Southern Progressives

Moving to the left, one post at a time.

Bill Freeman
January 13, 2026

National News:

Trump is Venezuelifying the United States

Cross him and his minions will try to destroy you — whoever you are

open.substack.com/pub/paulkrugman/p/trump-is-venezuelifying-the-united?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email

Is Cuba Next?

Plus: Iran unrest, Fed probe backlash, and Sen. Mark Kelly sues.

thedispatch.com/newsletter/morning/is-cuba-next

State News:

'Finally seen’: years-long Johnson City serial rapist lawsuit nears end • Tennessee Lookout

A civil lawsuit brought by victims of Sean Johnson, a Johnson City serial rapist who preyed on women and children, has neared conclusion.

tennesseelookout.com/2026/01/12/finally-seen-years-long-johnson-city-serial-rapist-lawsuit-nears-end

Tennessee lawmakers to take immigration cues from White House • Tennessee Lookout

Tennessee Republicans are taking orders from Trump administration official Stephen Miller as the 2026 legislative session opens.

tennesseelookout.com/2026/01/13/tennessee-lawmakers-to-take-immigration-cues-from-white-house

Local News:

Weather - Etowah - 14-Day Forecast & Rain

See the weather like never before – live weather maps powered by the most accurate models.

www.ventusky.com/35.323;-84.525

More than 1,200 protests labeled "ICE Out For Good" were held across the country over the weekend to protest the killing of Minneapolis woman Renee Good by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agent.

In Tennessee, thousands attended protests in big cities like Nashville and Memphis, but also in Brentwood, Dickson and other towns and cities across the state.

Political Cartoon:

Washington National Opera leaves Kennedy Center

Seniors:

What’s Really Making Us Sick: Hidden Dangers in Preserved Foods & A Rare Republican Stand in Congress

Jan 12, 2026

open.substack.com/pub/kareem/p/whats-really-making-us-sick-hidden?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=email

My Take:

Opinion | Can James Talarico Reclaim Christianity for the Left?

Ezra Klein and State Representative James Talarico of Texas discuss his faith, his politics and his Senate race.

www.nytimes.com/2026/01/13/opinion/ezra-klein-podcast-james-talarico.html?unlocked_article_code=1.EFA.h_vb.WJgYHcwtTXsV&smid=url-share

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