Podcast Summary: The Daily Beans – Episode "Local And Vocal" (Featuring Adam Klassfeld and Ezra Levin) | July 8, 2025

Published on July 8, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Daily Beans, host Alison Gill delves into a range of pressing social and political issues, providing listeners with in-depth analysis and insightful discussions. The episode prominently features guests Adam Klassfeld and Ezra Levin, who shed light on significant legal proceedings and grassroots initiatives aimed at fostering democratic resilience.

1. Opening News Highlights [00:00 - 02:16]

Alison Gill kicks off the episode by outlining several key news stories:

• Seacoat Lawsuit in El Salvador: Plaintiffs have filed a critical court document on Judge Boberg's docket, seeking due process for individuals detained in Seacoat, El Salvador.

• Texas Flooding Efforts: First responders from Mexico are collaborating with Texas authorities to combat severe flooding, juxtaposed with Senator Ted Cruz's vacation in Greece.

• RFK Jr. Vaccine Lawsuit: Six leading medical organizations have initiated legal action against Robert F. Kennedy Jr., challenging his restrictions on vaccine distribution.

• Trump Administration's Epstein Files: The administration is resisting the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

• FEMA Policy Changes: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is ceasing door-to-door canvassing in disaster-stricken areas.

• Coast Guard Heroism: A Coast Guard swimmer who rescued 165 individuals during Texas floods shares his harrowing experience.

• Abrego Case Hearing: Judge Polissini conducts a hearing to address unresolved matters in the Abrego case.

Alison expresses gratitude to listeners for their support and mentions that Dana Goldberg will be temporarily absent from the show.

2. In-Depth Analysis: Abrego Hearing [02:16 - 19:50]

Guest: Adam Klassfeld, All Rise News

Alison Gill engages in a comprehensive discussion with Adam Klassfeld about the recent Abrego hearing in Judge Polissini's courtroom. The conversation highlights the complexities and contradictions in the Department of Justice's (DOJ) approach to the case.

Key Points:

• Government's Jurisdiction Argument [02:18 - 03:24]: The DOJ filed a motion to dismiss the case based on jurisdictional issues, arguing that they lack authority over actions taken by Mr. Bukele in El Salvador.

  Adam Klassfeld: "The heart of the government's motion here was... that the judge has no jurisdiction because the government can't control what Mr. Bukele does in El Salvador." [02:50]

• Contradictory Actions by DOJ [03:24 - 07:32]: Six days post-motion filing, the government indicted Kilmar Abrego Garcia in Tennessee, contradicting their stance on jurisdiction.

  Adam Klassfeld: "They are contradicting themselves. This is a double backflip... they are back on admitting that this was a mistake again." [06:45]

• Judge Polissini's Stance [07:32 - 13:25]: Judge Polissini criticized the government's inconsistent narrative, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.

  Alison Gill: "But she was like, no, not so fast... the judge was like, you are in planning to press pause on the deportation proceedings until this trial was over." [13:00]

• Future Proceedings [13:25 - 19:50]: The judge has denied the government's motion to dismiss the case as moot and is seeking detailed plans regarding Mr. Abrego's potential deportation or prosecution. Additionally, there are implications of international pressure from the UN on El Salvador's stance.

  Adam Klassfeld: "The judge repeatedly warned the government attorneys put them on notice by describing them as officers of the court." [17:50]

Notable Quotes:

• Alison Gill: "This was an embarrassing colloquy for the government, Allison." [02:30]

• Adam Klassfeld: "If the government doesn't answer, because of the nature of this motion, the non-answers can work out badly for the government." [07:20]

3. Hot Notes [19:50 - 30:24]

Alison transitions to the "Hot Notes" segment, delivering succinct updates on various topics:

1. Epstein Files Review [19:51 - 22:00]:

   • A joint memo from the DOJ and FBI concludes there is no evidence of a client list or blackmail associated with Jeffrey Epstein.
   • Findings confirm Epstein's death by suicide in 2019 and deny any involvement of uncharged third parties.
   • Alison Gill Commentary: Skeptical of the incomplete release of Epstein files, especially those implicating former President Donald Trump.

2. RFK Jr. Vaccine Lawsuit [22:01 - 24:00]:

   • Six prominent medical organizations sue RFK Jr. and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) over vaccine access limitations.
   • The plaintiffs argue that RFK Jr.'s actions are detrimental to public health.
   • Notable Quote:

     Richard H. Hughes IV: "The secretary's intentions are clear. He aims to destroy vaccines." [23:15]

3. FEMA's Policy Shift [24:01 - 25:30]:

   • FEMA announces the discontinuation of door-to-door canvassing in disaster areas to focus on targeted assistance.
   • Concerns arise over the potential impact on vulnerable populations who rely on in-person aid.

4. Texas Flood Rescue Efforts [25:31 - 27:00]:

   • International collaboration as firefighters from Mexico aid in Texas flood relief using advanced technology like drones.
   • Positive Highlight: Cross-border assistance showcases solidarity in disaster response.

5. Coast Guard Hero Celebrated [27:01 - 30:24]:

   • Coast Guard rescue swimmer Scott Ruskin lauded for saving 165 individuals during devastating Texas floods.
   • His dedication alongside the National Guard exemplifies commendable public service.
   • Notable Quote:

     Scott Ruskin: "I had about 200 kids... I just kind of needed to triage them, get them to higher level of care." [28:45]

4. Good News [30:24 - 43:51]

In the "Good News" segment, Alison Gill shares uplifting stories and listener submissions that highlight community resilience and acts of kindness:

• Listener Contributions:

  • Artistic Expressions: Mary Pronoun shares a creative "pointillism" portrait of former President Trump made from numerous middle fingers, symbolizing dissent.
  • Community Support: Breezy from Utah nominates local nonprofits like Lasagna Love, which delivers meals to those in need, and celebrates the Band "The Wag."
  • Personal Stories: Anonymous listeners recount positive impacts of government programs like Section 8 housing and VA Benefits, and share adorable pet photos symbolizing hope and joy.

• Themes Highlighted:

  • Community and Solidarity: Emphasis on finding support systems in local groups like Indivisible and Community for Change.
  • Acts of Kindness: Volunteer-driven initiatives aiding vulnerable populations.
  • Personal Resilience: Overcoming personal struggles through community engagement and support.

Notable Quotes:

• Listener Alison: "Find your people. We're out here and we need each other now more than ever." [43:10]

• Alison Gill: "Keep up the good trouble and thanks for all you do." [43:42]

5. Interview: Ezra Levin on "One Million Rising" [30:24 - 43:51]

Guest: Ezra Levin, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of Indivisible

Alison Gill sits down with Ezra Levin to discuss the "One Million Rising" initiative, a strategic non-cooperation campaign aimed at combating authoritarianism and fostering democratic engagement.

Key Points:

• Origins and Purpose [30:25 - 32:00]:

  • Drawing inspiration from the successful "No Kings" movement that saw 5-6 million participants across 27 countries.
  • Emphasis on transforming one-day protests into sustained, localized organizing efforts to build a pro-democracy force capable of countering federal overreach.

• Non-Cooperation Strategies [32:57 - 36:57]:

  • Types of Non-Cooperation: Social, political, and economic tactics tailored to specific community contexts.
    • Social: Artists refusing to perform at Trump-friendly venues.
    • Political: School districts resisting federal mandates.
    • Economic: Boycotting businesses that support ICE operations.
  • Training and Empowerment: Workshops and seminars designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to implement non-cooperation effectively in their communities.

  Ezra Levin: "This is an effort to take our sites and take them from just focus on how do we stop bad legislation... to how is this playing out in my community." [33:09]

• Scaling the Movement [36:57 - 41:17]:

  • Aiming to engage 3.5% of the population (~11-12 million people) to sustain democratic resistance, based on studies by Erica Chenoweth.
  • Success manifest through local groups adapting strategies to their unique challenges, fostering a resilient nationwide movement.

  Ezra Levin: "The number we have in our head is this number that came from Erica Chenoweth... that's 11 or 12 million people." [39:32]

• Addressing Cynicism and Empowering Action [41:17 - 43:42]:

  • Combatting fatalism by demonstrating the effectiveness of collective action, as evidenced by recent political victories against significant financial influence.
  • Encouraging participation and engagement as vital components of sustaining democracy.

  Ezra Levin: "The power belongs to the people in democracy. But if we don't organize, we don't use it, we don't have it." [40:06]

Notable Quotes:

• Alison Gill: "We need to focus on what we can actually do." [33:30]

• Ezra Levin: "Look, the greatest power Trump has is in this display of power. It's not actual strength." [40:24]

6. Conclusion

Alison Gill wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of community engagement and participation in democratic processes. She encourages listeners to join local Indivisible groups, participate in upcoming trainings, and continue submitting good news stories to foster a positive and resilient community spirit.

Final Remarks:

• Call to Action:

  • Join local Indivisible groups via Indivisible.org.
  • Participate in training seminars to learn effective non-cooperation strategies.
  • Submit good news stories to DailyBeansPod.com to spread positivity.

• Acknowledgments:

  • Thanks extended to guests Adam Klassfeld and Ezra Levin for their valuable insights.
  • Recognition of Dana Goldberg's contributions and well-wishes for her return.

Closing Credits

The Daily Beans is produced by Alison Gill, with contributions from Dana Goldberg, Desiree McFarlane, Joelle Reader, and Moxie Design Studios. Music is provided by They Might Be Giants. For more information, visit mswmedia.com.

Notable Timestamps & Quotes:

• [02:30] Alison Gill: "This was an embarrassing colloquy for the government, Allison."

• [07:20] Adam Klassfeld: "If the government doesn't answer, because of the nature of this motion, the non-answers can work out badly for the government."

• [33:09] Ezra Levin: "We don't believe we have all the answers. We don't believe that we can just tell everybody in the country exactly what to do."

• [40:06] Ezra Levin: "The power belongs to the people in democracy. But if we don't organize, we don't use it, we don't have it."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights shared during the episode, providing a clear and engaging overview for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.