Southern Progressives

Moving to the left, one post at a time.

Bill Freeman
August 29, 2025

National News:

RFK Jr. Sought to Fire CDC Director Susan Monarez Over Vaccine Policy

The director, Susan Monarez, declined to fire agency leaders or to accept all recommendations from a vaccine advisory panel made over by Mr. Kennedy, according to people with knowledge of the events.

www.nytimes.com/2025/08/28/health/rfk-jr-susan-monarez-cdc-vaccines.html?unlocked_article_code=1.h08.f4J8.XOj5WunFk4a8&smid=url-share

‘It Feels Like the CDC Is Over’

The CDC’s departing leaders discuss the agency’s future—or lack thereof.

www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2025/08/cdc-resignations-tipping-point/684038/?gift=kv3__FYls2fxmm4Mh6G3fVdQXH8fIv0_y0FYTE5fLKw&utm_source=copy-link&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=share

Trump's Tariffs and 'One Big Beautiful Bill' Face More Opposition Than Support as His Job Rating Slips

Six months into his term, far more say President Trump is making the way the federal government works worse than making it better.

pewrsr.ch/3JjmXgR

State News:

Nashville's bond system overhaul sparks debate - Nashville Banner

Nashville court officials plan to change the process for setting and enforcing bonds, raising concerns about public safety and potential legal vulnerabilities.

nashvillebanner.com/2025/08/26/nashville-court-bond-changes

Stockard on the Stump: Congressional candidate slams poll showing four-way tie • Tennessee Lookout

The special election for Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District seat is heating up – or turning weird – depending on your perspective. Responding to a poll this week that proclaimed a four-way tie in the crowded Republican primary, state Rep. Lee Reeves’ congressional campaign issued a statement calling the Spry Strategies survey a “totally fake ‘poll’ […]

tennesseelookout.com/2025/08/29/stockard-on-the-stump-congressional-candidate-slams-poll-showing-four-way-tie

Local News:

The McMinn County Radio Control Association will host its Annual Fun Fly, August 28–30, at the Harry E. Morgan Memorial RC AirPark (126 Co. Rd. 876, Etowah). The event features RC pilots from across the region, food, and a special flying field dedication. Admission is free. More info: Facebook or contact Bob Miller at 423-453-0269.

Athens Area Council for the Arts (AACA) is hosting a Pickin’ Party on Tuesday, September 2, for anyone and everyone to enjoy a community meal and Bluegrass Jam by Doug Purdy, Buddy McClary, Ralph Jones, Keith Hall, Don Goode, and Stacy Everett. Dinner catered by Biscuit NV begins at 5:30 PM and the music starts at 7:00 PM in the Sue E. Trotter Black Box Theater at The Arts Center.