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  • Trump on the Defense: Harris Gains Momentum

    If you enjoy this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss."

    If the election were today, Vice President Kamala Harris would defeat former President Donald Trump by about five points, according to Doug Kaplan, president of the national polling and political consulting firm, Kaplan Strategies.

    On the Lean to the Left podcast, Kaplan said Trump is on the defense as Harris gains momentum coming out of the September 10 debate.

    "If the election were today, Harris would win," said Kaplan, on the Lean to the Left podcast, recorded following the September 10 presidential debate, "However, two months is a long time in politics."

    When asked about the enduring impact of the debate performances, Doug Kaplan said that without more debates, this singular encounter may dominate the narrative and that Harris’s significant fundraising and the Republicans’ chaotic strategy underscore a potential advantage for the vice-president.

    Kaplan cautioned that Harris needs to win nationally by four to five points and win the swing states by at least two points if she is to secure the election.

    ""Each day the election focuses on Trump is a win for Harris," said Kaplan. "Trump needs to make it about her, but he has struggled." Trump's on the defense, he added.

    Kaplan pointed out Trump's vulnerability on the issue of reproductive rights, saying, "if reproductive rights inspire a high voter turnout among women, it could be a decisive factor."

    Young voters could also help turn the tide for Harris, noted Kaplan, who pointed out that Barack Obama was able to capture strong support from those voters, and the question now is whether Harris can do the same.

    Both immigration and the economy also will continue to be major factors, added Kaplan, as they continue to evolve.

    ___________________

    A former journalist and communications consultant, Bob Gatty is the founder and editor of the Lean to the Left blog and host of this podcast, which focuses on progressive politics and the important social issues of our time.

    Prefer to listen instead of watching our Podcast? Please visit https://podcast.leantotheleft.net

    ______________________

    Our thanks to our guest, Doug Kaplan, president of Kaplan Strategies. We appreciate his insight and expertise.

    For info about Kaplan and his work, please visit https://kaplanstrategies.com.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Kamala Harris vs. Donald Trump: Debate Recap

    00:20 Polls and Public Perception

    01:01 Defining Kamala Harris

    01:08 Interview with Doug Kaplan

    01:17 Debate Performances Analyzed

    01:46 Impact on Polling and Election

    02:02 Public Reactions and Personal Anecdotes

    02:55 Historical Debate Comparisons

    03:48 Campaign Strategies and Challenges

    04:08 Swing States and Key Issues

    05:51 Economic Concerns and Inflation

    08:08 Immigration and Border Policies

    09:12 Reproductive Rights Debate

    10:19 Running Mate Choices

    13:07 Youth Voters and Social Media Influence

    14:08 Endorsements and Their Impact

    14:58 Election Predictions and Polling Insights

    16:04 Kaplan Strategies: Behind the Scenes

    _______________________

    ⛾ If you enjoy our videos, please be kind enough to let us know, by buying us a cup of coffee by clicking on the THANKS button. This will help keep this channel providing great political news and commentary. Thank you for your support.

    Bob Gatty

    😊 Please note that this video may contain affiliate links. If you purchase a product through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support my channel and allows me to continue providing free and affordable information

  • The Harris-Trump Debate

    If you enjoy this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss.

    Join the Dixie Dems as they analyze the fiery Harris-Trump debate on the Lean to the Left podcast.

    Bob Gatty of South Carolina, Robert Thompson of Georgia, and Arthur Hill of North Carolina, discuss key moments from the debate, including Trump's controversial comments on immigration and Harris's sharp responses.

    They also reflect on Harris's effective debate tactics, Trump's recurring themes, and the broader political implications.

    The conversation touches on key issues in the election, including Trump's history and criminal convictions, the economy, immigration, the environment, and the contrasting approaches of both candidates.

    Don't miss this in-depth discussion on the latest political showdown.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Introduction and Debate Overview

    00:40 Arthur's Analysis and Expert Opinions

    02:15 Republican Reactions and Missed Opportunities

    03:34 Robert's Reaction and Gerrymandering Calls

    06:12 Trump's Fear Mongering and Harris's Composure

    09:10 Fracking Debate and Pennsylvania's Importance

    11:40 Abortion Claims and Taylor Swift's Endorsement

    15:51 Trump's Immigration Rhetoric and Polling Concerns

    19:12 Trump's Legal Troubles and Justice Department Accusations

    20:45 January 6th and Peaceful Transfer of Power

    23:52 Trump's Views on Ukraine and Putin

    27:25 Economic and Immigration Issues

    29:32 Climate Change and Global Perception

    31:33 Debate Performance and Polls

    35:52 Reflections on September 11th

    37:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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  • Understanding the 9/11 Generation

    Commemorating the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center, we discuss its impact on Gen Z with Matt Warshauer, author of 'Creating and Failing the 9/11 Generation, available at https://amzn.to/3XnBDPH.

    Warshauer, a history professor at Central Connecticut State University, delves into how 9/11 influenced America's youth, U.S. policies, and international relations.

    We explore the notion of the '9/11 Generation,' the consequences of the Iraq War, and the evolving mindset of today's young people. Additionally, we discuss the differences between patriotism and nationalism, the role of youth activism, and the future implications for America's global standing.

    Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of 9/11's continuing impact on our world.

    If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss."

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Introduction: The Lasting Impact of 9/11

    00:59 Defining the 9/11 Generation

    01:51 The Cultural Shift Post-9/11

    04:37 Teaching the 9/11 Generation

    06:27 The Iraq War and Its Global Impact

    08:03 Understanding the Real Story of 9/11

    13:35 Youth Activism and Civic Engagement

    18:33 Patriotism and Nationalism Post-9/11

    26:16 Personal Reflections and Global Reactions

    33:44 Conclusion: Lessons and Reflections

  • Dixie Dems discuss the Georgia school shooting tragedy, gun control, and Kamala Harris' surge. If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss.

    In this powerful episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, hosts Arthur Hill, Robert Thompson, and Bob Gatty delve into the tragic Appalachee High School shooting in Georgia.

    They discuss the broader implications of gun control in the U.S., examine political responses, and propose potential solutions to curb gun violence.

    The Dixie Dems also touch on Kamala Harris' rising popularity in the presidential race, her campaign's substantial fundraising efforts, and critique Donald Trump's ongoing rhetoric.

    Tune in for a deep dive into pressing political issues, personal stories from those affected by gun violence, and an innovative proposal for change -- one that both Republicans and Democrats should be able to support.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast

    00:48 Tragic Georgia School Shooting

    04:32 Gun Control Debate and Proposals

    09:07 Political Landscape and Campaigns

    18:04 North Carolina Politics and Controversies

    21:55 Introduction of New Billboards

    23:26 Mad Dog's Billboard Campaign

    24:20 Trump's Donations to Kamala Harris

    25:34 Federal Investigation into Robinson

    27:20 Russian Propaganda and Media Influence

    28:18 Trump's One-Minute Videos

    30:38 Kamala Harris's Fundraising Success

    33:40 Tim Scott's Marriage and Political Implications

    35:31 Call to Action on Gun Control

    36:41 Conclusion and Upcoming Debate

  • Understanding Project 2025, A Threat to American Democracy

    Let's keep the conversation going! What are your thoughts on the issues discussed in this episode? I’d love to hear your opinions in the comments. And, if you enjoy our content, please subscribe to the Lean to the Left podcast.

    In this episode, our goal is to increase understanding of 'Project 2025,' a threat to American democracy and a controversial roadmap for a potential new Trump administration.

    Designed by the Heritage Foundation and backed by Trump and his allies, Project 2025 would give Trump, if elected, massive new powers that would benefit the wealthy and provide unimaginable harm to most Americans.

    Featuring insights from Lean to the Left contributors C. J. Waldron and Susan V. Hutchinson, we explore the potential impacts on American society, from healthcare and education to federal governance and women's rights.

    Learn about the implications for democracy, national policies, and the possible future that Project 2025 could shape. Don't miss this comprehensive analysis and discussion.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Introduction to Project 2025

    00:57 Meet the Contributors: C.J. Waldron and Susan V. Hutchinson

    01:14 The Dangerous Blueprint of Project 2025

    01:40 Impact on Government and Education

    04:14 The Threat to Rule of Law

    05:19 Beneficiaries and Victims of Project 2025

    08:05 Republican Manipulation and Corporate Greed

    11:25 The Attack on Women's Rights

    14:45 Healthcare Under Project 2025

    19:03 Abortion and the Life at Conception Act

    23:24 White Christian Nationalism and Education

    27:00 Conclusion and Call to Action

  • Confronting Outrage: A Conversation on Media and Polarization

    Thank you for tuning in! I'm passionate about bringing progressive voices to the forefront, and I hope our discussions inspire you to think critically about the issues we face today.

    Join us on the Lean to the Left podcast with David Beckemeyer, a tech veteran and host of the Outrage Overload podcast.

    Together we discuss the pervasive impact of outrage in media and politics, the role of both conservative and liberal media in fueling toxic polarization, and strategies for counteracting this divisive trend.

    Beckemeyer offers insights from his 25+ years in the tech industry, his role in democratizing the internet, and his work in science communication.

    Learn how progressives can effectively cope with outrage media and the importance of pragmatic empathy in today's polarized climate.

    CHAPTERS;

    00:00 Introduction: Media Outrage and Polarization

    00:50 Meet the Guest: David Beckmeyer

    01:38 Understanding Outrage Porn

    03:27 The Concept of Outrage Overload

    04:23 Coping with Outrage Media

    07:01 The Role of Conversations and Bridge Building

    12:49 Impact of Media Manipulation

    18:54 David Beckmeyer's Podcast: Outrage Overload

    21:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • One Nutcase Joins Another

    Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the man who had a parasitic worm in his brain, tried to get Kamala Harris to give him a job in her new administration, has dropped out of the presidential sweepstakes and is backing another nutcase, Donald J. Trump.

    They deserve each other and make a great match considering that Trump, while his brain apparently is worm-free, is about as wacko as you can get considering that during the Covid pandemic he tossed out the idea of injecting people with bleach to prevent the onset of the virus that's claimed more than 1.2 million people, mostly on his watch.

    And remember what he said in 2020: "I don't take responsibility at all."

    OK, so now worm-brain RFK Jr. has hooked up with Trump in his effort to derail the Harris-Walz march to the White House. It's a great fit, too, because Kennedy once sent a friend a pic of himself with what he claimed to be a barbecued dog cooked on a spit. So, he should get along great with Trump's VP runningmate JD Vance, who apparently has something against cats.

    A lot of women are pissed off at Vance for saying the U.S. is being run by Democrats, corporate oligarchs and "a bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives and the choices they've made and so they want to make the rest of the country miserable, too."

    Wow! That is really weird! How does that dovetail with all the joy the Kamala Harris-Tim Walz team is bringing to the presidential campaign -- and, really, the nation? It's especially weird, too, because it's the Republicans who are being run by corporate oligarchs who Trump is trying to hit up for campaign cash, not the Democrats who are laser focused on helping the middle class.

    Anyway, the Democratic National Committee"s War Room has emailed a press release with reactions to the RFK Jr's support of Trump, as he apparently has given up hopes of working in the Harris administration because Kamala refused to take his call. So, he's now switching to Trump where he must think he could find a job. Hopefully, however, it would not be as dog catcher.

    Here are some of the comments published by the War Room following Kennedy's endorsement of Trump:

    The Hill: GOP strategist cautions Trump on joining forces with RFK Jr: ‘He’s kind of a looney tune’

    “Republican strategist Scott Jennings advised former President Trump to be careful now that he has seemingly joined forces with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., arguing the independent presidential candidate is ‘kind of a looney tune.’ [...] ‘There could be some cost on the other side of the algebra…he’s a conspiracy theorist, and a lot of people think he’s kind of a looney tune.’”

    Stuart Stevens on MSNBC with Ali Velshi

    “Well, you know, Donald Trump objects to being called weird. So what does he do…he goes and takes this endorsement from, you know, one of the sadder figures in American public life. A guy who clearly is just broken…you have two candidates that are supporting Putin, two candidates who would like to end the war in Ukraine so that Russia could take Ukraine, and you have two candidates who are against any mandatory vaccines in schools…that's the pro—polio route. I mean, it is just as nutty as it can be, and it will continue to dismay me that other members of my former party don't call it out. It's just crazy."

    Ronald Brownstein with CNN’s Michael Smerconish

    “And I think this latent threat to Trump of being associated with anti vaccine extremism that Kennedy brings to him, I think on balance, this will end up being more of a problem than an asset.”

    Scott Jennings and Karen Finney on State of the Union with Jake Tapper

    Jennings: “My caution, my advice, would be the downstream effects of this.You now own anything [RFK Jr.] might do or say for the next couple of months, and this may or may not inure your benefits. So I would just caution, careful, careful.”

    Finney: “If you want to have that endorsement, I'm perfectly happy for you to because that's fine. I mean, people who take dead bear cubs to Central Park… if you want that vote, go for it.”

    Jennifer Rubin on MSNBC’s The Saturday Show

    “I think the more people know about Bobby Kennedy, the more people who are sane will not want to vote for him. I think he is a perfect match for Donald Trump. And in fact, if I were JD Vance, I would stick by the phone, because he might be just the kind of guy that Trump would pull in as an October surprise. He is freakish in every sense of the word, whether it's picking up bear road kill or eating a barbecue dog. But much more seriously, he's a nut. He is a conspiracy nut. He's a racist."

    And so, indeed, worm-brain RFK, Jr. is a perfect match for Trump as one nutcase joins another. Walz got it right. Those guys really are weird.







































































































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  • Racial Capitalism and America's For-Profit Prisons with Dr. Robin Bernstein
    Thank you for tuning in! I'm passionate about bringing progressive voices to the forefront, and I hope our discussions inspire you to think critically about the issues we face today.

    In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we discuss America's ongoing struggle with racism and racial capitalism in America's for-profit prisons with Dr. Robin Bernstein, the Dillon Professor of American History at Harvard University.

    Dr. Bernstein explores the shocking history of convict leasing in the north well before the Civil War through her book 'Freeman's Challenge: The Murder That Shook America's Original Prison for Profit'. The conversation delves into the story of William Freeman, a Black and Native American teenage convict who refused to work for free, and the broader implications of anti-Black racism in the context of the for-profit prison system.

    This enlightening discussion reveals the often overlooked roots of racial capitalism in America, especially in the North, historical misconceptions, and the modern-day parallels in the prison system.

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 Introduction to Racial Capitalism
    00:23 Meet Dr. Robin Bernstein
    00:39 The Story of William Freeman
    02:28 Convict Leasing in the North
    02:50 The 13th Amendment and Northern Slavery
    04:28 Modern Prisons for Profit
    06:08 Freeman's Resistance and Its Impact
    09:48 Historical Context and Racial Innocence
    11:53 Freeman's True Story
    14:55 The Myth of Black Criminality
    18:25 Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman
    22:38 Contemporary Relevance of Freeman's Story
    23:49 Challenging the Prison System
    26:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

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  • Kamala Harris, Trump and Woke Politics

    Thank you for tuning in! I'm passionate about bringing progressive voices to the forefront, and I hope our discussions inspire you to think critically about the issues we face today.

    In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, host Bob Gatty engages with Richard Pellegrino, author of 'I'm Not White, One Man's Journey from Whiteness to Oneness,' and founder of the Global Woke Institute. They discuss the challenges and significance of Kamala Harris's Democratic nomination for president, the persistent issues of racism and sexism in America, and the misuse of the word "woke" by Republicans when criticizing Democrats.

    Pellegrino shares his personal journey from privilege and addiction to becoming a voice for racial and social justice, highlighting the profound impact of his family's multiracial background, his involvement in civil rights and anti-war movements, and his subsequent spiritual and global awakening.

    The conversation focuses on race, identity, and woke politics, the realities of U.S. foreign policy, and the interconnectedness of all people as the presidential election contest between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump unfolds.

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 Introduction: Kamala Harris and the Question of Readiness
    00:55 Guest Introduction: Richard Pellegrino
    01:43 Richard's Book: From Whiteness to Oneness
    03:03 Family Background and Multiracial Identity
    04:45 The 70s Awakening and Personal Struggles
    10:31 Political Views and Kamala Harris
    18:06 Global Woke Institute and Redefining 'Woke'
    21:53 Global Citizenship and Oneness
    27:40 Call to Action and Conclusion

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  • Could Civil War Make a Comeback in a Divided Nation?
    In this episode, our guest is a conservative author who envisions a second civil war that takes place nearly 40 years in the future. I believe in the power of dialogue to drive change, so If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss.

    In this episode of Lean to the Left, our guest is William R. Douglas, author of 'The Sum of All Our Anger' (https://amzn.to/3SOeeoW), a futuristic novel imagining how civil war makes a comeback in our divided nation.

    We discuss the political and social conditions that lead to the war, the motivations behind Douglas's writing, and the potential real-world implications of ongoing political divisiveness. Douglas believes the political temperature in the U.S. makes it possible for civil war to return unless steps are taken to cool things down.

    The conversation also touches on Douglas's previous work, 'The Death and Resurrection of Baseball,' (https://amzn.to/4fK5slI) and explores how both novels connect.

    They delve into the role of extreme ideologies, the importance of dialogue across political divides, and the hope for preventing such a dire future scenario.

    CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction: The Possibility of a Second Civil War
    00:33 Guest Introduction: William R. Douglas
    01:25 The Inspiration Behind 'The Sum of All Our Anger'
    02:58 Plot Overview: A Future Civil War
    07:13 Texas Secession and the New President
    10:44 The War Unfolds: Key Events and Characters
    18:32 The Aftermath and Lessons from the Novel
    22:05 Modern Political Climate and Reflections
    30:23 Concluding Thoughts and Final Message

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  • I am Woman: A Call to Action for Womens Rights We present a new version of "I Am Woman," the 1970s-era Helen Reddy masterpiece that's been adapted for the 2024 presidential campaign. If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe! We have many more thought-provoking discussions lined up that you won't want to miss.

    In this powerful episode, Connie DeJuliis and Donna Lent discuss the impact of the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the importance of women's reproductive rights, and the work of the National Women's Political Caucus.

    Highlighting a passionate remake of Helen Reddy's 'I Am Woman,' that they helped create, the conversation underscores women's resilience and determination to fight for women's rights, including reproductive rights.

    DeJuliis and Lent call for active participation in upcoming elections to protect women's freedom to choose, and share personal insights into their advocacy and organizing efforts.

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 Women Under Attack: Roe v. Wade Overturned
    00:27 Empowerment Anthem: 'I Am Woman'
    03:26 Meet the Creators: Connie and Donna
    06:04 Historical Context: Women's Fight for Rights
    14:04 The Current Political Landscape
    24:54 Call to Action: Mobilizing for Change
    31:52 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

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  • The Hidden Influences on Journalism: From CIA to Corporate Bias

    In this episode, we explore the unseen forces shaping modern journalism. Dan Luzadder, a seasoned journalist known for infiltrating controversial and secretive organizations, reveals a network of CIA influence on media and the push to protect powerful interests in both business and government.

    We delve into the perplexing realms of misinformation, disinformation, and media bias, discussing the role of elite establishments and government agencies.

    The episode touches on historical conspiracies, such as the JFK assassination, as Luzadder believes that powerful interests, perhaps including the CIA, were behind that terrible act.

    Luzadder highlights the changing landscape of investigative reporting amidst dwindling journalistic jobs as corporate interests continue to control news media outlets, including local newspapers -- where they still exist.

    This thought-provoking discussion aims to uncover whether unbiased, independent journalism is still achievable today.

    CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Influence of Special Interests on Journalism
    00:33 CIA's Domestic Propaganda and Cultural Cold War
    01:39 Controversial Historical Events and Figures
    02:20 Exploring Media Bias and Investigative Journalism
    03:46 Challenges Facing Modern Journalism

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  • Why Hasn't the GOP Stood Up to Trump?
    If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and drop us a comment or two. Remember to check back with us as we focus on important political developments and the key social issues that face us all.

    In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we welcome author and University of California professor, Kristen Monroe, to discuss her latest book, 'Politics, Principle, and Standing Up to Donald Trump, Moral Courage in the Republican Party.'

    Monroe explores why many Republican leaders continue to support Donald Trump despite his legal and moral abuses, and analyzes the GOP mindset that prioritizes Trump loyalty over traditional conservative values.

    Lean why the GOP hasn't stood up to Trump. Monroe shares info from interviews with notable figures like Anthony Scaramucci and Rick Wilson, as well as her findings on the role of moral courage within the party. Join us for this in-depth discussion on politics, leadership, and the future of American democracy.

    CHAPTERS:
    00:00 Introduction: The GOP's Trump Loyalty Dilemma
    00:23 Author Kristen Monroe's Insightful Analysis
    01:27 The Research Process and Key Interviews
    04:03 Republican Leaders' Shift in Loyalty
    07:04 The Enigma of Mitch McConnell
    08:55 Core Values and Moral Dilemmas
    10:12 Trump's Appeal to MAGA Followers
    11:45 Populism and Authoritarianism in Trump's Strategy
    15:55 The Transformation of the Republican Party
    20:11 Impactful Political Ads
    20:46 Biden's Decency and Presidency
    21:37 Kamala Harris and Women's Rights
    24:13 Republican Views on Trump
    28:50 Moral Courage and Ethical Leadership
    33:59 The Importance of Voting

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  • Kamala Harris Ignites the Democratic Party

    In this Dixie Dems episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, hosted by Bob Gatty, of South Carolina, the discussion focuses on President Biden's historic decision to step aside and endorse as his successor Vice President Kamala Harris.

    Don't miss this informative and often hilarious discussion that focuses on how Kamala Harris ignites the Democratic Party.

    Joined by Arthur Hill from North Carolina and Robert Thompson from Georgia, the conversation delves into Harris's potential strategies to defeat Trump, growing Democratic enthusiasm, the impact of social media, and reactions to Biden's withdrawal.

    The episode also tackles topics like the AR-15 debate in the aftermath of the Trump assassination attempt, Project 2025, and political dynamics in North Carolina, Georgia and South Carolina, providing a mix of serious analysis, such as conspiracy theories surround the Trump shooting, how new bobbleheads have been created showing Trump's bloody fist bump and ear patch, and a hilarious discussion about safe sex practices (or lack thereof) in the Carolinas.

    What's that have to do with anything? Well, it's the Republicans who want to not only ban abortion, but also control contraception. Are you kidding me?

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Welcome to the Lean to the Left Podcast
    00:42 Historic Decision: Biden Endorses Harris
    01:04 Kamala Harris: The Strong Black Woman Republicans Fear
    02:27 Biden's Legacy and the Roadblocks He Faced
    03:44 Trump's Rally Incident and Conspiracy Theories
    05:08 The AR-15 Debate and Gun Control
    10:13 Republican Convention Reactions
    15:39 Project 2025: A Dangerous Vision
    22:40 Discussing Harris' Vice Presidential Pick
    23:16 Roy Cooper's Political Achievements
    24:06 Potential Candidates: Shapiro and Kelly
    25:40 Impact of Gaza Situation on Young Voters
    29:14 Trump's Campaign Contributions and Legal Issues
    32:43 Bobblehead Museum and Trump's Bobbleheads
    37:23 Safe Sex Practices in the Carolinas
    43:25 Electricity Rate Hikes in Georgia and South Carolina
    45:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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  • Defeat Project 2025

    This quick video invites you to check out a new series of articles on our Lean to the Left blogsite that analyze the key components of the GOP's Project 2025 and what they would mean to our country.

    The articles take apart this maniifesto by the Heritage Foundation, which has been embraced by the RNC and which was essentially copied and pasted into the Republican platform. While Trump claims to know nothing about Project 2025, it's basically his party's platform.

    You can find the articles at https://leantotheleft.net.

    Please check them out and let us know what you think.

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  • In this episode of the 'Lean to the Left' podcast, host Bob Gatty interviews J.D. Mass, author of "Race for What? A White Man's Guide to Healing Racism from Within."

    They discuss J.D.'s journey growing up in a diverse neighborhood, his experiences with racism, and his involvement in anti-racist groups. The conversation delves into J.D.'s transformative book, which outlines seven steps to heal racial injustice.

    They also touch on political dimensions of racism, J.D.'s podcast 'Same Difference,' and the necessity of addressing systemic and cultural shifts for genuine racial healing.

    Please note: The interview took place just before President Biden announced he was stepping aside and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to succeed him. There is discussion at about 21 minutes regarding Biden's age and health issues and whether Kamala Harris will make it to the Oval Office.

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
    00:23 Meet J.D. Mass: Author and Activist
    02:00 J.D.'s Early Life and Influences
    04:49 Experiences of Racism and Discrimination
    09:13 Impact of Martin Luther King Jr.
    12:01 Lessons from J.D.'s Journey
    15:38 Seven Steps to Healin
    g Racism 21:24 Political Landscape and Racism
    32:20 J.D.'s Podcast and Final Thoughts

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  • Big news with President Biden withdrawing as the Democratic presidential candidate and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to take on Donald Trump. It was obviously a difficult decision for Joe Biden to make, but under the circumstances, it was the right one. There is no way this country can weather another four years of Trump, and there are too many questions about the ravages of age and health surrounding Biden.

    Now we can move forward and work as hard as possible to elect Harris and defeat Trump. He simply cannot be allowed anywhere near the Oval Office – not even out on the sidewalk!

    Female voters will be excited – especially those who are concerned about Republican plans to wipe out abortions nationally and interfere with the private acts that take place in the bedroom. Who would think that in 2024 there would be serious discussions about restricting contraception!

    Joe Biden has worked his tail off as President and has made remarkable progress in the face of vicious opposition from Republicans and Donald Trump. His legacy will be one of achievement and success, of selfless determination to make America better for everyone, not just the top one percent, as is the case with Trump. With Trump, it’s all about himself. With Biden, it’s about America.

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  • In this interview on the Lean to the Left podcast, Michael B. Moore, the Democratic candidate running against Republican Representative Nancy Mace in South Carolina's 1st Congressional District, discusses his campaign, background, and key priorities.

    Moore stresses that while Biden has done an extraordinary job, the focus needs to shift to key issues, such as health care, reproductive rights, and the environment, rather than the 81-year-old Biden's potential health concerns. He suggests that the Democratic party would benefit from new leadership while still leveraging Biden's coalition, knowledge, and experience.

    Moore delves into his business-oriented approach, healthcare reform, economic inclusivity, women's reproductive rights, environmental concerns, and critical views on Mace's inconsistent stance on various issues.

    He also addresses the broader implications of the upcoming election, the urgent need for Democratic mobilization, and his perspective on President Biden's potential re-election.

    The interview was recorded just a few days before the assassination attempt on Donald Trump in Butler, PA.

    00:00 Introduction to the 2024 Congressional Race
    01:14 Meet Michael B. Moore
    01:34 Michael's Background and Motivation
    03:46 Key Campaign Issues: Healthcare, Economy, and Environment
    05:39 Abortion and Reproductive Rights
    06:50 Nancy Mace's Inconsistencies and Trump Support
    10:26 Project 2025 and Its Implications
    13:04 Biden's Candidacy and Democratic Strategy
    20:18 Healthcare and Social Security Reforms
    26:13 Immigration and Trump's Policies
    28:04 The Importance of the 2024 Election
    29:43 Michael's Elevator Pitch to Voters Michael B. Moore Discusses His Congressional Candidacy and Key Issues | Lean to the Left Podcast

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

  • In this episode of the Lean to the Left Podcast, host Bob Gatty discusses critical social issues such as education, racism, and politics with Eugene Williams Jr., an educator, author, speaker, and former high school principal.

    Williams shares insights from his extensive career, talks about the challenges and successes in public education, and explores the impacts of defunding public education, the achievement gap, and the socio-political dynamics affecting African American communities.

    Williams also addresses the controversial political climate surrounding figures like Trump and Biden and the importance of historical awareness and education reform. Additionally, they delve into Eugene's published works and his ongoing mission to uplift and educate minority students.

    00:00 Welcome to Lean to the Left Podcast
    00:12 Introducing Eugene Williams Jr.
    00:21 Eugene's Career and Achievements
    01:19 Retirement and Transition
    02:05 State of Public Education
    03:46 Supporting Public Education 04:49 Republican Efforts and Private Schools
    06:04 Critical Race Theory and History
    08:49 Achievement Gap in Education
    17:15 Importance of Advanced Courses for Students of Color
    18:51 Black Americans: Fiscal Liberalism and Social Conservatism
    23:08 Current Political Landscape: Trump and Biden
    28:17 Exploring Poverty in Rural South Carolina
    29:27 Contradictions in Political Support
    30:50 Historical Context and Racial Dynamics
    34:21 Trump's Legal Troubles and Public Perception
    37:06 The Role of the President and Power Dynamics
    39:27 Biden's Challenges and Strategies
    45:16 The Importance of Reading and Education
    45:22 Author's Books and Personal Insights
    50:18 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

  • In this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast, we discuss the growing movement to hold big oil companies accountable for their environmental impacts.

    Jamie Henn, founder and executive director of Fossil Free Media, discusses legislative efforts like Senator Chris Van Hollen’s climate fund bill, state campaigns in Vermont and New York, and the broader implications of climate action.

    Henn shares insights into Fossil Free Media's mission, the public's support for holding polluters accountable, and the political landscape influencing these efforts. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on climate policy, public opinion, and the urgent need for environmental justice.

    00:00 Introduction to the Climate Change Battle
    00:24 Meet Jamie Henn of Fossil Free Media
    02:09 The Van Hollen Bill and Its Challenges
    04:42 Republican Support for Climate Accountability
    06:24 Trump's Environmental Policies and Their Impact
    08:30 Project 2025: A Threat to Environmental Protections
    18:13 State-Level Efforts to Make Polluters Pay
    22:38 The Future of Electric Vehicles and Clean Energy
    25:22 Conclusion and Call to Action

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.