142: Episode 92: Slate's Nitish Pahwa On Lansing's Political Power

Left of Lansing

Here's Episode 92 of Michigan's premier progressive podcast!
Nitish Pahwa is Slate's associate writer for business and tech, and he's a native Michigander. He grew-up around Lansing, and remembered what the political scene was like just a decade ago when MAGA Republicans had complete control of state government. That's why he's surprised to see how fast things changed as not only are Democrats in control of the state trifecta, but he's taking note how the center of Michigan's political influence resides in Lansing. We talk about his article in Slate describing that shift, and why the Lansing area will play key roles in both state and national politics this November.
In my opening segment, I've got some follow-up on MAGA Republican state Representative Neil Friske's wild and crazy night with guns and strippers, allegedly. Friske's still under investigation and hasn't been charged with crimes, yet, but like all MAGA Republicans, he refuses to accept any responsibility for his actions. Even more, like many MAGA Republicans, he has no clue when it comes to abortion and medicine. I also celebrate a major court ruling deeming Michigan's 24-hour waiting period for women to receive abortion care unconstitutional. And I highlight how Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer perfectly describes this presidential election.
In my "Last Call," I ask the question: What is a moderate? After a member of The Squad lost a primary race in New York, members of the press described the challenger as a "moderate." The challenger opposes raising taxes on corporations or the rich, and he opposes a ceasefire in Gaza. How are those "moderate" positions while advocating for living wages, health care for all, and free public school lunches are supposedly "far-left?"
Please, subscribe to the podcast, download each episode, and give it a good review if you can!
[e-mail]
Left of Lansing is now on YouTube as well!
leftoflansing.com