frustrated with Democrats.16:41-38:30: Abdul El-Sayed InterviewMichigan Progressive Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Abdul El-Sayed talks with Pat this week. They discuss the concerns and frustrations he's been hearing on the campaign trail, why Medicare For All is what we need in this country, his response to those critical of Democrats who oppose Israel's genocide of Palestinians, and how to fight for the working class while the billionaire Epstein Class plays by different rules. Visit AbdulForSenate.comDr. Abdul will appear with Progressive Democratic State Senator Carrie Rheingans for a "Health Care For All" Town Hall on Sunday, February 22.38:31-47:00: Last Call-What's Going On With Gen X?In this week's "Last Call," Pat asks what's happened with Gen X, which appears to be the generation that most supports The Trump Regime's authoritarianism. 47:01-49:37: Ending/Next Show PreviewPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Abdul For Senate Website"It's time for Democrats to play offense on healthcare." By Abdul El-Sayed in The Guardian "Michigan congresswomen get no answers on Baldwin ICE facility death during visit and tour." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Stevens' Michigan U.S. Senate bid gets a boost from pro-Israel political action committee." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Michigan nurse goes without health insurance as ACA costs double for 2026." By Justin P. Hicks of MLive.com "‘Show Up for Us': 13 Democratic Voters on Trump, ICE and Their Frustrations With the Democratic Party." By The New York Times "Where does Fetterman fit among Democrats? | The Conversation." By Dasha Burns of Politico "Primary Occupation." By Ryan Grim of The Intercept "RFK Jr.'s Anti-Vax Nonsense Has Helped Spread Measles to Mexico." By Ellie Quinlan Houghtaling of The New Republic
#podcast #politics #progressives #Michigan #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Authoritarianism #TomBarrett #Election #Election2026 #EastLansing #WilliamLawrence #Congress #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #Education #ICE #Protest #FreeSpeech #Democracy #PublicEducation #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 16, 2026.MAGA Michigan Republican Congressman Tom Barrett reportedly sent a FOIA Request to read the emails between an East Lansing High School Political Club its adviser, and a progressive Democratic candidate vying to unseat Barrett in this November's election. You see, the political club organized a student walk-out protest against the Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo, and it also invited progressive Democratic candidate for Tom Barrett's seat to speak at the protest event. Rather than celebrate the students using their patriotic free speech rights, Tom Barrett wants to intimidate the students and their public school. Which illustrates how Tom Barrett is working to keep and enforce the Trump Regime's authoritarianism rather than representing the people of his district. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Progressive Democratic candidate William Lawrence's site: https://wewill2026.com/"Barrett Campaign FOIAs High School Teacher's Email Over ICE Protest." By MIRS News
#podcast #politics #progressives #Michigan #DemocraticSocialism #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #SaveAct #WorkingClass #MinorityRights #VotingRights #VoterSuppression #ClassWarfare #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentGreed #ICE #Racism #PoliticalViolence #EpsteinFiles #EpsteinClass #WhiteSupremacist #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 13, 2026. The MAGA Republican U.S. House passed a voter suppression bill that'll require voters to produce their birth certificate or passport in order to register to vote. That's a poll tax on working class Americans. It's an effort to suppress the working class vote to protect the interests and power of the Epstein Class. As we all know, The Trump Regime and MAGA Republicans work on behalf to protect the billionaire Epstein class. They don't work on the behalf of the working class. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"US House approves bill mandating proof of citizenship for voting in federal elections." By Ashley Murray of Michigan Advance "A Vote for Republicans Is a Vote Against Democracy." By Thom Hartmann of The Hartmann Report
#podcast #progressive #politics #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #EpsteinFiles #Billionaires #pedophilia #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #WeathInequality #WorkingClass #GovernmentCorruption #Authoritarians #Oligarchy #JeffreyEpstein #LisaMcClain #GordieHoweBridge #Michigan #RickSnyder #Whitmer #Education #Vouchers #BetsyDeVos #PublicEducation #RxKids #Teachers #Maroun #Ambassador Bridge #MattHall #Lutnick #DonorClass #LawandOrder #Fascism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's Episode #166 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-8:13: MAGA Epstein Pedophile ProtectorsLeft of Lansing's Pat Johnston opens the show by talking about how Michigan MAGA Republicans, like Congresswoman Lisa McClain, or Congressmen John Moolenaar, Tim Walberg, Bill Huizenga, Jack Bergman, and John James, are all protecting the billionaire Epstein Class. They claim to care about the safety of children, but their actions say otherwise.8:14-14:31: Trump Threatens New BridgeDear Leader out of nowhere this week declared he'd delay the opening of the publicly-financed Gordie Howe Bridge as a wink and a nod to the MAGA Michigan billionaire Maroun Family, which owns the Ambassador Bridge. Even though Canada paid for the bridge, and was negotiated by former Republican Governor Rick Snyder, the Marouns want it blocked. Notice how the Trump Regime moves quickly for its Epstein Class base supporters.14:32-42:24: Josh Cowen InterviewPat talks with Dr. Josh Cowen, who is the author of "The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers." Dr. Cowen is a professor of Education Policy at Michigan State University, and has written extensively on the failed billionaire Betsy DeVos' school voucher movement. Well, DeVos and other billionaires are finding ways to decimate public schools. Visit Dr. Josh Cowen's Substack: Josh Cowen's Newsletter.42:25-50:04: Last Call: Trump's Econ Hurts MIIn this week's "Last Call," Pat highlights new data showing how the MAGA Trump Regime's economy is leading to major job losses in Michigan. Tariffs, and continued tax cuts and corporate welfare are leading to expected results. 50:05-52:14: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Helping our children live better, more prosperous lives is the most basic, sacred obligation we have." By Dr. Josh Cowen of "Josh Cowen's Newsletter" Substack."Trump's threat to block Gordie Howe bridge is pure oligarchy." By Steve Neavling of The Detroit Metro Times "Moroun cash ties Michigan GOP hopefuls to Trump's Gordie Howe bridge standoff." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Trump cabinet member ensnared in Epstein scandal." By Judd Legam and Rebecca Crosby of Popular Information "High costs, uncertainty among local impacts of Trump tariffs." By Leo Kaplan of The City Pulse "Michigan loses more jobs than all but one other state, report says." By Todd Spangler & Adrienne Roberts of The Detroit Free Press "Mike Duggan ‘studying' Trump school choice program for Michigan." By Simon D. Schuster of Bridge Michigan "Whitmer signs off on school cell phone ban set for next fall." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Michigan travel pitch draws Canadian criticism amid Trump trade tensions." By Janelle D. James of Bridge Michigan Gordie Howe Bridge Photo: "Gordie Howe Bridge 2025c2" by Antony-22 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Gordie Howe Bridge & Ambassador Bridge Exits Photo: Valaurian Waller/The Conversation, CC BY-ND (via Michigan Advance)
#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #WorkingClass #Economy #EpsteinClass #JeffreyEpstein #EpsteinFiles #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #WhiteNationalism #Oligarchy #DonorClass #WhiteChristianNationalism #WealthInequality #RoKhanna #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 9, 2026.Pat Johnston pleads with progressive Democrats, and even some "centrist" Democrats, to tie the Epstein Class around the Trump Regime and its MAGA Republican supporters. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Epstein declared bankrupt Detroit ‘desperate,' worth experimenting in." By Violet Iconomova of The Detroit Free Press "Trump disapproval on economy hits new high: Survey." By Max Rego of The Hill "Michigan House OKs ban on child marriage." By Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance
#podcast #progressive #politics #news #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #ICE #Voting #Civility #RickSnyder #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Fascism #Authoritarianism #JenniferGranholm ##Line5 #WorkingClass #Epstein #WealthInequality #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for February 6, 2026.Four of Michigan's former governors appeared at some "civility" conference to long for the good old days of civility where back room deals were made to screw over the working class. I think those are the days they're clamoring for.While they lecture all of us on the need to tone down the political tone in this country, we have white nationalist corporate authoritarianism marching all over the working class. The most ludicrous part about this call for "civility," is that each of these four past governors had no solutions on how this so-called civility can really defeat fascism. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Is civility still attainable in the era of Trump? Four Michigan governors think it's possible." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance
#podcast #progressive #politics #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #MikeRogers #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #AbdulElSayed #MalloryMcMorrow #HaleyStevens #Senate #Election #Epstein #EpsteinFiles #Gaza #Israel #WorkingClass #Unions #AIPAC #MedicareForAll #DataCenters #BigTech #Oligarchy #DonorClass #ICE #PoliticalViolence #Immigration #KidRock #Fascism #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's Episode #165 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-25:40: Epstein Files & Billionaire ClassPat opens-up the episode sharing some of the newly released Jeffrey Epstein files that show how interconnected the billionaire and political oligarchy are around the world, and how they continued to remain in contact with Epstein even AFTER he was a convicted pedophile and registered sex offender. Yet, not one person in this cabal had any idea of Epstein's child sex trafficking? The reason why the Trump Regime fought to block the Epstein Files from being released was to protect this powerful cabal. That's why it's up to progressive movements to force change rather than waiting for corporate Democrats to do anything substantial.25:41-39:11: Pat on Senate Primary RacePat breaks-down the Michigan Democratic Party Senate Primary race between progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, State Senator Mallory McMorrow, and corporate Democrat Haley Stevens, and he explains why he's deciding to back one of them.39:12-44:30: Last Call on Has-Been Kid RockKid Rock is "headlining" a MAGA alternative halftime show in reaction to Bad Bunny hosting the Bowl That Is Super's Halftime Show. 44:31-46:31: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!https://www.patreon.com/cw/LeftofLansingMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Can Fascists Still Be Shamed? A conversation with Chris Mathias, author of 'To Catch a Fascist'." By Hamilton Nolan of How Things Work "‘Understand the tactics of a fascist regime': Hundreds attend Kalamazoo ICE forum." By Dave Anderson-Torrez of MLive.com "Latest Jeffrey Epstein file disclosures rock the rich and powerful: top takeaways." By Dareh Gregorian of NBC News "A list of powerful men named in the Epstein files, from Elon Musk to former Prince Andrew." By Philip Marcelo of The Associated Press via PBS "Here's How Many Times Trump Is Mentioned in New Epstein Files." By Ellie Quinlan Houghtaling of The New Republic "Steve Bannon says ICE will ‘surround the polls' as Trump doubles down on taking over elections." By Matt Cohen of Democracy Docket "Michigan's U.S. Senate candidates have disparate perspectives on dealing with ICE overreach." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "ICE in Michigan: More arrests, detainees and protests." By Laura Gibbons, Jordyn Hermani, and Justin Hinkley of Bridge Michigan
#politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #ElonMusk #Israel #ChuckSchumer #MikeRogers #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #GovermentCorruption #BillClinton #JeffreyEpstein #EpsteinFiles #SexAbuse #WorkingClass #PoliticalPower #Authoritarianism #oligarchy #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for February 2, 2026.The release of 3 million pages from The Epstein Files reveals how there's a powerful billionaire oligarchy and political party bosses cabal that work hand-in-hand with one another at the expense of the working class. Even worse, it shows how little disdain this cabal had for Jeffrey Epstein, who was a convicted of sexual prostitution with an underage girl, and who had to register as a sex offender. It reveals that if we, the working class, want to regain the power, we have to defeat this cabal of billionaire and political party bosses. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"A list of powerful men named in the Epstein files, from Elon Musk to former Prince Andrew." By Philip Marcelo of The Associated Press via PBS "Jeffrey Epstein files: Tracing the legal cases that led to sex-trafficking charges." By Bill Chappell of NPR
#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #MAGA #MikeDuggan #Republicans #Election2026 #GovernorRace #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Trump #ICE #Immigration #WhiteChristianNationalism #WorkingClass #Race #CharterSchoolCorruption #Authoritarianism #FreeSpeech #LGBTQ+ #Fascism #Democracy #Left of LansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" on January 30, 2026.Pat Johnston shares details on how former Detroit Mayor, and current "Independent" Michigan gubernatorial candidate, Mike Duggan, is proudly dipping into the MAGA playbook to attack progressives while simultaneously collecting large amounts of campaign $$ from MAGA donors. Mike Duggan is no independent. He's taking MAGA money, and adopting MAGA language, which means he's fine with the Trump Regime's authoritarianism. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Duggan's campaign draws big money from Trump supporters and wealthy GOP donors." By Steve Neavling of The Detroit Metro Times "Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan: City will continue to work with ICE." By Niraj Warikoo & Dana Afana of The Detroit Free Press "Duggan's political makeover raises questions about who he really is in gubernatorial bid." By Steve Neavling of The Detroit Metro Times "Public money for schools buys private property." By Jennifer Dixon of The Detroit Free Press
#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Michigan #JuliaPulver #Protesting #PoliticalViolence #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #ICE #Immigration #ElissaSlotkin #MAGAMurderBudget #Race #Racism #WorkingClass #Oligarchy #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Tyranny #Authoritarianism #WhiteChristianNationalism #Democracy #LeftofLansing 00:00-13:53: ICE Funding, ICE in MI, Duggan & ICEPat Johnston devotes his entire monologue on how ICE recruiting seems geared towards radical white supremacists while ICE received a mammoth boost in funding thanks to the Republican MAGA Murder Budget. But makes it clear that some Democrats refuse to our demands to Abolish ICE, including current Independent Michigan gubernatorial candidate Mike Duggan, who promised to work with The Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo while mayor of Detroit. 13:54-44:26: Julia Pulver on Protesting MattersMichigan progressive voice & activist, and RN, Julia Pulver, talks with Pat about why protesting matters in these times of Trump, ICE, data centers, and more. Julia says protesting is Democracy in Action, and the more we make our voices heard, the better a chance we have at forcing real political change. We're seeing that already in Minneapolis as protesting helped shine a spotlight on the brutal invasion of ICE in American cities. Visit Julia Pulver on BlueSkye.44:27-48:50: Last Call MI MAGA Attacks CourtsIn this week's "Last Call," the MAGA Republican majority in the Michigan House is threatening the state Supreme Court by saying it would cut judiciary funding if The Court rules in favor of a rule prohibiting ICE from arresting people in courthouses. 48:51-51:05: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Julia Pulver "Why Should We Continue Peacefully Protesting" speech at the Birmingham Unitary Church from January 25, 2026. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaYFYqIXFHg"Fallout from Alex Pretti killing: Trump administration facing widespread criticism." By Brian Martucci of The Minnesota Reformer "Anti-ICE Detroit protesters call on Peters and Slotkin to ‘stand firm' in opposing DHS funding." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan: City will continue to work with ICE." By Niraj Warikoo & Dana Afana of The Detroit Free Press "Michigan House Republicans threaten judicial funding over proposed court rule on ICE arrests." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Trump's ICE force is sweeping America. Billions in his tax and spending cuts bill are paying for it." By Lisa Mascaro of PBS News "ICE “Wartime” Recruiting Effort Targets Gun & Military Lovers Using White Nationalist Messaging." By Democracy NOW! w/ Amy Goodman "Duggan's campaign draws big money from Trump supporters and wealthy GOP donors." By Steve Neavling of Detroit Metro Times
#politics #progressives #Michigan #Minnesota #ICE #Authoritarianism #Fascism #PoliticalViolence #GunRights #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #Democrats #CorporateGreed #GovernmentCorruption #LisaMcClain #AricNesbitt #BillHuizenga #WhiteChristianNationalist #WhiteChristianNationalism #WorkingClass #Immigration #Minorities #Democracy #Freedom #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 26, 2026.The execution of Minnesota nurse Alex Pretti by the Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo, and the MAGA Republican defense of the shooting, proves the main goal about MAGA Republicanism is to destroy, and kill, those it views as the enemies within. MAGA's never been about gun rights, freedom of speech rights, or economic rights for the working class. It's been about making this a whiter America, and if white Americans get in their way, they'll be disappeared, too.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Fallout from Alex Pretti killing: Trump administration facing widespread criticism." By Brian Martucci of The Minnesota Reformer Michigan MAGA Republican Congresswoman Lisa McClain Facebook posting on her support for 2nd Amendment Rights.
#podcast #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #ElissaSlotkin #Slotkin #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #ICE #Immigration #HenryCuellar #WorkingClass #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Election2026 #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for January 23, 2026.Seven corporate Democrats (or Democratic "Centrists) in the U.S. House voted with the autocratic MAGA majority to shovel more money to the Trump Regime's ICE Gestapo in a spending bill this week. That bill now moves onto the Senate where other "centrists" Democrats, like Michigan's Elissa Slotkin, says she will never back a push to Abolish ICE.Thanks to some excellent reporting, we now know that those pushing Democrats to say "reform ICE," rather than to abolish it are lobbyists for the defense and surveillance industries. There's a big election coming up in 10 months, and working class Americans are hoping there'll be a true opposition party to Trump's MAGA, but some Democrats would rather play along with authoritarianism than fight against it. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Author of ‘Don't Say Abolish ICE' Memo Is a Corporate Consultant." By Whitney Curry-Winbush of The American Prospect
#podcast #progressives #politics #michigan #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Greenland #AmericaFirst #WorkingClass #RxKids #MattHall #Whitmer #Election2026 #Inequality #WealthInequality #ICE #AbolishICE #Authoritarianism #Mothers #Immigration #ChildCare #WhiteChristianNationalism #TechBros #CBSNews #BariWeiss #Economy #Race #Racism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing00:00:15:37: Greenland? Attacks on RxKidsLeft of Lansing's Pat Johnston doesn't understand how spending around a trillion dollars to acquire Greenland to please billionaire Tech Bros helps working class Americans, who are struggling with high costs of food, electricity, child care, health care, and car insurance. And it took awhile, but MAGA Michigan Republicans are finally beginning to attack the successful RxKids program. Pat explains why. Because, it works!15:38-43:35: Jennifer Schulze InterviewLongtime Chicago journalist and media critic Jennifer Schulze joins the show to talk about MAGA media propaganda machine. On her Substack, Indistinct Chatter, Jennifer wrote an article on the MAGA political operative Nick Shirley, and how his propaganda videos on so-called "fraud" in child care facilities in Minnesota, led to the Trump Regime's Ice Gestapo invasion in Minneapolis. And Jennifer and Pat discuss the devolving of CBS News, which is becoming a Trump Propaganda News Network by the billionaire-picked News Director, Bari Weiss. 42:01-51:25: Last Call-Whitmer's SilenceIn this week's "Last Call," Pat criticizes Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer's continued refusal to stand-up for working class Michiganders, and all Americans, while the Trump Regime causes pain in a myriad of ways. 51:26-53:35: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"Stop calling Nick Shirley a journalist. He's a MAGA political operative." By Jennifer Schulze of Indistinct Chatter "Goodbye Cronkite, Hello Trump." By Jennifer Schulze of Indistinct Chatter "Before Michigan moms in poverty get aid, cash flows through this NY group." By Beth LeBlanc of The Detroit News "Rx Kids expands unprecedented effort to support Michigan families." By Liam Boylan-Pett of MSU Today "Right-Wing YouTuber Behind Viral Minnesota Fraud Video Has Long Anti-Immigrant History." By Jonah Valdez of The Intercept "Advocates demand Wayne County Airport Authority halt ICE flights out of Willow Run airport." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Detroit Rejects Trump & ICE Invades Minneapolis." By the Point of Disorder Podcast "Three seconds on a Michigan factory floor told the truth too many in power won't say out loud." By Jon King of Michigan Advance
#podcast #progressives #politics #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #InsiderTrading #WorkingClass #Oligarchy #Palantir #PeterTheil #ElonMusk #AI #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #LisaMcclain #Corruption #Congress #Election2026 #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 19, 2026.It appears Michigan Congresswoman Lisa McClain from the 9th congressional district is dealing with some more insider trading allegations. After being late on disclosing how she and her husband plugged-in around $900,000 in trades last year which included Peter Theil's Palantir, Lisa & her husband are in the news once again for more insider trading shenanigans. Just days before the Trump Regime's Pentagon announced plans to expand Elon Musk's xAI in the military, Lisa's husband apparently purchased between $100,000-$250,000 of the private xAI stock.I'm sure it was just dumb luck.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"House Republican Conference chairwoman Lisa McClain disclosed the purchase made just days before the Pentagon announced a major integration with xAI." By David Shaw of Sludge"Michigan's McClain tells congressional clerk that she will avoid violating STOCK Act in the future." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Author of ‘Don't Say Abolish ICE' Memo Is a Corporate Consultant." By Whitney Curry Wimbush of The American Prospect
#podcast #progressives #Michigan #politics #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #ICE #ICEViolence #Authoritarianism #PoliticalViolence #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Immigrants #Race #WhiteSupremacy #WhiteChristianNationalism #Tryranny #MikeRogers #Election2026 #WorkingClass #Oligarchy #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for January 16, 2026.Polls are showing Americans are fed-up with the Trump Regime's Ice Gestapo, and polls show a split for those believing in abolishing, or preserving, ICE. There is heavy support to restrict ICE activities. Left of Lansing's Pat Johnston says now is the time for Progressive Democrats to push a bold and strong message to abolish ICE since it's against everything we value in our country and our democratic society. And we must say "No," to those corporate Democratic Party groups who say Democrats should push incremental changes to ICE this election year. Incrementalism is what got us here in the first place!Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:YouGov Survey on ICE and Its Practices
#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Vance #Oligarchy #TechBros #Media #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Michigan #ICE #Authoritarianism #PoliticalViolence #Immigration #GrandRapids #WestMichigan #DeVos #BetsyDevos #ElissaSlotkin #Education #WealthInequality #WorkingClass #Democracy #LeftOfLansingHere's Episode #162 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast!00:00-9:54: Union Worker Heckles TrumpA union worker at Ford's Truck Plant in Dearborn called Dear Leader Trump a "pedophile protector," but has now been suspended by the automaker. However, working class Americans are showing their massive support by raising money for this union worker. This is another illustration how little the Trump Regime cares about working class Americans, and how the regime only works for the oligarch class. 9:54-39:09: Jeff Smith from GRIID InterviewJeff Smith is the founder and director of Grand Rapids Institute for Information Democracy, or GRIID, talks with Pat this week. Mr. Smith talks about his years of work exposing and highlighting the many different ways the DeVos Oligarch Family is ingrained in the state's economic and political power structure. He also talks about his work in helping protect undocumented citizens in West Michigan, and how you can help-out in your local community as well. 39:10-47:18: Last Call-Dems Cave To Corp ClassIn this week's "Last Call," Pat picks-up where Jeff Smith left-off on how some corporate Democrats continuously cave to the corporate class, like the DeVos Oligarch Family, The Trump Regime, and others. Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin is one of them.47:19-50:02: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:Grand Rapids Institute For Information Democracy "The company at 545 Michigan in Grand Rapids that already has a contract with ICE, will now be using bounty hunters to track down immigrants for ICE." By Jeff Smith of GRIID "Why are we not focusing as much attention on the Billionaires in our own back yard as we are on Musk and Bezos?" By Jeff Smith of GRIID "Look at which groups are opposing the ballot initiative that would raise taxes for millionaires and billionaires in Michigan." By Jeff Smith of GRIID "A Ford worker called out Trump. The president flipped him off. Now, he's been suspended." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "UAW backs Ford worker suspended for heckling Trump, condemns president's ‘vulgar' response." By Steve Neavling of Detroit Metro Times "The DeVos family publicly reengages in Michigan politics ahead of Election 2026." By Zoe Clark and Rick Pluta of Michigan Public Radio "Slotkin says she's under federal investigation over illegal orders video." By Ashleigh Fields of The Hill "A Majority of Young Voters Now Reject Both Parties." By Ed Kilgore of The Intelligencer
#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Vance #ICE #Immigration #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Donors #Oligarchy #WorkingClass #PoliticalViolence #WhiteChristianNationalism #Fascism #Authoritarianism #HaleyStevens #DemocraticSocialism #Democracy #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 12, 2026.Pat Johnston muses about inflicting cruelty and violence on both undocumented citizens AND American citizens is part of the Trump Regime's authoritarianism goal of silencing opposition. That's why several Democrats including Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens were completely derelict in their duty to oppose the Trump Regime's authoritarianism from the start. While progressive Democrats and Democratic Socialists are standing-up for those who don't have power in this scary time in American history, too many corporate Democrats believed capitulating to Authoritarianism was the best play. Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopardNOTES:"In a year, ICE arrested over 2,300 in Michigan – from teens at home to a dad getting coffee." By Rose White of MLive "Detroit councilwoman calls for limits on ICE operations following Minneapolis shooting." By WXYT News, Channel 7 in Detroit
#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #Empathy #ICE #ReneeGood #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WhiteChristianNationalism #Authoritarianism #GunViolence #PoliticalViolence #EmilyDievendorf #LeftofLansingHere's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for January 9, 2026.Why are MAGA Republicans suddenly supporting the federal government, particularly the Trump Regime's ICE agents, as it levels cruelty and violence on those they've been conditioned to hate? And why are MAGA Republicans celebrating ICE's shooting and killing of an American citizen in Minneapolis?Because to MAGA Republicans, showing any type of empathy is weak and goes against the values of the United States. Then, these same people will go to church on Sundays and learn about helping the poor and the immigrants. Empathy is a progressive term, according to MAGA, which is why they refuse to show any.Is that what the United States of America should be about?Left of Lansing's Pat Johnston doesn't believe so.Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopard
#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Democrats #Republicans #Trump #MAGA #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Lansing #EmilyDievendorf #WorkingClass #Economy #Affordability #Inequality #ChildCare #Medicaid #MAGACruelty #DanaNessel #Election2026 #Farming #Tarrifs #DemocraticTeaParty #Authoritarianism #ICE #WhiteChristianNationalism #PoliticalViolence #Democracy #WaterAffordability #Venezuela #Oil #LeftofLansing00:00-13:25: Nessel Stops Matt Hall/Venezuela/ICE ShootingPat Johnston starts the first show of 2026 by sharing the story of Michigan Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel's opinion which called the MAGA Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall's move to block already-approved state spending projects as unconstitutional. Nessel's ruling allows those funds to resume being spent for working class Michiganders. Plus, Pat shares his thoughts on The Trump Regime's attack for Venezuelan oil, and the murder of an American citizen by ICE in Minnesota. 13:26-43:35: State Rep. Emily Dievendorf InterviewMichigan Progressive Democratic State Rep. Emily Dievendorf stops by to react to the big news of AG Nessel blocking the MAGA Michigan House from canning millions of dollars of spending for communities across the state. Pat and Rep. Dievendorf also talk about how Trump & MAGA Republicans in D.C. are hurting voters in the 77th House District, and why progressive-populist messaging is hitting with voters across the country. 43:36-49:48: Last Call: Results vs. RevolutionIn the "Last Call," Pat calls-out corporate Democrats claiming to be about "results" while those results have given us Trump and MAGA Republicans running everything in D.C.49:49-52:23: EndingPlease, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!leftoflansing@gmail.comLeft of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!leftoflansing.comMusic provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopard
#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Trump #Republicans #Election2026 #WorkingClass #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #HaleyStevens #Senate #CorporateDonors #Inequality #WealthInequality #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for January 5, 2026. In the first "Monday Musing" of 2026, Pat Johnston explains how this election year can't just be about voting for Democrats. It must be about voting for Democrats who push a real and aggressive populist-progressive working class agenda while the Trump Regime and MAGA Republicans represent only the elite corporate donor class. Pat says it must be not only about defeating MAGA, but also defeating establishment Democrats, like Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens who's running for the U.S. Senate, who stand in the way of advancing any real and bold working class agenda. This country is turning more right-wing authoritarian, and the only way to combat it is through real and strong progressive change. 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 Music provided by Wanderbeats. To hear the latest project, visit Space Leopard on various streaming sites, or visit: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopard
#podcast #politics #progressives #Democrats #2024Election #Autopsy #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #Authoritarianism #Democracy #Harris #DigitalMedia #YouthVote #GenZ #Mamdani #Gaza #LeftofLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for December 19, 2025. The Democratic National Committee will not release its 2024 election autopsy report, which was being anticipated by many voters hoping Democrats understood the reasons for their losses to Trump and MAGA Republicans. Party officials claim they don't want to divide people, especially since Democrats are winning elections nationwide. But what this really proves is that it's obvious the report says chasing so-called "moderate" voters cost Democrats that election. Pat Johnston explains. 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 won't release 2024 election loss ‘autopsy', DNC chair says." By Rachel Leingang of The Guardian
#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressives #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #Economy #DataCenters #WorkingClass #Jobs #Environment #GovernmentCorruption #CorporateCorruption #BigTech #ClimateChange #Decency #Empathy #WhiteChristianNationalism #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 160 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-16:22: Corporate & Government Corruption Pat Johnston talks about the Trump Regime's move to dismantle a crucial climate change research center in Colorado. If there's no data gathering or research, can there be climate change? The Big Tech Billionaire Bros keep pushing more data centers in Michigan, but the working class is resisting. However, the state's utility monopolies are pushing hard to the the state to green-light these centers. Getting rid of climate change research, pushing for data centers, and a possible war in Venezuela is all connected. It's corporate and government corruption joining forces to leave the working class struggling. 16:23-29:15: MAGA Michigan Guts Working Class Spending MAGA Michigan Republicans in the state House blocked already-approved funding for various work projects throughout the state, and other crucial spending projects to help working class Michiganders. We're talking about cutting money for the successful Rx Kids programs, wigs for kids with cancer, mental health services. 29:16-35:09: Trump on Reiner In the "Last Call," Pat talks about how Dear Leader Trump's asinine comments regarding the tragic death of movie director and longtime Democratic Party activist Rob Reiner. 35:10-37:05: 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 Dems say $645M work project cuts are ‘cruel'; GOP's Rylee Linting also calls foul." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "RxKids ‘in limbo,' Flint reeling over surprise cuts by House Republicans." By Jordyn Hermani & Simon D. Schuster of Bridge Michigan "Speaker Hall unfazed as groups describe pain from recent budget cuts." By Paul Egan of The Detroit Free Press Michigan Progressive Democratic state Rep. Betsy Coffia comments via Facebook "$645 Million Gone With One Vote — Michigan Lawmakers Admit It Wasn't “Waste.” WKAR's Off The Record "Frustrations with data center projects bubble over at Michigan Capitol." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Enbridge wins key ruling as federal judge bars Michigan from ending Line 5 easement." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Trump administration plans to break up largest federal climate research center." By Denise Chow & Megan Lebowitz of NBC News "Bari Weiss's CBS Erika Kirk Town Hall Falters In the Ratings, Way Behind Kirk's Fox News Appearances." By Zachary Leeman of Mediaite Photo of Michigan Capitol protest of data centers courtesy of Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance
#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #race #minorities #healthcare #implicitbias #Lansing #WhiteChristianNationalism #MattMaddock #Authoritarianism #WorkingClass #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for December 15, 2025. The MAGA Michigan Republican House passed a bill banning implicit bias training for state health care professionals. Despite years of research not only showing how implicit bias exists, and how training those on implicit bias can improve care and outcomes for all patients and the doctors and nurses who treat them, MAGA state Rep. Matt Maddock introduced a bill banning implicit bias training because it was nothing but evil Marxism. Or something like that. The bill passed, but will most likely not pass the state Senate where Democrats have control. But it's important to understand that these kinds of anti-science, anti-knowledge, and anti-empathy stances is what drives most of the MAGA base, and it's why that base is shrinking. 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 approves bill blocking implicit bias training requirements for health professionals." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "House adopts bill to scrub bias training from Michigan health care licensing." By Rick Pluta of Michigan Public Radio Music provided by: https://www.youtube.com/@SpaceLeopard
#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #Trump #MAGA #MattHall #AnnBolin #GretchenWhitmer #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #RxKids #Flint #WorkingClass #Oligarchy #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for December 12, 2025. MAGA Michigan Republicans, led by state House Speaker Matt Hall and House Appropriations Chair Ann Bolin, cancelled $644 million dollars in already-approved funding for work projects throughout the state. That money also included money for the successful Rx Kids programs in Flint and elsewhere around the state for young, struggling families. It also includes cuts in mental health services, veterans' services, and clean energy jobs. AND, it eliminates money that would fund a charter school accountability database. MAGA Republicans did this without any hearings or debate. They don't believe in the working class. They believe in the corporate donor 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 Dems say $645M work project cuts are ‘cruel'; GOP's Rylee Linting also calls foul." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "RxKids ‘in limbo,' Flint reeling over surprise cuts by House Republicans." By Jordyn Hermani and Simon D. Schuster of Bridge Michigan
#podcast #progressive #politics #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #BigTech #DataCenters #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #CorporateWelfare #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #Whitmer #GovernorWhitmer #MattHall #HaleyStevens #MalloryMcMorrow #AbdulElSayed #Populism #Election2026 #MichiganAdvance #Authoritarianism #Democracy #SherroneMoore #LeftOfLansing 00:00-15:05: UofM Football/Whitmer Embraces Trump/Populist Uprising Pat Johnston starts by talking about the firing of Michigan Head Football Coach Sherrone Moore, and how power and greed corrupts everywhere, including college football. Then, he shares how MAGA Republicans are recycling the failed Health Savings Account idea that'll hurt millions of working class Americans. Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens brings Articles of Impeachment for HHS Robert Kennedy Jr., but Pat explains how that serves no good purpose. 15:06-39:40: Jon King, Michigan Advance Editor in-Chief Michigan Advance Editor In-Chief Jon King talks with Pat about his recent column on how Michigan Democratic Governor's strange embrace of Big Tech data centers is tarnishing her once solid working class bona fides. Pat and John talk about Whitmer's sudden switch for Whitmer who's gone from "That Woman From Michigan" to one of Dear Leader Trump's favorite Democrats. And they talk about the ramifications of next year's Michigan Democratic Senate primary race. 39:41-46:25: Last Call on MI Dem Senate Race In this week's "Last Call," Pat shares what he believes will be the three main issues that'll dominate next year's Michigan Democratic Senate Primary race. 46:26-48:23: 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's data center enthusiasm will undo her record of putting the people of Michigan first." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "Howell Township board OKs 6-month data center moratorium; opponents say it exempts current plan." By Ben Solis & Jon King of Michigan Advance "Whitmer-ordered report links Trump's tariffs to rising prices and slower growth across Michigan." By Jon King of Michigan Advance "McMorrow slams Stevens' impeachment bid, injecting fire into Michigan's U.S. Senate primary." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Hall, Bollin defend vote halting $645M in spending as Democrats decry ‘untransparent' process." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Michigan's governor replaces clean energy advocate on utilities board with ‘industry ally.'" By Tom Perkins of The Guardian "It's time for Democrats to play offense on healthcare." By Dr. Abdul El-Sayed in The Guardian "RFK Jr.'s vaccine panel weakens recommendation on hepatitis B shot for babies, scrapping universal guidance." By Annika Kim Constantino of CNBC Politico Interview with Trump on Economy (via Fact Post on X) Photo of Governor Whitmer courtesy of Anna Liz Nichols of Michigan Advance.
#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #Republicans #MAGA #Whitmer #GretchenWhitmer #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #Medicaid #ElonMusk #Vaccines #Data Centers #BigTech #Oligarchy #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for December 8, 2025. Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer remains eerily silent during The Trump Regime's first year back in power. "That Woman From Michigan" is choosing to remain cordial and friendly to a Regime that's causing a lot of harm and hurt to working class Americans while its corporate supporters keep making huge profits. To remain silent while the working class suffers speaks volumes about Governor Whitmer's moral compass. 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: "Doctors, lawmakers urge Gretchen Whitmer to make stand for science, vaccines." By Robin Erb of Bridge Michigan "This 2028 possibility is Trump's favorite Democrat." By Dasha Burns of Politico "Whitmer's data center enthusiasm will undo her record of putting the people of Michigan first." By Jon King of Michigan Advance
#podcast #politics #Michigan #progressive #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Whitmer #DTE #MopUpMichigan #CorporateGreed #CorporateDonors #CorporateCorruption #DataCenters #BigTech #CorporateWelfare #GovernmentCorruption #workingclass #Oligarchy #Authoritarianism #Democracy #leftoflansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for December 5, 2025. Thanks to a bombshell report from Craig Mauger in The Detroit News, we're learning more of the grip utility giant DTE has in Lansing, especially with Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer and MAGA Republican House Speaker Matt Hall. This is why the Michiganders for Money Out of Politics ballot proposal, OR BETTER KNOWN AS MOP UP MICHIGAN, is a crucial first step in at least limiting the political power corporations play in Lansing. It's a people-powered movement, and it puts the working class ahead of corporate greed that's far too pervasive in Lansing. 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's governor replaces clean energy advocate on utilities board with ‘industry ally.'" By Tom Perkins in The Guardian
#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Michigan #MopUpMichigan #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #DTE #ConsumersEnergy #CorporateDonors #Democracy #Trump #WorkingClass #Jobs #DataCenter #RxKids #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansing Here's Episode 158 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-15:38: Trump Regime & Corporate Cronyism/Utilities & MI AG Race Pat Johnston starts this week's episode covering the many ways the Trump Family and the Trump Regime are using the government to enrich their pocketbooks while telling working class Americans they're wrong to say they can't afford to buy things anymore. Pat also shares how individuals from DTE & Consumers' Energy are suddenly engaged in next year's Attorney General race in Michigan. Now, why is that? 15:39-38:00: Melinda Billingsley on Mop Up Michigan Prop. Melinda Billingsley from Voters Not Politicians joins us to talk about the Michiganders for Money Out of Politics ballot initiative. Better known as "Mop Up Michigan," the proposal aims to end corporate influence in the state by banning corporations from making political contributions to politicians if they are doing business with the state. Volunteers are gathering signatures in order to put the question on the ballot for voters in 2026. This gives voters the chance to take a big step in ending the corporate donor grip in Lansing that's infecting both sides of the political aisle. Click to learn more about "Mop Up Michigan." 38:25-42:01: Last Call Rx Kids In this week's "Last Call," evidence is coming in showing how successful the Flint Rx Kids program has been during its first year of implementation. Pat argues it's time to make this program available statewide. 42:03-44:32: 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: Michiganders For Money Out of Politics... aka "Mop Up Michigan." mopupmichigan.org "Bah humbug: Tariffs muffle holiday cheer, raise prices, squeeze margins." By Myesha Johnson of The Detroit News (via The Morning Sun). "Ballot initiative seeks to ban political contributions from monopoly corporations, like utilities." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Utility lawyers' donations to Michigan AG candidate raise conflict-of-interest concerns." By Tom Perkins of Michigan Advance "Electricity prices jump after Trump rejects disaster aid for Michigan utilities." By Thomas Frank of Politico "Ballot proposals advance, aiming to get ‘dark money' out of politics." By Georgia Hill of MSU Spartan Newsroom "Study: Rx Kids decreasing infant maltreatment allegations in Flint." By Steve Carmody of WKAR News in Lansing
#podcast #politics #Michigan #progressive #Democrats #Elction2025 #DataCenters #BigTech #DTE #ConsumersEnergy #CorporateDonations #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #AttorneyGeneral KarenMcDonald #EliSavit #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for December 1, 2025. Thanks to great reporting from Tom Perkins in Michigan Advance, we learned that top lawyers for Michigan's utility monopolies, DTE and Consumers' Energy, have given multiple donations to Karen McDonald, who's running in the Michigan Democratic Party's Attorney General primary race. This is important since one of the main jobs for Michigan's Attorney General is to represent working class Michiganders against the utility monopolies that keep seeking massive energy rate hikes. Even more, with Big Tech invading Michigan to build its energy and job-sucking A.I. data centers across the state, the AG is expected to fight on behalf of working class Michiganders, who are against these data centers. Why are individuals from DTE and Consumers giving to Karen McDonald? 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: "Utility lawyers' donations to Michigan AG candidate raise conflict-of-interest concerns." By Tom Perkins of Michigan Advance "Oakland Co. Prosecutor Karen McDonald is top fundraiser among candidates for Michigan AG." By Paul Egan of The Detroit Free Press
#podcast #politics #Michigan #Progressive #DemocraticSocialism #Capitalism #CronyCapitalism #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #WorkingClass #Mamdani #Economy #Populism #Authoritarianism #Democracy #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #LeftofLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for November 28, 2025. The working class is suffering this Thanksgiving holiday weekend while those within The Trump Regime and its corporate friends and donors are doing handsomely well. Left of Lansing's Pat Johnston explains how government and corporate greed dominate today's politics, and that's why Progressive Populism is now favored by a working class voting block that's tired of being left outside looking in. 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 #progressive #Democrats #ViolentRhetoric #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #Military #ElissaSlotkin #MarjorieTaylorGreen #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for November 24, 2025. Dear Leader Donald Trump declared that Michigan's Democratic U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin, and other Democrats, should be hung like George Washington would hang those found guilty of sedition. Slotkin, and a handful of other Democrats, released a video imploring the United States military to refuse to follow any illegal orders from The Trump Regime. And rather than debate the merits of their argument, Trump wants them punished for "seditious" behavior. Violence, or even the threat of violence, is the hallmark of the MAGA Republican Party movement. This is yet another example of 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: "Michigan State Police respond to bomb threat at Senator Slotkin's home." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "Trump accuses Slotkin, other Dems of sedition ‘punishable by death.'" By Associated Press and Bridge Michigan Staff
#podcast #politics #progressive #Michigan #MAGA #Republicans #DataCenter #ArtificialIntelligence #GovernmentCorruption #CorporateCorruption #CorporateGreed #Authoritarianism #Economy #BigTech #WorkingClass #Democracy Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for November 21, 2025. It appears the Big Tech push for A.I. data centers isn't what the working class wants in their neighborhoods and towns. Despite massive opposition, like what we saw in Howell Twp., MI this week, government and Big Tech are working together to build these water and energy-sucking data centers thanks to massive state and local tax breaks while creating very little jobs. If the rush for A.I. data centers is such a lucrative boon to the economy, then why are we giving tax breaks to these billionaire big tech bros? 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: "Howell Township board OKs 6-month data center moratorium; opponents say it exempts current plan." By Ben Solis and Jon King of Michigan Advance "Howell Township board passes six-month moratorium, but not what opponents wanted." By Bridget Janis of The Livingston Post
#podcast #politics #progressives #Michigan #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #DataCenter #Environment #CorporateSubsidies #ArtificialIntelligence #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Economy #Jobs #WorkingClass #Tariffs #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftofLansing #BigTech Here's Episode #157 Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-17:00: Trump Affordability Fail/Dividing Working Class Left of Lansing's Pat Johnston points-out the rising grocery prices, rising inflation, and dropping jobs numbers happening during the Trump Regime's first year. Affordability is at the top of voters' minds and concerns. So, it's no wonder why Trump suddenly reversed some of his inflationary tariffs on several grocery items. Pat also brings up the different ways some MAGA grifters drive to divide working class. 17:01-38:00: Bridge Michigan's Kelly House Interview Bridge Michigan's environmental reporter, Kelly House, joins the show to discuss this sudden rush for data centers in Michigan. Ms. House talks about the controversy over a huge A.I. data center in Saline Township, MI, and how Michigan's state legislature helped make it possible to bring these data centers to the state. She also talks about the tax benefits for local communities, but the major environmental concerns these data centers bring with them. Check-out Kelly House's page at Bridge Michigan to read-up on all of her data center stories, and other environmental stories across the state. 38:28-44:10: Last Call on Data Center Fears Pat adds his two-cents on this data center rush in Michigan, and why working class Michiganders are worried about what this means for their communities and their state. 44:11-46:17: 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: "Data centers eyed in at least 10 Michigan towns. How they might change state." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "Tensions mount as data centers eye ‘sleepy' Michigan farm towns." By Kelly House of Bridge Michigan "Michigan utility panel announces hearing on DTE plan to power AI data center." By Arpan Lobo of The Detroit Free Press "If You Thought Data Centers Were Bad, Wait Until You See How DTE Is Using One to FU*K Over Michigan." By Distill Social "GOP lawmakers try again to preempt state enforcement of AI laws." By Keely Quinlan of State Scoop "Benson's husband to recuse from state work on controversial data center if she is elected governor." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "How racist provocateur Jake Lang tried to manufacture chaos in Dearborn." By Steve Neavling of Detroit Metro Times Photo of Saline Township, MI farm courtesy of Joel Kurth/Bridge Michigan
#podcast #politics #MondayMusing #Michigan #progressives #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #JeffreyEpstein #EpsteinFiles #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Oligarchy #workingclass #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for November 17, 2025. Left of Lansing's Pat Johnston explains why Dear Leader Donald Trump REALLY wanted to block the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. It's because those files will expose how the late financier and child sex trafficker was the ring leader for powerful men who viewed themselves not only above the law, but above everyone else. 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 #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #DirtRoadDems #MAGA #Republican #Trump #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovermentCorruption #LivingtonCounty #DataCenters #BigTech #MikeRogers #GovernmentShutdown #WorkingClass #TrumpCorruption #KaseyHelton #Authoritarianism #Democracy #RCV #Democracy #LeftofLansing Here's Episode #156 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-15:07: Senate Dems Cave/Epstein Left of Lansing's Pat Johnston shares, or better yet, VENTS, his endless frustrations on the Democratic Party Leadership's constant caving to The Trump Regime. This time, it's Senate Democrats voting to end the MAGA Republican Government Shutdown while leaving millions without affordable health care. And, more Jeffrey Epstein emails surfaced showing a deeper insight between the child sex trafficker's friendly relationship with Trump. 15:08-38:41: Kasey Helton Interview Livingston County progressive activist Kasey Helton joins the show to share her frustrations on the national Democratic Party leadership's decision to cave to the Trump Regime on the government shutdown. Kasey also talks about the controversy over a proposed data center in her neck of the woods around Howell Twp., and her involvement in the Ranked MI Vote ballot proposal. 38:42-44:08: Last Call-Mike Rogers Is Clown In the "Last Call," MAGA Michigan Republican Senate candidate, "Florida" Mike Rogers, is now blaming unsubstantiated claims of "voter fraud" for his loss to Democrat Elissa Slotkin in their U.S. Senate race in 2024. 43:01-46:17: Ending/Skubal 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: Kasey Helton Instagram Video on Proposed Data Center in Howell Twp. "Howell Township data center: What's the rush?" By Maria Stuart in Livingston Post "LETTER: We shouldn't support data center without developer meeting these conditions." In Livingston Post "US Senate advances bill to end record-breaking government shutdown." By Ashley Murray of Michigan Advance "Democrats who voted to end federal shutdown had defensible reasons | Opinion" By John Lindstrom of The Detroit Free Press "Michigan Democrats rebuff Rogers' evidence-free claim that the 2024 election was also stolen." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "New Trump administration rule would override state medical debt protections." By Anna Claire Vollers in Ohio Capital Journal
#podcast #politics #Progressives #populism #WorkingClass #GovernmentShutdown #ChuckSchumer #ElissaSlotkin #Democrats #CorporateDemocrats #ACA #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Authoritarianism #Michigan #Mamdani #Spanberger #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for November 10, 2025. Democrats in the U.S. Senate have decided to cave and capitulate to The Trump Regime, and the MAGA Republican Congressional majority, by voting to end the MAGA Republican Government Shutdown. These 7 Democratic Senators, and one independent Senator, undercut the moral high ground on the government shutdown since The Trump Regime and MAGA Republicans in Congress refused to extend Obamacare subsidies. This latest capitulation must serve as a reminder that as much as we must oppose the authoritarian takeover of The Trump Regime, we must oppose and throw-out those in the Democratic Party who believe capitulation is the only way to deal with corporate autocracy. Capitulation is never an answer. 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: "US Senate advances bill to end record-breaking government shutdown." By Ashley Murray of Michigan Advance "Democrats Kill Hope (Again)." By Oliver Willis in Oliver Willis Explains
#podcast #progressive #politics #Democrats #Michigan #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #LisaMcClain #PeterTheil #Oligarchy #SNAP #GovernmentShutdown #WorkingClass #Mamdani #Populism #Authoritarians #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for November 7, 2025. MAGA Michigan Republican Congresswoman Lisa McClain of the 9th Congressional District in the Thumb Region, admitted this week that she violated the Stock Act for the second time this year. It seems McClain was late to disclose the large sums of money she and her husband made by placing large stock purchases on Palantir Technologies, which is co-founded by billionaire MAGA tech bro Peter Theil. Seems interesting that while McClain is earning huge sums of cash thanks to her Government position, she's also joining MAGA Republicans in shutting down the government to hurt working class Americans. 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's McClain tells congressional clerk that she will avoid violating STOCK Act in the future." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance
#podcast #politics #Progressives #Michigan #Elections #Democrats #MAGA #Republicans #Trump #WorkingClass #Mamdani #MarySheffield #NewYork #Populism #Immigration #DemocraticSocialism #Authoritarianism #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Oligarchy #GretchenWhitmer #Democracy #LeftOfLansing 00:00-18:17: Democrats Win/Detroit's New Mayor/DSA Member on City Council Pat Johnston begins by talking about the Democratic electoral victories in Michigan, and across the nation. He covers how populism and anti-authoritarianism seemed to be the winning messages in New Jersey, Virginia, Detroit, and New York City. Mary Sheffield becomes the first woman to become a Detroit Mayor, and she did it by promising to focus more on Detroit's neighborhoods instead of just its Downtown. Democratic Socialist Denzel McCampbell earned a seat on the Detroit City Council. 18:18-35:50: Why Mamdani Won NYC & Democratic Base Pat spends the second segment giving his takes on why Zohran Mamdani not only won big in New York City's mayoral race, but how he's won the hearts of progressive Democratic base voters across the country. Populism was a major victor in these elections as Democratic Socialists or moderate Democrats talked about building up the working class. For some reason, some Democratic Party establishment figures, like Michigan Congresswoman and U.S. Senate candidate, Haley Stevens, didn't seem to get that memo. 35:51-44:02: Last Call--Dick Cheney Death In this week's "Last Call," Pat shares his honest thoughts on former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away at the age of 84 years old this week. 44:03-46:48: 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: "Mary Sheffield wins big, becomes Detroit's first woman mayor." By Steve Nealing of Detroit Metro Times "Mary Sheffield makes history: Detroit elects first woman mayor." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "How Zohran Beat the Billionaires." By Eric Blanc of Labor Politics "Denzel McCampbell wins District 7 seat." By Russ McNamara of WDET "Michigan lawmakers Carter, Whitsett get bounced in Detroit races in favor of progressives." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "The Blue Wave Finally Arrives." By Distill Social "Why Mamdani and other Democrats won: Voters' finances are even worse now than when Trump won in 2024." By Andrew Keshner of Marketwatch Off The Record w/ Tim Skubick featuring Michigan Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens via WKAR
#podcast #politics #Progressive #Democrats #MAGA #Trump #Republicans #TomBarrett #WilliamLawrence #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Michigan #SNAP #Food #GovernmentShutdown #Authoritarianism #Democracy #WorkingClass #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for November 3, 2025. Michigan Progressive House candidate for the state's 7th Congressional District, William Lawrence, held a vigil and and food drive for his fellow working class citizens, who had their food benefits ended on November 1st, thanks to the MAGA Republican Government Shutdown. Current MAGA Congressman for the 7th District, Tom Barrett, refused to help-out during the vigil, and instead cried about "vandalism" after someone wrote some non-offensive words in chalk on his district office building in Lansing. While Barrett complains about chalk while rubber-stamping Dear Leader Trump's entire economic failings, over a million Michiganders--and over 40-million Americans--are in danger of losing their food benefits. We're in the new Gilded Age, but this time, it's backed by an authoritarian government. 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: "Congressional candidate hosts food drive and vigil outside Rep. Tom Barrett's Lansing office." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Trump administration must restart SNAP benefits by Wednesday, judge rules." By Jane Norman of Michigan Advance "Food assistance for 1.4M in limbo: 'I never thought America would be this.'" By Nushrat Rahman, Beki San Martin, Clara Hendrickson, and Todd Spangler of The Detroit Free Press
#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #BigBeautifulBill #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #TaxBreaks #WorkingClass #Medicaid #SNAP #GovernmentShutdown #BillHuizenga #JohnJames #Michigan #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for October 31, 2025. Thanks to an excellent write-up by the progressive independent news source in Michigan known as Distill Social, we've learned how two MAGA Michigan Republican congressmen are making a nice sum of money thanks to the tax cut bill they supported last summer. Research by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy reveals that Rep. Bill Huizenga will get around $50,000 dollars in tax breaks next year. AND, Rep. John James, who's also running to become Michigan's next governor, will rake-in around $12-grand next year as well. Meanwhile, that same bill slashed Medicaid funding, SNAP funding, and clean energy job funding. Along with the MAGA Republican Government Shutdown they are supporting, Bill Huizenga and John James are the illustration of corporate and government greed. They are getting richer while the working class gets bilked. 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 Two Michigan Republicans Cash In While Their Districts Get Cut Off." By Distill Social "Some Members of Congress Will Cash in from New Tax Law." By Jessica Vela of the Institution on Taxation and Economic Policy "Americans blame Trump and GOP more than Democrats for shutdown, poll finds." By Jacob Bogage, Riley Beggin, and Scott Clement of The Washington Post
#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #Michigan #WilliamLawrence #TomBarrett #Congress #Election2026 #Trump #Republicans #MAGA #GovernmentShutdown #WorkingClass #CleanEnergy #Jobs #Economy #HealthCare #Affordability #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #JohnJames #Gaza #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode 154 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-15:49: James No-Show/MAGA Shutdown/Detroit Elections Pat Johnston opens this week's show on MAGA Republican Gubernatorial Candidate John James' refusal to appear at a Republican debate this week. And that's not a big change considering how Congressman James refuses to hold town halls! James supports the Trump Regime/MAGA Republican Government Shutdown that's hurting working class Americans. And Pat concludes the segment talking about some important races in the City of Detroit, including the chance to elect Democratic Socialist Denzel McCampbell on the City Council. 15:50-41:00: William Lawrence For Congress Interview Progressive Democratic candidate for Michigan's 7th Congressional District, William Lawrence, joins the show to talk about his working class campaign. Mr. Lawrence is working to unseat MAGA Republican Congressman Tom Barrett. He shares his progressive activist background in affordable housing and climate change, and why he wants to unite the working class to gain economic security for Michigan families. To learn more about William Lawrence's campaign and plans to uplift the working class, visit his campaign site. 41:47-48:04: Last Call-"Israel-First" Republicans In the Last Call, Pat calls-out some MAGA Republicans who are showing more loyalty towards Israel's right-wing government than they do for working class Americans. And shout-out to Michigan Progressive Democratic State Rep. Dylan Wegela for speaking the truth! 48:05-50:54: 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: William Lawrence Campaign Site "Lansing activist joins the Democratic fray for Michigan's 7th Congressional District." By Erick Diaz Valiz of Michigan Advance "Progressive activist William Lawrence the latest to launch campaign to run in 7th Congressional District race." By Anna Busse of Michigan Public Radio "Is Denzel McCampbell Detroit's Zohran Mamdani?." By Malachi Barrett of Bridge Detroit "Michigan health care woes: Insurers leaving, rates rising, subsidies in limbo." By Eli Newman of Bridge Michigan "Michigan House committee continues to probe Gotion after state pulls funding support." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "Aging Members of Congress Refuse to Disclose Details of Their Top Secret Hospital." By Daniel Bogulslaw of The American Prospect "New Poll: Michiganders More Aligned with Global Consensus Than U.S. Government on Gaza." By Progress Michigan "5 reasons we endorsed Mary Sheffield for Detroit mayor | Opinion." By The Detroit Free Press Editorial Board "Michigan's attorney general, Lansing mayor call for court action to halt decision pausing SNAP." By Katherine Dailey & Ben Solis of Michigan Advance
#podcast #politics #Progressive #Democrats #Michigan #Trump #MAGA #Republicans #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentCorruption #Economy #WorkingClass #Gotion #Whitmer #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for October 27, 2025. The Detroit News released a story detailing how some of the corporations that fund Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer's overseas trade missions somehow end-up receiving billions in business incentives. Michigan taxpayers have paid billions in so-called "business incentives," with very little to show for it in economic or job activity. Whitmer's emulating of Trump's corporate pay for play scheme is not a good way to win over 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: "Businesses fund Whitmer's overseas travel while getting billions in taxpayer incentives." By Beth LeBlanc & Craig Mauger of The Detroit News "Michigan lawmakers probe Whitmer trade trips, funding links to economic development groups." By Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "After Gotion and SOAR, Michigan eyes overhaul of corporate subsidy strategy." By Paula Gardner and Jordyn Hermani of Bridge Michigan
#podcast #politics #progressive #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Trump #JeffreyEpstein #EpsteinFiles #GovernmentCorruption #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentShutdown #MikeJohnson #WorkingClass #Economy #Authoritarianism #Michigan #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for October 24, 2025. Millions of working class workers are receiving alerts that their SNAP benefits will be gone in November as the Trump Regime's government shutdown continues. Pat Johnston explains why the MAGA Congress is more than willing to help The Regime keep the government closed: To keep the Epstein Files from being released as long as possible. Even if that means 1.4 million working class Michigan families will lose their food assistance. MAGA Republicans would rather inflict pain on the working class in order to protect Trump, and the billionaire donor class, from the Epstein Files. 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: "With SNAP benefits paused, Michigan recipients, advocates and lawmakers determine how to respond." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Speaker Mike Johnson says he won't block House vote to release Epstein files." By Chris Stein of The Guardian
#podcast #progressive #politics #Michigan #Democrats #NoKings #Republicans #MAGA #CorporateGreed #Corporate Corruption #GovernmentCorruption #Trump #MikeDuggan #Oligarchy #DonorClass #WorkingClass #WealthInequality #Farmers #Education #LisaMcClain #Tariffs #WorkRequirements #Economy #NoKings #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #DirtRoadDems #LeftOfLansing 00:00-33:00: MAGA Government Shutdown/No Kings/War On Working Class Pat Johnston begins the show talking about his "favorite" MAGA Republican Michigan Congresswoman, Lisa McClain, who's become the voice of the MAGA Government Shutdown. MAGA Republicans are hoping voters will blame Democrats for the shutdown even thought Democrats have no power in Washington, D.C. Pat shares a number of stories in how government and corporate corruption work hand-in-hand to support The Trump Regime. And he explains why the No Kings protests weren't just an effort to oppose The Regime, but it was an effort to show working class solidarity. 35:06-39:55: Last Call-Pot Tax Unpopular Suddenly, no one in Lansing wants to take credit for the unpopular 24% wholesale tax on recreational marijuana to help pay for road repairs. 39:56-41:49: 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: "War of words continues over who greenlit Michigan wholesale pot tax: Brinks or Hall?" By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "In small towns and rural communities, young voters say they feel unseen by leaders." By Elena Moore of NPR "A Michigan Town Hopes to Stop a Data Center With a 2026 Ballot Initiative." By Tom Perkins of Inside Climate News (via Michigan Advance) "Fact Check: Can Argentine Beef Really Lower US Prices?" By Chris Clayton of DTN Ag Policy Editor of Progressive Farmer in DTN "Program for young Michigan kids, families lost all its state funding in budget cut" By Beki San Martin of The Detroit Free Press "What we know about claims USAID funded 'Sesame Street' TV show in Iraq." By Laerke Christenson of Snopes "Who is paying for Trump's White House ballroom?" By Bernd Debusmann Jr. of The BBC "Rising costs impact Michigan voters as chamber poll reveals economic concerns." By Dylan Goetz of MLive.com
#podcast #politics #progressive #workingclass #Democrats #Republicans #Trump #MAGA #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentGreed #Michigan #NoKings #Authoritarianism #Fascism #Democracy #GenZ #Immigration #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Monday Musing" for October 20, 2025. Last weekend's "No Kings" protests were a ringing success as 5-8 million Americans marched nationwide. Pat Johnston explains how the event didn't just help millions realize they weren't alone in their anger and fear with The Trump Regime, but it also helped give millions hope for a better future. But, Pat shares his views on how the protest wasn't just a demonstration against the corrupt corporate cronyism of The Trump Regime, but it was a demonstration against neoliberalism, and how it led us down this autocratic path that's decimating the working class and our democracy. 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: "No Kings was a huge success. Just look at Trump's response." By Paul Waldman in Public Notice "7 Million Strong: The Day America Said 'No Kings.'" By Distill Social
#podcast #progressives #politics #Democrats #Republicans #Trump #MAGA #CorporateCorruption #CorporateAuthoritarians #CorporateGreed #GovernmentGreed #Michigan #KristiNoem #GovernmentShutdown #LarryEllison #FreeSpeech #Authoritarianism #Oligarchy #WorkingClass #HealthCare #NoKings #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's the Left of Lansing "Friday Short" for October 17, 2025. In order for authoritarianism to thrive, its supporters and benefactors must control the message. Pat Johnston explains how the MAGA Republican movement is attempting to do just that through a myriad of ways, including propaganda videos at airports across the country. But even more, by granting MAGA billionaire families to gobble-up media companies so they can spread their "news," and also erase progressive free speech. 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: "Video of Noem faulting Democrats for shutdown absent from some Michigan airports." Kyle Davidson of Michigan Advance "CBS News' Standards Chief Exits Amid Chaotic Period for News Division." By Brian Steinberg of Variety "Ted Cruz Says His Bill Will Allow DOJ to ‘Prosecute' Those Who Fund No Kings Protests, Which Have Been Overwhelmingly Peaceful." By Stephen Prager of Common Dreams
#podcast #politics #Progressives #ProgressivePolitics #Democrats #Republicans #MAGA #Michigan #Marijuana #MarijuanaTax #PotForRoads #WorkingClass #Economy #CorporateGreed #CorporateCorruption #GovernmentGreed #MarijuanaPolicyProject #KarenOKeefe #Racism #LawAndOrder #Crime #SmallBusinesses #Medicaid #HealthCare #ArgentinaBailout #Farmers #Trump #Authoritarianism #Democracy #LeftOfLansing Here's Episode #152 of Michigan's Premier Progressive Podcast! 00:00-19:55: MAGA Shutdown/Rx Kids Success/Working Class Shakedown Pat Johnston begins talking about another week of the Trump Regime Health Care Shutdown. While Trump & The MAGA Majority in Congress are shutting the government down while millions of Americans are in danger of massive health insurance premium hikes, the Trump Regime is providing Argentina with a $40Billion bailout! Meanwhile, the RxKids program in Michigan is not only a success in a handful of cities, but it's getting more money from the recently passed Michigan budget. 19:56-36:08: Karen O'Keefe, Marijuana Policy Project Interview Karen O'Keefe from the Marijuana Policy Project talks with Pat about the newly passed 24% wholesale tax on recreational marijuana sales to pay for roads in Michigan. This is another working class tax hike, and it might also violate the state's constitution. Karen explains how this tax will hurt Michigan's small business marijuana shops, but it'll hurt working class consumers. And it'll encourage many to return to the illegal, and cheaper, markets. Visit the Marijuana Policy Project! 36:09-40:08: Last Call MAGA Youth Racism In the "Last Call, " Pat highlights a Politico article featuring several young MAGA Republican leaders texting racist slurs, antisemitism, and misogyny. 40:09-42:13: 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: "Opinion | Cannabis consumers shouldn't bear burden of fixing Michigan's roads." By Karen O'Keefe in Bridge Michigan "24% Michigan marijuana tax, a key piece of the legislative budget deal, has passed." By Ben Solis of Michigan Advance "‘I love Hitler': Leaked messages expose Young Republicans' racist chat." By Jeffrey Beeferman and Emily Ngo of Politico "Michigan Democrats call for GOP response to leaked, slur-filled Young Republicans' chat." By Katherine Dailey of Michigan Advance "Legal questions surround Michigan's new tax on marijuana." By Zoe Clark & Rick Pluta of Michigan Public Radio
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