Zac Schultz

email | @zschultzwpt

Zac Schultz started in the news business the Monday after he graduated from the University of Wisconsin, and he doesn't anticipate leaving until the Friday he retires a few decades ...

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Zac's Recent Stories

Dan Hereth on the professional license process in Wisconsin

Economy

Dan Hereth on the professional license process in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services Secretary-designee Dan Hereth discusses the agency's work to streamline occupational licensing while upholding standards and legal obligations.

Tuesday June 6, 2023


A still image shows a worker in blue scrubs standing over a patient lying down in an MRI machine.

Economy

How DSPS is catching up with Wisconsin’s licensing backlog

After launching an online self-service system and seeking public feedback, the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services is tackling delays in approving credential license applications.

Thursday June 1, 2023


Mayor Edward ‘Casey’ Jones on Brodhead using shared revenue

Budgets

Mayor Edward ‘Casey’ Jones on Brodhead using shared revenue

Brodhead Mayor Edward 'Casey' Jones considers proposals to increase and channel state aid for local governments in Wisconsin amid negotiation among neighboring municipalities about merging services.

Tuesday May 23, 2023


A view of the front of Brodhead's brick city hall, with cars parked in the foreground.

Budgets

What the shared revenue battle means for Brodhead’s budget

The level of financial support the state provides to local governments is a priority for the mayor of a small city in rural southern Wisconsin who must make difficult decisions about cutting services.

Friday May 19, 2023


Milwaukee, suburbs fight to contain wave of opioid overdoses

Health

Milwaukee, suburbs fight to contain wave of opioid overdoses

First responders, addiction counselors warn the still-expanding crisis of overdose deaths fueled by drugs tainted with fentanyl and xylazine requires testing kits and Narcan to encourage safer use.

Thursday May 4, 2023


Ryan Gorman on the shifting stigma of drug use and treatment

Health

Ryan Gorman on the shifting stigma of drug use and treatment

Community Medical Services clinic manager and substance abuse counselor Ryan Gorman describes impacts of a growing number of drug overdoses caused by fentanyl and other substances in suburban areas.

Tuesday May 2, 2023


Dave Polachowski on firefighter responses to drug overdoses

Health

Dave Polachowski on firefighter responses to drug overdoses

Milwaukee Fire Department Captain Dave Polachowski explains how firefighters work to provide assistance and services to people suffering addiction as fentanyl causes opioid overdose deaths to surge.

Tuesday April 25, 2023


A still image from a video shows Jill Karofsky, Rebecca Dallet, Janet Protasiewicz and Ann Walsh Bradley standing among a crowd of people, with several holding 'Judge Janet Protasiewicz' campaign signs.

Elections

2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race results in a new majority

Following a contentious campaign, Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Janet Protasiewicz defeated former Justice Daniel Kelly for a Wisconsin Supreme Court seat in the state's 2023 spring election.

Friday April 7, 2023


A still image from a video shows Ann Walsh Bradley being interviewed in a large room with people standing in the background and a graphic that reads 'Justice Ann Walsh Bradley' and 'State Supreme Court.'

Elections

Justice Ann Walsh Bradley on the vote for Janet Protasiewicz

Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Ann Walsh Bradley considers how the 2023 election of Janet Protasiewicz will impact work by the state's high court and looks ahead to running for reelection in 2025.

Wednesday April 5, 2023


States of Democracy

Elections

States of Democracy: Wisconsin

Voters are deciding on a new Wisconsin Supreme Court justice on April 4 — WNET's "States of Democracy" podcast talks to "Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz about the state's 2023 spring election.

Tuesday April 4, 2023


A graphic shows two side-by-side images of Daniel Kelly and Janet Protasiewicz descending a spiral staircase.

Elections

Highlights from the Daniel Kelly, Janet Protasiewicz debate

The 2023 candidates for an open seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court clashed directly in personal terms during their lone one-on-one debate, hurling accusations of partisanship, lying and slander.

Friday March 24, 2023


A graphic shows two side-by-side images of Dan Knodl and Jodi Habush Sinykin walking outside with houses in the background.

Elections

The stakes in the 2023 race for Wisconsin Senate District 8

Republican Dan Knodl and Democrat Jodi Habush Sinykin are vying for a suburban Milwaukee seat in the state senate that will determine whether Republicans will be able to wield impeachment powers.

Thursday March 23, 2023


A still image from a video shows Dan Knodl sitting in a room with windows and a U.S. flag in the background, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Dan Knodl' and '(R) Candidate for 8th Senate District.'

Elections

Dan Knodl on the Wisconsin Senate and impeachment

Wisconsin Senate District 8 special election candidate Dan Knodl, a Republican, discusses the prospect of retaining a supermajority for the party in the chamber and its powers of impeachment.

Tuesday March 21, 2023


A still image from a video shows Jodi Habush Sinykin sitting in a room with a fireplace and window in the background, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Jodi Habush Sinykin' and '(D) Candidate for 8th Senate District.'

Elections

Jodi Habush Sinykin on the Wisconsin Senate and impeachment

Wisconsin Senate District 8 special election candidate Jodi Habush Sinykin, a Democrat, discusses the prospect of blocking a Republican supermajority in the chamber and its powers of impeachment.

Tuesday March 21, 2023


Side-by-side still images from video show portraits of Daniel Kelly and Janet Protasiewicz.

Elections

Daniel Kelly, Janet Protasiewicz on health orders, 2020 vote

The 2023 candidates for a Wisconsin Supreme Court seat share their perspectives about rulings on public health powers during the COVID-19 pandemic and the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

Thursday March 16, 2023


A graphic shows three overlapping maps of Wisconsin depicting the state's 2023 Senate, Assembly, and congressional districts.

Elections

Janet Protasiewicz, Daniel Kelly on Wisconsin redistricting

The politics of gerrymandering election maps and its effects on the balance of power in the state Legislature is a high-profile issue in the 2023 race for an open seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Thursday March 9, 2023


Side-by-side images show Janet Protasiewicz and Daniel Kelly seated in different rooms.

Elections

What Daniel Kelly and Janet Protasiewicz say about the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court election

After advancing in the primary, the conservative former justice and liberal circuit court judge running for an open seat on the state's high court are gearing up for a high-profile race in which politics and law converge.

Wednesday February 22, 2023


The Wisconsin State Capitol stands behind two rows of buildings on either side of one block of a road.

Elections

Future of abortion access, voting rights faces critical test in 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court primary

Voters in Wisconsin head to the polls for a crucial primary race, and what would normally be a little noticed judicial election is now a high-stakes battle for control of the state's Supreme Court.

Tuesday February 21, 2023


A still image from a video shows Tony Evers speaking into a microphone in front of three individuals seated on a dais, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Gov. Tony Evers' and '(D) Wisconsin.'

Politics

Recapping the 2023 Wisconsin budget address by Evers

Gov. Tony Evers released his 2023-25 state budget plan, which includes more funding for K-12 schools and local governments, a middle-class tax cut, and a proposed paid family leave program.

Friday February 17, 2023


A still image from a video shows Brian Hagedorn holding his right hand up while seated in a high-backed chair behind a wooden dais in a room with marble walls and pillars.

Elections

Wisconsin’s 2023 Supreme Court candidates and Brian Hagedorn

Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Brian Hagedorn has been a swing vote in several major cases — 2023 candidates Jennifer Dorow, Daniel Kelly, Everett Mitchell and Janet Protasiewicz weigh his decisions.

Thursday February 16, 2023


Jennifer Dorow on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Elections

Jennifer Dorow on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Waukesha County Circuit Judge Jennifer Dorow, one of two conservatives in a four-candidate primary for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, discusses differing perspectives on law and politics.

Friday February 10, 2023


Legislative leaders, Evers preview Wisconsin’s 2023 budget

Budgets

Legislative leaders, Evers preview Wisconsin’s 2023 budget

Wisconsin Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard, Speaker Robin Vos and Gov. Tony Evers offer 2023 budget process pitches.

Thursday February 9, 2023


Everett Mitchell on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Elections

Everett Mitchell on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Dane County Circuit Judge Everett Mitchell, one of two liberals in a four-candidate primary for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, discusses differing perspectives on law and politics.

Friday February 3, 2023


Janet Protasiewicz on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Elections

Janet Protasiewicz on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Janet Protesiewicz, one of two liberals in a four-candidate primary for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, discusses differing perspectives on law and politics.

Friday January 27, 2023


Daniel Kelly on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Elections

Daniel Kelly on the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court race

Former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Daniel Kelly, one of two conservatives in a four-candidate primary for a seat on the state's high court, discusses differing perspectives about law and politics.

Friday January 20, 2023


Brian Schimming on the 2023 outlook of Wisconsin Republicans

Politics

Brian Schimming on the 2023 outlook of Wisconsin Republicans

Republican Party of Wisconsin Chair Brian Schimming discusses the party's plans as it maintains control of the state Legislature, shares power in Congress and prepares for the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee.

Friday January 13, 2023


Richard Shaw on another proposed I-94 expansion in Milwaukee

Politics

Richard Shaw on another proposed I-94 expansion in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Inner-city Congregations Allied for Hope President Reverend Dr. Richard Shaw describes why a coalition of groups opposes a plan to expand the number of lanes on Interstate 94 in the city.

Friday January 13, 2023


Highlights from the first 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court forum

Elections

Highlights from the first 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court forum

Wisconsin Supreme Court justice candidates Everett Mitchell, Janet Protasiewicz, Jennifer Dorow and Daniel Kelly spoke to voters at a forum in Madison ahead of the February 2023 primary election.

Friday January 13, 2023


Evers appoints Paul Buhr to Wisconsin DNR Board

Politics

Evers appoints Paul Buhr to Wisconsin DNR Board

Gov. Tony Evers appointed Paul Buhr, a Viroqua dairy farmer, to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Board, giving the governor's appointees 5-2 control of the group.

Friday January 13, 2023


Former Dodge County DA Kurt Klomberg on why he resigned

Politics

Former Dodge County DA Kurt Klomberg on why he resigned

Former Dodge County District Attorney Kurt Klomberg shares his concerns about understaffing of prosecuting attorneys in the office and why that led him to resign his position.

Friday January 13, 2023


Jennifer Dorow, Daniel Kelly, Everett Mitchell and Janet Protasiewicz sit at a table ringed with stage drapery and a banner with a wordmark for WisPolitics, with a sponsor sign for WisPolitics, the State Bar of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty in the background.

Elections

Candidates tangle over political issues, judicial perspectives at first 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court forum

The two conservatives and two liberals running in the 2023 race for an open seat on the state's high court were offered questions about high-profile issues of law and its application to difficult and disputed issues.

Tuesday January 10, 2023


Allison Madison on cutting winter road salt to protect water

Environment

Allison Madison on cutting winter road salt to protect water

Wisconsin Salt Wise program manager Allison Madison describes how decades of salting roads to melt ice has affected the state's freshwater sources and efforts to reduce its wintertime use on roadways.

Friday January 6, 2023


Gov. Tony Evers on his second-term agenda for Wisconsin

Politics

Gov. Tony Evers on his second-term agenda for Wisconsin

Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers discusses his plans for the state in 2023 and the prospect of working with Republican legislators on the budget process and seeking confirmation of his appointees.

Friday January 6, 2023


Evers, Vos and Wisconsin Legislature kick off 2023 session

Politics

Evers, Vos and Wisconsin Legislature kick off 2023 session

Democratic Gov. Tony Evers and Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos deliver their opening messages for Wisconsin government in 2023 as legislators are sworn into office to start a new session.

Friday January 6, 2023


House Republicans hold deadlocked votes in Speaker election

Politics

House Republicans hold deadlocked votes in Speaker election

The Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives held over a dozen votes for Speaker, delaying a swearing-in of Derrick Van Orden as Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District representative.

Friday January 6, 2023


Four side-by-side images show portraits of Jennifer Dorow, Daniel Kelly, Everett Mitchell and Janet Protasiewicz, with each wearing judicial robes.

Elections

Meet the candidates running in the 2023 Wisconsin Supreme Court primary

Jennifer Dorow, Daniel Kelly, Everett Mitchell and Janet Protasiewicz are facing each other in the Feb. 21 primary to run in the 2023 spring general election for state Supreme Court justice.

Wednesday January 4, 2023


Sen. Melissa Agard on Wisconsin’s 2023 campaigns, elections

Politics

Sen. Melissa Agard on Wisconsin’s 2023 campaigns, elections

Wisconsin State Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard, D-Madison, discusses how Democratic legislators seek to represent constituents and the significance of the 2023 vote for state Supreme Court.

Friday December 30, 2022


Sen. Devin LeMahieu on Wisconsin’s 2023 budget, appointments

Politics

Sen. Devin LeMahieu on Wisconsin’s 2023 budget, appointments

Wisconsin State Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, discusses the prospect of Republicans working with the governor on budgeting and plans for confirmation of gubernatorial appointees.

Thursday December 29, 2022


Rep. Greta Neubauer on Wisconsin’s 2023 voters, constituents

Politics

Rep. Greta Neubauer on Wisconsin’s 2023 voters, constituents

Wisconsin Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, D-Racine, discusses what a shifting state electorate means for Democratic candidates and officeholders given gerrymandering in legislative districts.

Wednesday December 28, 2022


Speaker Robin Vos on Wisconsin’s 2023 budget, legislation

Politics

Speaker Robin Vos on Wisconsin’s 2023 budget, legislation

Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, discusses the conduct and outcome of the last election and shares Republican policy and budget priorities as the Legislature starts a new session.

Tuesday December 27, 2022


Tony Evers listens to another speaker while seated alongside others, with more people seated in the background.

Budgets

Evers joins Wisconsin’s 2023 budget debate with listening sessions

With Wisconsin enjoying a $6.6 billion projected surplus and Republican leadership in the Legislature emphasizing their support for broad changes to tax structure, the Democratic governor held a trio of year-end public events intended to bolster support for different budgeting priorities.

Thursday December 22, 2022


The 2023 agenda for Republicans in the Wisconsin Senate

Politics

The 2023 agenda for Republicans in the Wisconsin Senate

Wisconsin State Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, looks ahead to the 2023 legislative session and outlines Republican priorities while working alongside Democrats.

Friday December 16, 2022


The 2023 agenda for Democrats in the Wisconsin Legislature

Politics

The 2023 agenda for Democrats in the Wisconsin Legislature

Wisconsin Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, D-Racine, and State Senate Minority Leader Melissa Agard, D-Madison, look ahead to the 2023 legislative session while working alongside Republicans.

Friday December 9, 2022


Recapping Wisconsin’s 2022 midterm election results

Elections

Recapping Wisconsin’s 2022 midterm election results

In Wisconsin's 2022 midterms, incumbent Democratic Gov. Tony Evers defeated Republican challenger Tim Michels and incumbent Republican Sen. Ron Johnson defeated Democratic challenger Mandela Barnes.

Friday November 11, 2022


Ben Wikler on Wisconsin voters and 2022 election security

Elections

Ben Wikler on Wisconsin voters and 2022 election security

Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler discusses why the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election and how voting is conducted in the state continues to be significant in partisan politics.

Monday November 7, 2022


Paul Farrow on Wisconsin voters and 2022 election security

Elections

Paul Farrow on Wisconsin voters and 2022 election security

Republican Party of Wisconsin Chair Paul Farrow discusses why the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election and how voting is conducted in the state continue to be significant in partisan politics.

Monday November 7, 2022


Evers, Michels and culture wars over education in Wisconsin

Elections

Evers, Michels and culture wars over education in Wisconsin

One of the key issues in Wisconsin's 2022 race for governor is funding for schools and how students are taught about difficult issues, with the race echoing national debates over what kids learn.

Friday November 4, 2022


Jessa Michie on abortion activism after Dobbs v. Jackson

Politics

Jessa Michie on abortion activism after Dobbs v. Jackson

Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin digital organizer Jessa Michie discusses how the U.S. Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade has affected the relevance of abortion as a political issue.

Tuesday November 1, 2022


Gracie Skogman on abortion activism after Dobbs v. Jackson

Elections

Gracie Skogman on abortion activism after Dobbs v. Jackson

Wisconsin Right to Life legislative director Gracie Skogman discusses how the U.S. Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade has affected the relevance of abortion as a political issue.

Tuesday November 1, 2022


(Credit: PBS Wisconsin)

Elections

The significance of abortion in Wisconsin’s 2022 election

The Dobbs v. Jackson ruling vaulted a long-contentious political issue to new prominence in advance of the midterm vote, including in the race for governor between Gov. Tony Evers and Tim Michels.

Friday October 28, 2022


A split screen shows Josh Kaul and Eric Toney both standing behind podiums with microphones and a curtain behind them.

Elections

What Eric Toney said about district attorneys and prosecuting abortion cases

Comments made by the Republican candidate for attorney general of Wisconsin in a July 1 interview with PBS Wisconsin have become a major focus of attention at the tail end of the race — here's how that debate unfolded and what he originally stated in response to a question about prosecutorial discretion.

Friday October 28, 2022


Eric Toney on public safety and the attorney general office

Elections

Eric Toney on public safety and the attorney general office

The Republican challenger for the office of Wisconsin attorney general discusses why he is running in the 2022 election and offers criticisms of his opponent related to performing the job's duties.

Tuesday October 18, 2022


Josh Kaul on public safety and the attorney general office

Elections

Josh Kaul on public safety and the attorney general office

The Democratic incumbent attorney general of Wisconsin discusses why he is running in the 2022 election for the office and offers criticisms of his opponent related to performing the job's duties.

Tuesday October 18, 2022


Farrow & Roys on the Tony Evers and Tim Michels debate

Elections

Farrow & Roys on the Tony Evers and Tim Michels debate

Republican Party of Wisconsin Chair Paul Farrow and state Sen. Kelda Roys, D-Madison, analyze a 2022 governor debate between Democratic incumbent Gov. Tony Evers and Republican challenger Tim Michels.

Friday October 14, 2022


Josh Kaul, Eric Toney and Wisconsin’s 2022 AG race

Elections

Josh Kaul, Eric Toney and Wisconsin’s 2022 AG race

Protecting the rule of law is central to the state attorney general election, but the Democratic incumbent and Republican challenger seeking the office offer distinct visions about what that means.

Friday October 14, 2022


Rachel Rodriguez on mistrust of Wisconsin’s election process

Elections

Rachel Rodriguez on mistrust of Wisconsin’s election process

Dane County election management specialist Rachel Rodriguez discusses how misconceptions about how voting is administered start and circulate, and how conspiracy theories have intensified since 2020.

Tuesday October 11, 2022


Rohn Bishop on 2020 and Wisconsin’s Republican electorate

Elections

Rohn Bishop on 2020 and Wisconsin’s Republican electorate

Waupun Mayor Rohn Bishop, former Republican Party of Fond du Lac County chair, discusses how many Wisconsin Republicans are preoccupied with the 2020 presidential vote and its implications for 2022.

Tuesday October 11, 2022


Wisconsin Republicans still fixated on 2020 election in 2022

Elections

Wisconsin Republicans still fixated on 2020 election in 2022

For nearly two years, many Republican officeholders, candidates and voters around the state have cast doubt on the previous presidential vote and promote conspiracy theories on how it was conducted.

Friday October 7, 2022


Jerome Dillard on parole, pardons and Wisconsin politics

Politics

Jerome Dillard on parole, pardons and Wisconsin politics

Ex-Incarcerated People Organizing Executive Director Jerome Dillard explains how the state's parole process is structured and considers impacts of political rhetoric about crime and the penal system.

Friday September 30, 2022


Chad Laibly on winter weather and soaring home heating costs

Economy

Chad Laibly on winter weather and soaring home heating costs

Focus on Energy senior technical advisor Chad Laibly describes how much energy prices are expected to surge as 2022 winds down and what weatherizing and other efficiency efforts do to promote savings.

Friday September 30, 2022


Dale Knapp on Wisconsin’s dwindling ranks of younger workers

Economy

Dale Knapp on Wisconsin’s dwindling ranks of younger workers

Wisconsin Counties Association research director Dale Knapp details the group's Forward Analytics report about a declining number of young people and families projected to live in the state by 2030.

Friday September 30, 2022


Dr. Amy Domeyer on the lack of OB-GYNs in Wisconsin

Health

Dr. Amy Domeyer on the lack of OB-GYNs in Wisconsin

Legislative chair of Wisconsin's chapter of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Amy Domeyer discusses a growing OB-GYN shortage and how it continues to impact Wisconsin.

Friday September 9, 2022


Greg Hartjes on an Appleton school district referendum

Education

Greg Hartjes on an Appleton school district referendum

Appleton Area School District Superintendent Greg Hartjes explains the district requests from voters in two November 2022 referendums, including a $5 million annual increase for staff and programming.

Friday September 9, 2022


2022 AG candidates spar over expanding prosecution authority

Elections

2022 AG candidates spar over expanding prosecution authority

Republican attorney general candidate Eric Toney seeks to expand the power of the office to prosecute crimes in Milwaukee, while Democratic incumbent Josh Kaul prefers statewide prosecuting authority.

Friday September 9, 2022


Joint Finance Committee allocates opioid settlement funds

Policy

Joint Finance Committee allocates opioid settlement funds

The Joint Finance Committee approved allocating $31 million in opioid settlement funds for distribution of Narcan, fentanyl testing strips, medication-assisted treatment and law enforcement training.

Friday September 9, 2022


Election clerks receive new guidance on absentee voting

Elections

Election clerks receive new guidance on absentee voting

A Waukesha County judge ruled local clerks cannot add missing address information to absentee ballot envelopes, and the Wisconsin Elections Commission issued guidance on support for disabled voters.

Friday September 9, 2022


Officials encourage Omicron-specific booster vaccinations

Coronavirus

Officials encourage Omicron-specific booster vaccinations

As COVID-19 cases spike again, health officials urge Wisconsinites to get an Omicron-specific booster vaccine, formulated to better protect against variants of the virus causing the most infections.

Friday September 9, 2022


The politics of Wisconsin’s teacher shortage in 2022

Elections

The politics of Wisconsin’s teacher shortage in 2022

Education has a high profile in the 2022 election for governor of Wisconsin, as Democratic incumbent Tony Evers and Republican challenger Tim Michels consider why schools don't have enough teachers.

Thursday September 1, 2022


On the left half of a split-screen image, Tony Evers speaks to reporters outdoors with a street sign and tree in the background, while on the right half, Tim Michels speaks into microphones with a U.S. flag in the background.

Elections

Wisconsin’s 2022 races for U.S. Senate, governor and attorney general take shape

Here's what candidates and campaigns in the state's highest-profile races – Mandela Barnes and incumbent Sen. Ron Johnson, incumbent Gov. Tony Evers and Tim Michels, and incumbent AG Josh Kaul and Eric Toney – are saying about their opponents as they look toward the fall general election.

Wednesday August 10, 2022


Local clerks test machines to bolster confidence in election

Elections

Local clerks test machines to bolster confidence in election

Municipal clerks publicly test voting machines in advance of the 2022 partisan primary to show they are properly counting ballots and to address concerns of election fraud — West Bend city clerk Lizbet Santana demonstrates the process.

Friday August 5, 2022


Wisconsin’s 2022 Republican primary for governor

Elections

Wisconsin’s 2022 Republican primary for governor

Rebecca Kleefisch, Tim Michels and Tim Ramthun are trying to attract and energize conservative voters as they seek the Republican nomination for governor, but how each candidate hopes to harness frustration over the 2020 presidential election and opposition to abortion differs in subtle but meaningful ways.

Thursday August 4, 2022


Wisconsin’s 2022 Republican primary for attorney general

Elections

Wisconsin’s 2022 Republican primary for attorney general

Former state legislator Adam Jarchow and Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney are leading candidates in the Republican primary for Wisconsin Attorney General, in which the pandemic and 2020 election stand out as issues.

Thursday July 28, 2022


Rep. Jim Steineke on retiring, politics in 2022

Politics

Rep. Jim Steineke on retiring, politics in 2022

Outgoing Wisconsin Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke, R-Kaukauna, discusses retiring as a legislator, tumult over the 2020 vote, the Republican primary for governor and the state's abortion laws.

Wednesday July 20, 2022


An absentee ballot drop box bolted to concrete next near an intersection stands amid melting snowdrifts, with trees and buildings in the background.

Elections

Wisconsin Supreme Court rules state law does not permit ballot drop boxes

In a 4-3 ruling that only covers one-third of the written decision, the conservative majority on the state's high court found that voters must return absentee ballots to local election clerks and not to a drop box in advance of an election.

Friday July 8, 2022


Is any amount of PFAS safe?

Health

Is any amount of PFAS safe?

Dr. Beth Neary, a pediatrician and co-president of the Wisconsin Environmental Health Network, discusses health risks posed by PFAS as new federal health advisories warn that some of these chemicals are hazardous even at extremely low levels.

Friday June 17, 2022


Assessing firearm risk for mental health patients

Health

Assessing firearm risk for mental health patients

Dr. Bradley Burmeister, an ER physician at Bellin Memorial Hospital in Green Bay, explains how emergency medical personnel assess firearm risk for patients with mental health needs.

Friday June 17, 2022


Demand rising for donated human milk

Health

Demand rising for donated human milk

Susan Urbanski, program manager for Mothers' Milk Bank of the Western Great Lakes, describes how donations and demand for human milk have increased as the nationwide baby formula shortage continues.

Friday June 17, 2022


Gableman referred to Wisconsin’s Office of Lawyer Regulation

Politics

Gableman referred to Wisconsin’s Office of Lawyer Regulation

Dane County Judge Frank Remington issued a written order fining former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman's Office of Special Counsel the maximum $2,000 a day for contempt — hired by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos to investigate Wisconsin's 2020 presidential vote, Gableman refused to testify in a lawsuit seeking records from his office.

Friday June 17, 2022


Gauging threats and ensuring safety in schools

Education

Gauging threats and ensuring safety in schools

Trisha Kilpin, director of the Office of School Safety in the Wisconsin Department of Justice, considers the aftermath of the Uvalde massacre as schools labor to identify threats and provide security.

Friday June 10, 2022


Jan. 6 committee begins U.S. Capitol insurrection hearings

Politics

Jan. 6 committee begins U.S. Capitol insurrection hearings

U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyoming speaks and former U.S. Attorney General William Barr testifies on the first day of hearings to investigate the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Friday June 10, 2022


Judge holds Gableman in contempt over open records lawsuit

Politics

Judge holds Gableman in contempt over open records lawsuit

During proceedings over an open records lawsuit, former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman was held in contempt of court after he accused a Dane County judge of taking sides and refused to answer questions.

Friday June 10, 2022


Don Millis appointed to Wisconsin Elections Commission

Politics

Don Millis appointed to Wisconsin Elections Commission

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos appointed attorney Don Millis as a new Republican board member of the Wisconsin Elections Commission.

Friday June 10, 2022


Abortion access and maternal health disparities

Health

Abortion access and maternal health disparities

Tiffany Green, a professor of population health and obstetrics and gynecology at UW-Madison, discusses economic and racial disparities linked to abortion and expected impacts of reversing Roe v. Wade.

Friday June 10, 2022


Why young adults stay in their small Wisconsin town

Rural Voices

Why young adults stay in their small Wisconsin town

Four residents of the Black River Falls area share the reasons why they continue to live in the community where they grew up rather than moving to a larger city.

Thursday June 9, 2022


What it’s like for kids to live in small-town Wisconsin

Rural Voices

What it’s like for kids to live in small-town Wisconsin

Five teenagers who attend Black River Falls High School – who grew up in the area or moved there after living elsewhere – share how their perspectives and future plans are shaped by living in a rural community.

Thursday June 2, 2022


Two adjacent screenshots show Barbara Dittrich and Kelda Roys seated in different locations.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: State Rep. Barbara Dittrich, State Sen. Kelda Roys, Anne Hlavacka, Tracy Jensen

Here's what guests on the May 13, 2022 episode had to say about possible changes to abortion law in Wisconsin, the growth in new businesses in the western part of the state, and what "A Day Without Child Care" means to parents and providers.

Monday May 16, 2022


Democrats anticipate the end of Roe v. Wade

Politics

Democrats anticipate the end of Roe v. Wade

State Sen. Kelda Roys, D-Madison, discusses abortion law and what responses Wisconsin's Democratic lawmakers may be considering in anticipation of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

Friday May 13, 2022


Republicans anticipate the end of Roe v. Wade

Politics

Republicans anticipate the end of Roe v. Wade

State Rep. Barbara Dittrich, R-Oconomowoc, discusses abortion law and policies Wisconsin's Republican lawmakers may be considering in anticipation of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

Friday May 13, 2022


The availability and affordability of child care

Social Issues

The availability and affordability of child care

Tracy Jensen, a program director at Sunny Day Child Care & Preschool in Waupaca, explains the idea of "National Day Without Child Care" and challenges parents and providers face with access and cost.

Friday May 13, 2022


Wisconsin’s spike in new small businesses

Economy

Wisconsin’s spike in new small businesses

Anne Hlavacka, director of the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center at UW-La Crosse, shares how more entrepreneurs have launched new businesses in western Wisconsin since the pandemic started.

Friday May 13, 2022


Nurses rally at Wisconsin Capitol

Health

Nurses rally at Wisconsin Capitol

Nurses rallied at the Wisconsin State Capitol, calling for safer staffing levels, higher wages and more affordable education.

Friday May 13, 2022


Women’s Health Protection Act voted down in US Senate

Health

Women’s Health Protection Act voted down in US Senate

U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin on the Women's Heath Protection Act, which would codify abortion access in federal law, not meeting a 60-vote threshold to proceed in the Senate.

Friday May 13, 2022


Chancellor Rebecca Blank bids farewell to UW-Madison

Education

Chancellor Rebecca Blank bids farewell to UW-Madison

Outgoing UW-Madison Chancellor Rebecca Blank shares her final remarks for the university as she leaves the position.

Friday May 13, 2022


Abortion’s new prominence in Wisconsin politics

Social Issues

Abortion’s new prominence in Wisconsin politics

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz considers political implications of a leaked U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion on abortion and the potential effects on Wisconsin’s upcoming elections.

Saturday May 7, 2022


A crop of a map shows numbered Assembly and state Senate district lines in and around the Milwaukee area.

Elections

Hagedorn says time ran out for Wisconsin’s redistricting process

After the U.S. Supreme Court sent the matter back to the state level, the Wisconsin Supreme Court's conservative majority approved in a 4-3 decision legislative redistricting maps it had previously rejected in another 4-3 decision – the swing vote was Justice Brian Hagedorn, who opined the window to consider Voting Rights Act claims had closed.

Monday April 18, 2022


The SCOTUS redistricting order for Wisconsin

Politics

The SCOTUS redistricting order for Wisconsin

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz explains what a U.S. Supreme Court order on Wisconsin's legislative redistricting means and its rejections of a challenge to the congressional maps.

Friday March 25, 2022


A crop of a map shows color-coded Assembly district lines in and around the Milwaukee area.

Elections

US Supreme Court upholds Wisconsin’s congressional redistricting, rejects legislative maps

Less than three weeks after the Wisconsin Supreme Court narrowly approved redistricting plans for the state's congressional and legislative districts under a "least change" requirement, the nation's top court ordered the state-level maps be redrawn to align with federal Voting Rights Act requirements.

Wednesday March 23, 2022


Wisconsin’s State of the State and 2022 politics

Politics

Wisconsin’s State of the State and 2022 politics

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz unpacks the politics of the 2022 State of the State address by Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and response by state Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu.

Friday February 18, 2022


The top floors and spires of Milwaukee City Hall contrast with a cloudless, blue sky.

Elections

Meet the 7 candidates running in Milwaukee’s 2022 mayoral primary

Marina Dimitrijevic, Bob Donovan, Ieshuh Griffin, Cavalier Johnson, Earnell Lucas, Michael Sampson and Lena Taylor are squaring off in the Feb. 15 primary to run in the spring 2022 election for mayor of Milwaukee.

Thursday January 27, 2022


Vos discusses election investigations, 2022 priorities

Elections

Vos discusses election investigations, 2022 priorities

On the one-year anniversary of the Capitol insurrection that sought to thwart the results of the 2020 presidential election, Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos responds to criticisms of state Republicans’ investigations into how that election transpired in Wisconsin and discusses his legislative priorities for the new year.

Friday January 7, 2022


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Statement to the Communities We Serve

There is no place for racism in our society. We must work together as a community to ensure we no longer teach, or tolerate it.  Read the full statement.