Mamdani's Mayoral Momentum, UAW Strikes for Justice, and Vermont's Plastic Bag Triumph

New York City's mayoral race is heating up with Democratic nominee Zorhan Mamdani leading the pack in a recent New York Times Siena Poll, capturing 46% support among likely voters. His progressive platform, focusing on affordability and housing, resonates particularly well with young and educated voters. Mamdani's commitment to freezing rent increases and raising taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers is garnering widespread approval, showcasing a significant shift in the political landscape of the city. Meanwhile, United Auto Workers members at GE Aerospace are standing strong on the picket line, demanding fair wages and job security as they enter their second week of striking. The workers are united against inadequate corporate offers, emphasizing the need for dignity and respect in the workplace. Their determination highlights a broader push for workers' rights across the industrial sector, standing firm against corporate interests that prioritize profits over people. In environmental news, Vermont's ban on single-use plastic bags has led to a remarkable 91% reduction in plastic bag usage. This successful initiative, driven by grassroots efforts, demonstrates the power of community-led change and effective policy implementation, serving as a model for other states aiming to tackle plastic pollution. St. John's Lutheran Church in Madison, Wisconsin, is taking bold action to combat the affordable housing crisis by demolishing its historic building to make way for a modern development with 110 low-income apartments. This transformative project aims to uplift the community by providing accessible housing for working families, showcasing how faith-based organizations can play a pivotal role in addressing social issues. Colorado has made strides in public health by issuing a standing order that allows individuals aged six months and older to receive COVID-19 vaccine boosters at pharmacies without a prescription. This initiative aims to enhance vaccine accessibility and protect public health amidst rising COVID cases, reflecting a proactive approach to community wellness. Finally, Washington State is setting a precedent in forest conservation by protecting 77,000 acres of legacy forests, vital for biodiversity and carbon storage. This landmark decision emphasizes the importance of preserving natural ecosystems while balancing community needs, showcasing a commitment to sustainable environmental stewardship. If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271 or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com. More about these stories: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/09/nyregion/mayor-poll-mamdani-cuomo.html?unlocked_article_code=1.kk8.W-uS.xj_ZeOmF0w2S&smid=url-share https://www.wlwt.com/article/union-president-ge-aerospace-workers-picket-line-evendale/65986420 https://phys.org/news/2025-06-vermont-plastic-bag.html https://www.goodgoodgood.co/articles/church-demolished-for-affordable-housing https://coloradosun.com/2025/09/03/colorado-covid-vaccination-prescription-order/ https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/09/nyregion/mayor-poll-mamdani-cuomo.html?unlocked_article_code=1.kk8.W-uS.xj_ZeOmF0w2S&smid=url-share Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support .