Secular Left: Recent Episodes
Douglas Berger
There is a well organized and well funded effort to gut the Bill of Rights in this country and in the age of Trump, secular people seem to taking it on the chin more often. Secular Left is meant to be the light in the fog of Christian Nationalism supporting the idea that toxic religious belief is the root of most social justice issues today.
Dr. Anthony Fauci appeared before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, where Rand Paul and other Republicans were trying to trap him into statements they could use against him. The hearing was a political witch hunt and going on six years now.
There is a broader anti-science movement in conservative politics, including opposition to gender-affirming care, abortion rights, vaccines, and public health guidance. There is also misinformation, snake-oil products, and claims made by social media influencers and some television ads that are more about profit over health of people.
Trump's Religious Liberty Commission was sued for lack of diversity. Contrary to federal law, the commission was dominated by conservative Christians and evangelicals, with no representation from other faiths and atheists. The court dismissed the case by redefining what is meant by diversity.
We look at the backlash to progressive and Democratic Socialist wins in some Democratic primaries recently. We hear examples of the criticism from establishment Democrats and media figures, and we argue that voters chose these candidates directly. We say the panic over the DSA is overstated and that Democrats should focus more on fighting Trump and less on attacking progressives.
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While Graham Platner needed to end his campaign after being accused of rape some progressive commentators handled the story badly, especially the tendency to ignore Platner's PTSD and trauma as part of the context for his earlier behavior. We supported him based on the information available at the time, and we explain why the final set of revelations made continued support for him impossible. We are just disappointed that Platner's trauma was ignored by others.
Also in Maine, another legal fight over public funds for religious schools reached federal court. The state changed its Human Rights Act after the Carson v. Makin US Supreme Court decision in 2022. All schools receiving public money must follow nondiscrimination requirements for students. Religious schools filed a lawsuit.
We re-visit the topic of LifeWise Academy and note that its student enrollment is far below its stated goal. The group’s push for release-time Bible instruction during the school day is not impressing parents who have concerns about the program. Public attention appears to be reducing family participation in the program.
Finally the Trump administration and Fox News framing democratic socialists as communists is a reboot of the cold war. We argue that democratic socialism is not the same as communism, and we point to the DSA’s own stated goals, including Medicare for All, expanded democracy, and public ownership of key sectors - they don't support or demand revolution. We end by saying voters should evaluate candidates on their actual proposals rather than on scare labels. We are also disappointed that establishment Democrats are jumping on the bandwagon over the DSA.
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We look at Ohio politics, a federal religious-liberty commission, and the reaction to recent Democratic Socialist primary wins in New York City.
Ohio Republicans repeat false claims about Dr. Amy Acton and COVID-era county fair restrictions, trying to use that issue to help Vivek Ramaswamy’s campaign. They don't explain that in 2020 Ramaswamy supported the lock downs and even mandatory vaccinations.
Trump administration’s Religious Liberty Commission, which we say was built around Christian nationalist complaints rather than broad religious liberty is being sued arguing that the commission violated federal requirements for inclusiveness because it was dominated by evangelical voices. We also discuss concern that its report would push the idea that church-state separation is a problem.
Finally, we discuss the New York City primary results and the panic they caused among MAGA figures and some establishment Democrats. We argue that Democratic Socialist wins in a heavily Democratic city are being overstated as a national warning sign. We say the issues driving those campaigns are affordability, housing, health care, and wages, and that voters are responding to candidates who seem more willing to challenge Trump-era politics.
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Trump won Ohio three times with an 11 point win in 2024 so why is the GOP nominee for Governor Vivek Ramaswamy tied, in the polls, with the Democrat Dr. Amy Acton? The GOP super-majority in the Ohio legislature is worried too so they decided to manipulate their base to get them to the polls in November for Ramaswamy. Although controlling the state since 2011, the Ohio GOP is letting Trump and his goons focus on Medicaid fraud in the state. Meanwhile the Ohio GOP is putting up a constitutional amendment to require photo ID to vote even though that does nothing to secure an election system they tell us is a model for the country, and they also decided to hide a bill that would ban child marriage so as not to trigger their religious extremist friends totally ignoring the whole Trump Epstein files and other sex abuse scandals with the Catholic church and LifeWise Academy.
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Of course there is corruption in US politics that some call campaign contributions but President Trump and family have said "hold our beer" with the just the latest being a slush fund to pay off people who attacked the capitol in 2021.
There have been corrupt presidents in the past - Harding and Nixon come to mind but nothing like the scale of the Trump family - there doesn't seem to be any policy or action they can't profit from.
Other stories in the episode include Ohio Republicans’ effort to place a photo ID requirement into the state constitution. The proposal copies existing Ohio law but we note the added language that could make early voting harder or impossible by limiting voting to in-person voting on Election Day.
Ohio Senate President Rob McColley who is running on a ticket with Vivek Ramaswamy for Ohio Governor, personally removed a child marriage ban from the Senate Judiciary committee so it couldn't be voted to the Senate floor. It was a bi-partisan bill with no public opposition before McColley stuck his nose in for no apparent reason. For a party that runs on "protecting children" it is a bad look for the Ohio GOP and Ramaswamy.
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We highlight significant outcomes from the May primaries in Ohio, emphasizing how the ongoing struggles against Christian nationalism and extremist ideologies manifest in local politics. One standout event was the primary defeat of some vocal proponents of Christian nationalism, which could signal a shift in voter sentiment since one candidate, Rep. Josh Williams sold his soul to the religious extremists and didn't even win his home county. While some positive changes occurred, the presence of remaining extremists raises concerns about their potential influence in the upcoming general election.
Another freethinking celebrity, Bill Maher, took his podcast guest, comedian David Cross to task for Cross' daughter having Trans friends. Maher repeated many transphobic myths like he was a member of Turning Point USA. We listen to a segment from Sam Seder of Majority Report about the interview and we agree how Maher’s skepticism reflects a disregard for the lived realities of many. It is crucial to highlight that listening to and validating children's identities is not an agenda; instead, it is an essential aspect of affirming their dignity and well-being.
Finally we try to unpack the US Supreme Court case Louisiana v. Calais that finally gutted the last bit of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. Many southern states with history of racial voter suppression are trying to quickly redraw their voting maps to eliminate as many Democrat held seats as possible before the midterm election in November. We connect the historical context of voting rights with contemporary struggles against systemic racism, illustrating how far we still need to go in achieving electoral equity.
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Before Ohio holds its primary, the presumptuous GOP candidate for Governor Vivek Ramaswamy is running a negative ad against the presumptive Democrat candidate Dr. Amy Acton. Ramaswamy's ad attempts to gaslight voters about Acton's role as the Director of the Ohio Department of Health at the start of the COVID pandemic in 2020. The ad falsely claims Acton acted outside her authority to postpone the March 2020 primary election. Ohio Republicans have been wanting voters to forget the truth of their inaction during the pandemic and undermining the state's response for political reasons since 2020.
We look at Ohio Representative Josh Williams who is the only black Republican in the Ohio House and he is running for Congress in Ohio's 9th District. He claims DEI and affirmative action keep the Black community stuck in poverty and he vocally supports anti-abortion stances, often echoing sentiments that appeal to a predominantly white anti-abortionist base like repeating the false and harmful narrative of abortion as a form of genocide within the Black community. Williams should be the last person holding negative views about policies and programs that give a hand up out of poverty since he himself needed and used that help when he was bed ridden for six years and had no high school diploma yet is now a lawyer and teaches law at a local college while serving as a state representative.
Finally we look at the fight between President Trump and the Pope. It is particularly striking that figures like Trump and JD Vance, especially Vance's recent conversion to Catholicism, feel emboldened to critique religious authorities, including the Pope, on theological grounds that contradict their own political alignments. This speaks to a broader trend of politicization of religion where moral authority is wielded selectively. We see that politicization in every level of government from the local to the federal. It is a trend that needs to be stopped.
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Our guest is Wil Jeudy an urgent care physician by day and a secular activist the rest of the time. He is the State Director (Texas) for the American Atheists where he helps keep the secular groups in Texas healthy and active. He is the chair of the American Atheists's "Secular Advocacy Team" which tracks and testifies for/against bills during the Texas legislative session. He formed the group Secular Houston which organizes the secular political voice in the greater Houston area, endorsing candidates that align with our values, and teaches constituents how and where to direct their energy to affect change through a secular prism aka Separation of Church & State.
We discuss politics, church and state issues in Texas, and Democrat James Talarico who Jeudy believes is a unicorn for secular voters - a person of faith who actually understands and supports real religious freedom and separation of church and state. Our host, Doug, is still nervous about him.
With the establishment of Secular Texas PAC, Jeudy emphasizes the importance of endorsing political candidates who align with values prioritizing church-state separation and other progressive issues. Jeudy expresses his frustrations about the lack of participation from Republican candidates, highlighting the absence of secular representation in the Texas GOP, a barrier that complicates his mission.
The conversation shifts to political endorsements, specifically focusing on James Talarico, a Democrat endorsed by Secular Houston for the U.S. Senate. Though Talarico's background as a seminarian raises eyebrows among some secular voters, Jeudy reassures that Talarico demonstrates a commitment to church-state separation and effectively challenges Christian nationalism through his legislative actions. Jeudy shares an experience of attending a fundraiser where Talarico emphatically advocated for secularism, further solidifying his faith in the candidate.
We talk about the complexities of navigating faith in politics, with Jeudy asserting the significance of collaboration between secular and interfaith groups to counter the influence of Christian nationalism.
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We dissect the Trump administration's claims that the U.S. has been at war with Iran since 1979. Contrary to the administration's narrative, that the real issues at play are deeper than mere historical grievances, extending to vital distractions from pressing domestic challenges, including the skyrocketing grocery prices, disappointing job numbers and the Trump-Epstein files. We explore how President Trump seems to be creating chaos as a diversion, notably with military actions that bolster his standing among certain GOP factions as they gear up for the imminent midterm elections.
Transitioning from foreign to domestic matters, we scrutinize Trump's SAVE Act and the political landscape leading up to the midterm elections. The legislation poses significant changes to voting regulations, such as instituting stringent photo ID requirements while limiting mail-in voting. The act is an attempt at disenfranchisement, targeting marginalized communities and exacerbating the looming threat to democracy in hopes of securing a GOP majority in Congress.
Finally we look at the upcoming Ohio gubernatorial race, framing it within the context of the national landscape. Dr. Amy Acton is being targeted as an emerging key figure in the gubernatorial narrative. The GOP's main attack line is her tenure as Ohio Health Director during the pandemic, where mischaracterizations of her leadership have emerged as the Republicans attempt to paint her in a negative light. We look at the baseless claims against her, noting how her ethical decisions during the pandemic’s peak, such as refusing to yield to political pressure, not only saved lives but also set a standard for leadership that starkly contrasts with her critics.
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The fight to prevent religious indoctrination in the public schools continue as the 5th circuit punts on the issue of posting the 10 commandments in Louisiana schools. Christian nationalists try to Santa Clause the obvious 1st amendment violation.
Vivek Ramaswamy, a GOP candidate for Ohio governor has accepted donations from a notorious Nazi reenactor with ties to Northwestern Ohio. We look at the deeply rooted biases evident within the Republican Party and their reactions to his ethnic background and the efforts to paper over that divide with more voter suppression tactics that are prevalent in the party’s strategy to steal elections.
Finally, we examine the lasting impact of misogyny within the atheist and free-thought communities, featuring insights from Rebecca Watson, who finds herself named in the Epstein files. Her story sheds light on the resilience against systemic misogyny and the backlash faced by outspoken women in these predominantly male-dominated spaces. The culture of silence surrounding figures like Lawrence Krauss and Richard Dawkins, who have been accused of inappropriate behavior, is examined critically as we double down on the importance of accountability in our movement.
Atheism and freethought needs to remain free from individuals who engage in abusive behavior, whether they are a big name or not. By discussing our experiences with problematic figures within the community, we emphasize the necessity of continuing to establish a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.
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In this episode, we start by looking at the political landscape in Ohio as we approach the 2026 gubernatorial election. With Mike DeWine term-limited, the race is heating up between Democrat Amy Acton and the wealthy tech entrepreneur, Vivek Ramaswamy. Ramaswamy, who boasts credentials as a Yale graduate and a venture capitalist in the biotech sector, finds himself showing his lack of understanding of pressing local issues, particularly the closure of coal plants in Ohio which has greatly impacted the energy landscape.
His assertions that he would simply ramp up coal production without acknowledging the broader regulatory and economic context reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of energy economics. Ramaswamy's campaign is characterized by flashy rallies where he promotes himself as an anti-woke candidate, yet his connections to conservative elites like J.D. Vance and Elon Musk raise questions about his grassroots appeal.
Next we look at the recent government intimidation of journalists trying to cover the growing fascist regimes' illegitimate actions in Minnesota and elsewhere. We point out that journalists were arrested for covering a protest at a church while just two months prior a Republican religious extremist interrupted a church service in Texas and was never arrested or charged. We also talk about the FACE Act, that is used to protect access to abortion clinics and how churches were added to the law to appease Christian Nationalists in Congress.
Finally we discuss the troubling trend of ICE-related violence. The recent murder of Alex Pretti while he tried to intervene during a confrontation with ICE agents adds a chilling layer to the narrative. We need to consider the wider implications of policing practices and to critically engage with the language and narratives used by advocates of increased law enforcement. The escalating violence tied to ICE’s actions raises a critical question: how much violence must occur before we start questioning the legitimacy of these federal agents' operations?
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We look at the unique challenge faced by Republican candidates in states dominated by their party for over a decade, particularly how they navigate elections with only outdated talking points to rely on. We highlight the situation in Ohio, using Robert Sprague as a case study. As the current treasurer, he seeks to run for Secretary of State with a platform centered on a familiar narrative about election fraud, despite his party's long-standing control of the state's electoral process any many voter suppression laws passed. Still the claims of fraud have been debunked by active investigations led by the state’s current Republican Secretary of State, emphasizing that the statistics reveal that voter fraud is exceedingly rare in Ohio.
We shift focus to the deeply troubling incident that occurred in Minneapolis, where an ICE agent's reckless actions resulted in the death of an innocent woman. The systemic harassment faced by communities under the current administration, based on policies rooted in fear and racism have led to a culture of intimidation and violence, like a modern-day Gestapo. This violent encounter is part of a broader pattern of discriminatory practices, echoing the horrors of history where marginalized groups faced with physical violence that is labeled "legal".
Finally we reflect on the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States and its Declaration of Independence. There are alarming parallels between the grievances expressed in 1776 and today's political climate. We read from the Declaration, highlighting the founding principles that emphasize the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, stressing that these rights are compromised under the current administration. The ongoing legislative abuses and the power dynamics at play undermines the very essence of democracy.
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We look into a video series featuring conservative commentator Dennis Prager titled "The Consequences of Secularism." We take a critical look at Prager's claims, which often rely on misleading language and emotional rhetoric, aiming to push his agenda against secularism - which he doesn't define. Throughout the episode, we dissect the implications of his discourse and what they reveal about the broader cultural conversation around religion and secularism.
Prager's perspective paints a dire picture of a society that he believes is collapsing due to a decline in religious adherence. He presents himself as a defender of Judeo-Christian values, arguing that the absence of belief leads to societal chaos. I examine his repetitive assertions and the logical inconsistencies they often entail, beginning with his opening gambit, which claims that if society becomes too secular, it will inevitably collapse. He doesn't see the irony of making that same claim since the 1970s
We need to call out the selection of studies he presents, especially when they align with his ideological perspective while he dismisses findings that contradict his agenda. For instance, while Prager cites research linking religious involvement with lower suicide rates, we point out studies that highlight the mental health benefits of secular support systems particularly for trans kids that Prager and his PragerU regularly dismiss.
We also explore Prager's tendency to conflate individual beliefs with broader social policies. His claims about movements like "defund the police" are particularly scrutinized, revealing his tendency to misrepresent nuanced discussions within progressive circles. Defunding police, often tied to calls for social justice reform, is framed by Prager as a sign of moral decay, while I argue that this viewpoint ignores the legitimate motivations behind advocacy for community-centered safety approaches.
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As December temperatures plunge below freezing, it becomes painfully apparent that while churches often advocate for helping the underprivileged, their doors frequently remain closed when it matters most. A homeless man was found dead in Toledo, raising critical questions about why faith-based institutions do not open their doors as warming centers during dire circumstances. With many churches only utilized a few times a week, it seems they could make a meaningful difference during these harsh conditions. Instead, many individuals within the church community have seemingly bought into the stigmatization of the homeless, seeing them as "dirty" or morally culpable rather than as fellow humans deserving of compassion.
Then we note the troubling rise of right-wing influence in the media, particularly through a CBS prime-time town hall featuring Erika Kirk, widow of far-right figure Charlie Kirk. The event, moderated by conservative commentator Bari Weiss, is framed as an exploration of grief, faith, and politics. The event is propaganda that perpetuates harmful narratives around women's roles, echoing the anti-feminist sentiments that Charlie Kirk espoused before his death. Erica's position as the new face of Kirk's organization is rife with irony. A former businesswoman, she is now expected to uphold her late husband's regressive vision of womanhood, which discourages career pursuits in favor of traditional domestic roles.
We then look at the potential severing of ties between the U.S. military and Scouting America due to the organization's evolving stance on inclusiveness, particularly with the inclusion of girls and LGBTQ+ individuals. The federal government should cut ties, years ago, because the scouts exclude atheists.
We also slip in an update on legal developments involving Pastor Chris Avell and his efforts to operate a homeless shelter in his church’s complex, in Bryan, Ohio, as he battles local ordinances. The situation raises significant questions about the intersection of religious freedom and public safety.
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We look at a concerning aspect of the LifeWise Academy's curriculum, which has been accused of promoting anti-Semitic teachings to children. We look at specific examples from the curriculum that seem to frame Jewish individuals as antagonists in the narrative surrounding Jesus Christ. Is it appropriate to be teaching such material to impressionable young minds, reinforcing harmful stereotypes rather than promoting understanding or compassion?
Next we talk about an officer with the Toledo Fire Department who was terminated for voicing indifference following the murder of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. The action raises broader concerns about free speech and political expression, especially considering that conservative ideologies often cry foul over cancellation when they face criticism or consequences for their statements.
Updating the ongoing Epstein saga, we’ve shifted into a phase where discussions on the age of victims have become disturbingly prevalent. This has reignited arguments about the nuances of consent as some right-wing figures attempt to minimize the severity of allegations connected to Epstein by suggesting distinctions between minors and young adults. We call out the moral bankruptcy of these arguments and the vast historical context surrounding the harmful trope of blaming individuals instead of the systemic issues that allow for such abuses. So of course the Catholic League wants to get on the age of the victim bandwagon.
We also add the voice of Rebecca Watson who takes the rich and powerful to task over the child abuse and trafficking detailed in the Epstein case especially as it touches some of the people in the science and freethought movement.
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We take a close look at the infomercial/documentary titled "Off-School Property," produced by LifeWise Academy, which claims to present a solution around the separation of church and state in education to have kids learn the Holy Bible. Released in over 700 theaters, this film promotes LifeWise Academy's approach to religious education during public school hours by manipulating facts and narratives to bolster their claims.
LifeWise boasts approximately $35 million in donations yet the organization struggles with uneven enrollment figures across various regions. Their film aims to mask such challenges with slick production value and emotionally charged testimonials, thus creating a facade of widespread acceptance and appeal.
We dissect a few key segments from the film, which employs a narrative structure that presents a problem — public school neutrality regarding religion — and follows up with the purported solution offered by LifeWise. Through the use of audio clips from the film, we will highlight instances where their portrayal of facts strays far from reality.
We also touch on the film's interpretation of the secularization of public education. The documentary argues that schools’ neutral stance toward religion is inherently hostile, misrepresenting foundational legal principles surrounding the separation of church and state.
The film oversimplifies the complexities of diverse beliefs within a pluralistic society. Many families already have the option to pursue religious education through private institutions if they choose not to utilize the public school system. The film's claims fail to acknowledge that public education serves all students, regardless of their faith, thereby necessitating a neutral, non-preferential environment. Lifewise leans on the voluntary aspect of their program but their ultimate goal is to integrated with the public school like gym and art.
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We discuss the resurgence of racism, particularly in this era of Trump’s rule. We start the journey talking about church-state separation in public schools, demonstrating the systematic violation of children’s rights when religious teachings are integrated in their education through policy created by Christian nationalists. This reversal of argumentation has prompted troubling precedent in some recent legal battles, including the notorious example of a football coach praying on the field that illustrates a dangerous narrative toward endorsement of religious activity in schools and how that leads to the latest conservative pushback on race and gender scholarships that is compounding systemic inequities not resolving them. The US Supreme Court is also poised to gut the Voting Rights Act to help dilute Black voting power since there are Black people in Congress and the conservatives believe that means voting rights protections aren't needed.
Transitioning to legislative developments, we examine a current bill in Ohio that was passed which would regulate the administration of overdose reversal drugs in schools, and was later amended to include provisions favorable to LifeWise Academy. The unthinkingly adopted passage of this amendment along partisan lines raises serious questions of transparency in governance and the continuance of favoring religious instruction during school hours at the expense of the fair funding of real rational education.
We then examine the connotations of President Trump's National Security Presidential Memorandum, in which those who oppose Trump and his policies are viewed as potential foes. The new measure aims to repress and silence all forms of political dissent. Building off that historical overreach, with some links to the past, we encourage listeners to be on their toes, aware and watchful — that engaging and informing each other on our rights is critical in standing up when the tide of intolerance and authoritarian government approaches.
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We start with the divisive legacy of Charlie Kirk, whose recent death has sparked a wave of controversy and hypocrisy from the far right. We begin by dissecting the blatant attempts to martyr Kirk, likening their efforts to a modern-day propaganda campaign reminiscent of Horst Wessel from the Nazi party era. We fervently argue against the glorification of a man who was a "racist" and "bigot," emphasizing how Kirk's sole purpose was to spread division and chaos through his flare for inciting fake debates on college campuses and his podcasts — all while profiting from his inflammatory rhetoric. From supporting January 6 insurrectionists to making harmful remarks about marginalized communities, we expose Kirk’s toxic legacy and the right's grotesque eagerness to canonize him posthumously.
Then to cleanse our palate, we have a discussion with Sean Nestor, a progressive activist in the Toledo area, who brings a fresh perspective on the current political landscape. He tackles the often-heard sentiment that voting doesn't matter, challenging the notion that both major parties are equally to blame for the political malaise. Sean argues for a more nuanced understanding of the electoral process, advocating for the potential impact of local and state-level elections, and emphasizing the need to actively participate even in a flawed system. The conversation highlights the importance of engagement in various political contexts and the necessity to build alternatives to the traditional two-party system.
We look at one solution to the problem by using ranked-choice voting, reflecting on its historical roots in Ohio and its potential to give voice to third parties and independent candidates. We express disappointment with current Republican efforts to suppress this voting method, linking it to broader trends of giving the powerful even more control at the electorate's expense. Sean raises critical points about representation and articulates a vision for a more inclusive political dialogue, particularly for the disenchanted voters who feel alienated by the status quo.
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We're calling out the blatant hypocrisy of Congressman Bob Latta and the GOP's latest con: rebranding Trump's tax cuts. They're trying to sell you a "Working Family Tax Cut," but the truth is, it's a handout to the rich that guts vital programs like Medicaid and SNAP. We'll expose how they're twisting the truth, even when the polls show that most people—including Republicans—aren't buying it. Are you ready to see through the smoke and mirrors?
Then, we're turning the spotlight on the dangerous game of putting questionable characters in charge of our health. We're talking about Robert Kennedy Jr. and his anti-vax agenda. We'll look at the consequences of promoting conspiracy theories and the very real threat of diseases making a comeback.
Finally we'll expose a shocking betrayal: an Ohio Union Council endorsing Vivek Ramaswamy, a self-proclaimed "tech bro" whose party has a history of stomping on workers' rights. Get ready to have your mind blown! This episode is your wake-up call. Are you ready to listen?
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We plunge headfirst into the alarming surge of authoritarianism gripping society, pointedly highlighting the conspicuous silence of self-proclaimed libertarians in the face of blatant governmental overreach. As federal troops patrol urban communities, we question the deafening quiet from those who ostensibly champion individual freedoms and civil liberties. It is perplexing to see libertarian support for figures like Donald Trump, whose policies have often expanded, rather than curtailed, governmental powers. It is argued that libertarians have seemingly abandoned their core principles in favor of populist sentiments, failing to uphold the traditional pillars of liberty amidst shifting political alliances.
We also dissect the controversial figure of Representative Jim Jordan, scrutinizing his role in defending individuals with deeply troubling pasts, including the recently spotlighted case of Ghislaine Maxwell. We expose the profound irony of Jordan advocating for a known sex trafficker, especially given his own historical allegations of turning a blind eye to sexual abuse during his tenure as a wrestling coach. This stark juxtaposition not only dismantles the credibility of his narrative but also ignites serious questions about accountability and integrity within the highest echelons of political discourse.
Further unsettling revelations emerge with the spotlight on LifeWise Academy, a Christian nationalist initiative that has amassed a staggering $35 million in donations. The operation is unflinchingly likened to a pyramid scheme, where local communities bear the brunt while the organization reaps substantial profits from their efforts.
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Congressman Mike Flood's recent town hall, promoting Medicaid work requirements, wasn't just a political event; it was a microcosm of the war on facts. Flood, while commendable for engaging directly with constituents, peddled a narrative devoid of scientific backing, painting a picture of able-bodied individuals leeching off the system. This blatant disregard for the reality that many Medicaid recipients are already working multiple jobs, juggling financial precarity and healthcare needs, is a dangerous form of political theater, designed to scapegoat the vulnerable and further erode the social safety net.
The performative outrage surrounding Medicaid conveniently ignores the complexities of healthcare access in America. Flood's arguments, echoing a chorus of conservative voices, rely on a simplistic, misleading narrative that conveniently ignores the data. Organizations like the Kaiser Family Foundation have repeatedly debunked the myth of the 'lazy' Medicaid recipient, showcasing the reality of individuals struggling to balance work, family, and debilitating health conditions. Flood's town hall, rather than a genuine attempt at policy discussion, served as a platform for disseminating misinformation and fueling divisive rhetoric.
Dr. Jessica Nurick's counterpoint provides a crucial antidote to this manufactured outrage. Her work dismantling health misinformation, whether tackling the manipulative narratives of social media influencers or clarifying the science behind nutrition and funding, is a beacon of reason in a sea of manufactured controversy. The attacks on evidence-based science, exemplified by Flood's rhetoric, are not merely political; they are an assault on public health. By highlighting the dangers of relying on simplistic narratives and embracing evidence-based policymaking, Dr. Nurick offers a vital path towards a more informed and equitable healthcare system.
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The walls are closing in on Trump, and the Epstein files are the wrecking ball. The longer he hides those documents, the deeper he sinks into the muck of child sex abuse allegations. It's a delicious irony, isn't it? The self-proclaimed anti-establishment champion brought down by his own shadow. This isn't just a political scandal; it's a Shakespearean tragedy unfolding in real time.
Conservative leaders preaching morality while secretly indulging in depravity? Shocking? Not really. It's a pattern as old as time. These so-called moral guardians are nothing but a pack of wolves in sheep's clothing, their public piety a thin veil over their private perversions. Their hypocrisy is so blatant it's practically a neon sign flashing: 'LIAR!' Their outrage over other people's sins is nothing but projection. They're terrified of being exposed.
Finally, the debate with Mehdi Hassan was a train wreck of epic proportions. Watching far-right conservatives, some openly embracing Nazi ideology, throw their support behind Trump was like watching democracy die a slow, agonizing death. The casual disregard for the Constitution, the gleeful embrace of authoritarianism – it was horrifying. One guy actually said he didn't care about the Constitution if it meant supporting Trump. The applause that followed was the sound of American ideals crumbling to dust. This isn't a fringe group; this is the face of modern conservatism. And it's terrifying.
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This isn't about policy; it's about power. A cabinet secretary's casual suggestion to replace deported farm-workers with able-bodied Medicaid recipients is a chilling glimpse into a heartless agenda. This isn't just incompetence; it's cruelty dressed up as a solution. They expect the poor to pick up the slack created by their own inhumane policies. It's a sick joke, and it's a blatant disregard for human dignity.
But it's not just about cheap labor. It's about dismantling the social safety net, brick by brick. Christian nationalists are using their influence to exploit loopholes and undermine the Johnson Amendment. They're trying to transform churches into political action committees, blurring the lines between faith and fascism.
Pastor Ralph Drollinger, the so-called spiritual advisor to Congress, is preaching a gospel of poverty as punishment. His twisted interpretation of scripture justifies starving the poor to line the pockets of the wealthy.
And who benefits from this? The rich, of course. Tax cuts for the wealthy are their holy grail, even if it means sacrificing the vulnerable to the altar of greed. They're betting that you'll be too distracted by culture wars to notice them looting the treasury. They're selling you a snake oil solution to a problem they created. Don't fall for it. This isn't about economics; it's about a systematic dismantling of compassion and justice. It's time to fight back before it's too late.
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The so-called "Religious Liberty Commission," born under Trump, isn't about freedom; it's a brazen power grab cloaked in piety. This Washington D.C. gathering, a veritable who's who of the Christian right, from Dan Patrick to Dr. Phil (?), convened to lament America's perceived lack of Christianity. But behind the hand-wringing, a sinister agenda brews: to enforce a Christian nationalist vision, silencing dissent and rewriting the rules to their liking.
This episode rips the mask off this charade, exposing the commission's blatant disregard for anyone outside their narrow religious circle. Witnesses like Fish Stark and Rachel Laser reveal a rhetoric of conspiracy and persecution, as these self-proclaimed victims twist reality to fit their narrative. We see this play out in Ohio, where the Center for Christian Virtue pushes a budget that betrays true Christian values, slashing funds for the vulnerable while advancing an anti-abortion crusade.
From Ohio's voucher programs to Tennessee's assault on trans youth healthcare, the episode lays bare the consequences of weaponized religious fervor. It's a fight for the soul of America, a battle against those who would twist religious freedom into a tool of oppression. This isn't about faith; it's about control, and it's time we call it what it is.
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We start with Doug's past as a member of the College Republicans, a segment of his life that seems almost distant now but also eerily relevant to the political climate we face today. His college experience at Ohio State in the mid-'80s was marked by a growing awareness of the discrepancies in the political narrative he had been raised with. Doug recounts how the rising tide of conservatism he once embraced began to clash with the realities he encountered—especially when it came to grappling with issues of race, free speech, and the responsibility of politicians towards their constituents.
Then we examine the current political theater in Los Angeles, where President Trump's administration has been deploying the National Guard to suppress protests—despite local law enforcement asserting that the situation was under control. This aggressive response is less about maintaining order and more about sending a message, punishing California for its dissent against Trump's dictatorial tendencies. The reckless display of power raises critical concerns about a government that no longer feels the need to ask for cooperation but rather demands compliance.
Digging deeper into the issue of immigration enforcement, we highlight the detrimental impact of ICE’s recent actions in Los Angeles, a situation that reflects a broader pattern of racial profiling and abuse of power. The targeting of undocumented workers not only perpetuates a cycle of fear but also threatens the very fabric of our economy, as these individuals contribute significantly to industries that many Americans overlook. Local economies are disrupted, and the communities that rely on these workers suffer as well. We draw parallels between my college disillusionment and the current political landscape, where the values we once accepted are now recognized as harmful to the principles of justice and equity.
Through personal anecdotes and current events, we emphasize the importance of free speech and peaceful protest, recalling a significant moment during Doug's college years when a counter-protester challenged a political figure's narrative. It served as a crucial reminder of the necessity for dissent in a democracy, a point that resonates strongly with the protests happening in response to Trump's actions today. We must resist the toxic mix of nationalism and authoritarianism that has taken root in our political discourse.
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In this episode, we look at the State of Utah’s Health Department-commissioned review, which confirmed the safety and mental health benefits of gender-affirming treatments for youth. Despite its clear findings, the review was dismissed by lawmakers determined to uphold a state ban, highlighting a disturbing political hypocrisy. This resistance to science in favor of ideological control exposes a deeper moral failure among those in power who choose to ignore expert guidance to further political ends.
On the national political stage, we analyze the 2024 election and President Biden’s decision to endorse Kamala Harris. The media's fixation on Biden’s mental fitness, as detailed in Jake Tapper’s book, reflects a shallow narrative more interested in spectacle than substance. We critique the media’s failure to prioritize pressing issues—like civil rights and healthcare—in favor of sensationalist coverage about President Biden while President Trump has escaped the same kind of drum beat over his mental issues.
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We start by focusing on the ongoing debate around school vouchers in Ohio, particularly as the state legislature is poised to debate the new budget bill, which proposes cuts to public school funding while simultaneously increasing financial support for private institutions. We clarify how these so-called "scholarships" are essentially vouchers that funnel taxpayer dollars into private religious schools, often in direct violation of the constitutional separation of church and state. Currently, despite 90% of students attending public schools, nearly $900 million has been funneled into private school vouchers, highlighting a bizarre funding disparity that raises questions about equity and accountability.
There are stark statistics illustrating that the majority of voucher funds benefit families already enrolled in private institutions. This misleading premise of "school choice" is particularly concerning for low-income families and those in rural areas, where no private options are available.
Then we look at the ramifications of the 2010 Citizens United Supreme Court decision, elucidating how it has contributed to the erosion of our democracy and facilitated the ascent of figures like Donald Trump. The decision has fundamentally altered campaign finance laws, allowing unlimited corporate spending in elections, which has skewed the political landscape in favor of wealthy interests and diluted the voices of the average citizen.
We discuss the broader implications of campaign finance reforms, the necessity for rigorous regulations to ensure that the influence of money doesn't overshadow the democratic process. We advocate for constitutional amendments that clarify the rights of corporations versus individuals to establish a fairer electoral landscape.
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We start this episode by discussing the ongoing controversy surrounding Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) in Ohio, spearheaded by LifeWise Academy. This initiative allows public school students to leave school for religious education in the middle of the day, exploiting legal loopholes to introduce religious content into public education. As part of my advocacy against these policies, we expose the tactics being employed by LifeWise representatives, including aggressive legal threats aimed at school districts adopting more cautious policies, particularly concerning promotional materials like treats and trinkets that facilitate recruitment into their programs.
Then we do an analysis of President Donald J. Trump's approval ratings after his first 100 days in office during his second administration. We provide insights into how these ratings can serve as a barometer for his political effectiveness, drawing comparisons with historical figures and past administrations. The consensus is clear—Trump's numbers are significantly underwater, reflecting dissatisfaction across multiple demographics and even within core support bases.
We assess what Trump's low approval ratings mean for the Republican Party and democracy at large. By drawing parallels with Trump's past actions and the historical context of his presidency, we convey a sense of urgency regarding the potential consequences of his policies and rhetoric. Recent protests against his administration's immigration policies highlight the public’s growing discontent and the strategic missteps that may lead to political upheaval.
We conclude with a sobering reflection on the tumultuous first 100 days of Trump's presidency and provide a call to action for listeners to engage with their political communities actively while remaining informed.
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We mark the 100th episode of Secular Left with a reading from the show manifesto that was read in Episode 1 in April 2020. We highlight its birth during a tumultuous time marked by political uncertainty and a public health crisis. The initial goal was to provide a platform to voice critical perspectives against the tide of misinformation and extreme conservatism proliferating in mainstream discourse, especially during the latter stages of the 1st Trump administration. We also revisit memorable moments throughout the first episodes, like the establishment of our guiding manifesto, which articulates our commitment to progressive values and the importance of secularism in navigating social issues.
Our guest is Dr. Juhem Navarro-Rivera, Political scientist and partner at Socialanalitica Research, who walks us through the latest Pew Research Religious Landscape Survey. He sheds light on the trends reflected in the Pew survey, most notably the rise of what he terms "cradle seculars." This demographic, comprised of individuals raised without religious affiliation who remain non-religious into adulthood, is growing at an unprecedented rate. The survey indicates an impressive upward trajectory: from 16% of the population identifying as secular in 2007 to nearly 29% in 2024. This surge challenges long-standing assumptions about religious identity, suggesting that many young people are increasingly less likely to return to religious practices as they age.
Delving into methodological considerations, Dr. Navarro-Rivera discusses the shift from telephone surveys to more inclusive methods incorporating online and paper formats. This change may have important implications for survey responses, particularly concerning sensitive topics like religious affiliation. We explore the effect of social stigma on reporting non-religious identities, emphasizing the need for transparency in polling methodologies to achieve more accurate insights.
As we unpack the nuances of the survey, our guest emphasizes the significance of understanding the growing secular identity not merely in terms of percentages but as a profound cultural shift representing approximately 76 million individuals in the U.S. We examine the evolving landscape of religious affiliation, noting a decline in Christian identification among younger demographics, and discuss how these trends can inform strategies for fostering secular communities that resonate with new generations.
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Amanda Quintero, an economist and author, is our guest and we explore her powerful new book, "We Said Farewell." Having left Venezuela during its tumultuous transition into authoritarianism, Amanda shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her collection of fictionalized short stories. The narratives stem from real experiences of her friends, illustrating the dire consequences of political oppression and the erosion of democratic values in Venezuela.
Amanda wrote the novel with a desire to document the struggle for freedom and to counter the prevailing narratives that misrepresent the Venezuelan reality. Through the stories, she captures the complexities of life under an authoritarian regime, weaving together the frustrations of her own experiences with those of her friends to create compelling narratives steeped in truth and emotional resonance.
The heart-wrenching accounts of kidnappings, political imprisonment, and the gradual disintegration of the rule of law serve as stark reminders of how quickly a democracy can devolve into tyranny.
Throughout our conversation, we discuss the broader implications of these stories, as Amanda insights how authoritarianism manifests in various contexts, including the United States. Her reflections on personal experiences encourage listeners to recognize the fragility of democratic institutions and how complacency can lead to disastrous outcomes. The exploration of economic inequality as a root cause of political instability further enriches our discussion, offering nuanced perspectives on the intersection of economics and governance.
Amanda expresses her hopes for readers to grasp the speed at which democracies can crumble and the critical importance of safeguarding rights and freedoms.
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Recent decisions that can significantly impact public welfare have emerge from a lack of contextual awareness. We explore the dangerous consequences of this mismanagement, particularly with the current administration’s interactions with Elon Musk, who has been given unwarranted access to vital government resources without accountability.
We recount the chaotic beginnings of the Trump administration, laying bare the questionable movements made during high-profile meetings, such as the infamous one with Ukrainian President Zelensky, which underscores the abysmal state of media influence and misinformation. An alarming trend emerges where individuals associated with the administration, lacking real expertise or credibility, direct crucial governmental maneuvers with minimal oversight, raising significant concerns over the vulnerabilities within our institutions.
There is an alarming trend of “slash and burn” approaches by Musk and his DOGE incels, who are indiscriminately accessing sensitive personal private information held by the Federal government. The implications of their superficial cuts are dire—jobs eliminated in vital sectors, such as the Veterans Administration, without understanding the significance of those roles. Reforms should stem from legislative actions and not arbitrary dismissals by unqualified individuals.
We look at a push, in the Ohio legislature, for the display of specific historical documents in public schools. This initiative serves as a front for instituting religious ideologies—specifically the Ten Commandments—under the guise of educational reform. We dissect this bill, explaining the historical context of legislative overreach and drawing parallels to past incidents where the separation of church and state has been tested and challenged.
We examine the motivations behind such legislative efforts, challenging the idea that simply placing these texts in schools could enrich the moral fabric of society. Instead, we argue that true education should empower students through critical thinking and contextual learning, rather than a superficial introduction to selected historical texts. The drive for these displays is less about education and more about a strategic push from Christian nationalist groups seeking to embed specific ideologies in public institutions.
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In this episode, we engage with Martin Armitage, co-author of the book "Tyrant in a Top Hat," which challenges the conventional narrative surrounding President Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. We delve into thought-provoking questions: Did Lincoln ignite a civil war unnecessarily? Are the consequences of that conflict still reverberating through our society today? And could the United States benefit from a reevaluation, perhaps even division, based on differing cultural values?
Armitage, bringing a rich background in history and political service, aims to encourage listeners to think critically about Lincoln's decision-making in 1861. His book seeks not to indoctrinate its readers with a particular viewpoint but rather to provoke discussion and self-reflection regarding historical interpretation and its implications for modern governance. We explore the historical context in which Lincoln operated, including the possibility that alternative measures could have been taken to address rising tensions rather than resorting to war.
One of the compelling arguments in the book is the exploration of Lincoln’s suspension of habeas corpus, a controversial move that prioritized national security over individual rights during a time of crisis. Armitage explains the significance of habeas corpus as a cornerstone of civil liberties, and we discuss whether Lincoln's actions set a troubling precedent for future governance.
As our conversation evolves, we also touch upon Armitage's proposals for how modern-day America, which he describes as a "fractured nation," might navigate its profound ideological divides. He suggests the potential for regions within the U.S. to separate based on cultural lines, advocating for a new political structure that emphasizes local governance while maintaining overarching national protections for rights. While these ideas might seem radical, they stem from a desire to find practical solutions to contemporary issues of polarization and disenfranchisement.
Throughout the episode, listeners are invited to engage with these challenging concepts and to reflect on what they mean for our understanding of modern democracy. At the end of the interview, Doug provides his own perspective, critiquing Armitage’s conclusions while acknowledging the value of his inquiries. Doug emphasizes the importance of spirited debate and the necessity for a strong central government dedicated to protecting universal rights for all citizens, expressing his belief that the fight for equality and civil liberties must continue unabated.
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We explore the troubling narrative surrounding President Trump’s administration and its move to shut down USAID, a crucial foreign aid agency established by President Kennedy. We highlight how the dismantling of USAID can severely undermine America's relationships with democratic allies, turning foreign policy into a transactional affair where friendship is bargained rather than earned.
We see how this aligns with the broader strategy laid out in Project 2025 – to eliminate foreign aid altogether, thereby creating a vacuum that could benefit adversaries like Russia and China. I also discuss the complexities of USAID's legacy, from humanitarian efforts to its controversial political ramifications, all in the context of a government that seems increasingly willing to sacrifice long-standing institutions in favor of short-term gains.
We then shift to Ohio Attorney General David Yost, who has announced his run for governor, embodying a brand of conservative politics that is deeply entrenched in hypocrisy and moral failure. We examine Yost’s record, from his opposition to reproductive rights to his role in targeting marginalized individuals while neglecting corporate misconduct. His political motivations, rooted in Christian nationalism and a disdain for progressive values, raise serious questions about his leadership potential and the implications for Ohio's future.
Finally, we discuss recent comments made by Trump regarding a proposed takeover of Gaza, exploring how such rhetoric reverberates through the Arab-American community and beyond. This segment connects to the consequence of political decisions leading to the rise and fall of candidate support, specifically focusing on the uncommitted movement within Michigan that emerged in response to dissatisfaction with Biden's policies and the fallout of their choices during the elections. The episode is a critical examination of how protest votes can inadvertently strengthen opponents, underscoring the need for strategic electoral engagement.
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Ohio’s recent legislative developments have sparked significant controversy. The state’s governor signed a "Don't Say Gay" bill into law, which not only limits discussions on LGBTQ+ topics in schools but also permits a Christian Nationalist group to remove children to bible study in the middle of the school day. Meanwhile, a federal judge ruled that using preferred pronouns constitutes a violation of the First Amendment, deepening the national debate on LGBTQ+ rights. Professor Jerry Coyne has come under fire for his use of biological arguments to justify discrimination, while in a positive turn, a Trans woman has been appointed to a city council, offering a glimmer of hope amid these challenges. These events reflect the growing cultural and legal tensions surrounding LGBTQ+ issues, free speech, and the role of religion in public education.
We start with the contentious signing of a "Don't Say Gay" bill into law by Ohio’s governor, which has drawn sharp criticism for not only silencing conversations around sexual orientation in schools, especially for younger students, but also for enabling a Christian Nationalist group to indoctrinate public school children during school hours. The bill, now formalized under House Bill 8, imposes significant restrictions on discussing sexuality and mandates that educators inform parents of any changes in a student’s wellness services, particularly concerning their gender identity. The legislation aims to erase LGBTQ+ visibility while perpetuating a culture of fear and secrecy among students questioning their identities.
A federal judge's recent decision, which declared that requiring teachers to use transgender students' preferred pronouns violates First Amendment rights, characterized such requirements as coercive. We emphasizes the chilling effect this ruling has on educators and students alike, reinforcing stigma and hostility against transgender individuals. We also critique the rationale used by the judge, criticizing the failure to recognize the basic dignity and rights of individuals as a cornerstone of this democracy.
In a more hopeful turn, we celebrate a victory for representation as Arienne Childry, a trans woman, was appointed to the city council for St. Mary’s, Ohio. This appointment marks a significant milestone as it reflects the progress being made at local levels despite the oppressive legislative environment. We underscore the importance of having representatives who genuinely embody the values of inclusion and secular humanism within governmental structures, marking Childry's presence as a beacon of hope in a state riddled with anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment.
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We dive into the recent tumult surrounding two significant topics affecting public policy and religious freedom in Ohio. The spotlight is first placed on LifeWise Academy's attempts to ingratiate itself into Ohio public schools, alongside the ongoing case involving Dad's Place Church in Bryan, Ohio, as the Ohio Attorney General, David Yost, enters the fray. With rising tensions and opposing viewpoints, Doug dissects these developments, providing new insights into the legal and social landscape of the state.
We get a comprehensive update on House Bill 8, a contentious piece of legislation that combines both anti-LGBT elements and provisions for Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI). Doug reflects on the dynamics at play in the Ohio Senate's late-session debate, highlighting how amendments to the bill were pieced together amidst a growing coalition of concerned residents and advocacy groups opposed to the bill for one reason or another.
Moving on to the case of Dad's Place Church, we contextualize the ongoing legal struggles faced by Pastor Chris Avell, who operates a makeshift homeless shelter in his church. A prior agreement between the city and Avell fell apart due to the pastor’s lack of adherence to necessary zoning regulations.
The situation escalated as the city issued citations, resulting in a federal lawsuit propelled by the Christian nationalist legal organization First Liberty. We discuss how Yost's recent input in support of Avell raises critical questions about government interference in religious endeavors, especially in light of accusations that the city is selectively enforcing regulations against the church under the guise of public safety. We dissect Yost’s statements, questioning the narrative of animosity and exploitation that shapes the discourse around this case.
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The recent murder of Brian Thompson, the CEO of United Healthcare, unearthed lingering debates about health care reform from back during President Obama's administration. The murder, occurring outside a high-profile hotel in New York City, ignites discussions about the frustrations directed at health insurance corporations, reminiscent of grievances voiced during the 2009 health care debates. We reflect on how the tragic event serves as a grim backdrop to the ongoing conversation about making health care universally accessible and the long-overlooked promise of a public option.
We examine the discontent over how progressives were misled into believing that the ACA could be the first step toward more comprehensive reform, which has yet to materialize more than a decade later. The lack of subsequent development towards a public option or Medicare-for-all only deepens the disenchantment among many supporters of health care reform, echoing similar frustrations that arose during the passage of the ACA.
We then shift to a significant legislative issue in Ohio: the proposed House Bill 8, which mirrors the contentious “Don’t Say Gay” laws previously enacted in Florida. This bill threatens the existing protections for LGBTQ+ students, requiring educators to disclose a student's questioning of their identity to their parents, regardless of the potential risks involved. We articulate my concerns regarding the bill's impacts on both secular education and the welfare of vulnerable students, who could face dangerous repercussions from such mandatory disclosures.
We scrutinize the underhanded political maneuvers involved in the Ohio legislature that aim to push this bill through under the guise of parental rights while ignoring the necessary considerations for the well-being of children in precarious home environments. By equating education with indoctrination, the proponents of House Bill 8 jeopardize crucial inclusivity and awareness in public schools, which are designed to expand children's horizons beyond their immediate experiences.
The strategies employed by proponents of Ohio House Bill 8 reveal the extent to which political agendas can distort education and silence essential dialogues around diversity and inclusion. As we navigate this landscape, it becomes evident that the fight for equitable health care and just policies for all students is far from over, requiring vigilant advocacy from citizens and allies in the progressive movement.
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In this episode, we delve into the current legislative climate in Ohio as the state legislature rushes through a series of controversial bills during the lame duck session. The urgency to pass these bills stems from the impending expiration of the General Assembly at the end of December, compelling lawmakers to push through legislation that aligns with their agendas. One such bill is an alarming proposal would force public-schools to allow LifeWise Academy, an evangelical organization, to conduct religious instruction during school hours, undermining the secular nature of public education.
The bills — House Bill 445 and Senate Bill 293 — would mandate public school districts to adopt a release time religious instruction policy, facilitating LifeWise's access to students for indoctrination under the guise of education. We emphasize the inconsistencies in the motivations of those advocating for such legislation, noting the hypocrisy of their concerns about indoctrination when it comes to secular subjects like critical race theory, while simultaneously promoting religious teachings in public schools.
The episode features insights from bill hearings earlier this month, where key figures, including LifeWise founder Joel Penton, faced scrutiny over the lack of guidelines for their proposed programs. In a particular clip, Penton struggles to understand why there is growing opposition to LifeWise's encroachment into public education, attributing it to their increasing popularity rather than genuine concerns about the integrity of educational institutions and the rights of parents and children.
Throughout the episode, we juxtapose comments made by LifeWise representatives with those of concerned parents and activists, such as Keith Comer, drawing attention to a disturbing trend where religious entities are increasingly seeking to integrate their agendas into public education under the cover of community service. Interestingly, the conversation shifts to how these legislative machinations are not just about religious freedom, but about securing a foothold for a particular ideology within our educational framework.
Finally, we reflect on the implications of these policies if enacted, questioning whether public schools should be used as platforms for religious indoctrination under any circumstance. This episode serves not only as a critique of specific bills but as an urgent appeal for vigilance in protecting educational integrity from sectarian influences.
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We take a deep dive into the recent election and its ramifications, focusing particularly on the Democrats' surprising loss and the implications for future campaigns. We look at both the evident and subtle factors that contributed to this outcome. Being a black woman was a significant hurdle for Vice President Kamala Harris, which I argue led to a disheartening decline in support from key demographics, particularly among white women.
We reflect on the expansive backing Harris had throughout her campaign—endorsements from high-profile figures, a massive fundraising effort, and relentless campaigning in critical swing states. Despite these advantages, we dissect several conventional narratives that emerged post-election, including claims about "wokeness" hurting her candidacy. These perspectives fail to recognize the historical biases that women, and especially women of color, face in political arenas. The correlation between Harris's identity and the voting decisions by constituents shines a light on the entrenched prejudices in the electorate.
The the role of the media can't be overlooked in shaping public perception and the electoral outcome. We draw stark contrasts between how the media covered the candidacy of Trump versus Harris. The disparity in coverage serves as a significant barrier to the Democrats' message and outreach. Right-wing media not only sets the news agenda but also propagates narratives that undermine Democratic candidates.
We highlight the absurdity of critiques directed at Democratic strategies, especially in the face of a system that fundamentally prioritizes white male leadership and often disregards the complexities of intersectionality in politics.
There is a vital requirement for a counterbalance to the dominant right-wing platforms that distort narratives for political gain. If the Democrats are to regain ground, establishing robust media channels to promote liberal perspectives and to advocate for equitable policies is paramount.
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We speak with secular political activist Sarah Levin about the evolving landscape for secular voters within the Democratic Party, the implications of interfaith coalitions, and the role of non-religious constituents in upcoming elections.
We also explore Sarah's substantial activism, including her role as founder of Secular Strategies and her efforts to establish secular representation within the Democratic National Committee (DNC). She emphasizes the significant strides made since her last appearance, particularly the inclusion of non-religious voices in the DNC’s interfaith efforts and the official endorsement of the principle of separation of church and state in the party's platform for the first time. Doug and Sarah also discuss the challenges that still exist, including the perception issues surrounding secular candidates among both voters and the party apparatus.
Sarah reflects on the importance of building a political identity that resonates with both non-religious voters and religious individuals, stressing the necessity of intersectionality in politics. We also focus on voter engagement and the upcoming elections.
A critical segment of the conversation addresses the complex U.S. relationship with Israel amidst the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Sarah articulates her belief that while the U.S. has historically provided unquestioned support to Israel, this is a moment for reevaluation—especially in light of the potential ramifications of a Trump administration, which promises more extreme measures than current policies.
Finally we encourage listeners to actively participate in the political process, follow updates on secular candidates, and engage in conversations that amplify the non-religious voice. With Sarah Levin's groundwork laying the foundation for future progress, this episode serves as a clarion call to recognize both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for secular individuals in politics.
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We look into the murky waters of political dishonesty prevalent during the current election cycle, particularly focusing on the blatant lies propagated in political advertisements. With election day swiftly approaching, it’s easy to lose sight of the facts amidst the barrage of misleading ads from large PACs like the Congressional Leadership Fund and American Prosperity Fund. Unlike other forms of advertising that are subject to regulatory scrutiny, political ads enjoy the protections of the First Amendment, allowing candidates to misrepresent facts without penalty.
Then we look at the recent vice presidential debate, which we approach with skepticism, arguing that these events are mere vehicles for candidates to produce soundbites for future commercials rather than genuine discussions of policy. C.F. Vance’s performance is scrutinized, particularly his fabrications regarding Trump’s stance on Obamacare. The focus shifts to Trump’s ongoing legal battles, highlighting the critical distinction made by prosecutor Jack Smith about what constitutes official actions versus private actions in the context of election interference. It’s crucial for voters to grasp that the president's attempts to influence the election were not part of his official duties—a point we argue could play a significant role in the upcoming election.
Next we grapple with the aftermath of a devastating hurricane that recently struck Florida and made its way through the southeast. The political ramifications of disaster recovery aid, particularly the outrage from conservatives about federal assistance, are examined. We clarify the purpose of the $750 immediate assistance offered by FEMA, juxtaposing it against the broader and more complex recovery efforts needing more time to be processed. This sense of urgency is contrasted with the indifference displayed by congressional leaders who postpone aid packages for political gain.
Lastly, we celebrate a recent victory for school districts standing up against LifeWise Academy — an evangelical initiative that seeks to impose religious instruction during the school day, rather than as an extracurricular activity. We break down the controversy surrounding a school board in Westerville, Ohio, which voted to rescind its policy that allowed LifeWise to operate during school hours. This decision was driven not only by concerns over curriculum disruption and liability but also by broader implications about maintaining the secular integrity of public education. LifeWise’s attempts to portray itself as a victim of circumstance and its extensive funding sources underscore the lengths to which such organizations will go to infiltrate public schools.
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We look at the alarming trend of Republican rhetoric surrounding immigration, particularly their attempts to vilify Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio. Drawing comparisons to the divisive strategies of Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, we explore how the GOP is leveraging fear and misinformation to distract voters from their lack of substantial policy proposals.
During the debate, Trump absurdly suggested that immigrants in Springfield were resorting to eating pets—a claim that sparked ridicule from Vice President Kamala Harris and has since been debunked by local authorities and independent fact-checkers. The persistence of such lies indicates a broader strategy by Republicans to unite their base through fear-mongering and scapegoating marginalized communities. With no concrete plans for critical issues like healthcare or the economy, the GOP resorts to these gimmicks to rally support.
Republican Vivek Ramaswamy hosted a town hall event, where local residents expressed concerns about the integration of immigrants. Notably absent from this discussion were representatives from the Haitian community, which raises questions about the inclusivity of the dialogue surrounding immigration. While Ramaswamy blamed the role of federal policies in the situation, much of the conversation was steeped in fear and blame directed at the newcomers rather than seeking solutions collaboratively.
We then expose the hollow messages underpinning the campaign of Derek Merrin, a Republican candidate for Ohio’s 9th Congressional District. Marrin focuses on immigration as a key issue while neglecting to address pressing concerns like economic development and resources for existing residents. His vague promises of returning high-paying jobs to the area are juxtaposed against a history of Republican governance that has failed to deliver tangible results.
The current immigration discourse often overlooks the positive contributions of immigrants, focusing instead on exaggerated fears. This conversation serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue grounded in facts and compassion rather than fear and misinformation.
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We investigate the political tactics of the Republican Party as we approach the election season, highlighting their reliance on divisive rhetoric around immigration rather than substantive policy proposals. With a convicted felon leading the party, it's become apparent that their strategy is to invoke fear rather than offer solutions. We examine how they've resurrected the illegal immigrant narrative to scare voters, particularly targeting older white demographics and the more gullible segments of their base. We debunk the myths surrounding undocumented immigrants voting, emphasizing the legal complexities and safeguarding mechanisms in place that prevent such occurrences.
Transitioning to a critical toolkit developed to counter the rise of Christian nationalism in public education, we share insights from Doug's involvement with the Honesty for Ohio Education advocacy group. This toolkit serves as a comprehensive guide for parents, educators, and community members looking to navigate the treacherous waters of Release Time Religious Instruction (RTRI) policies, which allow students to leave school for religious instruction during the day. We explain the manipulative strategies deployed by groups like Lifewise Academy, which disguises its religious agenda under a veneer of character-based education, while the reality is an aggressive attempt to convert schoolchildren to Christianity.
A major component of the tool-kit is a critical review of the data backing Lifewise Academy’s claims of positive outcomes for students participating in their program. By exposing the statistical manipulation and selective reporting methodologies, we argue that such claims are more about marketing than genuine educational benefits. Good education should prioritize the well-being and development of the student, free from religious indoctrination.
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We Don't Want Empty Promises, Party Manipulations, Or Politcal Bridge Burning
We look into the ongoing political landscape in Ohio, dissecting the implications of a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at curbing gerrymandering that could potentially end the Republican supermajority in the state. The Ohio Ballot Board's recent attempt to manipulate the ballot summary for this measure raises serious concerns about transparency and fairness. We examine the political maneuvering behind this effort and discuss how it fits into the larger narrative of electoral integrity.
We reflect on Senator Chuck Schumer's remarks to reporters during the 2024 Democratic National Convention. Schumer's bold assertion that voting Democrat in November will lead to significant changes in the filibuster deserves scrutiny. We explore the skepticism that surrounds these promises, given past experiences where similar assertions did not materialize into action once the Democrats had power. The question remains: can we trust the Democratic leadership to follow through on commitments that can reshape legislative processes critical to our democracy?
Then we unpack the disappointing political ad from Rep. Marcy Kaptur, a longtime House Democrat facing re-election. The ad's attempt to appeal to conservative constituents while alienating progressives highlights a troubling trend within the party. Kaptur's rhetorical decisions, particularly her invocation of "the far left," indicate a strategy that sacrifices progressive values in a bid for political survival. We analyze the implications of such messaging and question whether it will succeed in winning over voters who are fundamentally opposed to her party's principles.
Throughout the episode, we engage with the underlying themes of accountability, representation, and the challenges facing candidates in a polarized political environment. As Ohioans prepare for a pivotal election, the conversations surrounding these issues become increasingly crucial. How can we encourage a more inclusive political discourse that genuinely represents the diversity of opinions and needs within our communities?
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In this spicy episode, we give you many reasons why voting for Donald Trump in the upcoming election is not a wise choice. We look into the history of the 2024 presidential election, highlighting the lack of merit in considering Trump as a viable candidate due to his questionable character and numerous controversies during his previous presidency. We call out the absurdity in Trump's behavior, highlighting his divisive rhetoric and lack of concern for the well-being of the American people.
We look at the potential implications of a Trump presidency, drawing parallels to historical events and emphasizing the dangers of embracing divisive ideologies. We urge listeners to critically analyze the information presented to them, especially in the age of social media where misinformation can easily spread. Additionally, we touch on the importance of understanding the motives behind political posts and the responsibility of individuals to engage in meaningful conversations based on facts and context.
We then highlight the potential scenarios surrounding the upcoming election, expressing concerns about possible election interference and the need for vigilance in protecting democracy. We emphasize the importance of making informed choices and not falling prey to divisive tactics or fear-mongering strategies employed by certain political factions. Consider the long-term implications of your voting decisions and prioritize the well-being of the country and future generations by making informed and thoughtful choices at the ballot box.
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In this jammed packed episode, we talk with Zach and Molly, parents who are taking a stand against LifeWise Academy, an evangelical Christian nationalist group that has found a way to seep into public schools through a legal loophole. They have formed Parents Against LifeWise to shed light on the group's questionable tactics, lack of background checks on members, and the concerning activities they are engaged in. The episode paints a grim picture of how school districts are turning a blind eye to the situation, emphasizing the urgent need for public awareness and action to combat the influence of such groups in educational settings.
We touch on the frustrating moments of silence encountered when reaching out to organizations like FFRF and Ohio ACLU, who have failed to address the issues at hand adequately. This inaction leaves children vulnerable and without proper representation, highlighting the crucial role parents play in advocating for their rights. The responsibility falls on schools to ensure they are held accountable for any violations, rather than letting external groups like LifeWise escape blame for any harmful activities.
The discussion exposes the deceptive nature of LifeWise, presenting itself as non-denominational while promoting exclusive evangelical beliefs, potentially preying on susceptible communities. Their curriculum, based on the Southern Baptist Convention, spreads harmful ideologies among impressionable young minds, as evidenced by documents detailing their damaging teachings. The podcast also shines a light on individuals like Joel Penton, involved in the group's questionable practices under the guise of motivational speeches with underlying religious agendas. The dubious funding sources and misleading petition strategies employed by LifeWise raise significant concerns about their true motives.
We finally explore the legal challenges faced by Zach, who shared LifeWise's curriculum online and is now embroiled in a lawsuit with the group. Despite accessing the material lawfully and with no profit motive, Zach finds himself in a legal battle against LifeWise, showcasing the community rallying behind him for support. We touch on a recent scandal involving a former LifeWise employee, adding layers of complexity to the situation. Zach expresses gratitude for the solidarity received and discusses avenues for assistance in his legal defense as the podcast concludes with well-wishes for his upcoming court proceedings, directing listeners to their website for further information and updates.
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In this episode, we open with noting a recent US Supreme Court decision in a social media censorship case. Then we discuss the hysteria in Ohio over trans women playing sports and the unconstitutional Ten Commandments law recently enacted in Louisiana. We explore how these laws are impacting individuals and communities, especially the LGBTQ+ community, and the arguments against them.
The discussion highlights the origin story of the anti-trans athlete hysteria in Ohio and how misinformation led to legislative actions. The episode also covers the significance of the Ten Commandments law in Louisiana and its potential unconstitutionality, drawing parallels to historical cases and legal precedents. We delve into the implications of displaying religious texts in public schools and the violation of religious freedom for students.
Moreover, the conversation touches on the motivations behind these initiatives, such as Christian nationalism and power dynamics. The focus on history and tradition in legal arguments is critiqued for distorting facts and misrepresenting the founding principles of the country. The role of separation of church and state in ensuring individual freedoms is emphasized, contrasting with attempts to influence laws based on religious beliefs.
Constitutional lawyer Andrew Seidel's perspective on the Ten Commandments law and the legal challenges it may face adds depth to the analysis. The conversation also delves into the broader context of conservative legal strategies, including originalism and the manipulation of history to advance specific agendas. Ultimately, the episode advocates for upholding secular foundations and individual rights enshrined in the Constitution, emphasizing the relevance of separation of church and state in protecting diverse beliefs and promoting equality.
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A recent bill introduced by Christian Nationalists in Ohio labels the existence of trans individuals as obscene. We look into the implications of such legislation and questions the necessity for laws that perpetuate bigotry towards the LGBTQ community. The significance of Pride Month in June is highlighted, emphasizing the celebration of the LGBTQ community's progress and their ongoing fight for acceptance and equal rights. The origin of Pride events stemming from the Stonewall Riots in 1969 is discussed, shedding light on the struggles faced by the community in the past.
The episode revisits historical events such as the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, demonstrating the ongoing marginalization faced by the LGBTQ community. The discussion also touches on the resistance faced by Pride festivals in conservative towns like Celina, Ohio, where Christian Nationalists attempted to obstruct drag performances under the guise of obscenity. We dissect the motives behind such legislation and expose the underlying bigotry and discrimination embedded within.
The subsequent introduction of Ohio House Bill 245 to ban drag performances in the presence of children is scrutinized, with a focus on the testimonies provided during the bill's hearings. We look into the arguments presented by proponents of the bill, highlighting the discriminatory nature of the proposed legislation. The episode outlines the concerns raised by lawmakers and activists regarding the potential impact of such laws on the LGBTQ community, emphasizing the need to combat institutionalized discrimination and bigotry.
Our overarching theme of promoting inclusivity, acceptance, and equal rights for all individuals, irrespective of their gender identity or sexual orientation, is reiterated. The call to action to challenge discriminatory laws and elect representatives who champion equality and diversity forms a pivotal message, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for LGBTQA+ rights and the importance of fostering an inclusive society.
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We delve into the upcoming 2024 election and the current political landscape. There is disbelief in polls showing Trump ahead of Biden, emphasizing the concerning reality of Trump's character and actions. We highlight the stark differences between the two major candidates, pointing out Trump's history of dishonesty, racism, and legal troubles, juxtaposed with Biden's relatively honest and family-oriented background.
We address the media's focus on election predictions and the tactics used to create drama and anxiety among voters. We express frustration with the attempt to predict election outcomes before they happen and touch on polling data showing Trump's popularity among specific demographics and how this relates to trust in government and not voting.
We move on to discuss the unique challenges Ohio faces as a state no longer considered a bellwether in elections. We look at various social and political issues plaguing Ohio, such as overrepresentation in certain crimes and corruption scandals, and how they contribute to the state's current situation.
We find the primary anxiety fueling Trump's popularity is rooted in racism and bigotry rather than economic concerns. We emphasize the impact of racist beliefs on voting behavior, highlighting the influence of conservative media and talk radio in promoting such ideologies.
Wrapping up we urge listeners to consider the consequences of not voting for the lesser of two evils in the upcoming election stressing the importance of confronting racism and bigotry in politics and the potential dangers of allowing such beliefs to shape the country's future.
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Could Ohio's latest law be a seismic shift toward religious indoctrination in public schools? We grapple with the state's decision to allow Bible classes during school hours, and the societal tremors it's causing. Explore with me the backlash from an Ohio State Representative against cities supporting abortion rights, despite Ohio's recent Abortion Rights Amendment. We also mention the electric atmosphere surrounding former President Donald Trump's trial in NYC, scrutinizing the charges of hush payments and the potential courtroom chess game.
The meat of the episode lays out LifeWise's aggressive expansion, as this organization plants religious instruction within the fabric of public education – raising red flags over transparency and ethicality. We also scrutinize the recent Reproductive Rights Amendment's rocky road to enforcement and the polarizing legislation that threatens the rights of transgender individuals in Ohio. As we connect the dots between these critical issues, we underscore the importance of civic participation and the power of your vote to shape the future. From controversial amendments to the "bathroom ban" bill and beyond, this episode is a clarion call for social justice and an informed electorate ready to stand against the incursions of Christian nationalism into our public institutions.
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America is facing a tipping point in potentially losing its democracy in 2024, particularly if Trump wins the upcoming election. White Christian nationalists are identified as a significant influence pushing the country towards this tipping point. We take a deep dive into the concept of Christian nationalism, which conflates American identity with an exclusive form of religious identity, seeking to concentrate power in a select group based on anti-democratic notions of white supremacy, nativism, patriarchy, and authoritarianism.
We next hear a speech given by Dr. Anthea Butler, at the recent Summit for Religious Freedom. Dr. Butler underscores the political nature of Christian nationalism, emphasizing its goal of power and influence over religious or theological positions. The discussion also touches on the historical ties between Christian nationalism and racial subjugation, tracing back to the justification of slavery using Christian scriptures.
Dr. Butler calls upon listeners to educate themselves, advocate for inclusivity, and actively resist the encroachment of Christian nationalist ideals into public spheres.
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We delve into the complex topic of free speech and its limits. Free speech is not an absolute right and there can be the regulation of speech in certain contexts. A prime example is in a nearby conservative town where a vocal individual disrupts city council meetings with personal attacks on the mayor, correctly leading to the consideration of new public comment rules.
Transitioning to economic matters, we discuss a minimum wage increase in California and its impact on fast-food workers. We challenge the notion that corporations cannot afford wage hikes, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation for workers. Corporate greed and price gouging is driving inflation, highlighting the concentration of power in the hands of a few corporations as a key factor. Drawing on insights from economist Robert Reich, we argue that corporate dominance leads to higher prices and record profits, rather than inflation being solely to blame.
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We update a local school busing dispute involving families wanting better accommodations for their children being transported to a Catholic school, citing concerns about early start times and religious freedom violations.
In the discussion on Ohio's school voucher expansion, concerns were raised about the diversion of public funds to private schools without proper oversight. Despite the intention to aid students in struggling public schools, data showed that isn't happening and is probably a feature of the scam.
Racist Derek Merrin won his nomination for a congressional seat and we also delved into progressive discontent with President Biden over his handling of Israel-Palestine issues, leading to debates on voting strategies and allegiance to party lines. Moreover, we highlighted Robert Kennedy Jr.'s anti-vaccination stance and his unlikely prospects as a political candidate, underlining the challenges of third-party competition in the US political landscape.
We conclude with a critical examination of justice disparities for wealthy individuals like Trump compared to the average citizen, questioning the fairness of the legal system.
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We delve into the Ohio 2024 primary elections where three white Republican candidates in the congressional race are resorting to racist rhetoric in their campaign ads. These candidates include State Representative Derek Merrin, who is a Christian nationalist known for his anti-LGBT stance and attacks on trans kids.
The episode explores how these candidates dehumanize undocumented individuals by perpetuating a false narrative of a border invasion by dangerous drug smugglers. Their campaign materials depict imagery of fear and urgency surrounding border security, echoing Trump's policies and advocating for a fortified wall. The lack of compassion is apparent.
We then dissect misleading claims made in campaign literature against Derek Merrin, painting him as a liberal based on selective votes. We meticulously fact-check these claims, revealing the nuanced context behind Merrin's decisions and highlighting the manipulation of facts in political messaging. The discussion also touches on the shortcomings of campaign regulations, allowing for deceptive practices in advertising.
00:49 Racism Is A Deplorable MAGA Feature
18:31 Derek Merrin the liberal??
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Do political and religious conservatives really understand DEI? We challenge popular misconceptions about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, confronting the unfounded fears that it poses a threat to traditional values. We dissect the essence of DEI, illustrating how it nurtures communities where every individual, irrespective of their background, is acknowledged, valued, and given equitable opportunities. Contrary to the myth about affirmative action, DEI seeks representation and fairness, not unearned advantage—an idea powerfully echoed in a featured clip from The Root that we'll explore, shedding light on DEI's transformative role across various sectors.
Tensions rise as we scrutinize the recent inflammatory comments from Ohio's 9th Congressional District candidate JR Majewski and their ripple effects within the political landscape. Assessing his suitability for office, we confront the wider issues facing the Republican Party in the wake of his divisive rhetoric.
Shifting focus to the heated battle over reproductive rights, we unravel the complexities of IVF and the ramifications of classifying embryos as legal persons in Alabama. The episode probes the intersection of humanism with the separation of church and state, bringing to the forefront the profound societal consequences of these deeply personal and contentious legal challenges and the clueless Republicans who don't know what IVF is.
This is our 75th Episode!
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We explore the controversial subject of police conduct, particularly in situations where an individual seeks to commit 'suicide by cop.' We then shift to the media's fixation on President Biden's age, questioning why it garners such attention and criticizing how coverage distracts from more substantive political discourse. Finally, we share our thoughts on the disappointing return of Jon Stewart to the Daily Show and how he plays into unneeded political equivocation.
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Former evangelical minister Bruce Gerencser joins us to unravel a legal tangle where religious freedom clashes with municipal zoning laws. We dissect the contentious situation surrounding Pastor Chris Avell, a friend of Bruce's, who's currently embroiled in a federal lawsuit against the city of Bryan, Ohio. We dissect the merits of Avell's decision to transform his church into a 24/7 sanctuary for the homeless. With Christian Nationalists making this a national story and the First Liberty Insitute being involved, we see a repeat of a pattern where there is a claim of perscution that is actually just incovience and friendly courts help the religious avoid laws and regulations that apply to everyone else.
We take a deeper look at the ramifications of homelessness in rural communities, particularly how small churches like Dad's Place are caught in the crossfire of wanting to help and being hindered by red tape. We question the consistency and impact of health and safety laws on church start-ups operating in repurposed buildings. By examining the struggle to navigate outdated codes and the lack of political momentum to tackle the homelessness crisis, this conversation aims to shine a light on the poignant narrative of small churches wrestling with their role in social outreach amid legal constraints. We agree with Bruce that Pastor Avell needs to follow the law while the city needs to do better to help the homeless.
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Humanists International just released their 2023 Freedom of Thought Report that documents the efforts to protect or not protect religious freedom in all the countries in the world. The US government created the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom in 1998 to call out countries that violate religious freedom.
One of these efforts is trying to hold the powerful accountable for religious freedom and the other is a bad faith attempt to privilege Christianity using the power of the state.
We examine the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom and ask why haven't any atheists been appointed yet several Christian Nationalists have been.
Finally we hear clips of comments made at the Humanists International press conference about the newest report. We hear from Reps. Jaime Raskin and Jared Huffman from the Congressional Freethought Caucus and others about the importance of the report and religious freedom for all.
00:40 Introduction of the 2023 Freedom of Thought Report
05:04 Why The Freedom Of Thought Report Came Into Existence
10:06 Bad Faith Religious Freedom Protection
16:57 No Atheists On The United States Commission On International Religious Freedom
20:00 Selected Clips From The Humanist International Press Conference.
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How far are you willing to go for the truth? How much are you ready to risk for justice and freedom of speech? Join us as we traverse the treacherous terrain of investigative journalism with our guest Dr. Anthony Feinstein, author of the book 'Moral Courage 19 Profiles of Investigative Journalists'. Dr. Feinstein takes us through the intricate concept of moral courage, a crucial attribute for journalists navigating danger, standing on principles, and displaying extraordinary endurance.
Imagine getting up every day, knowing your job could be a life and death situation, and still choosing to do it. That's the reality for conflict journalists covering the ongoing strife amd corruption in the world. Our episode takes a detour into the heart of this hazardous world with a researcher and filmmaker, who shares the psychological burden journalists bear.
We pivot towards the significance of journalism in authoritarian regimes. What does it mean to report the truth in perilous environments? How does one navigate the daunting challenges and psychological impacts? Our guest explores these questions and more, unmasking the alarming tactics of authoritarian leaders that suppress the press and can even infiltrate democratic societies. We uncover the dangers of corporate sway on media and the critical need to safeguard a free press. Tune in, as this isn't just about journalists fighting oppressive regimes, but a battle for preserving democracy and freedom of speech. And remember, every word matters.
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00:40 All About The Moral Courage Research Project
11:49 Importance Of Moral Courage To A Free Press
16:21 Attacks On The Press Are Dangerous To Democracy
30:41 State Of Journalism In The Social Media Era
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Ever wondered why the separation of church and state is a formidable pillar of modern democracies? Join us as we dissect this essential concept with no other than Andrew Seidel, the vice president of strategic communications for Americans United, an accomplished author, and a relentless defender of the First Amendment. With over a decade of experience in law, Andrew's insights into the legal concept of 'standing' and how the ever-important separation of church and state influences the issues we face today, promise to be both fascinating and educational.
This not so subtle weaponization of religious freedom threatens democracy by privileging a select few such as the new speaker of the US House Michael Johnson, a Christian Nationalist of the first order. As we weave through the integral threads of church-state separation within the fabric of our republic, the significance of authentic religious freedom and the strive for unexceptional equality becomes evident. Andrew concludes our engrossing dialogue on a positive note, expressing optimism in the growing awareness of people towards this significant struggle. Eye-opening and enlightening, this conversation is a must for those keen on comprehending the profound correlation between religion, state, and the fight for equality in America.
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Jam-packed with insights and experiences, we sit down with Keith Semple, an eminent musician with a quarter-century-long journey in the industry. Starting his career in Northern Ireland, he's now making waves in the US, not just with his music, but with his engaging podcast, The Semple Truth. Keith shares his thoughts about his secular humanist beliefs and how atheists often demonstrate the highest level of religious literacy. His straightforward and bold views on the importance of challenging stereotypes and misconceptions are sure to strike a chord!
We step into the realm of music as Keith shares the inspiration behind his songs, his bands, and his religious observances. His song "Double X" stirred a discussion, inspired by Roe vs. Wade. Also, an upcoming song focusing on climate change teases to add a new dimension to his repertoire. He speaks candidly about his time on "The Voice" and the shocking religious undertones he experienced on the show.
Our conversation takes a fascinating turn as we explore the captivating world of fiction, focusing on the works of fantasy author R. A. Salvatore, particularly his protagonist, Drizzt Do'Urden. We look at how Salvatore's characters navigate through religion, morality, and social issues. We also shed light on the influence of progressive activists such as Liz Plank on their communities. And as a cherry on top, we share some useful insights on inviting potential guests for the podcast and the diversity they bring to the table. Tune in to savor this eclectic mix of music, religion, and fiction!
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We delve into the life and philosophy of Herb Kay, a man with diverse experiences ranging from being an NSA analyst, a salesman, to serving time in prison. His stint in prison, as result of bad choices during the 2008 real estate collapse, helped him experience people with underprivileged backgrounds and shaped his views on issues such as gun control, mass incarceration, other societal issues and inspired him to conceive 'The 1964 Plan'.
Herb claims his political approach transcends party lines and addresses societal problems like the breakup of the nuclear family, the war on drugs and the welfare state. He claims government welfare implementation replaced familial support leading to poverty more permanent than temporary.
He decided to call his plan 'The 1964 Plan' to refer to Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society program which Herb claims had good intentions but institutionalized poverty across generations. The plan also talks about the importance of involvement of fathers - traditionally providing discipline and setting boundaries contrasted with the nurturing role mothers play. Kay also emphasizes the impact on child development including lessons like deferred gratification. Herb also believes that women were happier before the sexual revolution.
Our discussion burns hot at times as Herb defends his ideas and his plan. How is it not just warmed over conservative 'hate the poor' with a dash of misogyny? After the interview our host, Doug, offers some final thoughts.
Show Notes 01:45 Prison is just an extension of the welfare state
08:16 Destruction of the Nuclear Family - Fatherlessness
13:03 Women unhappy since the sexual revolution
19:32 Equality of the sexes is a myth
24:47 The problem with progressives
27:43 Prison Reform
31:12 Welfare shouldn't be a federal program - leave it to the states
38:51 Drug Legalization
41:12 Doug's Epilogue
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We meet the person behind the Rooster, DJ Byrnes. He is a renowned video blogger and former political candidate, known for his audacity in unveiling the political landscape of Ohio and who sparks fear in the religious zealots infecting the Ohio Statehouse. He made his name when he posted the infamous video that ultimately cost Urban Meyer his NFL job. Rooster shares how video blogging can significantly impact politics, his experiences capturing content on social media platforms and his insights into Ohio's battles on cultural war issues.
As we dabble in Ohio's most hot-button issues, Rooster's perspectives on the upcoming constitutional amendment for reproductive rights, and the court case regarding the ballot language, are especially enlightening. We tackle the possible overturning of the vote for legal weed in the Ohio legislature and the role popular issues play in shaping the state's political landscape. Rooster's thoughts on potential investments for the amendment, Center for Christian Virtue's prayer hour at the Statehouse, and the contentious ads by anti-abortion groups make for an engaging conversation that you wouldn't want to miss.
Finally, we touch on the issues closest to Rooster's heart - the decline of local newspapers in rural districts and the subsequent political apathy. His take on the power of video as a social change tool and his upcoming projects promise hope and action for the future. As a bonus, he also talks about his merch store and how you can support his efforts to fight social injustice in Ohio. Get ready to be inspired and enlightened by Rooster's politically charged journey.
Show Notes 02:41 Urban Meyer Bar Story
08:11 Ruining Derek Merrin Speakership
12:40 Holding the powerful accountable
21:33 House Taco
23:47 State Issue 1 and 2 Prospects
36:33 Future Plans
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Can a reformed Islamophobe be redeemed and can a non-Muslim speak about the complex relationship between progressive and orthodox Islam with any creditability? Eric Brazau's look at Islam began in an unexpected place - while he was incarcerated. His enlightening perspectives and observations are shared in his book, 'Muslim Reformers versus Fundamentalists.' This provocative work tackles the pressing question of how Islam is interacting with, and shaping, Western civilization. Eric's book further raises inquiries on which form of Islam - the reformist or fundamentalist - will ultimately gain prominence. But beyond pointing out the differences he offers no solutions or why we should really care.
We challenge Eric on his complaints about laws to prevent Islamophobia, the same kind that landed him in jail years ago. Personal harassment of religious people is just wrong. Get ready for an information-loaded session that fails to offer fresh perspectives on Islam and lightly touches on the western concern about radical Islam which is really no different than concern about Christian Nationalism here in the US.
Show Notes 04:28 Muslim Reformers versus Fundamentalists
18:29 Religious Extremism: both sides of the same coin
36:10 Hate Speech Laws in Canada
49:46 Host Note
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Prepare yourself for an enlightening ride into the obscure frontiers of political intrigue and misinformation warfare, as we shine a light on a heated conflict unfolding in Ohio. Learn about the conservative and Christian Nationalist groups opposing the Reproductive Rights Amendment, the sly tactics they employ, and the false narratives they propagate to hinder its passage. We focus on a particular social media post that has been circulating and scrutinize the distortion of facts in it. We also delve deep into the history and activities of the American Policy Roundtable, founded as a Christian ministry but now known for their advocacy of school voucher and their attempts to block gambling in the state.
Show Notes
00:41 Introducing the American Policy Roundtable
08:13 Refuting the top partion of APR's amendment social media post
25:56 Refuting the bottom partion of APR's amendment social media post
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We explore the latest twist in the tale of closed St Anthony Church in Toledo. Saved from demolition to be a place for affordable housing and/or a community event space. The Lucas County Land Bank decided to ditch what the community wanted and went with the idea of converting the church into a climbing gym, a project proposed by a company known for a similar creation near Wildwood Metro Park. Why did the Land Bank ignore the community?
Our episode also looks at controversial decisions around chemical abortions and public schools. We'll dissect the Republican attorney generals' lawsuit in Texas aimed at removing FDA authorization of one abortion drug, the surprising argument used by Judge James Ho, and the latest from the US Supreme Court. Then, we'll address the controversy around State Senator Theresa Gavarone's presence at a school opening despite her support for universal vouchers and lack of support for adequate public school funding. All this and more awaits. Don't miss out!
Show Notes01:14 St. Anthony's Totally Uncalled For Transformation
24:42 Gov. DeWine and the Bishops
32:40 Abortion Pill Court Decision
41:36 State Senator Gaverone and the Public School Photo-op
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Today's episode takes us to Northwest Ohio as we probe into the intriguing life and ideologies of Professor Lee Strang. Engulfed in legal and societal debates, Strang plays multiple roles - a University of Toledo Law School professor, public charter school founder, anti-abortion activist, and advocate for conservative think tanks at Ohio law schools. We navigate the highs and lows of his highly charged Christian nationalist perspective, addressing his influence on law, education, and society.
We peer into Strang's interpretation of the First Amendment and discuss why atheism and secular humanism do not fit into his definition of religion. We unveil his stance on the constitutional protection of unborn fetuses and how this belief fuels his anti-abortion activism. Unmasking the educational philosophy behind the Northwest Ohio Classical Academy, Strang's brainchild, we bring to light its approach to controversial topics and commitment to a classical education curriculum that tries to hide its religious underpinnings.
Finally, we bare the threads of Strang's Christian Nationalist influence and the appearance of a quid pro quo with the leaders of the Ohio Republican Party and state anti-abortion groups like the Center for Christian Virtue. We scrutinize his endeavors to pass State Issue 1 alongside State Senator and former student Rob McColley and the implications for Ohio's political landscape. Regardless of personal agreement or dissent with Strang's beliefs, his impact on Ohio and beyond is undeniable. Tune in for an exploration of modern conservatism through the lens of one influential figure.
Show Notes
00:45 Wanting To Hear Different Voices On The Podcast
04:48 Introducing Professor Lee Strang
11:01 Strang Supports Originalism
17:32 Strang Claims 1St Amendment Doesn't Apply To Atheists And Secular Humanists
24:50 Strang Is An Anti-Abortion Activist
29:45 Strang Founds Religiously Based Charter School Disguised As A Non-Religious School
43:23 Strang Gets Favorable Local Press Stories Because Of Personal Connections
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People like Christian Nationalist Charlie Kirk and the US Supreme Court get affirmative action in college admissions wrong. The racist assumption is a marginalized group would be automatically unqualified to attend an elite college without it. Affirmative action doesn't elevate unqualified people it levels the playing field. Then we look at Christian Nationalists who use the argument that they must save the children when targeting gender affirming care and Drag Queens, while ignoring religious exemptions to child abuse and vaccination laws that can cause real harm. It isn't about protecting children.
Show Notes[00:35] Charlie Kirk Is Wrong About Affirmative Action
[15:16] Using Children To Cram Your Religious Bigotry Down Our Throat
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We tackle the controversial Supreme Court decision, 303 Creative LLC versus Elenis. This case revolves around a Christian graphic designer from Colorado who refuses to provide services to same-sex couples. We unpack the court's ruling, which distorts the First Amendment, and the potential implications for both religious and non-religious individuals. We explore the nuances of the case, including the alleged made-up injury, and the designer's willingness to provide services to LGBT individuals, but not for same-sex weddings.
We continue the conversation by examining how the US Supreme Court has used a historical narrative to permit legislative prayer that is not in line with actual historical events.
In the final part of the episode, we broaden our discussion to religious diversity in the workplace and the potential implications of religious accommodation on employment discrimination. We provide an insightful look at how businesses can exploit loopholes to avoid accommodating religious or LGBT individuals, leading to potentially unfair treatment and discrimination. Tune in to understand how the Supreme Court's recent rulings may impact the rights of business owners and the potential for discrimination in the future.
Show Notes 00:45 Preemptive Religious Privilege Based On Fake Evidence
19:46 The Traitor Jacob Duche and Legislative Prayer
27:53 Religious Privilege In The Workplace
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Can you imagine converting a historic church into a rock climbing gym? This week, we tackle the controversy surrounding the potential repurposing of St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Toledo, Ohio. As plans emerge to transform the church, we question the suitability of one idea for the distressed neighborhood and explore possible alternatives.
We also touch on the deletion of a scene in the 1971 film The French Connection. What are the implications of the scene's removal, and how does it affect our perception of the characters played by Gene Hackman and Roy Schneider? Is this just a political issue?
Lastly, we discuss the anti-LGBTQ advocacy of the American College of Pediatricians and the introduction of the transgender ban on gender-affirming care in Ohio. The group colluded with another hate group to manufacture medical justification to harm LGBTQ+ people.
Show Notes
01:00 Five Years Later Still No Use For Old Church
19:43 Revising Classic Media Properties
33:16 Hate Groups Colluding To Harm The LGBTQ Community
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We meet Ohio House Representative Pastor Gary Click who introduced an anti-Trans bill and lies about his motivation for it. Next Republican bullies try to intimidate Ohio public school boards complaining about vouchers. And finally we find out that Nebraska legislator Megan Hunt, a darling of the secular democratic movement doesn't like labels or atheism.
Show Notes 00:50 Rep. Gary Click Lied About Motivation For Anti-Trans Bill
15:21 Ohio GOP Tries to Intimidate Ohio School Boards Complaining about School Vouchers
28:10 Megan Hunt Hates Labels and Atheism
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The last time the word contagion was used to scapegoat a group of people, six million Jews perished in the Holocaust. Transgender people, a minority of a minority, are currently the target of scapegoating in statehouses across the country. These efforts are being lead by conservatives to distract from their failed policies and unconstitutional gerrymandering.
Show Notes
00:50 CBS Fumbles Zooey Zephyr Story
09:55 Montana Republican Would Let Daughter Die than Allow Her to Transition
17:52 Riley Gaines Is A Bigot. Pure and Simple
27:40 Thank You Billboard Magazine
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Rep. Jim Jordan attempts to obstruct a state criminal case, VP Kamala Harris is a master politician, a rule giving religious student groups that discriminate school funding should go away, and we find out that vaccine hesitancy is NOT a new thing.
Show Notes
00:45 Rep. Jim Jordan Attempts To Obstruct Trump's Indictment
13:06 VP Kamala Harris Deflects Comedian's Question
23:28 Student Groups That Discriminate Shouldn't Get Funding
37:46 Medical Show From The 1970s Shows Vaccine Hesitancy
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In Ohio, a proposed amendment to protect abortion was allowed to start collecting signatures. Meanwhile, the forced-birth zealots are spending $5 million dollars to lie to Ohio voters about the amendment and their friends at the state house want to change the rules. Why do Republicans hate democracy??
Show Notes
00:45 Forced-birth Ad Lies
15:09 Changing the rules
23:15 Other Shenaigans
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Protestors on the left are more likely to be charged as domestic terrorists. MAGAs are more threatened by drag shows than guns and Universal vouchers reward conservative selfishness.
Show Notes
00:35 Protesting Cops Gets You A Terrorism Charge
19:45 Maybe Drag Shows Should Hand Out Guns To Kids
36:25 Universial Vouchers Take Money Away From Public Schools
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It isn't everyday that a conservative wants to be a guest on a secular left podcast but it happened. Doug talks to a conservative podcast host about topics they will never agree on and there was no name calling. Slowly drive past the scene of this accident.
Show Notes
[00:45] Why would a religious conservative want to guest on a secular left podcast?
[19:17] What if God was a liberal?
[35:47] There is no such thing as merit scholars
[46:17] Being a fan of Reagan even if he couldn't get elected today
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Republicans take over the US House and immediately use the mythical debt ceiling to demand cuts to social security and medicare. Landlords in Maumee Ohio don't like regulations to make their housing safe and affordable and did you know abortion bans violate the separation of church and state.
Show Notes[00:40] The Debt Ceiling Myth
[17:47] Landlords Don't Want Safe And Affordable Housing
[30:12] Abortion Bans Violate the 1st Amendment
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GOP gerrymandering shenanigans caused an Ohio GOP State Senator to lose her seat and we look at more fun from the lame duck session of the Ohio legislature. You really didn't want your right to choose to be restored did you?
Show Notes
00:35 Ohio State Senator Loses Seat Over Gerrymandering Fracas
14:24 Bad Bills Fail To Pass - whew!
31:13 More Lame Duck Voter Suppression Fun
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A majority of Ohioans didn't support the relection of Governor Mike Dewine or any of the GOP office holders and the GOP wants to keep it that way by making it harder to vote. Do you know the difference between Critical Thinking and Confirmation Bias?
Show Notes
00:35 Ohio Gop Won Offices With Less Than 50% Of The Vote
18:51 Don't Confuse Critical Thinking And Confirmation Bias
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For our 50th episode we look at religious opposition to equality efforts where we have to state again, religious freedom is not pie. Then we explain simply why government policies to address racism isn't racist. Finally we look at one local political ad that is an outright lie and showing the ad hurts democracy.
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00:50 Religion Is Not Pie
14:30 Addressing Racism Is Not Racist
26:08 Political Ads That Lie Harm Democracy
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How do you know when a GOP election ad is lying? Its lips move. And religious conservatives will do whatever it takes to force religion on all children in public schools. Their newest trick? Fake school assemblies.
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00:45 Discerning political ads
20:23 School Assembly to church pipeline
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In this episode Doug points out what podcaster Tanner Campbell got wrong about his old remembered complaints over Atheism Plus. Then Doug gives an update about the Sylvania Bus Dispute and his thoughts on the remaking of CNN into FOX "news" Lite.
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00:45 The Misrembering of Atheism Plus
23:11 Bus Dispute Update
33:46 A mention about the CNN purge
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Two Ohio families spent a lot of money and time to complain about a new plan to bus their young children to their catholic school. They cited some recent US Supreme Court 1st amendment cases but in the end a judge used her gut feeling in helping protect the family's privilege.
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Did the House Progressive Caucus betray their promise on the Build Back Better Act? Ohio Attorney General David Yost needs remedial Bible study and the gun fetish in Georgia leads to the canceling of a $10 million music festival.
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00:35 Did the House Progressive Caucus betray their promise on the Build Back Better Act?
12:36 Ohio Attorney General David Yost needs remedial Bible study
21:48 Gun Fetish Cancels Music Festival
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We explore Justice Clarence Thomas' Black Nationalism in his college years and how his thoughts on racism sounds like critical race theory. Then we talk to an abortion clinic volunteer about the loss of religious freedom from overturning Roe v Wade.
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00:50 Clarence Thomas The Radical
22:36 Dobbs Decision Is A Violation Of Religious Freedom
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What is the long term fall out now that the right to privacy is in danger with end of Roe v Wade and how can this turn out worse for the Democrats. We also take a look the ramifications of the Football coach prayer case that also helps Christian Nationalists.
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00:35 The End of Roe
22:49 Coach Kneeling on a Prayer
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Robyn Blumner of the Center of Inquiry took the opportunity, in a recent editorial, to slam identity politics, woke progressives, and took a cheap shot at the American Humanist Association.
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01:35 Blumner is wrong about Humanism
22:47 Dawkins the Snowflake
34:42 When Did Free Inquiry Turn Into David Silverman's Twitter Feed?
43:07 Why I am no fan of CFI
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We talk to Claudia Clark about her book "Dear Barack" that explains the unique partnership of President Obama and German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Claudia also gives the European viewpoint of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and finally we discuss her time as a community organizer with the group ACORN.
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01:30 Merkel and Obama
12:23 The Russian Invasion of Ukraine
18:35 Community Organizing with ACORN
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Kevin Bolling faced the biggest challenge he's faced as Executive Director of the Secular Student Alliance. He had to manage the group through the pandemic and then resume regular support once the schools opened back up. SSA launched a massive effort to reach 1.4 million students. He will tell us how SSA did it and what is in store for the group. Lastly we take a look at a recent case where a professor settled a lawsuit while refusing to use the preferred pronouns of his students and how that case is really about him and others that attempt to needlessly erase LGBTQ+ people.
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01:35 Reaching Out To Secular Students
09:17 Dealing With Christian Nationalism
23:26 Doug's Letter To The Editor About Preferred Pronouns
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The stench of Trump has been absorbed into the corpuscles of the Republican party so that now it isn't about policies but what fake outrage you support or are against. The electorate suffers. We take a look at some examples of this theater called a primary season here in Ohio.
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00:45 Karens call the cops on Morgan Harper
13:18 Better lies through political advertising
37:44 Unicorns and Rainbows can only mean gay stuff
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Elections matter and when you can hold a super majority in the state legislature you can feed your every factless conspiracy theory fever dream and let your bigot flag fly.
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00:36 Announcement
05:33 Release Time Religious Instruction
25:03 Correction
26:10 Letting Your Bigot Flag Fly
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Violent crime has spiked recently. Are we wasting time and money with more policing? Can having children be immoral? And where are the vigils and memorials for the thousands who died in the pandemic. One political party has blood on its hands and its initials are G. O. P.
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00:45 Gun Violence Isn't Always About Gangs And Drugs
13:18 Anti-natalism
21:08 Why aren't we honoring the covid dead?
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In this episode, we look at the struggles of 'moderate' Republican and retired sports reporter Michele Tafoya as she tries to stop the world from making her babies feel bad in our 'post' racial era. Tucker Carlson celebrates her American Ideal. Then we look at how the Ohio GOP is trying to run out the clock to maintain their super majority in the legislature. They are on the finish line and want to change the rules.
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00:50 Michele Tafoya is a moderate?
21:36 Mapless Matt Huffman refuses to draw fair maps
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In this episode Doug looks at Bari Weiss's appearance on Bill Maher's HBO show and why her flippant Pandemic of Bureaucracy is both childish and dangerous to us all. Then we look at a recent church and state case over a Boston flag pole that was heard at the US Supreme Court. It doesn't look good for secular people or for more than 40 years of settled jurisprudence.
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00:51 Bari Weiss Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things
18:51 Boston Flagpole Fight
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In this episode, Doug takes a look at political polarization, which many people feel is a threat to our democracy. We take a look at two projects that think talking things out will lead to shiny happy people, rainbows, and unicorns.
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01:32 One Small Step I Take
25:07 Dialog Only Angels
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In this episode, we wonder why, at the request of no one, Ohio Attorney General David Yost inserted the state into a local case and tried to prosecute a rape victim instead of the rapist. And a Federal judge tells parents they don't have a constitutional right to avoid school mask mandates.
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00:44 Yost Sticks Nose Into Local Rape Case
19:47 Parents can't make martyrs of their children
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In this episode, we take a deep dive into the abortion issue because the US Supreme Court is looking at a Mississippi law that ignores established science and bans abortion at 15 weeks. We look at the history of abortion rights in this country and why the Christian Nationalist's argument that a fetus is a child is factually wrong.
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00:58 History of Abortion Rights
16:46 A Fetus is NOT a Child
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In this episode we look at some wrong hot takes on the Kyle Rittenhouse case and ask why it was treated differently than the Breonna Taylor case in 2020. President Biden was threatened by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops again over his pro-choice stance but the Pope stepped in to provide cover. We get an update on Ohio's terrible congressional district maps and yet another anti-abortion bill that isn't needed.
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00:57 Kyle Rittenhouse The Great White Hope
19:13 Bishop Tries To Take Biden
27:57 The Miseducation Of The Ohio GOP
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In this episode we talk to Alison Gill, Vice President, Legal and Policy with American Atheists, about Christian Nationalists using the 1st amendment to discriminate and how the Do No Harm Act could help restore real religious freedom.
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00:43 The Nones and Separation of Church & State
05:53 RFRA and the Do No Harm Act
16:14 US Supreme Court and the Shadow Docket
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In this episode we look at another attempt by religious extremists in the Ohio legislature to kill more Trans teens. Comedian Dave Chappelle, needing to protect his manhood lashes out at LGBTQ people for not getting his jokes. And we find out who bankrolled this year's National Prayer Breakfast and why the government shouldn't be involved with religious extremists.
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02:21 HB 454: Bigotry Toward Trans Teens
24:12 The Problem with Dave Chappelle
37:53 'Secret' Funds for the National Prayer Breakfast
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In this episode we look at voter suppression efforts by Republicans, a US Senate Candidate who is using the Taliban playbook, and we look at the growing issue of conservatives trying to take over school boards.
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00:47 Voter Suppression
17:34 Taliban Josh Mandel
26:44 School Board Takeover
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In this episode we take a look at the dumpster fire that is Ohio’s redistricting process after the 2020 census then we talk about the lack of research in the use of ivermectin as a treatment for Covid and the lengths one woman went to force a hospital to treat her husband with it. Finally we look at what we can do after the recent non-decision by the US Supreme Court concerning the ridiculous anti-abortion law that took effect recently in Texas.
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01:58 Gerrymandered Parasites
14:38 Ivermectin for Love
23:50 Abortion Bounty Hunters
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In this episode Doug is kind of happy that Greg Epstien is now head of the Chaplains of Harvard University but he still has trouble believing that interfaith work really includes the non-believer. Then Doug talks about a recent study that showed ending the $300 extra unemployment benefit didn't cause a flood of lazy cheeto eating slackers to go back to work. It's just one more proof that ignoring science will prolong the pandemic.
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00:45 An Atheist Takes Over Harvard
14:34 Ignore Science At Your Risk
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In this episode, Doug is fed up with the idiot science deniers who keep pushing mask and vaccination mandate bans. Doug hates wearing a mask too but their failed logic, and that is being kind, will prolong the pandemic and harm people needlessly. Why do the people who do the right thing have to carry the petulant children who kick and stomp their feet. Enough is enough.
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In this episode, we talk to Christophe Difo and Sean Prophet, hosts of The Radical Secular. We talk about where they came from, how they got started, and what kind of topics they discuss on their podcast. We also discuss unjust hierarchies and how that relates to social justice and what is happening in our national politics today.
Show Notes
Subscribe to our free newsletter 00:46 Who are they/First Year/Charles Murray
29:50 Sen. Tim Scott/ Racism/The Sum of Us
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In this episode we talk about why people who do good things then turn bad shouldn't be given a free pass just because they did something good previously. Then we talk about a recently fired Catholic priest who checked all the scary Trump fan club boxes when it comes to COVID 19.
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00:41 At Least Hitler Made The Trains Run On-Time
25:57 The Anti-Vaxxer
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In this episode Doug goes into excruciating detail about two proposed Ohio laws that would prohibit the teaching or even acknowledgement of racism and sexism because it makes the people who've benefited from both very sad. Next Doug tells the story about the latest fight over abortion happening in a empty parking lot in Toledo. We also get introduced to the new theme music used for the show.
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[00:50] New Theme Music
[04:00] First Rule of Racism, Don't Talk About Racism
[24:29] One Battle Over Abortion Is A Parking Lot
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In this episode Doug goes on a rant about Memorial Day because it is used by people who have no clue about American values. Then Doug wonders how long can you be in business if you make fun of the Holocaust.
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00:32 A Memorial Day Rant
18:23 The Holocaust Used As A Joke
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Just when you thought it was safe to ignore public health orders and send your children back to school, Doug looks at a new scary concept coming for your children. It is falsely labeled Critical Race Theory and it is sending white racist soccer moms screeching into school board meetings across the country so their children won't have to talk about racism. Then Doug looks at an excellent news story from the local paper that refutes the reason for an uptick in violent crime forwarded by the police chief.
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[00:41] Critical Race Theory Is Coming To Get Your Children
[25:14] Journalism Refutes Police Chief's Bias
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We as Americans pay for and expect a fair justice system. Unfortunately in real life it doesn't work that way. You could be shot and killed for simply being black or poor or of if you are an elected official you are still being booked on political talk shows after trying to undermine our Democracy. We also will look at the tone deaf super majority of Republicans in the Ohio legislature and find out how that is a problem for LGBTQ people.
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[01:04] Our Two-Tier Justice System
[21:04] Ohio Republican Super Majority
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We knew it would be bad for religious freedom when Trump was allowed to appoint three justices to the Supreme Court, once again a majority on the court pull a decision out of their ass to give the religious special privledge during a pandemic. We also update a previous segment on our broken election system and why Georgias law is obviously a return to the days of Jim Crow.
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[00:53] Supreme Court Denies Facts and Science Again
[15:41] The Real Reason Georgia Passed A Law About Voting
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After the catastrophic disenfranchisement of voters in Georgia recently and the hundreds of copy cat bills across the country, Doug makes the case why elections need to be federalized. HR 1 For the People Act of 2021 is a great start in that direction. Why would any political person, draped in a flag, shooting fireworks while F-18s fly over head, want to make voting harder to do? Then Doug talks about seeing is favorite pro-union movie and the feels it gives him and the education about unions we all deserve.
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00:45 Making A Federal Case About Voting
19:47 Them That Work
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In this episode, Doug talks about the Biden hate coming from the left after only 50 days in office and he wonders if it's equivalent to Christian Thoughts and Prayers. He talks about a proposed local ordinace to protect women coming to the only abortion clinic left in Toledo and finally he gives his thoughts on community complaints about dollar stores springing up around the city recently.
Show NotesSubscribe to our free newsletter00:37 Biden Hate from the Left
12:53 Abortion Clinic Buffer Ordinance
26:53 Revenge on the Dollar Stores
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In this episode Doug talks to Nick Little, Legal Director of the Center for Inquiry, about several recent federal court decisions that ignore science and logic to allow churches to ignore public health orders during this pandemic. Where is the irreparable harm from a limit to the number of people allowed to particpate in an in-person church service. Nick explains how this all started with the Hobby Lobby contraceptive case and we will be living with it for some time to come.
Show Notes
Subscribe to our free newsletter[00:38] What is religious neutrality?
[19:01] Where is the irreparable harm?
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In this episode Doug looks at the return of the tone policing beltway media where bipartisanship is a one way street to the GOP. A Republican in the Ohio Senate introduces yet another bill to kick poor people while they are down during a pandemic. Meanwhile the GOP super majority in the Ohio state house promote two members who don't know how science works as chairs of health care committees including a Doctor who might actually be racist.
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00:45 Biden Takes Office. How Will This Hurt The Democrats?
12:03 Ohio Republicans Kick The Poor Again With SB 17
30:59 The Two People Least Qualified For Their Jobs
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In this episode Doug speaks to Isaac Goff-Mitchell, creator and host of The Youth Vote podcast. They talk about how to increase the participation of young people in the election process from voting to running for office. What is one simple thing Democrats could do that the GOP does for the youth who work for them?
Show Notes
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[00:35] The Youth Vote Podcast
[07:40] Attack On The Capitol
[11:10] How To Get More Youth Voting
[24:33] Age Is Not A Problem
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In this episode Doug explains why the just passed COVID relief bill is doing Democrats no favors. Next three local private schools try to do an end around COVID restrictions for sports. Doug also talks about some team mascot changes and why people still complain about them and finally we look at the just passed House Resolution 512 that calls on countries that have them to repeal their blasphemy laws.
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00:36 Only Six-hundred Dollars?
08:03 School COVID Cheats
16:20 Offensive Unoffensive School Mascots
20:52 Blasphemy Be Gone
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In this episode Doug talks about the recent release of secular agendas to the Biden-Harris transition team to help restore the separation of church and state. One particular word change could make some Christian nationalist heads explode and it isn't saying Happy Holidays. Doug then complains about the infighting between mainstream Democrats and progressives now that the election is over and why it's only hurting Democrats. Finally Doug mentions the latest religious freedom perversion from the US Supreme Court it allows some churches to ignore state public health orders.
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00:50 The Secular Agenda
06:18 An Abusive Relationship Returns
19:24 Another Religious Freedom Perversion
26:14 We Need Guests and a Co-Host
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In this episode Doug gets schooled on the Secular Voices Survey by Dr. Juhem Navarro-Rivera from Socioanalitica Research. Secular voters are more than atheist and agnostic and they are more political and more progressive than white Christian nationalists. Secular voters also are more concerned about the response to COVID-19. Dr. Navarro-Rivera also touches on the Latinx vote. Voters for Trump tended to come from countries where they were richer and a higher social class than Latinx voters in Arizona which went for Biden.
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00:49 Secular Voters
16:18 State of election polling
22:23 The Latinx vote
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In this episode Doug talks to local activist Julian Mack about his run for Toledo City council and then he talks about a recent national news story involving a local high school and conservative propagnada website PragerU.
Show Notes
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00:24 Interview with activist Julian Mack
20:21 Extra Credit and PragerU
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In this episode Doug talks to Sarah Levin from Secular Strategies, about her project Secular Democrats. Sarah discuss how the non-religious would find a good home in the Democratic party. She explains why the freedom to be a bigot is subverting religious freedom for all of us and finally they talk about the problem with Christian nationalists feeling entitled to our tax dollars.
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01:08 What is Secular Democrats
10:12 Secularists find a home in the Democratic Party
18:35 Freedom to be a bigot
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In this episode, after a short statement about the non-indictments in the Breonna Taylor murder case, we try to find out why a Supreme Court vacancy was more different in 2016 than in 2020. Next Doug has a short interview with a friend who is running for elected office. Finally we discover if talking about anti-racism is racist.
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00:38 Say her name... Breonna Taylor
03:07 Historical Hypocriscy in the GOP
12:19 Interview with Melissa Kritzell
20:55 Is anti-racism training racist?
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In this episode Doug looks at another unjustified police shooting of a person of color in Kenosha Wisconsin and tries to figure out why a 17 year old with a police fetish murdered two protesters. Then he wonders why Speaker Nancy Pelosi lied when she claimed the national party would support incumbent Democrats this election year. Finally, he visits with the Secular Democrats of America at their first online meeting during the Democratic National Convention.
Show Notes
Subscribe to our newsletter00:44 Police are out of control in Trump Land
12:05 Pelosi throws Markey under the bus for cash
17:49 Secular Democrats Meet
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Episode 006: The Fight For Governor Dewine's SoulIn this episode Doug talks about the soul of Governor Mike Dewine and why he wants to see us all dead. Doug looks at the fake outrage called cancel culture and like Big Foot, he can't find it where people say it is. Finally, he brings up a recent John Oliver show about the Whitewashing of US History. All of this and a mention a new group in Ohio trying to bring us Ranked Choice Voting. It will be a hoot. Please join us.
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In this episode, Doug asks why there are no millitary bases named for President Ulysses S. Grant who won the civil war for the north and the weak arguments people make to support keeping Confederate symbols. He talks about the wild complaints about wearing masks one California county government heard, and then shines a bright light on efforts of Christian nationalists to force religion in the public schools in Ohio under the cover of COVID-19 and religious freedom.
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In this episode, recorded before the murder of George Floyd, Doug talks to activist Julian Mack, spokesperson for Community Solidarity Response Network of Toledo, about how the pandemic actually ripped open and laid bare the existing inequality we have in this country. We talk about the reforms needed in the criminal justice system including the end of cash bail and depopulating of the jails due to COVID-19. Finally we discuss the best path to changing the problems we face.
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In this episode we look at people who think their freedom includes spreading a virus that can kill people. Next we talk about the huge obstacle for Joe Biden to becoming the Democratic nominee in November and finally we talk about a congressional candidate who makes the stay-at-home protestors look like the establishment. We also have an update on the taxpayer bail out of churches.
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In this episode Doug talks about the recent covid-19 relief bill passed in Congress and how for the 4th time Republicans got their own way. Then he talks about a federal bail out of churches using our tax dollars and finally he takes a look at a new conservative group by and for atheists.
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In the debut episode host Doug Berger explains the manifesto of the podcast, talks about how some forced birthers in Ohio are using the virus outbreak to reach their ultimate goal, and then talks about Bernie Sanders and his math problem as the 2020 primary season draws to a bumpy end.
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The show will deal with social justice issues such as racism, income inquality, and our broken health care industry and try to offer a left side of the aisle view that is based on a secular foundation. It's my belief that extreme religious beliefs are at the root of many of the problems that never seem to be solved. The Secular Left podcast will try to offer up an alternative.
This show will be partisian in that the views expressed will be based on a rational exploration for the truth and the public policy outcomes that come from that truth. Sometimes that truth will be partisian. There might be more than one side of the story but only one side will lead to the truth.
I think a real secular left perspective is missing from serious discussions concerning current events and politics today. I welcome you to join me in this journey.
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