Good News for Lefties | Daily News for Democracy

AI Regulation from the Vatican, Maternal Health Guidelines Emerge

June 16, 2026·19 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen brings you a roundup of uplifting stories that highlight significant victories for progressives and the community at large. We kick off with a federal court ruling that blocks a controversial Trump-era health insurance rule, ensuring millions of Americans can maintain access to affordable healthcare. This ruling is celebrated by city officials from Columbus, Baltimore, and Chicago, who fought against the rule's harmful provisions.Next, Pope Leo XIV issues a powerful call for the regulation of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for its developers to prioritize the common good over profit. His encyclical, "Magnifica humanitas," is poised to influence the ongoing debate around AI and its implications for society.We also discuss the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' new maternal vaccination recommendations, diverging from the CDC's guidance and aiming to protect both mothers and newborns amidst rising vaccine misinformation.In labor news, we cover the ongoing negotiations at Hershey Park, where union maintenance workers are advocating for better wages and benefits, facing potential strikes as they seek fair treatment.Additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces critical habitat designations to protect the endangered rusty patched bumblebee, a crucial pollinator, in a bid to aid its recovery.Finally, we celebrate the booming energy storage market in the U.S., with record installations indicating a strong move towards cleaner, reliable energy solutions.Today's Stories: Court Blocks 'Illegal' Trump Rule That Created Barriers to Affordable Care Act Coverage | Common DreamsPope Leo XIV urges AI regulation for the common good | AP NewsOB-GYNs release their own vaccine schedule, rejecting RFK Jr.'s meddling - Ars TechnicaHersheypark union workers reject a second agreement as contract talks stallEndangered rusty patched bumble bee gets 1.5M acres in habitat protection across 6 statesUS energy storage posts record start to 2026 as Trump administration attacks clean energyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support.

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