Frederica Freyberg

Frederica Freyberg is PBS Wisconsin's news director and the anchor of "Here & Now", PBS Wisconsin's live weekly program that covers news concerning state issues and politics throughout the state. ...

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Frederica's Recent Stories

Frederica Freyberg and Taylor Odle sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Taylor Odle, Joe Green and Chris Lindner, Roger Brandner

Here's what guests on the Sept. 12, 2025 episode said about direct admissions to colleges, consolidating rural school districts and shortages of 911 dispatchers.

Monday September 15, 2025

A still image shows Roger Brandner seated in an office with many windows, with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Portage,' 'Sheriff Roger Brandner' and 'Columbia County.'

Politics

Sheriff Roger Brandner on shortages of emergency dispatchers

Columbia County Sheriff Roger Brandner discusses growing difficulty Wisconsin counties have in retaining emergency dispatch staff at 911 call centers as they burn out from overtime, stress and trauma.

Friday September 12, 2025

A still image shows Taylor Odle seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Taylor Odle' and 'UW-Madison School of Education'

Education

Taylor Odle on UW’s direct admission programs for students

UW-Madison educational policy professor Taylor Odle describes the impacts of the Direct Admit Wisconsin and Wisconsin Guarantee programs on UW system admissions of high school students from the state.

Friday September 12, 2025

A still image shows Joe Green and Chris Lindner seated in an office with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Greenwood,' 'Joe Green & Chris Lindner' and ' Greenwood & Loyal School Districts.'

Education

Joe Green and Chris Linder on school district consolidation

Greenwood and Loyal school district administrators Joe Green and Chris Lindner describe plans to consolidate operations and services as falling enrollment in rural Clark County leads to lower funding.

Friday September 12, 2025

Politics

Wisconsin politicians respond to Charlie Kirk assassination

Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and state Republican Party Chairman Brian Schimming share their reactions to the fatal shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at a Utah college campus.

Friday September 12, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Judy McRoberts.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Judy McRoberts, Jon Audhya, Dr. Chris Eberlein

Here's what guests on the Aug. 29, 2025 episode said about a health care worker strike in Janesville, federal research funding cuts at UW-Madison, and a drug overdose spike in La Crosse.

Tuesday September 2, 2025

A still image shows Judy McRoberts seated in front of a yellow room with various photos on the wall, with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Janesville,' 'Judy McRoberts' and 'UAW Local 95.'

Economy

Judy McRoberts on the Mercyhealth East strike in Janesville

UAW Local 95 President Judy McRoberts discusses a strike by workers at Mercyhealth East clinic in Janesville as the union's members seek heightened security measures in an ongoing contract dispute.

Friday August 29, 2025

A still image shows Jon Audhya seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Jon Audhya' and 'UW School of Medicine and Public Health.'

Science

Jon Audhya on impacts of federal funding cuts at UW-Madison

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health professor and dean Jon Audhya considers how deep cuts to federal research funding are affecting scientific work and training of students.

Friday August 29, 2025

Health

Dr. Chris Eberlein on an overdose spike in western Wisconsin

Gundersen Health System emergency medical specialist Dr. Chris Eberlein discusses a public safety alert issued by La Crosse in response to a sudden increase of overdoses involving mixtures of drugs.

Friday August 29, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Kathryn Halvorsen.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Kathryn Halvorsen, Grant Sovern, Lisa Tollefson, Nick Hillman

Here's what guests on the Aug. 22, 2025 episode said about the Red Cross response to flooding in Milwaukee, defending immigration cases, the checks and balances in Wisconsin's voting system, and new limits for federal student loans.

Monday August 25, 2025

A still image shows Lisa Tollefson seated in front of a graphic of the Rock county sigil with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Janesville,' 'Lisa Tollefson' and 'Rock County Clerk.'

Elections

Lisa Tollefson on mail-in ballots and elections in Wisconsin

Rock County Clerk Lisa Tollefson discusses statements by President Donald Trump calling to ban mail-in-ballots and machine tabulators as Wisconsin's local officials work to maintain election security.

Friday August 22, 2025

A still image shows Nick Hillman seated in a room with many windows and a couch, with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Nick Hillman' and 'UW-Madison School of Education.'

Education

Nick Hillman on borrowing limits for federal student loans

UW-Madison School of Education professor Nick Hillman explains how provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act set lower borrowing limits for medical and law students while changing other loan rules.

Friday August 22, 2025

Social Issues

Grant Sovern on immigration arrests, detentions in Wisconsin

Community Immigration Law Center Board President and attorney Grant Sovern discusses an increase in immigration arrests and detentions in Wisconsin as more counties offer assistance to federal agents.

Friday August 22, 2025

A still image shows Kathryn Halvorsen seated in front of a photo of a family, with a graphic in the bottom that reads 'Wausau,' 'Kathryn Halvorsen' and 'American Red Cross of Wisconsin.'

Social Issues

Kathryn Halvorsen on the Red Cross and flooding in Milwaukee

American Red Cross of Wisconsin regional director Kathryn Halvorsen describes the organization's flood recovery efforts in Milwaukee and its call for more volunteers amid more extreme weather events.

Friday August 22, 2025

A still image shows piles of flood-damaged housewares stacked up on the side of the road, including mattresses, bins and furniture.

Budgets

Milwaukee flood recovery efforts continue during FEMA visit

Two weeks after historic flooding in southeast Wisconsin, Federal Emergency Management Agency officials assessed damage to determine potential federal aid, while residents continued cleanup work.

Friday August 22, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of David Crowley.

Politics

Here & Now’ Highlights: County Exec. David Crowley, Philip Mulder, Caroline Gomez-Tom

Here's what guests on the Aug. 15, 2025 episode said about recovery from flooding Milwaukee, misconceptions about flood insurance and rising Health Insurance Marketplace premiums.

Monday August 18, 2025

A still image shows David Crowley seated in front of a shelf containing many awards and photos with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Milwaukee,' 'David Crowley' and 'Milwaukee County Executive.'

Economy

County Exec. David Crowley on Milwaukee’s historic flooding

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley discusses the impacts of and recovery from extreme rain and damaging floods across the metropolitan area as the state requests federal disaster aid from FEMA.

Friday August 15, 2025

A still image shows Philip Mulder seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Philip Mulder' and 'Wisconsin School of Business.'

Economy

Philip Mulder on flood insurance coverage around Wisconsin

Wisconsin School of Business risk and insurance professor Philip Mulder considers the reasons why very few homeowners in the state hold flood insurance while extreme rain storms become more frequent.

Friday August 15, 2025

A still image shows a railroad bridge in Milwaukee with logs and debris interwoven in its bars, it spans across a river of unusually high water.

Budgets

Milwaukee moves to recovery after record-breaking flooding

In the aftermath of historic rainfall and flooding the Milwaukee metropolitan area, the state awaits response on a request for federal aid while residents whose homes were damaged pick up the pieces.

Friday August 15, 2025

Health

Caroline Gomez-Tom on ACA health plan price hikes for 2026

Covering Wisconsin enrollment manager Caroline Gomez-Tom discusses projected increases in Affordable Care Act plan premiums in 2026 and expiration of Health Insurance Marketplace enhanced tax credits.

Friday August 15, 2025

Frederica Freyberg and Steven Deller sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Steven Deller, James Barnier, Dr. James Conway

Here's what guests on the Aug. 8, 2025 episode said about the direction of the economy, wildfire suppression in Canada, and the risk of measles outbreaks around Wisconsin.

Monday August 11, 2025

A still image shows Steven deller seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Steven Deller' and 'UW-Madison Agricultural and Applied Economics.'

Economy

Steven Deller on tariffs, job numbers and economic trends

UW-Madison agriculture and applied economics professor Steven Deller considers what new tariffs along with jobs report and consumer spending figures mean for Wisconsin's and the national economy.

Friday August 8, 2025

A still image shows Dr. James Conway seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'James Conway, M.D.' and 'UW School of Medicine and Public Health.'

Health

Dr. James Conway on Wisconsin’s risks of measles outbreaks

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health pediatric infectious disease specialist Dr. James Conway considers a measles outbreak in Oconto County and the low state vaccination rate.

Friday August 8, 2025

Environment

James Barnier on the potential for wildfire around Wisconsin

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources forest fire protection section chief James Barnier describes risks of large and widespread wildfires as federal funding is cut for the U.S. Forest Service.

Friday August 8, 2025

Frederica Freyberg and Bill McCoshen sit on opposite sides of a table on the Here & Now set and face a video monitor showing an image of Scot Ross.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: McCoshen & Ross look ahead to 2026

Here's what guests on the Aug. 1, 2025 episode said about the open election for Wisconsin governor in 2026 and another race for the state Supreme Court.

Monday August 4, 2025

Here and Now 2026

McCoshen & Ross on Wisconsin’s 2026 governor’s race forecast

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss the outlook for the 2026 race for governor of Wisconsin as Democratic and Republican primary candidates start their campaigns.

Friday August 1, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Bryan Steil.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, Josh Dietsche

Here's what guests on the July 25, 2025 episode said about Congress ending its summer session early and the state of Wisconsin's bridges.

Monday July 28, 2025

A still image shows Bryan Steil seated in front of a brown leather couch and a large black and white color splotch painting, with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil' and '(R) 1st congressional district.'

Budgets

US Rep. Bryan Steil on Congress implementing Trump’s agenda

U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, R-1st Congressional District, discusses passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and pursuing budget rescissions as the House of Representatives cuts short its summer session.

Friday July 25, 2025

A still image shows Josh Dietsche seated in front of a shelf with various black and white sports photos, with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Madison,' 'Josh Dietsche' and 'Wisconsin Dept. of Transportation.'

Economy

Josh Dietsche on structural integrity of Wisconsin bridges

Wisconsin Department of Transportation Bureau of Structures Director Josh Dietsche describes the status of bridge infrastructure around the state with nearly 1,000 listed as "structurally deficient."

Friday July 25, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Gwen Moore.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore

Here's what guests on the July 18, 2025 episode said about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act's spending cuts at the national level.

Monday July 21, 2025

Policy

US Rep. Gwen Moore on the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-4th Congressional District, discusses the Trump administration's 2025 tax and spending cuts law, and its anticipated impacts on Medicaid, food assistance and more.

Thursday July 17, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Anya Van Wagtendonk.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Anya van Wagtendonk, Michael Osterholm

Here's what guests on the June 27, 2025 episode said about final days of state budget maneuvering by Wisconsin lawmakers and the federal government's shifting stance on vaccination.

Monday June 30, 2025

A still image shows Anya van Wagtendonk seated in front of a television set, with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'State Capitol,' 'Anya van Wagtendonk' and 'Wisconsin Public Radio.'

Budgets

Anya van Wagtendonk on Wisconsin’s 2025-27 budget session

Wisconsin Public Radio state Capitol reporter Anya van Wagtendonk discusses budget talks among Republican lawmakers and what's still on the table as Democratic Gov. Tony Evers wields a partial veto.

Friday June 27, 2025

A still image shows Michael Osterholm seated in front of five clocks showing different zones and two bookshelves, with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Michael Osterholm' and 'Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy.'

Health

Michael Osterholm on goals of the Vaccine Integrity Project

Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy Director Michael Osterholm explains the mission of the Vaccine Integrity Project amid shifts by the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

Friday June 27, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Zac Schultz.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Zac Schultz, State Sen. Jesse James, Tracy Vruwink, Jeanne Duffy

Here's what guests on the June 13, 2025 episode said about lawmakers writing the state budget, a pilot program for student mental health. Impacts of federal funding cuts in one community and the status of AmeriCorps projects in Wisconsin.

Monday June 16, 2025

A still image shows Zac Shultz standing in front of the main chamber at the state Capitol with two green marble pillars behind him, with a graphic in the bottom reading 'State capitol,' 'Zac Schultz' and 'Here & Now.'

Budgets

Zac Schultz on lawmakers writing Wisconsin’s 2025-27 budget

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz describes how the state Legislature's Republican-controlled Joint Committee on Finance is assembling portions of the 2025-27 biennial state budget.

Friday June 13, 2025

A still image shows state Senator Jesse James seated in front of a U.S. flag and a Wisconsin flag, with a graphic in the bottom reading 'State capitol,' 'Sen. Jesse James' and '(R) Thorp.'

Policy

Sen. Jesse James on mental health services offered at school

State Sen. Jesse James, R-Thorp, discusses legislation to create a two-year pilot program to provide year-round school-centered mental health services for at-risk students at two schools in Wisconsin.

Friday June 13, 2025

Budgets

Jeanne Duffy on AmeriCorps funding and its work in Wisconsin

Serve Wisconsin Executive Director Jeanne Duffy discusses the status of AmeriCorps community service projects in the state in the midst of a federal lawsuit over DOGE terminating the program's funds.

Friday June 13, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Ron Johnson.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: US Sen. Ron Johnson, Alderman José Pérez

Here's what guests on the June 6, 2025 episode said about the federal reconciliation budget bill and high-profile immigration cases in Milwaukee.

Monday June 9, 2025

Politics

US Sen. Ron Johnson on a 2025 tax bill and the federal debt

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wisconsin, discusses his objections to a 2025 reconciliation policy bill cutting federal taxes and spending due to its projected $2.4 trillion increase to the national debt.

Friday June 6, 2025

A still image shows José Pérez seated in front of a wood paneled wall with lots of degrees and certificates with a graphic at the bottom reading 'Milwaukee,' 'José Pérez' and 'Milwaukee Common Council President.'

Politics

Alderman José Pérez on ICE arrests of Milwaukee immigrants

Milwaukee Common Council President José Pérez discusses community support for Ramón Morales Reyes and Yessenia Ruano, residents of the city who were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Friday June 6, 2025

A still image shows Kurt Kotenberg seated in front of a map of Wisconsin and a glowing packers lamp with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'Green Bay,' 'Kurt Kotenberg' and 'National Weather Service - Green Bay.'

Science

Kurt Kotenberg on tracking wildfire smoke across Wisconsin

National Weather Service Green Bay forecast office meteorologist Kurt Kotenberg considers wildfire smoke air quality alerts in Wisconsin and the potential for such conditions to return going forward.

Friday June 6, 2025

A still image shows U.S. Representative Gwen Moore seated in front of an ornate wood desk with a graphic at the bottom that reads 'U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore' and '(D) Fourth Congressional District.'

Politics

Moore, Pocan seek to visit ICE detainees at Juneau facility

Democratic U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore and U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan visit an ICE detention facility in Juneau after federal agents arrested an immigrant living in Milwaukee who was framed for sending threats.

Friday June 6, 2025

Frederica Freyberg and Dr. Michael Siebers sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Dr. Michael Siebers, Bill Hanna, State Rep. Dean Kaufert

Here's what guests on the May 30, 2025 episode said about federal cuts to the Veterans Affairs hospitals, cuts to social safety net programs, and prospects for bipartisanship in the Wisconsin Legislature.

Monday June 2, 2025

A still image shows Michael Siebers seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Michael Siebers, M.D.' and 'Retired VA Physician'

Health

Dr. Michael Siebers on VA cuts and health care for veterans

Retired Veterans Health Administration physician Dr. Michael Siebers discusses how federal cuts to VA funding and plans to reduce staff are affecting both patient access to health care and providers.

Friday May 30, 2025

Social Issues

Bill Hanna on impacts of cutting federal social safety nets

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Medicaid Director Bill Hanna explains what proposed changes in requirements for the federal health care program, the ACA and SNAP would mean for Wisconsinites.

Friday May 30, 2025

A still image shows U.S. Senator Ron Johnson speaking at a podium in front of a banner of associations he supports, including three that read 'Medical College of Wisconsin,' 'University of Wisconsin Milwaukee' and 'Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association.'

Budgets

Both Wisconsin US senators oppose Trump federal budget bill

Wisconsin Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson and Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin both say they won't vote for President Donald Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" due to its effects on the federal deficit.

Friday May 30, 2025

A still image shows a large group of nurses picketing in a line, wearing purple and holding signs that read 'you can't put patients first if you put nurses last.'

Economy

Meriter nurses strike for better working conditions and pay

Hundreds of nurses at Meriter Hospital in Madison who are organized in the Service Employees International Union went on strike to demand a raise, more job security and a lower patient-to-staff ratio.

Friday May 30, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Darry Morin.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Darryl Morin, State Sen. Patrick Testin, Jim Tuckwell and Kevin McDonell

Here's what guests on the May 23, 2025 episode said about escalating actions in federal immigration enforcement, licensing independent practices for advanced practices nurses, and an affordable housing development in northern Wisconsin.

Tuesday May 27, 2025

Economy

How AI data centers are tapping into Wisconsin’s fresh water

Growing use of AI tools and cloud computing is motivating tech companies to expand construction of data centers — these operations are drawn to Wisconsin due to abundant water resources for cooling.

Friday May 23, 2025

A still image from a video shows Darryl Morin seated in front of a blurred background with a graphic at the bottom reading 'Darryl Morin' and 'Forward Latino.'

Social Issues

Darryl Morin on federal immigration enforcement in Wisconsin

Latino Forward National President Darryl Morin discusses how legislation in Congress and actions by the Trump administration to fund and expand immigration enforcement is having impacts in Wisconsin.

Friday May 23, 2025

A still image from a video shows Patrick Testing seated in front of a white brick fire place with a graphic at bottom reading 'Stevens Point,' 'Sen. Patrick Testin' and '(R) Stevens Point.'

Policy

Sen. Patrick Testin on licensing of advanced practice nurses

State Sen. Patrick Testin, R-Stevens Point, discusses legislation to create an advanced practice registered nurse license to allow trained specialized nurses to provide independent care in Wisconsin.

Friday May 23, 2025

A still image shows Kevin McDonell seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Kevin McDonell' and 'Lincoln Avenue Communities'

Economy

Jim Tuckwell, Kevin McDonell on housing in the North Woods

Vilas County Economic Development Corporation Board Chairman Jim Tuckwell and Lincoln Avenue Communities Vice President Kevin McDonell discuss work to build affordable housing in Lac du Flambeau.

Friday May 23, 2025

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, State Sen. Kelda Roys

Here's what guests on the May 16, 2025 episode said about the politics of wrangling budgets in Washington, D.C. and Madison.

Monday May 19, 2025

Budgets

US Rep. Gwen Moore on the Republican budget package for 2025

U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-4th Congressional District, discusses a 2025 federal budget bill advanced by Republicans that would extend the 2017 income tax cuts and reduce funds for Medicaid and food aid.

Friday May 16, 2025

A still image from a video shows Kelda Roys seated in front of a black leather couch with a graphic at bottom reading 'State Capitol,' 'Sen. Kelda Roys' and '(D) Joint Finance Committee'

Budgets

Sen. Kelda Roys on priorities for Wisconsin’s 2025 budget

State Sen. Kelda Roys, D-Madison, a member of the Legislature's Joint Committee on Finance, discusses work on the 2025-27 budget by Republican lawmakers and Democratic positioning in the process.

Friday May 16, 2025

Frederica Freyberg and U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany (Credit: PBS Wisconsin)

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: US Rep. Tom Tiffany, Michael Wagner, Xia Lee

Here's what guests on the April 25, 2025 episode said about the Trump administration's first 100 days, the termination of research grants at UW-Madison and the start of tick season.

Monday April 28, 2025

A still image from a video shows Tom Tiffany seated in front of a wooden cut out of Wisconsin on the wall with a graphic at bottom reading 'Minocqua,' 'U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany' and '(R) 7th Congressional District.'

Politics

US Rep. Tom Tiffany on tariffs, funding cuts and immigration

U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, R-7th Congressional District, discusses the Trump administration's actions on setting and changing tariffs, spending cuts on personnel and programs, and revoking student visas.

Friday April 25, 2025

A still image shows Michael Wagner seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Michael Wagner' and 'UW-Madison School of Journalism.'

Education

Michael Wagner on federal research grant cuts at UW-Madison

UW-Madison journalism professor Michael Wagner discusses the termination of a federal grant to study communication about vaccination and the consequences of funding cuts for university researchers.

Friday April 25, 2025

Health

Xia Lee on the start of Wisconsin’s warm-weather tick season

Wisconsin Department of Health Services public health entomologist Xia Lee describes the risks of tick-borne diseases around the state and tips for avoiding these pests when spending time outdoors.

Friday April 25, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Jennifer Mnookin.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin, Mike Totoraitis, WIll Hsu, Thanh Bui-Duquette

Here's what guests on the April 18, 2025 episode said about federal and state pressures on UW-Madison, lead paint contamination in Milwaukee schools, how trade war is hurting Wisconsin's ginseng industry, and the impacts of eliminating funding for Head Start programs.

Monday April 21, 2025

Education

Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin on 2025 headwinds for UW-Madison

UW-Madison Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin discusses the university's stance as the Trump administration moves to cut research funding, pursues investigations and revokes visas of international students.

Friday April 18, 2025

A still image shows Mike Totoraitis seated inside with a wooden bookshelf with framed pictures and item in the background, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Milwaukee,' 'Commissioner Mike Totoraitis' and 'Milwaukee Health Department.'

Education

Mike Totoraitis on lead contamination in Milwaukee schools

Milwaukee Commissioner of Health Mike Totoraitis discusses city efforts to remediate lead paint contamination in schools as the Trump administration defunds CDC staff working to reduce lead exposure.

Friday April 18, 2025

Economy

Thanh Bui-Duquette on the proposed elimination of Head Start

Western Dairyland Head Start Director Thanh Bui-Duquette discusses how the defunding of Head Start by the Trump administration could affect child care providers and service in four Wisconsin counties.

Friday April 18, 2025

A still image from a video shows Will Hsu seated in front of closed, beige curtains with a graphic at bottom reading 'Nanking, China,' 'Will Hsu' and 'Hsu Ginseng.'

Economy

Will Hsu on Wisconsin ginseng exports, tariffs and trade war

Hsu's Ginseng Enterprises owner Will Hsu discusses how retaliatory tariffs by China in an escalating trade war are affecting the Wausau-based business, which farms and exports the medicinal plant.

Friday April 18, 2025

Frederica Freyberg and Amanda Gennerman sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Amanda Gennerman, Bobby Peterson, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield

Here's what guests on the April 11, 2025 episode said about international students in Wisconsin having their visas revoked, worries about cuts to Medicaid, and the role of negotiation in politics.

Monday April 14, 2025

A still image shows Amanda Gennerman seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Amanda Gennerman' and 'Pines Bach Law Firm.'

Social Issues

Amanda Gennerman on student visa revocations in Wisconsin

Immigration attorney Amanda Gennerman discusses the federal government revoking visas of more than 50 international students attending colleges around Wisconsin and how their advocates are responding.

Friday April 11, 2025

Health

Bobby Peterson on Medicaid funding and budgeting blueprints

ABC for Health Executive Director Bobby Peterson discusses fears about Congress making cuts to Medicaid and potential effects on recipients as the 2025-27 state budget process proceeds in Wisconsin.

Friday April 11, 2025

A Here & Now graphic shows a map of the city of Marinette highlighted with green lines surrounding and the Town of Peshtigo to the left and Green Bay to the right.

Environment

DNR issues PFAS advisories for 50 more wells in Peshtigo

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued PFAS advisories for an additional 50 private wells in the town of Peshtigo as a result of firefighting foam contaminating groundwater in the area.

Friday April 11, 2025

Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross sit next to each other and across from Frederica Freyberg at a desk on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Ben Wikler, Missy Hughes, McCoshen & Ross

Here's what guests on the April 4, 2025 episode said about the outcome of the Wisconsin Supreme Court election and how a growing number of tariffs can affect Wisconsin.

Monday April 7, 2025

A still image shows Frederica Freyberg, Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling.

Elections

McCoshen & Ross on the significance of Wisconsin’s 2025 vote

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss the outcome of the 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court election, from the impact of Elon Musk to upcoming cases before the high court.

Friday April 4, 2025

A still image shows Ben Wikler seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Ben Wikler' and 'Democratic Party of Wisconsin.'

Elections

Ben Wikler on national implications of Crawford’s victory

Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler discusses the landslide win by Justice-elect Susan Crawford in the 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court election and its impacts on national-level politics.

Friday April 4, 2025

A still image from a video shows Missy Hughes standing outside with a cement wall and vehicle in the background with a graphic at bottom reading 'Besançon, France,' 'Sec. Missy Hughes' and 'Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.'

Economy

Missy Hughes on Trump’s reciprocal tariffs and Wisconsin

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes considers the Trump administration's reciprocal tariffs and impacts of retaliatory tariffs while on a trade mission in Europe.

Friday April 4, 2025

A still image from a video shows Jill Underly speaking while standing in front of a podium with a microphone with people holding signs that say 'Jill Underly' and a Wisconsin flag in the background.

Elections

Underly comments on her 2025 superintendent election victory

Wisconsin Superintendent of Public Instruction Jill Underly defeated Brittany Kinser in the 2025 spring vote, and each shared thoughts on education in the state as votes were counted.

Friday April 4, 2025

A still image shows a 'Here & Now' graphic titled 'School Funding Referenda' with 'Passed 51' and 'Failed 38.'

Elections

Racine Unified school district passes 2025 budget referendum

Voters in the Racine Unified School District passed a $190 million referendum in the spring 2025 election, one of 51 school funding referendums around Wisconsin that passed out of 89 on the ballot.

Friday April 4, 2025

Elections

Wisconsin to decide on voter ID amendment in 2025 election

A state constitutional amendment that would enshrine an existing law that requires voters to present valid identification when casting ballots will be decided in Wisconsin's spring 2025 election.

Friday March 28, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of Matt Joski.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Sheriff Matt Joski, Greg Clement

Here's what guests on the March 21, 2025 episode said about a state-level proposal to require sheriffs cooperate with federal immigration authorities and what tariffs on aluminum and steel mean for a Wisconsin metals fabricator.

Monday March 24, 2025

Economy

Greg Clement on tariffs, trade and Wisconsin manufacturing

Argon Industries owner Greg Clement describes how the Milwaukee-based metal fabricator is adjusting amid uncertainty prompted by tariffs placed on steel, aluminum and imports from Canada and Mexico.

Friday March 21, 2025

A still image from a video shows Matt Joski seated in front of a wall covered in an American flag made of wood and other framed items with a graphic at bottom reading 'Kewaunee,' 'Sheriff Matt Joski' and 'Kewaunee County.'

Policy

Sheriff Matt Joski on local enforcement of immigration laws

Kewaunee County Sheriff Matt Joski discusses his stance on immigration laws as Republican lawmakers advance a bill that would require Wisconsin sheriffs to assist federal authorities with enforcement.

Friday March 21, 2025

Elections

WILL, Law Forward and the 2025 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty President Rick Esenberg and Law Forward co-founder Jeff Mandell discuss the debate between Wisconsin Supreme Court candidates Susan Crawford and Brad Schimel.

Friday March 14, 2025

Education

Suzanne Eckes on deep cuts to the US Department of Education

UW-Madison School of Education professor Suzanne Eckes discusses the Trump administration reducing U.S. Department of Education staffing by nearly half and a multi-state lawsuit filed in response.

Friday March 14, 2025

Frederica Freyberg and Mariel Barnes sit in upholstered armchairs facing each other on two sides of a low wood table, in a room with floor to ceiling wood cabinets and bookshelves filled with bound periodicals and books.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Mariel Barnes

Here's what guests on the March 7, 2025 episode said about growth in misogynist ideologies and how that's shaping the political landscape.

Monday March 10, 2025

Politics

Mariel Barnes on the ‘manosphere’ and American politics

UW-Madison public affairs professor Mariel Barnes describes researching the online "manosphere" movement and its growing influence on culture alongside the political ascent of President Donald Trump.

Friday March 7, 2025

Side-by-side still images from video show Tammy Baldwin and Bryan Steil seated in rooms with objects on shelves behind them.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: US Sen. Tammy Baldwin, US Rep. Bryan Steil, Michael Osterholm, Mary Pitsch

Here's what guests on the Feb. 28, 2025 episode said about federal layoffs and budget cuts, the status of bird flu in Wisconsin, and a new living model for people with dementia.

Monday March 3, 2025

A still image from a video shows Mochael Osterholm seated in front of with cabinets lined with books and multiple clocks with a graphic at bottom reading 'Minneapolis, MN,' 'Michael Osterholm' and 'Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy.'

Health

Michael Osterholm on avian influenza and the risk to people

Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy Director Michael Osterholm considers the status of H5N1 bird flu in wild flocks and commercial poultry amid concerns over its spread among humans.

Friday February 28, 2025

A still image from a video shows Mary Pitsch seated in front of multiple cabinets with items and a potted plant with a graphic at bottom reading 'Sheboygan,' 'Mary Pitsch' and 'Dementia Innovations.'

Health

Mary Pitsch on the idea and goals of Livasu dementia village

Dementia Innovations President Mary Pitsch describes how the Livasu planned community to be built near Sheboygan offers a new model of care for patients with dementia and support for their families.

Friday February 28, 2025

Politics

US Rep. Bryan Steil on Congress and cuts by Musk and Trump

U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, R-1st Congressional District, discusses actions by Elon Musk and President Donald Trump to cut federal jobs and agencies as Congressional Republicans proceed with budget bills.

Thursday February 27, 2025

Politics

US Sen. Tammy Baldwin on Congress and cuts by Musk and Trump

U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisconsin, discusses actions by Elon Musk and President Donald Trump to cut federal jobs and agencies as Congressional Republicans proceed with budget bills.

Thursday February 27, 2025

Frederica Freyberg and Jason Stein sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Jason Stein

Here's what a guest on the Feb. 21, 2025 episode said about the state budget proposal from the governor and its political prospects.

Monday February 24, 2025

A still image shows Jason Stein seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Jason Stein' and 'Wisconsin Policy Forum.'

Budgets

Jason Stein on the politics of Wisconsin’s 2025 budget cycle

Wisconsin Policy Forum President Jason Stein considers the political prospects of the 2025-27 state budget proposals from Democratic Gov. Tony Evers as Republican lawmakers plan to start from scratch.

Friday February 21, 2025

A still image shows Tony Evers standing and speaking into a microphone with people seated behind wooden paneling in the background.

Budgets

Wisconsin’s 2025 budget proposals from Evers and Republicans

Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers unveiled his 2025-27 state budget proposals, and Joint Finance Committee co-chair state Rep. Mark Born, R-Beaver Dam, shared the Republican stance on that plan.

Friday February 21, 2025

A still image shows Robin Vos standing behind a podium and microphones addressing a room of people with people standing alongside him on either side.

Policy

Wisconsin Republicans pass educational standards package

Wisconsin Assembly Republicans passed education bills on testing standards, reducing cell phone use, requiring specific cursive and civics instruction, and limiting pay increases for administrators.

Friday February 21, 2025

Robert Golden and Frederica Freyberg sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Susan Crawford, Dr. Robert Golden, Rick Esenberg, Darin Von Ruden

Here's what guests on the Feb. 14, 2025 episode said about running for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, federal cuts to medical research, constitutional questions over presidential reach, and how Wisconsin farmers are on edge with threats to cut agriculture funding.

Monday February 17, 2025

A still image from a video shows Rick Esenberg seated in front of a wall with three panels of blinds with a graphic at bottom reading 'Rick Esenberg' and 'Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty.'

Politics

Rick Esenberg on Trump’s orders, Musk’s cuts and rule of law

Wisconsin Institute for Law & Liberty President and attorney Rick Esenberg discusses executive orders by President Donald Trump, actions by Elon Musk and separation of powers under the Constitution.

Friday February 14, 2025

A still image from a video shows Darin Von Ruden seated in front of walls with framed artwork and chair with a graphic at bottom reading 'Westby,' 'Darin Von Ruden' and 'Wisconsin Farmers Union.'

Agriculture

Darin Von Ruden on federal funding cuts to Wisconsin farmers

Wisconsin Farmers Union President Darin Von Ruden discusses how the state could be impacted by the Trump administration's moves to cut funds for food aid, sustainable agriculture and climate programs.

Friday February 14, 2025

Science

Dr. Robert Golden on NIH funding and medical research at UW

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health Dean Dr. Robert Golden discusses impacts of a Trump administration action to shift National Institutes of Health rules for research funds.

Friday February 14, 2025

Frederica Freyberg sits at a desk on the Here & Now set and faces a video monitor showing an image of John Jagler.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Brad Schimel, State Sen. John Jagler, Kurt Bauer, Matthew Soerens

Here's what guests on the Feb. 7, 2025 episode said about running for the Wisconsin Supreme Court, changing how the state's standardized K-12 tests are scored, potential impacts of tariffs on the state's economy, and the suspension of refugee resettlement.

Monday February 10, 2025

A still image shows Kurt Bauer seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Kurt Bauer' and 'Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce.'

Economy

Kurt Bauer on how tariffs could impact Wisconsin businesses

Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce President and CEO Kurt Bauer discusses the Trump administration setting and subsequently pausing tariffs on Canada and Mexico and its increased tariff on China.

Friday February 7, 2025

A still image from a video shows John Jagler seated in front of a blurred background, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Watertown,' 'Sen. John Jagler' and '(R) Watertown.'

Education

Sen. John Jagler on scoring standardized tests in Wisconsin

State Sen. John Jagler, R-Watertown, discusses a bill that would revert how Wisconsin scores standardized reading and math tests for 3rd through 8th graders to match the state's previous requirements.

Friday February 7, 2025

Policy

Matthew Soerens on suspending refugee resettlement in the US

World Relief Vice President of Advocacy & Policy Matthew Soerens discusses an executive order issued by President Donald Trump to suspend refugee resettlement and its impacts on programs in Wisconsin.

Friday February 7, 2025