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The Lean to the Left PodcastAuthor: Bob Gatty
Welcome Thoughtful AmericansIf you're a progressive concerned about political & social issues? You belong HERE at Lean to the Left, where you'll find no-holds-barred commentary, current political news, interviews with fascinating people, top experts, and others with incredibly interesting stories to tell. In fact, you'll never know who'll show up at Lean to the Left. It's unique and compelling journalism with a splash of humor and a dash of sarcasm.I'm your host, Bob Gatty, presenting my take on what's happening today from a liberal, progressive perspective. You'll find info and commentary about issues like the environment, human rights, health, racism, education and other issues of concern today.I co-authored "Hijacked Nation: Donald Trump's Attack on America's Greatness", two volumes of essays about Trump's dangerous policies. Links: Vol. 1: https://amzn.to/3WNrfjH; Vol. 2: https://amzn.to/3SSsGMM. Meanwhile, my co-author, CJ Waldron and I, are hard at work on a follow-up volume, bringing readers up to date on developments since those editions were published. So, watch for that on Amazon.The Lean to the Left podcast, now completing its fourth year, was launched as part of our blog site, LeantotheLeft.net, which had its beginnings in 2017 in response to Donald Trumps bullying and name-calling tactics and his attacks on the mainstream news media. Our goal was to set the record straight on Trumps claims and divisive rhetoric, which has continued through his defeat by President Joe Biden, unfounded claims of election fraud, the January 6, 2021 insurrection, and his efforts to regain the Presidency.I bring to this effort a wealth of experience as political journalist and editorial services company president, previously having served two members of Congress, one Republican and the other a Democrat, as chief of staff and press secretary. ,If you share these concerns and want to stay abreast of key political developments with insight from experts and pointed commentar Language: en-us Genres: Government, News, News Commentary Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Can Democrats Win in Red States? The Dixie Dems Take on Southern Politics
Episode 819
Sunday, 5 April, 2026
Is the South really as “red” as it seems—or is something shifting beneath the surface? Can Democrats actually win in red states with the right strategy?In this powerful episode of Dixie Dems, host Bob Gatty is joined by co-hosts Arthur Hill (North Carolina Democratic Party leader) and Robert Thompson (Georgia-based podcaster) to explore the evolving political landscape across the South.🎙️ Special Guest: Grace CowanFounder, organizer, and co-host of the Frogmore Stew podcast, Grace shares how grassroots efforts in South Carolina are challenging the status quo—even in heavily gerrymandered districts.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Democrats are running candidates in every single South Carolina state legislative district—even the toughest ones--for the first time in many years.How gerrymandering has shaped Southern politics—and how activists are pushing backThe strategy behind forcing “safe seat” politicians to actually competeWhy grassroots organizing could reshape the South’s political futureThe importance of messaging, identity, and voter engagementWhat’s next for South Carolina and the broader Southern political landscape💡 Key Takeaway:Progress doesn’t only come from winning elections—it comes from showing up, organizing, and refusing to concede entire communities.👉 Subscribe for more progressive conversations:Lean to the Left Podcast👉 Listen to more Dixie Dems episodes:https://podcast.leantotheleft.net👉 Follow & Support the Movement:Your voice matters—especially in the South.CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome to Dixie Dems01:23 Hair Talk Cold Open02:46 Run Every Seat Strategy04:57 North Carolina Playbook06:45 Expose Gerrymandering08:44 Voting Rights Crackdown10:43 Disruptor Ads Approach11:37 Annie Andrews vs Graham14:52 Democrats Need Branding19:44 Sanford and Mace Drama21:04 South Carolina Governor Race22:00 Candidate Scandal Fallout22:47 Jermaine Johnson Stays In24:00 Building the Party Bench25:08 Name Recognition Matters28:16 Training Candidates Basics29:30 Gerrymandering Workarounds31:17 Straight Ticket Voting Tricks33:38 Trump Mail Voting Hypocrisy36:20 MAGA Media Silo Explained37:34 Voting by Class Debate41:03 Frogmore Stew Podcast Plug43:52 Wrap Up and Thanks
