The Daily Beans: "All Of A Sudden" – December 12, 2024

Hosted by Dana Goldberg

Introduction

In this episode of The Daily Beans, Dana Goldberg takes the reins in the absence of co-host Allison Gill to deliver a robust lineup of progressive news stories infused with the podcast's signature blend of social justice insight and snarky commentary. The episode, titled "All Of A Sudden," covers significant developments in media ownership, intra-party conflicts within the Republican ranks, shifts in personal milestones following political upheaval, and a controversial incident involving a foster youth advocate.

1. Blocked Sale of Alex Jones's Infowars to The Onion

Timestamp: 03:15 – 15:30

Dana delves into the legal tussle surrounding the attempted acquisition of Alex Jones's right-wing media platform, Infowars, by The Onion's parent company, Global Tetrahedron.

• Court Ruling: U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez rejected the sale, citing that the auction process was "unfair" and that Global Tetrahedron did not submit the best bid. Lopez stated, “I think you've got to go out and try to get every dollar” (04:45), highlighting shortcomings in the auction's transparency and process.

• Impact on Infowars: As a result, Alex Jones retains control over Infowars, allowing him to continue disseminating anti-government conspiracy theories. Jones responded enthusiastically, declaring, “We can celebrate the judge doing the right thing” (09:20).

• The Onion's Position: The Onion, represented by CEO Ben Collins, expressed disappointment but intends to "continue to seek a path towards purchasing Infowars in the coming weeks" (12:10). They aimed to transform Infowars from a conspiracy outlet to a hub of satirical humor.

• Sandy Hook Families' Stance: Families affected by the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting, who successfully sued Jones for defamation, remain steadfast in holding him accountable, with attorney Chris Matei emphasizing, “These families... remain resilient and determined as ever to hold Alex Jones and his corrupt business accountable for the harm that he caused” (14:50).

Dana's Commentary: Dana expresses skepticism about the ruling, stating, “Jones can continue operating his far right media business as he has for decades. I don't agree with that at all. He should still be banned from being on the air” (06:30).

2. Nancy Mace Calls Police on Foster Youth Advocate

Timestamp: 15:35 – 25:50

The episode shifts focus to a contentious incident involving South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace and James McIntyre, a prominent advocate for foster youth.

• The Incident: Following an event commemorating the Foster Care Independence Act, McIntyre approached Mace to discuss transgender rights. Witnesses report that McIntyre merely shook Mace's hand and discussed, “they need your support” (18:40). However, Mace later accosted him on social media, claiming, “I was physically accosted by a pro trans man” and reported physical injuries (20:15).

• Arrest and Aftermath: McIntyre was arrested by Capitol Police, sparking outrage among fellow advocates. Lisa Dixon, a foster youth advocate, criticized Mace, stating, “Congresswoman Nancy Mace came to a national foster youth event, told participating youth that it was a safe space, and then literally had one of them arrested” (22:30).

• McIntyre's Background: At 33, McIntyre is a respected figure in foster care reform, co-founding the Foster Care Alumni in America and being named Public Citizen of the Year by the Illinois chapter of the National Association of Social Workers in 2019.

Dana's Commentary: Dana lambasts Mace's actions, describing her as “a raging... media whore that needs all the attention she can get” (24:10), and vows to monitor her future actions.

3. Republican Backlash Against Trump's Policy Promises

Timestamp: 26:00 – 31:00

Dana explores the emerging fractures within the Republican Party as some GOP members begin to publicly express concerns over President Trump's aggressive policy promises.

• Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Concerns: Contradicting Trump's narrative that the IRA’s green energy incentives would devastate jobs, Republican State Representative Beth Camp from Georgia warns that repealing the IRA could leave manufacturing plants “just sitting empty” (28:20).

• Immigration Policy Backlash: Similar dissonance is evident in immigration policy. Representatives like John Duarte, who recently lost his seat, advocate for legal avenues for undocumented workers essential to sectors like agriculture and construction, opposing Trump's rhetoric on mass deportations (30:10).

• Economic Implications: Local industries fear that Trump’s threats to withdraw from green initiatives and implement mass deportations could cripple their operations, leading to economic downturns in states like Georgia and Texas.

Dana's Commentary: Dana is critical of the GOP members' reservations, labeling Trump's policies as “bullshit” and predicting a “shitstorm” as these conflicting positions become more apparent (29:45).

4. Spike in Marriage Licenses at New York City Marriage Bureau

Timestamp: 31:10 – 43:00

In a noteworthy personal milestone trend, New York City experienced a surge in marriage license applications following Donald Trump's reelection.

• Statistics: November saw 8,500 marriage license appointments—a 33% increase from the previous year. The week immediately after the election saw a 55% spike, with 2,365 appointments compared to the usual 1,500 (32:15).

• Motivations Behind the Surge: Many couples, particularly same-sex and those concerned about immigration status, rushed to formalize their unions. Statements from couples like Ryan Addario and Nicholas Quesito reflect fears of potential reversals in marriage equality and immigration protections (35:40).

• Legal Preparations: Advocacy groups like the Chosen Family Law Center advise couples to secure legal protections through measures like second parent adoptions to safeguard against future legislative changes (38:25).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Addario: “I don't want to have to do it again.”
• Karen, a newlywed: “We also heard that if you're already married it's less likely they can take that away from you.”

Dana's Commentary: Highlighting both the urgency and the joy among couples, Dana presents a balanced view of love triumphing amidst political uncertainty, illustrated by Casito and Eldario's sentiments: “There's so much uncertainty... the one thing that is certain, our Love” (42:10).

5. Good News Segment: Listener Submissions

Timestamp: 33:12 – 43:42

Transitioning from heavy news, Dana introduces the "Good News" segment, featuring uplifting stories and heartfelt submissions from listeners.

• Irish Goddess's Submission: Shares a bird-watching photo from the Vegas Strip during the COVID lockdown and a cross-stitch made for a friend recovering from a hysterectomy. Dana appreciates the personal touches and community spirit (34:00).

• Anonymous's Heartwarming Update: Celebrates her daughter’s achievements, including graduation with dual degrees, marriage to her wife, and obtaining a green card. She also shares a picture of her dog, Archer, highlighting the blend of personal milestones and hobbies (35:45).

• Jim's Tribute to His Child Nico: Honors his child Nico’s dedication to supporting trans youth through volunteer counseling and creating an LGBTQ youth survival guide. Includes a cherished photo of Jim and his grandson, reinforcing the podcast's community focus (37:30).

• Kristin's Shout-Out: Highlights her friend Brian's philanthropic efforts through the Fanthropy Running Club, encouraging listeners to participate in virtual events and support charitable running initiatives. Accompanied by a photo of her dog, Ruby (39:15).

• Dan's Festive Submission: Shares a creative Santa and Papa Smurf portrayal with his grandson, blending holiday cheer with personal anecdotes. Dana responds with enthusiasm, praising Dan's contributions and spirit (42:50).

Listener Highlights:

• Supportive Community: Submissions showcase a network of support, love, and resilience among listeners.
• Personal Achievements: Celebrations of academic, professional, and personal milestones.
• Creative Expressions: Artistic endeavors and creative photography enrich the community narrative.

Dana's Commentary: Expresses heartfelt gratitude towards listeners, emphasizing the importance of community and shared positivity in challenging times.

Conclusion

Dana wraps up the episode by acknowledging the temporary absence of co-host Allison Gill, sharing plans for her return, and announcing her participation in a Christmas party for ELPAC, a lesbian political action committee. She encourages continued listener engagement and emphasizes the importance of mutual support and mental health care as the community navigates the uncertain political landscape ahead.

Notable Send-Off:

• Dana: “Take care of yourselves, take care of your family, take care of each other, take care of your mental health. And that's it. I've been your host. Host DG and we're out. That's the Beans.” (43:30)

End of Summary

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