
Tuesday, May 6th, 2025 Today, Governor Katie Hobbs has vetoed three anti-trans bills in Arizona; 20 cops raided a drag show at an LGBTQ bar in Pittsburgh; the Trump administration has dismantled a gun violence victim memorial at ATF; 20 state attorneys general are suing the Trump regime to restore health agencies; Brian Kemp says he will NOT run for Senate in 2026; the third party messaging app used by mike waltz was suspended after being hacked; lawyers for the Voice of America including Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty are asking for a rehearing en banc after a three judge panel upheld Trump’s executive order; Trump has resumed student loan payments starting today promising to confiscate tax refunds, federal benefits, and even wages; and Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.
Loading summary
Alison Gill
MSW Media. Hello and welcome to the Daily beans for Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Today, Governor Katie Hobbs has vetoed three anti trans bills in Arizona. 20 cops raided a drag show at an LGBTQ+ bar in Pittsburgh. The Trump administration has dismantled a gun violence victim memorial at ATF 20. State attorneys general are suing the Trump regime to restore health agencies. Brian Kemp says he will not run for Senate in 2026. Yay. The third party messaging app used by Mike Waltz was suspended after being hacked. Lawyers for the Voice of America, including Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty, are asking for a rehearing en banc after a three judge panel upheld Trump's executive order. And Trump has resumed student loan payments starting today, promising to confiscate your tax refunds, federal benefits, and even your wages. I'm Alison Gill.
Dana Goldberg
And I'm Dana Goldberg.
Alison Gill
Hey, Dana. Happy Tuesday to you, my friend.
Dana Goldberg
Happy Tuesday to you. My disdain for this administration continues to rise exponentially every time I hear this.
Alison Gill
It's. I can't. Yeah. And you know what? I just, I just finished watching a video of John Oliver, you know, last week. Tonight, one of the best shows ever.
Dana Goldberg
Brilliant. Yep.
Alison Gill
Showing the full 90 second clip of Trump trying to convince that one guy who was interviewing him that the MS.13 tattooed on Abra Garcia's knuckles was real.
Dana Goldberg
Yeah.
Alison Gill
And the interviewer was like, no, it's, you know, they were, they were trying to show that the marijuana leaf was the M and the cross was the I, but, you know, let's just move on. And Trump's like, no, Terry, listen, listen.
Dana Goldberg
Terry, Terry, you're being nasty. No one knows who you are. This is your big bake, Terry, I didn't know who you were before this. And I'm not making this up. You all, by the way, I'm. You not. You know how Trump always says those things literally in the interview? No one knew who you. I was giving you your big bake, Terry. I didn't know who you were before this.
Alison Gill
I never heard of you before. But Terry. And he's like, okay, look, agree to disagree. Let's move on to Ukraine.
Dana Goldberg
No, no, no, no, no, no, no. Terry.
Alison Gill
It'S MS.3. It was right there on his knuckle. He's like, no, no, no, that's not. They, like, they showed a picture of his hand and right now in El Salvador. And it doesn't have that on there, Terry, look, it's on there. And it's just the most.
Dana Goldberg
It is. It's pathetic. It's pathetic. It is bizarre. And I'm still trying to figure out if the people around him are tell. Not he's regurgitating what they're telling him or if he actually believes that that is not Photoshopped. I cannot figure it out if he's perpetuating the lie that they keep pushing and he has to push it, or if they're really trolling him and being like, just tell. Just tell Donald that this is a real photo. And Donald's like, it's a real photo, Terry. I don't know what to tell you. It's a real photo.
Alison Gill
Yeah. Or even maybe Stephen Miller was like, look, the marijuana is for M and the cross is for I and the skull is for three. And maybe Donald Trump just wasn't listening and decided that the Helvetica MS.13 was actually tattooed on this guy.
Dana Goldberg
Seriously, the font just screams gang member. It really does. Comic Sans. I mean, they're very dangerous people.
Alison Gill
Oh, yeah. Remember Daud? He would put all of his court filings in Comic Sans. Good times. I'm going to be joined later in the show by Katie Fang, who I love so awesome. What an incredible, incredible human being. And she's got her new sub stack and she's writing under law and Disorder. You should subscribe to that. You know, she's former MSNBC host. We talk about that and her leaving msnbc. And it's. It's a great interview, so I hope that you enjoy it. And then this is cool. Remember the cartoonist who drew the cartoon for the Washington Post of, like, Bezos and everybody, like, kneeling in front of a giant statue of Trump?
Dana Goldberg
And then they pulled it and they walked and that person quit.
Alison Gill
Yes. And they pulled it and. Yeah, exactly. Well, she won a Pulitzer.
Dana Goldberg
Hell, yes.
Alison Gill
And the Washington Post is claiming credit for it. No. Yeah, they're. They're out all over social media. Our editorial cartoonist. And Tell. Tell.
Dana Goldberg
Oh, my God. Yeah, that sounds right.
Alison Gill
Sounds about right. Yeah, yeah, pull. If you still subscribe to the Washington Post, Pull that shit. Spend three bucks a month and get our show ad free.
Dana Goldberg
Seriously.
Alison Gill
Also, ProPublica one for you. Remember all those stories we covered that they did about mothers just in the abortion debate? Just absolutely incredible journalism. So they won a couple Pulitzers as well, so congrats to them. I love to see independent journalists winning these Pulitzers.
Dana Goldberg
Absolutely. Absolutely. Independent journalism, we need it more than ever.
Alison Gill
And we won the Pulitzer for the Taint of the Week segment.
Dana Goldberg
Yes, we did. I know that's shocking to y'all, but. Yeah, we came. Came in right in the middle There.
Alison Gill
No, we, we didn't.
Dana Goldberg
Everyone's like, really? No, we absolutely did not win a Pulitzer.
Alison Gill
100 not. Thank you, though. But we do read the news every day. So let's do that. Let's, let's get to the hot notes. Hot notes. All right. Hey, Dana, remember just yesterday when I said I'd update you on whether Voice of America would ask for a rehearing on bonk at the D.C. circuit Court of Appeals after the three judge panel that had two Trump appointees on it allowed Trump to move forward ye with a dismantling of Voice of America? Well, they did. They just filed for the rehearing on Bonk. So I'll let you know what the full panel of judges has to say about it when they decide. And my beans, my hyperspace beans are that they will overTurn what that three judge panel did and continue to block the dismantling of Voice of America. But we'll see. We'll let you know.
Dana Goldberg
All right, thank you. And from npr, because they're still putting out news, an exhibit showing victims of gun violence. This is horrible. It's been taken down at the headquarters of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives at the atf. And this is what the Justice Department confirmed. Man, these people are awful. The exhibit showed the portraits of 120 people killed from gun violence. A digital kiosk with biographies of each person was also part of the exhibit. An online version has also been taken down. The ATF enforces federal gun laws and is tasked with regulating the firearms industry. It is within the Department of Justice. Man. Pam Bondi. In a statement to NPR on Sunday, a DOJ spokesperson suggested it will still honor victims in other ways, but not only of gun violence. Quote, the ATF will continue to honor the memory of all victims of violent crimes while at the same time preserving the rights of law abiding Americans. How much you want to bet they put a shrine up of Ashley Babbitt?
Alison Gill
Yeah. Or just white Christian men who, you know, haven't quite yet been hired at the Pentagon.
Dana Goldberg
Possibly faces of gun violence, honored victims of mass shootings, school shootings, as well as victims of domestic violence, people who've died by suicide and other victims of gun violence. Portraits of law enforcement officers killed by gun violence. Those were also part of the exhibit. So all these people saying they backed the blue. I guess not here, no.
Alison Gill
And you know, when Donald Trump says he doesn't know if he has to uphold the Constitution, that includes the Second Amendment.
Dana Goldberg
Yeah.
Alison Gill
So I'm not quite sure why all the 2A people, all the amosexuals aren't up in arms literally about about this, but, well, I do know why. Anyway, Next up from NBC, 20 attorneys general, including the attorneys general of New York, California, Colorado and Michigan, have sued the Trump administration on Monday over its ma firings and the dismantling of agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services. The lawsuit, led by New York Attorney General Letitia James Badass, alleges that the administration violated hundreds of laws. Hundreds. And bypassed congressional authority by endeavoring to consolidate the number of HHS agencies from 28 to 15 and initiating layoffs of around 20,000 employees. James called the terminations dangerous, cruel and illegal during a press conference Monday, went on to say, this administration is not streamlining the federal government. They're sabotaging it. When you fire the scientists who research infectious disease, silence the doctors who care for pregnant people and shut down the programs that help firefighters and minors breathe or children thrive, you aren't making America healthy. You're putting countless lives at risk. Unquote.
Dana Goldberg
That's quite the quote.
Alison Gill
Yeah.
Dana Goldberg
All right, this one's from the Wall Street Journal, everyone. The Trump administration is starting to pull millions of defaulted student loan borrowers into coll elections Monday and threatening to confiscate their wages, tax refunds and federal benefits. Yeah, there are some 5 million borrowers, by the way, whose loans are in default, many of whom haven't made regular payments since the pandemic. Millions more, they're on the cusp of default. That's according to the Education Department, which apparently they're keeping track of that now. Those who haven't made payments in at least nine months are considered in default and face the most imminent threat of garnish wages. This is all from the Department of Education. The agency said that on Monday it's going to start putting borrowers into collections. That starts a clock until the department may start withholding federal benefits such as tax refunds, Social Security checks, as well as garnishing wages. The first collection measures. Those could start within 30 days.
Alison Gill
Geez. I mean, to go from, you know, forbearance or, you know, putting off your paying back while waiting for the Department of Education under Joe Biden to forgive your student debt to being thrown into collections and having your wages garnished. I mean.
Dana Goldberg
Yep.
Alison Gill
Anyway, you know, he's not trying to get votes at this point. I don't think he didn't give a no. Whether he thinks he's going to stay in the White House, take it by force or keep it by force or Run for a third term or not run at all. He's. He's not concerned at all with what the voters think of him. Next up from NBC. Telemessage. That's the app that President Trump's former National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, appeared to use to archive his group chats, has suspended all services. The app is shut down after hackers claim to have stolen files from it. A spokesperson for Smarsh, the company that owns telemessage, said Monday. I know of Smarsh working with the Pentagon. That said Monday the company, quote, is investigating a potential security incident. Upon detection, we acted quickly to contain it and engaged in an external cybersecurity firm to support our investigation. Out of an abundance of caution, all Telemessage services have been temporarily suspended. That's what the spokesperson said. The app, which uses encryption technology similar to that of Signal, but also offers government agencies and companies a way to back up copies of chats for compliance purposes, first came under public scrutiny after Waltz appeared to be using it during a Cabinet meeting last week. So it was hacked, like, and this is what the head of the National Security Council is using to communicate.
Dana Goldberg
I mean, I do feel like there's people out there being like, oh, you think this is safe? Let me show you. It's not, and I'll take it. I mean, embarrass the guy. There's no reason they should be using these things for classified information, right?
Alison Gill
And Global X was hacked, too. The airline that's been carrying people to El Salvador, for example, illegally deporting them. They've also been hacked. So feel safe? Do you feel safe yet? I feel safe.
Dana Goldberg
God, I hate even reporting this next story because it's a little bit terrifying because history repeats itself. Lgbtq. This is from the LGBTQ nation. In a moment of resistance, there was a. In Queer Solidarity, a drag show. It went on despite patrons and performers being knocked out of a bar by 20 police officers in bulletproof vests. My God. Police rated Pittsburgh LGBTQ venue. It's called P Town Bar. On Friday, in the middle of a drag event, drag artist Indica was performing alongside transmodel and nightlife legend Amanda Leor when police began to gather in the back of the establishment. This is from Kuburg. This is what they reported. When Indica finished her rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody, police directed patrons to exit the bar, but did not explain why beyond saying it was a compliance check. And if I remember correctly, it was raining outside when they did this. It was, and I quote, we waited 30 minutes outside for them to inspect Every crevice. This is what Indica told Kuberg. But the patrons and the performers, they refused to let the cops quash their spirit, and instead, they created their own public performance space. I love the queers Video captured during the wait shows. The crowd belting Chapel Roan's Pink Pony Club while Indica dances up and down the sidewalks. Collecting tips, by the way, because that's what you do at a drag queen. The drag queens, and I quote, guess what, divas. This is what she said when the performance ended. She said, this is why queer people have got to stick the together in 2025. Make some noise for the queer people in your. Everybody. This is what the crowd. And they cheered. Now, Kubrick described the moment as one of resistance, solidarity, and improvisational beauty. And one that quote reminded everyone that that drag isn't just entertainment. It's political. And when the music stops, the queens don't. I love my community.
Alison Gill
They were singing Pink Pony Club while she danced. I love it. That's terrifying, though.
Dana Goldberg
Yeah. A raid that, that. That's the terrifying part of the story, that these cops think they can just come in and do this.
Alison Gill
And we know what this is about. This is about intimidation.
Dana Goldberg
Yep.
Alison Gill
This is all about scaring people in the LGBTQ+ community. And it seems like Indica and the crowd there saying, it's not going to work with us.
Dana Goldberg
Nope. Bricks were thrown.
Alison Gill
All right, some good news from the Times. Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia has decided against running for Senate in 2026, robbing Republicans of their top potential candidate against Senator John Ossoff, who is seen as the chamber's most vulnerable Democrat on the ballot next year. Well, he was seen as the most vulnerable Democrat on the ballot next year. Kemp is a popular two term governor who won reelection in 2022 despite a primary challenge fueled by President Trump, who stewed publicly over Kemp's refusal to indulge his false claims that the 20 fraudulent top Republicans had nonetheless sought to woo Mr. Kemp into the Senate race. With Senators John Th. The majority leader, and Tim Scott, the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, making a recent visit to him. Polls had shown he would have been a formidable challenger to Mr. Ossoff, who narrowly won election in 2020. We remember that night.
Dana Goldberg
Now, this is what scares me. With Kemp not running. That leaves room for who?
Alison Gill
That doesn't scare me. That makes me happy.
Dana Goldberg
I mean, I. With everything. All the squirreliness going on with elections, though. Marjorie Taylor Greene, I don't want her anywhere near the Senate, but I think she's gonna I think they're gonna put her up.
Alison Gill
She's gonna be way easier to beat than pretty much any 100%. Now she can, she can continue, you know, continue to win handily her in her House district, in her very, very, very, very red.
Dana Goldberg
You're right. Yeah. You know what? Thank you. Thank you for saying that.
Alison Gill
I feel a little bit better when she goes statewide. She' creamed. She's Trump. She's by Trump. She's super Trump. And Trump is not very popular.
Dana Goldberg
Yeah.
Alison Gill
So.
Dana Goldberg
All right. Okay. I'll breathe a little easier.
Alison Gill
Yeah.
Dana Goldberg
We've got more good news.
Alison Gill
Good thing because. Because Kemp was going to be real, real hard to beat.
Dana Goldberg
Yeah. I love this. The source for this next one, this is from Aaron Reads Aaron in the morning. Aaron, she's incredible. If you're not familiar, she's the one that gave us the trans Girl Scout list so you could go buy cookies. She's amazing. On Friday, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed three anti transgender bills that had cleared the state's Republican controlled legislature. That's why voting matters. One of the measures would have prohibited transgender individuals from updating the gender marker on the birth certificates, a process already mired in legal bureaucratic hurdles due to existing law. The other two bills, they targeted trans people in higher education and workplaces, continuing a broader pattern of attempts to restrict their rights in public life. Hobbs, who has positioned herself as a consistent and vocal opponent of the anti transgender agenda pushed by the right, has repeatedly used her veto authority to block similar efforts throughout her time in office. And I'm so glad she has. Earlier this year, Hobbs also VetoeD House Bill 2062, one of the most sweeping anti transgender proposals introduced in that state. The legislation would have effectively erased transgender people from legal recognition in Arizona. Had it become law, it likely would have triggered bans on gender marker changes for driver's licenses, rolled back existing non discrimination protections, and set the stage for broader legal exclusions. While Republicans in Arizona have remained unified in their push to pass anti transgender legislation, Governor Katie Hobbs has consistently used her veto power to halt those efforts at the finish line. Since taking office, she has positioned herself as a final line of defense against a legislative agenda aimed squarely, squarely at rolling back LGBTQ + rights. And this year, none of those bills will become law. Republicans do not have the votes necessary to override her vetoes. That's what I wanted to get to. It is just ridiculous. There is no reason to do this. Transgender people are not a threat to society. They. There's no reason to target them like this. I just. It's not even. They. They're not even talking about sports and know how I feel about that. That should be off the table as well. This is just cruelty, and it's just for votes. It's just to get people riled up. Leave them the fuck alone. Leave my friends and family the fuck alone.
Alison Gill
Yeah, and it's not working. We saw what happened during those two floor speeches in Montana. The Republicans in Montana legislature were like, come on, what the fuck are we even doing?
Dana Goldberg
Yep. And I will say, oh, go ahead.
Alison Gill
And you say, no, I just. I appreciate the pushback, and it's working.
Dana Goldberg
And if you go down to Florida, the same thing's happening, except it's equality Florida that has helped to defeat all of those bills that are putting forth by their legislature. We're fighting back, and it matters. And it matters. So make sure, you know, in 2026 or when we go to these midterms, those governors matter because they stop this bullshit legislation that's below them 100%.
Alison Gill
Hundred percent. A little bit of breaking news. It looks like Hegseth, our good friend Kegseth.
Dana Goldberg
What do you do this time?
Alison Gill
More tea. The Wall Street Journal is saying he had at least a dozen signal chats that he himself initiated about military plans.
Dana Goldberg
Oh, my God. We just fire this guy using his.
Alison Gill
Personal phone on a dirty Internet line in the Pentagon. Unsecured Internet line in the Pentagon.
Dana Goldberg
Oh, my God.
Alison Gill
It keeps getting worse. It keeps getting worse. We'll go into more detail on Tomorrow's cleanup on L45. And our good friend, lawyer Mark Zade, he's suing the Trump administration because he revoked, you know, Trump revoked his security clearance. Okay, so he's suing him too. So good. 100 behind good old Mark Zade there. I'm glad he's standing up. All right, we have some good trouble.
Katie Fang
What are you guys doing?
Alison Gill
All right, first of all, congratulations on yesterday's good trouble. Remember when we had you upload your own video to super cunt White House faith office director's Google Drive? Well, it's been made private because they received tons and tons of videos with titles like. Which is an old Mueller she wrote thing. There was another video called Trump is a Crook. There's one called God hates Republicans. Great videos. And they've been going through. I've been keeping my eye on that Google Drive. You can't. You can no longer just upload your video. You have to get permission first now. And they've been erasing all of those videos, like, one by One. So good job, everybody. Way to go.
Dana Goldberg
Oh, my God.
Alison Gill
Today's Good Trouble is from Joanna. Hi, Allison. I'm a daily listener to the beans. Love the good trouble. I've done many of the recommended actions. Thanks for the info on how to take some action. And in that vein, I have some good trouble. For the last three days, my husband has been receiving daily calls from a number in Atlanta, Georgia. The caller leaves a message paraphrasing here because he's deleted the messages. Quote, this call is from the Centers for Disease Control. Please call us back to let us know how many children you have between the ages of 6 and 17 in your home and their vaccination status.
Dana Goldberg
Hmm.
Alison Gill
We don't have kids, she says. My guess is this is one of the ways the First Felons Administration is weaponizing the data Doge has stolen from all of us. So I'm sharing this to make others aware that it's happening. It seems very suspicious and might be a candidate for good trouble. We could call this number and tell them that we have like 100 kids distributed over that range and we're not sure which ones we had vaccinated and which ones we didn't because there's just too many. Thanks for all you do, and thanks to Dana, too. Please keep the info coming, everybody. The phone number you can call to report your number of children and their vaccination status is area code 404-806-4811. That's 404-806-4811. Go get into some good trouble, everybody. Stick around. We'll be right back with Katie Fang after these messages.
Dana Goldberg
We'll be right back.
Alison Gill
This episode is brought to you by IQ Bar. IQ Mix is a zero sugar drink mix from IQ Bar that hydrates, boosts your mood, and promotes mental clarity. As someone who's constantly on the go, I need hydration that does more than just quench my thirst. IQ Mix has been my go to ever since I tried it. With three times. The electrolytes of other sports drinks and ingredients that support both mental and physical performance, it is a smarter way to stay fueled throughout the day. IQmix comes in seven delicious flavors that are actually enjoyable to drink. Passion fruit and Lemon lime are my current faves and they make hitting my water goals effortless. No sugar, no gluten, no shady ingredients, just clean, effective hydration. And I love that it's certified vegan and kosher, which makes it easier to share with friends and family too. It's no wonder IQ Bar has over 20,000 five star reviews. Whether it's their hydration mixes, mushroom coffees or brain boosting bars, they've built a lineup that people trust to start their days right. I always keep IQmix in my work bag and my gym bag. I use it whenever I need to refocus, especially during long meetings or afternoon slumps. And it keeps my energy clean and my mental clarity on top. I don't get a crash. And for anyone who struggles to stay hydrated or wants an upgrade from sugary drinks, this is it. It's hydration with a brain boost. And right now, IQ Bar is offering our special podcast listeners 20% off all IQ Bar products, plus you get free shipping. So to get your 20% off, text daily beans all one word to 64,000. That's daily beans to 64,000. Again, text daily beans to 64,000. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. Hey, everybody. Welcome back. I'm really excited to be joined today by my good friend, longtime friend. We've been doing this for many, many, many years now. She's a legal and political analyst, lawyer. She has a new substack called Law and Disorder, which is must go subscribe to over on Substack. And she's a former host of the Katie Fang show on msnbc. Please welcome Katie Fang. Hey, Katie.
Katie Fang
Hey, my friend. It's been a long time. But listen, the invitation to come and hang out with you, I'll take that any day and twice on Sunday. So thanks for the invite.
Alison Gill
Thank you. I need to put my. Hold on. I got to put on my Katie Fang glasses. Hold on.
Katie Fang
Oh, my God. Wait, so. So here's the crazy shit. I. Oops. Am I allowed to say that? So I contacted, and now I have to wear reading glasses to actually see your beautiful face. And so they tried to get me to do these things called progressive contact lenses. And I told them, I said, look, when I run everybody over trying to drive with those things on, are you gonna bail me out of jail? So I said, no, thank you. So I wear these glasses, and they've become a little bit of a. A little bit of a trademark now these days. But it's just that I can see everybody. So there you go.
Alison Gill
Wonderful. Well, I am so glad you're here, because who'd have thunk?
Katie Fang
Oh, I know.
Alison Gill
First of all, when you and I was you and I and Natasha Bertrand at the Miracle Theater in dc, Six.
Katie Fang
A night, wasn't it?
Alison Gill
Was it six. Six years ago?
Katie Fang
God, why does it feel like it was longer and yet Just yesterday.
Alison Gill
Right. I know. It could be 20 years ago, it could be a week ago. And we're backstage and we're like, all right, what are we going to talk about? We were doing a Muller She Wrote live tour, and we stopped in D.C. and we're like, we got to get Katie Fang on. We went up to Philly and we had Asha Rangappa join us and who.
Katie Fang
I just saw in D.C. a couple days ago. So there you go.
Alison Gill
Yeah. And. And by the way, that was super fun because afterwards we all went out and there was like karaoke and wine and fries. It was fantastic. But those times seem quaint compared to what we're going through now. And I want to get into a little bit of what you cover over on Law and Disorder. Excellent name, by the way.
Katie Fang
Thank you.
Alison Gill
But first of all, let's talk about, you know, like, free at last, independent media. Katie Fang is on the loose. And I want you to talk a little bit about that. You've left msnbc and we covered that here on the Daily Beans in. In what we thought was a very poor choice by MSNBC to get rid of who they got rid of at that specific particular moment in time and in history. You know, when we pull back and look at it from a, you know, 50,000 foot view, you but talk a little bit about what it's been like so far to just be out there independent and doing exactly what you want to do.
Katie Fang
So it's me like you saw on tv, just a little spicier, but more accurately, with maybe a little bit more profanity. I mean, I have said this since I've left. I said it before I left, frankly. There is an urgency that needs to be met. We need to meet the urgency of the moment with the urgency of the message. And for me, it has been an incredibly freeing moment because one, just by virtue of the fact that the show, the Katie Feng show, was only on one day a week, there was a lot of shit I wanted to say for six days, and then I got to Saturday, and then I always endeavored on the show to not regurgitate what you had maybe already hashed over during the week. And it wasn't hard to come up with the original concepts and content. But there was only 40 something minutes of live TV that you could do in one hour on cable. And so the conversations were necessarily shortened. They were maybe about five, maybe six minutes, if you're lucky. And I had to be very careful about the real estate that I had because there wasn't a lot of it. So the idea that I can go and do what I just affectionately started calling, even yesterday, a Fang File, like just a little video note on substance. And then I was still so angry about the Ashley Babbitt settlement idea that I then wrote an entire post on Substack, kind of getting a little bit into the weeds about it. And just this idea that I can be what I call a free agent. Understandably, when you work in mainstream media and you're on a contract, you are exclusive to that particular outlet. And so I see and I hear and I watch everything that's happening. And this idea that I can now go out and I can hang out with you and I can do all these other things, and I could be unabashedly me, warts and all, makes me feel good. Because the one thing I hear time and time again when I am out in public and I. And I cross paths with people from all different walks of life and from all different backgrounds is we're in it together. And if we're in it together, you need to be authentically with me as I am with you. And we'll. We'll kind of. We'll hit the streets together, and we'll. We'll fight together.
Alison Gill
And let's talk about that authenticity, because, you know, I've worked for. Before I started podcasting full time, I, you know, I was working for the federal government, had to be very. I remember, had to be very conscious of what I was saying and, And. And very, you know, mindful of. Of. I couldn't. I didn't even use my real name.
Katie Fang
Yeah, your situation was definitely different.
Alison Gill
Yes, but it. But it also. It is the same in some ways. And then when I was with a podcast network for a minute and then got out, got from under that and. And started the own. My own network, it was just. It was very freeing because there is a sense of. I think I spoke to a group of law students at Loyola, and they were like, what's the one piece of advice that you have? And I was like, well, I'm not a lawyer, but what I can tell you from being in the media, not.
Katie Fang
Wait, wait, you're not. Because I kind of feel like you are, but go ahead.
Alison Gill
Maybe by default. But I said, the most important advice I can give you is don't leave your authentic self at the door every. You know, everyone. I. Yeah, I sit and I watch. What is it? Elle Woods, Legally Blonde. And like, you know, law is, you know, reason without passion or whatever the quote is. And I was like, I Disagree. I think that you should bring yourself into your practice. I think it's very important not to check yourself at the door. And that's, I think, the same thing about media. And so that's why I'm so excited for, for what you're doing now. And let's, let's jump into it a little bit because you mentioned that Ashley Babbitt settlement. And tomorrow morning I'm going to be recording our, my weekly podcast with Harry Dunn and we're going to get his thoughts on this particular settlement in, you know, just on the heels of the Department of Justice saying that we should give back all of the money that the January Sixers had to pay in restitution back to, to the January Sixers. So let's talk about your piece a little bit about the Ashley Babbitt settlement, because it's, it's fucking disgusting that this particular Department of Justice is making these deals with our taxpayer dollars for Ashley Babbitt, who broke the law.
Katie Fang
Yeah. So I was particularly irate about it. Just the idea that you could commit a crime. That person being Ashleigh Babbitt, she died due to her own actions. I mean, this is, you don't, you can't pussyfoot around the cause and effect. Right. It truly is the find out part of the fuck around part for Ashley Babbitt.
Alison Gill
It.
Katie Fang
But then the fact that her family sues, and I mentioned this in my substack post, quote, the United States of America. I'm sorry, last I checked, on January 6, you were trying to stop the certification of the Electoral College votes, which is the cornerstone of our electoral process when it comes to declaring the President of the United States, which, by the way, is of the United States of America. And so this idea that somebody had the cojones to want to do this and, and the Biden doj, as I noted, appropriately defended against it. And I want to underscore the fact that the Capitol Police officer, this lieutenant, who was involved in this officer involved shooting, he was cleared through two different investigations, one by Capitol Police and one by the United States Attorney's office. And so not only was he cleared, but one of the reports said that he was a hero that day because he saved so many lives. And look, don't take it from me, you could see it with your own freaking eyes when you saw what was happening that day. Right? So the idea that now, just because Donald Trump is in office and the DOJ kisses his ass, the fact that now that we're going to be paying the family of Ashley Babbitt her husband. And the estate or estate money drives me nuts. And then the only thing that really made me mad too was the fact that one of the co plaintiffs is Judicial Watch, which is Tom Fitton's baby. And it's so far up Donald Trump's butt. And it just drives me nuts. It's like, what's your freaking part of this? Right? Like it's just a slap in the face not only for the rule of law, but it also, I think, sets a dangerous precedent for the next four years of who are we supposed to be righting wrongs and whose wrongs are we writing here? Because she screwed up and I don't think that her family should get a penny for her loss.
Alison Gill
Yeah, no, I agree. And it's, it's, it's infuriating that it's our taxpayer dollars that are paying for, for this kind of thing and we.
Katie Fang
Don'T even know what the amount is, by the way, yet. So she sued for 30 million and I don't. Her family sued for 30 million. I have no idea what the actual settlement's going to be.
Alison Gill
Think. Yeah, who knows? And we might not ever know, but with this particular Department of Justice and this particular administration, maybe they'll brag about it. And then Andy and I talked about this also on Unjustified Bigger picture, DOJ gutting the Civil Rights Division. Harmeet Dhillon, who is now saying that the Civil Rights Division is dedicated to the civil rights of basically white straight men.
Dana Goldberg
Oh.
Katie Fang
Remember, you had to be God fearing too. You have to be a white Christian nationalist if you want to be able to get the protections of the Civil Rights Department of the doj. Yeah.
Alison Gill
So they've gutted that department. And I know so many lawyers from the Department of Justice that were working in the Civil Rights Division that are leaving or have left or been put on administrative leave. And then when they put them on administrative leave, they can't get another job because they're still technically being paid. Or they put them on leave without pay and then their insurance lapse. I mean, lapses. It's like, like it's, I'm almost kind of thankful the way that I was cleanly cut from the government by the first Trump administration because they didn't dick around with all this other bullshit that, that we're seeing now. And it, obviously it wasn't on as large of a scale, but I, I can't imagine what you must be thinking about what they're doing to the Civil Rights Division at the department.
Katie Fang
Well, I mean, we were already even in a good administration, laboring under attacks on civil rights and for all communities, not the marginalized ones. The thing that I kind of noted the other day was that a woman and her daughters in Oklahoma City when they had that immigration raid, when they were executing a search warrant, and the actual, you know, subjects of the search warrant weren't even living there anymore, and they terrorized this poor woman and her daughters. And, and I said, don't expect Harmony Dillon's Department of Justice to help you in any way if you were to complain about your civil rights being violated by an abuse use of the process by these cops. Right. But not to mention the fact that the U.S. marshal Service wasn't even president, even though they said that they were U.S. marshals that were there, which is a whole other, you know, can of worms for them. But this idea that we have to truly fend for ourselves now gives such a horrible, ominous feeling of lawlessness. And what's particularly kind of offensive is that all of this bad stuff is transpiring under the moniker of the department, Department of Justice. And people get mad sometimes when I say it's the Department of Injustice, but I'm not trying to be kitschy about it. I'm just telling you it truly is. So it's the rolling back of progress we've made. I mean, it's not just the Department of Justice. Right. I mean, Allison, it's everywhere. Everything that has been destroyed so far has been destroyed so cruelly and so effectively that my concern is we're never even going to realize the extent of it until A, it's too late to fix, or B, years from now, we're still going to be picking up the pieces. And so that's why your voice, and hopefully mine, being added into this ecosystem of independent media. I like to say knowledge is power. And so people will leave this conversation listening to this and they'll say, oh, I didn't know this, or oh, I'm learning that. And if maybe they can just bend the ear of one or two other people. We've made a lot of progress, I think, especially when you're not hearing certain things in mainstream and traditional media.
Alison Gill
Yeah, that's why I'm so excited to watch you now do your thing. Unfettered, uncensored. Katie Fang unleashed on the world. And not just that, but like the, the platform that you gave. I. I remember seeing on social media a photo of you and every single, like, AAPHI person that you've had on your show like that platforming and amplifying those voices. It just, it filled my heart with this awesome feeling of how important it is that we aren't checking our authentic selves at the door. And we are going out there to cover the stories. Not just the stories we think are important, but we cover them in the way that we think is important to cover them.
Katie Fang
Yeah. And I'll share this with you, Allison, because the day after my last episode, I was sharing a video about my vulnerability and how I was scared. I mean, this is all kind of a new frontier for me. Me. And most people look at me, they're like, look at her. She's brash and she's out there. Definitely not any stereotypical Asian. Right. But I will say this. You know, it was such an honor to have a, a show with my name on it. And I took that very seriously because they don't have that right for, for Asian females. And then, you know, with me being gone, I felt so badly, like I let down a lot of people, but including my community, right? Because. Because it's so hard to break into this space. And I felt like not only did I put my foot in the door, but I was holding the door open. And now I feel like that door's been shut, slammed shut again. Because in the event Alex Wagner, who lost her own named show, in the event Alex leaves msnbc, there will not be a single Asian female that is at msnbc. There are incredibly talented Asian women like Vicky Nguyen, who's over at NBC, and Emily Ikeda. I mean, there are people that are there. But you know this, the phrase representation matters, it's used a lot, maybe think it's, maybe people think it's overused, but it's just not. And so now it's back to ground zero. And yet it's not. So in independent media, when I'm on YouTube, which I'll be on YouTube and substack and with you guys, I mean, I'm actually going to reach more people, frankly, than on traditional media. And so I'm grateful for that. But. But also, you know, I can do speaking engagements I wasn't able to do before and I can do things like that. And those things are really important. And so I want people to see me for who I am with my 10 year old, who I say is going on 30 and some days doesn't want to talk to me and my dog and my husband and my 82 year old mother and all the shit that kind of went into getting me to where I am today, which is on the cusp of being 50. And I just kind of want to put it all out there because I think it resonates when people say she cares like I care and that we're not alone. And because feeling alone is the worst feeling. Right? So I want people to know that here's it, all of it. Enjoy.
Alison Gill
It is. And knowing that you're not alone is one of the most powerful things. No one can gaslight you anymore. And I'm looking forward to seeing what you do because I honestly think that corporate media is going to. Is on the decline. Sort of what we saw with like, corporate record labels versus independent labels and independent music and people doing things by themselves and for themselves and their communities. And so I think that this is actually for you. It's going to be like a step up and a step out, and more doors are going to be opening than are closing. And so I'm really excited to see where this goes. Everybody needs to subscribe to Law and Disorder. What a fantastic name for your substack. And we're going to probably do some sub stack lives together and please, that'd be awesome. We'll be able to help. You know, like, when I left the government, I was like, oh, my gosh, I'm. I feel like I'm not. The door was closing on me being able to help veterans. But I've been able to do so much more through independent media and, you know, actually using my name now than I ever was before.
Katie Fang
Not your pseudo dude.
Alison Gill
Every time I go to some sort of gathering, though, and I'm like, they're like, oh, hi. Who are you? I'm like, I'm Allison Gill. And they're like, look at the blank stare. And I'm like, mueller, she wrote. And I was like, oh, yeah, okay.
Katie Fang
I actually was just looking out. I still have my Mueller prayer candle.
Alison Gill
Oh, yeah, I think mine's back. Do you have yours? I still have.
Katie Fang
I have my Mueller prayer candle. I have my Mueller mug. I. I will say this. I'm grateful for you and others like the guys over at Midas who are friends and with whom I'm going to be collaborating as well on their network. You know, you guys very smartly saw the lay of the land before everybody else did. And what I appreciate the most about you is you didn't pull the ladder up behind you as you've gone up. And I want to emphasize this because people need to realize it is. Women are hard on women one and two. You know, sometimes you get the feeling that it's like, yeah, you know, here's kind of a leg up, or here's a little bit of help. But you've never made it conditional, Allison. And so I'm very grateful for that. So thank you for always being so gracious about wanting to make sure that we're all heard, because there really is space at the table for all of us, simply because we're all different. We have different experiences, and we bring different things to that table. And so I'm grateful for you for. For turning back and always offering a hand to help me get up. So I appreciate that.
Alison Gill
Oh, well, thank you. Because, I mean, you know, that's like the. I. I don't even know what to say. I'm not good at compliments. But I've. I've learned over the past couple of decades, being in government and comedy and music. Music, there's always room at the table. It's like that. You know, where they're like. It's. It's like when we talk about rights, there's enough for everyone. It's not pie. It's. It's the same in the media space. And I want everybody to grab a microphone and be themselves. The more we have storytelling out there, the less alone we feel. So thank you so much for all the work you're doing. Tell everybody again where they can find and follow you.
Katie Fang
Yeah, so I did launch a substack. It is atiefang@the substack that I have. I do have Law and Disorder. You can always follow atiefang on. On the other social media platforms like Blue Sky, Threads and Instagram. And then pretty soon, we'll be launching a YouTube channel with the Midas Network, actually. So I'll be. I mean, this will be the. Here's a little exclusive breaking news for you. So I. You know what? Maybe I'll leave this open to your. To. To your folks that are tuning in, because I was allowed to leave. I asked and I was allowed to leave with the Katie Venture show. The name. The Katie Fang show, which, listen, is great, but it was also like, bruh, it's my name with my show. So I could be like, the show with Katie Fang and do that. But anyway, so. So MSNBC was like, yeah, you can have your name. So I have the Katie Fang Show. I'm not sure if that's what we're going to call it, but pretty much we're going to kind of take that format and pop it on YouTube with some other stuff. But I don't know, maybe I'll make it like an open thing on suggestions for new for what I'm gonna do.
Alison Gill
Interesting. Right in, right in DailyBeansPod.com click on Contact. Let us know what you think. The Katie Fang Show. Should I like the Katie Fang Show? But yeah, like, oh, thank you for letting me keep my name.
Katie Fang
Like it was a little weird that I was asking. I was like, can I, I was like, yeah, can I have my name? But, but they're like, well, you know. No, I'm kidding. So yeah, so it's my name and I have it. But we'll see what happens.
Alison Gill
That's so cool that the Midas guys are, are going to be collaborating with you. They're done some pretty incre. Beating Joe Rogan. I love it.
Katie Fang
But you know what? It's because they know that I, I think the genuine, authentic kind of message of we really care about democracy, it's not lip service and we care about it being provided to you in this unadulterated, clean way. The information in the news and hey folks, critical thinking skills are not dead and we see them being used.
Alison Gill
We saw it the, you know, the, the context and the curative journalism and, and curation and add more long form stuff. We saw it, might have saw it, we saw it going back like trying to tell corporate media like, hey, if, if, you know, you don't have to die as a business model. There is a market for something different and that, I don't know, they just don't listen. So here we are and yay. Thank you so much.
Katie Fang
Better days ahead, I'll tell you that, my friend.
Alison Gill
Thank you. If we go on the road again, we're gonna have to sit, sit again in the green room at the Miracle Theater.
Katie Fang
God, how fun was that? That was so much fun.
Alison Gill
It was a blast. All right, my friend, it's been wonderful to talk to you everybody. Follow Katie everywhere. You know how to find her. And we appreciate your time today. Everybody stick around. We'll be right back with the good news. Everybody, welcome back. It's time for the good news, everyone. Then good news, everyone. All right, everybody, this is our listener supported good news segment of the day. Send your good news to us. Whether it's, you know, you have any confessions or corrections, especially pronunciation corrections. Just a good news story you want to share with us or if you have a shout out out to a loved one or yourself. We love self shout outs. A shout out to maybe a small business in your area that could use a boost or your small business or some great community activism that you're seeing. Send that to us and of course shout outs to government programs that have helped you or a loved one. And so, you know, normally we ask for shout outs to Democratic government programs, but I think that the Republicans have passed a program. The. Well, the last one I could think of was like Mtala from 1980s. Unless you're a billionaire and you're really into Trump's tax cuts from 2017, you can send that to us.
Dana Goldberg
If you are a billionaire and you're not a patron, you need to look at yourself in the mirror.
Alison Gill
Right? Hello. We do have a thousand dollar a month level. You do? No, I don't think we do.
Dana Goldberg
I was like, you do get in on that.
Alison Gill
We'll put it in there. We'll put it in there. We'll put. Now, now I want to go add the thousand dollar a month for billionaires.
Dana Goldberg
For billionaires.
Alison Gill
Pay your fair share. That's funny. I'm totally gonna do that. If you're not a patron, you can check it out. Patreon.com Mueller she wrote Look for our new thousand dollar a month pledge.
Dana Goldberg
Oh my God. Ag Speaking of a little schadenfreude before you get on the first one because this just came onto my phone. Remember that 60 Minutes report that prompted Trump to freak out and sue them? That was Kamala Harris's interview where she just got nominated for an Emmy. Oh God, that's funny. Okay, I just. That's the good news. That's the start of the good news. That is good news.
Alison Gill
And by the way, edited so much out of his 60 Minutes interview I can't even. Oh my God, that's fantastic. Congratulations on your Emmy. No nomination. Bill Owens, who has left in 60 minutes and so good, so good. Oh, wonderful. Was it for editing, probably.
Dana Goldberg
That would have been.
Alison Gill
Oh my God.
Dana Goldberg
That's very, very funny.
Alison Gill
Okay, send your good news to us@dailybeanspod.com and click on contact. Also, if you have any pet photos, bird watching photos, you know, you and your friends flipping off Trump properties, flipping the bird to musk propert. Send that to us. Your baby pictures, adoptable pets in your area. There are multiple ways to pay your pod pet tariff and we appreciate all of your good news submissions. First up from anonymous. Hello, Beans Queens. Thanks for keeping us sane in these crazy times. Love the laughter and the much needed swearing to see us through the insanity. Quick correction. The last name of the Australian prime minister reelected last weekend over Voldemort. Very appropriate nickname for ex opposition leader Peter Dutton is pronounced announced Albanese. Congrats to Albo as he's known, it's. Oh, elbow's up. Get it. It's a huge relief that the Trump light party was blitzed America. There is light at the end of the tunnel for my pod pet tariff. A photo of my trail loving, snow loving fur baby. She's a common breed, but one of a kind for the family who absolutely dotes on her.
Dana Goldberg
Look at this. She's perfect.
Alison Gill
Oh, she's an Aussie doodle.
Dana Goldberg
I need an Aussie doodle.
Alison Gill
I love the little muppet face.
Dana Goldberg
There is some soul in those eyes. That dog has been places.
Alison Gill
That's an old soul dog for sure. Yeah.
Dana Goldberg
Gorgeous.
Alison Gill
Thank you.
Dana Goldberg
We got a submission. This is from my friend Kathy, or Gator. We call her Gator. Dear Ag, your reporting on Katie Ledecky was short one very important fact. Katie is a beloved member of Gator Nation.
Alison Gill
Oh, I apologize.
Dana Goldberg
The nickname of those of us who fully support, love, and adore the University of Florida. Katie joined us in 2021 and has been an unbelievable inspiration to the entire swimming and dive team, specifically, and the rest of Gator Nation in general. And we are very proud of her. Go, Gators. Sincerely, Dana's fanatical friend, Gator. Bonus correction. Taint has never, ever been used in the medical community as a description for the perineal.
Alison Gill
You. It's used in the legal system all the time.
Dana Goldberg
That's right, Gator. I love you. Like, literally. This made it into the good news quickly because I got a text from Gator that was like, I can't believe you guys didn't say anything. And I was like, don't come at me. AG wrote that script.
Alison Gill
I'm not a fan of the Gators. Kathy, I'm. I'm super sorry.
Dana Goldberg
It's Gator. Sorry.
Alison Gill
I know. I'm. I'm. I know I'm gonna get in trouble.
Dana Goldberg
That's right. They have their national championship in basketball, so they're fine now. The bends.
Alison Gill
Well, congrats. I guess I'm just their arrival school. They're a rival school.
Dana Goldberg
I'm about to get some text messages. Let's keep moving, but go.
Alison Gill
Okay. Go, Gators. Because of Katie, I'll say that also.
Dana Goldberg
Kathy is about one of the most extraordinary people I've ever met, so she's awesome. Love you, Gator.
Alison Gill
Amazing, amazing, amazing. Thank you, Gator. Next up, Jordan pronouns he and him. In a world where many companies are actively dismantling their DEI initiatives, the company I work for is committed to strengthening its DEI efforts. As the president of our pride Erg I'm excited to share that we will be participating in three pride parades for the first time in the company's history in Los Angeles, Dallas and Atlanta. I am proud to be part of a company that values the diversity of its employees and is dedicated to the diversity of its vendors and suppliers. This is so cool. Jordan got a feel for people who, you know, just kind of always assumed that their workplace was into diversity, equity and inclusion. But maybe their companies are being unmasked now as not. Yeah, I mean, that's got to be really difficult. So, Jordan, congrats on being part of a company that's embraces these initiatives. Jordan goes on to say attach. I've included a photo of most of our pets in one image. Image A well loved orange tabby, our golden doodle, and our newest addition, a min pin puppy who's only 6 weeks old. He gets 2 photos. LOL. Thank you both of you and your backstage crew for all your dedicated work. P S. If you'll be at LA Pride, let me know. I'll be traveling from Nashville to participate with our company and it would be awesome to say hi at least.
Dana Goldberg
No, look at this. Oh my God.
Alison Gill
She sits side saddle.
Dana Goldberg
Brood is adorable.
Alison Gill
Or he. Excuse me. He's sitting side saddle. Adorable.
Dana Goldberg
Jordan, your animals are so sweet.
Alison Gill
Oh, they look comfy. I want to snuggle with them.
Dana Goldberg
I love it. All right. This is from Barbara in Bama. Not from here.
Alison Gill
She said pronouns.
Dana Goldberg
She pronouns she and her county. Correction, first love the show. Lowndes county in Alabama is pronounced to rhyme with town. Oh, now I said it. Right?
Alison Gill
Right. We're all just ignore.
Dana Goldberg
Oh, just ignore the D. So it's lounes. All right. When pronouncing the word, you make the hellscape endurable when it seems too much. I especially love the good trouble pet tariff. Here's a pic of my pound puppies, Sierra and Cinder. And now I just realized I. Hold on. These pictures have showed up in two different submissions and so I think the one of them is for Jordan. And then the second picture or the pound puppies. Here we go. Pound puppies Sierra and Cinder.
Alison Gill
Oh, they are sore. They're just so cute. They look so peaceful.
Dana Goldberg
I know.
Alison Gill
And you're right. There is a repeat of a photo. We'll find out what's going on behind the scenes. So I think probably the lab and the other like little red dog are probably Sierra and Cinder.
Dana Goldberg
Yeah, I would think so.
Alison Gill
Anyway. Lovely. All right, next up from Emma Lee, pronoun she and her. Oh, we have an axolotl I just want to say thank you. I've been a listener since the kitchen table days, and my mornings would not be complete without you and Dana and your team. For PodBet Tariff, I'm submitting a puzzle my husband made. Can you guess the model of the axolotl? Pink.
Dana Goldberg
It looks like a pink one. A long axolotl.
Alison Gill
A longalatl.
Dana Goldberg
A longaladle.
Alison Gill
Adorable. That's so cool that he made that. And another short one here from Susan Pronoun. She and her hi sending you good juju with a pic of me and my first cat. Your podcast is a welcome relief during this inhumane attack on our psyches. Thank you. And keep fighting this autocratic takeover of all democracies. Look at this beautiful picture.
Dana Goldberg
Oh, that's fantastic.
Alison Gill
Okay, you take the baby one.
Dana Goldberg
You got it. Thank you. This is from Joy's pronoun. She and her ag. I listen to all your shows and I appreciate all that you and your co hosts do to inform the public. Thank you for having the courage to speak out. You and Harry Dunn asked about whether Borrow me some money is used a lot. Yes. In Minnesota, it's totally normal. The Swedish words for borrow and lend are the same, as are the words for teach and learn. This has influenced the Minnesota dialect. For my tariff, I'm sharing a picture of my granddaughter. It looks like she's ready to sing Crocodile Rock. Oh, my God.
Alison Gill
It is a little Elton John.
Dana Goldberg
Look.
Alison Gill
What a sweet baby. Those glasses are amazing. And a Minnie Mouse. Look it. Oh, that's a lot of toys.
Dana Goldberg
No. So cute.
Alison Gill
Adorable. All right, our final submission here is from EB A correction beanie. Ladies AG and dg. I am EB I'm a patron. I've been listening since last November and I love it. I feel more sane knowing I'm not alone in this. Thank you. Please stop saying Christie. Dog Killer Gnome is cosplaying. She isn't even to the level of a spirit. Halloween costume. As a cosplayer, the most I've spent is close to a thousand dollars. In nine months of building a suit of cosplay armor, I'm featured in an international book, and that costume, my first, won second place at a major convention.
Dana Goldberg
Nice, E.B.
Alison Gill
Right? Those of us who cosplay do it for the love of the character, the artwork, the style, and the challenge. Amongst many things, Ms. Gnome embodies none of that. Amongst her other innumerable character and moral failings, Pod tariff is Harley, our two year old rescue ombre Bernadoodle. You can't see it in the photo very well. But she fades from black on her back to gray legs and then to her white toes. She's my cute best friend. Look at the ombre beard. Oh she's beautiful. I love this EB. I think this comes from our production booth.
Dana Goldberg
I like the note though.
Alison Gill
Furthermore, I would say that gnome isn't larping either. That would call for some effort and knowledge on her part. She's barely playing dress up at a novel novelty photo booth level. This is along the lines of not calling this administration clowns because clowning is a noble craft or calling that takes training, effort and respect for your audience and expertise.
Dana Goldberg
Thank you.
Alison Gill
Thank you to our producer for that.
Dana Goldberg
I love it.
Alison Gill
Eb. Thanks for that submission and thanks to everyone for your good news submissions. We couldn't get through our days without them. Please send all your good news. Flood us with good news like it's good trouble. Send it to us@dailybeanspot.com and click on contact. Don't forget to call the CDC and tell them you have 9,000 kids. We, we appreciate you. Tell them they've been vaccinated for like made up. That would be extra funny.
Dana Goldberg
That would be very funny.
Alison Gill
Yes. My 17 year old is vaccinated against Bushwick Syndrome. You know, just whatever, just make it up and I think it would be really funny.
Dana Goldberg
You could say they vaccinated against TDS and just leave it at that.
Alison Gill
That would be great.
Dana Goldberg
That Trump Derangement syndrome because they think we all have it. They've been vaccinated against tds. Yes.
Alison Gill
Yeah, we're the crazy ones. Okay, sure. Everybody, thanks so much again. Send your good news to us dailybeanspod.com click on contact. Do you have any final thoughts, my friend, before we get out of here today?
Dana Goldberg
I do not.
Alison Gill
All right everybody, we'll be back in your ears tomorrow. Until then, please take care of yourselves, take care of each other, take care of the planet, take care of your mental health and take care of your family. I've been ag, I've been DG and them's the Beans. The Daily Beans is written and executive produced by Allison Gill with additional resources and reporting by Dana Goldberg. Sound design and editing is by Desiree McFarlane with art and web design by Joelle Reader with Moxie Design Studios. Music for the Daily Beans is written and performed by they Might Be Giants and the show is a proud member of the MSW Media Network, a collection of creator owned podcasts dedicated to news, politics and justice. For more information, please Visit msw media.com msw media.
The Daily Beans: Episode Summary – "Urgent Profanity (feat. Katie Phang)"
Release Date: May 6, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Daily Beans, hosts Alison Gill and Dana Goldberg dive deep into pressing social justice and political issues, delivering the latest news with their signature blend of progressive insight and sharp-edged humor. Featuring a special guest appearance by former MSNBC host Katie Fang, the episode offers a comprehensive overview of recent political maneuvers, grassroots activism, and the shifting landscape of media independence.
1. Governor Katie Hobbs Blocks Anti-Trans Legislation in Arizona
Alison Gill opens the episode by highlighting Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs's decisive action in vetoing three anti-trans bills. These bills, which had passed through the Republican-controlled legislature, aimed to restrict transgender individuals' rights, particularly in areas such as birth certificate modifications and protections in higher education and workplaces.
Katie Fang Quote [17:00]: "Transgender people are not a threat to society. There is no reason to target them like this. Leave my friends and family the fuck alone."
This move by Hobbs not only preserves essential rights for the LGBTQ+ community but also underscores the importance of gubernatorial veto power in safeguarding marginalized populations against discriminatory legislation.
2. Police Raid at Pittsburgh LGBTQ+ Bar
The hosts discuss a disturbing incident in Pittsburgh where 20 police officers, clad in bulletproof vests, raided a drag show at P Town Bar, an LGBTQ+ venue. According to reports from Kuburg, the raid was ostensibly a compliance check, but the lack of transparency raised concerns about targeted intimidation against the community.
Dana Goldberg Comment [12:11]: "This is all about scaring people in the LGBTQ+ community. It seems like Indica and the crowd are saying, it's not going to work with us."
Despite the aggressive police presence, performers and patrons transformed the outdoor space into an impromptu performance area, showcasing resilience and solidarity within the queer community.
3. Trump Administration Dismantles Gun Violence Victim Memorial at ATF
The Trump administration has removed a gun violence victim memorial from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) headquarters. The exhibit featured portraits and biographies of 120 victims, serving as a poignant reminder of the human cost of gun violence.
Dana Goldberg Quote [07:18]: "The ATF will continue to honor the memory of all victims of violent crimes while preserving the rights of law-abiding Americans."
However, critics argue that this removal is a subtle attempt to downplay the severity of gun-related tragedies and shift focus away from effective regulation.
4. State Attorneys General Sue Trump Administration to Restore Health Agencies
A coalition of 20 state attorneys general, including those from New York, California, Colorado, and Michigan, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration. Led by New York Attorney General Letitia James, the lawsuit contends that the administration unlawfully attempted to consolidate Health and Human Services (HHS) agencies from 28 to 15 and laid off approximately 20,000 employees.
Letitia James Statement [08:19]: "When you fire the scientists who research infectious diseases, silence the doctors who care for pregnant people, and shut down programs that help firefighters and minors breathe or children thrive, you aren't making America healthy. You're putting countless lives at risk."
This legal action aims to preserve critical health services and prevent further erosion of public health infrastructure.
5. Brian Kemp Declines 2026 Senate Run
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has announced that he will not seek a Senate seat in 2026, depriving Republicans of a strong contender to challenge Senator Jon Ossoff.
Dana Goldberg Observation [15:29]: "With Kemp not running, that leaves room for who?"
Alison Gill reflects on the implications, suggesting that the absence of Kemp, a popular two-term governor, could lead to the nomination of candidates like Marjorie Taylor Greene, who may be more easily defeated.
6. Mike Waltz’s Messaging App Suspended After Hack
Former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz faced a security breach when his third-party messaging app, Telemessage, was hacked, leading to its suspension. Smarsh, the company behind Telemessage, confirmed the breach and is collaborating with cybersecurity firms to investigate the incident.
Dana Goldberg Comment [10:21]: "There's no reason they should be using these things for classified information, right?"
The compromise raises concerns about the security protocols of government officials and the integrity of sensitive communications.
7. Lawyers for Voice of America Seek Rehearing on Dismantling Efforts
Representatives from Voice of America, including Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty, are petitioning for an en banc rehearing after a three-judge panel, which included two Trump appointees, upheld the executive order aimed at dismantling their operations. Alison Gill anticipates that the full panel may overturn the initial decision.
8. Trump Resumes Student Loan Payments Amid Harsh Enforcement Measures
The Trump administration has restarted student loan payments, intensifying collections efforts against defaulters. This includes threats to garnish wages, seize tax refunds, and withhold federal benefits. Approximately 5 million borrowers are currently in default, many of whom have not made payments since the pandemic.
Dana Goldberg Quote [07:55]: "When Donald Trump says he doesn't know if he has to uphold the Constitution, that includes the Second Amendment."
Alison Gill criticizes the administration's approach, emphasizing the shift from Biden-era forbearance and debt forgiveness to aggressive collection tactics.
Interview with Katie Fang: Embracing Independent Media
A highlight of this episode is the in-depth conversation with Katie Fang, a former MSNBC host who has transitioned to independent media with her Substack, Law and Disorder. Katie discusses her departure from mainstream media, the challenges facing civil rights under the current DOJ, and the controversial settlement involving Ashley Babbitt.
Katie Fang Reflection [26:38]: "Being an independent voice allows me to be unabashedly myself, warts and all, and to connect authentically with listeners who feel like we're in it together."
She elaborates on the decline of civil rights protections and the administration's rollback of crucial agencies, emphasizing the need for independent journalists to fill the void left by mainstream media censorship.
Katie Fang Critique [30:59]: "Paying the family of Ashley Babbitt is a slap in the face for the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent."
Katie's insights offer a sobering look at the erosion of civil liberties and the pivotal role of independent media in advocating for justice and accountability.
Good News Segment: Community Highlights and Listener Submissions
The episode concludes with the Good News segment, where Alison and Dana share uplifting stories and photos submitted by listeners. From adorable pet pictures to personal triumphs, this segment serves as a heartwarming counterbalance to the heavier topics discussed earlier.
Listener Submission [49:22]: "A photo of my trail-loving, snow-loving fur baby. She's a common breed, but one of a kind for the family."
The hosts express genuine appreciation for the positive contributions from their community, reinforcing the podcast's commitment to fostering a supportive and engaged listener base.
Conclusion
The Daily Beans episode "Urgent Profanity (feat. Katie Phang)" effectively navigates a complex array of issues, from legislative battles over transgender rights and gun violence memorials to the pitfalls of administrative overreach in student loan collections. Through incisive commentary and expert guest insights, Alison Gill and Dana Goldberg provide listeners with a thorough analysis of the current socio-political climate, all while maintaining an engaging and relatable tone. The inclusion of Katie Fang adds depth to the conversation, highlighting the critical importance of independent media voices in today's fractured landscape.
Listeners are encouraged to engage further by subscribing to Katie Fang's Law and Disorder and participating in the community-driven Good News segment, ensuring that the conversation remains dynamic and inclusive.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
Katie Fang [17:00]: "Transgender people are not a threat to society. There is no reason to target them like this. Leave my friends and family the fuck alone."
Dana Goldberg [07:55]: "When Donald Trump says he doesn't know if he has to uphold the Constitution, that includes the Second Amendment."
Letitia James [08:19]: "When you fire the scientists who research infectious diseases, silence the doctors who care for pregnant people, and shut down programs that help firefighters and minors breathe or children thrive, you aren't making America healthy. You're putting countless lives at risk."
Katie Fang [26:38]: "Being an independent voice allows me to be unabashedly myself, warts and all, and to connect authentically with listeners who feel like we're in it together."
Stay Connected
For more insightful discussions and updates on social justice and political news, subscribe to The Daily Beans and follow Katie Fang at lawanddisorder.substack.com. Engage with the community by sending your own good news stories and photos to us@dailybeanspod.com.
The Daily Beans is a proud member of the MSW Media Network, dedicated to delivering creator-owned podcasts that champion news, politics, and justice. Visit mswmedia.com for more information.