Zac Schultz

email | @zschultzwpt

Zac Schultz is a reporter and occasional anchor for PBS Wisconsin's "Here & Now." A Wisconsin native, he is proud to cover every corner of the state and issues important to ...

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Zac's Recent Stories

Steve Lavin on campaign complaints about TV ads by opponents

Politics

Steve Lavin on campaign complaints about TV ads by opponents

WBAY-TV General Manager Steve Lavin discusses how the broadcaster and its parent company Gray Television handle complaints from political campaigns about election advertising by other candidates.

Tuesday October 1, 2024


Michael Wagner on how AI can be used and misused in politics

Politics

Michael Wagner on how AI can be used and misused in politics

UW-Madison journalism professor Michael Wagner explains how generative artificial intelligence tools by political campaigns raise questions of honesty and transparency that are difficult to answer.

Monday September 30, 2024


AI, media manipulation and political campaign lies in 2024

Elections

AI, media manipulation and political campaign lies in 2024

Political advertising on television and social media is familiar to Wisconsinites in election years, but voters in 2024 are also contending with artificial intelligence and rampant misinformation.

Thursday September 26, 2024


US Sen. Ron Johnson on voting against a federal IVF bill

Politics

US Sen. Ron Johnson on voting against a federal IVF bill

Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson discusses opposing the Right to IVF Act, a federal bill to promote access to fertility treatment supported by Democratic lawmakers that was blocked in the Senate.

Monday September 23, 2024


Zac Schultz speaks while standing, gesturing with his right hand and holding a microphone in the other with an empty stadium and banners reading 'A New Way Forward' in the background with a graphic at bottom reading 'Zac Schultz' and 'Here & Now.'

Elections

Zac Schultz on Harris in Madison, Kennedy’s ballot status

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz discusses Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris holding a rally in Madison and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s ballot lawsuit.

Friday September 20, 2024


Zac Schultz and Dan Rossmiller sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Dan Rossmiller

Here's what guests on the Sept. 6, 2024 episode said about school funding and staffing as a new school year begins.

Monday September 9, 2024


A still image shows Dan Rossmiller seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Dan Rossmiller' and 'Wisconsin Association of School Boards.'

Education

Dan Rossmiller on difficulties for Wisconsin schools in 2024

Wisconsin Association of School Boards Executive Director Dan Rossmiller details challenges as the 2024-25 school year begins, from teacher retention to operating referendums to contentious politics.

Friday September 6, 2024


Miguel Cardona speaks and stands in front of a paper poster with painted lettering.

Education

Sec. Cardona promotes rural programs for teacher education

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona spoke in Wisconsin as the 2024-25 school year started and promoted federal programs for rural high schools to support students aspiring to become teachers.

Friday September 6, 2024


Josh Kaul on averting 2024 voting interference in Wisconsin

Elections

Josh Kaul on averting 2024 voting interference in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul, attending the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, discusses working with officials and clerks to prepare for and deter election interference threats.

Monday August 26, 2024


A screen depicts Kamala Harris and reads 'DNC 2024' with a crowd of people standing below.

Elections

Harris urges Democrats to push forward at the 2024 DNC

Wisconsin was at the center of attention over the four days of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, as the party emphasized the state's ongoing importance in the presidential election.

Friday August 23, 2024


A still image shows Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross seated in front of a blue gradient background.

Elections

McCoshen & Ross on impacts & implications of the 2024 DNC

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross evaluate the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago and consider the significance of nominating Vice President Kamala Harris.

Friday August 23, 2024


Tammy Baldwin sits and speaks with a gradient background with a graphic at bottom reading 'Chicago,' 'Tammy Baldwin' and '(D) Candidate for U.S. Senate.'

Elections

US Sen. Tammy Baldwin on the 2024 campaign for US senator

Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin discusses running for a third term in 2024, the presidential candidacy of Vice President Kamala Harris and the campaign's voter turnout efforts around Wisconsin.

Friday August 23, 2024


Wisconsin Democrats respond to racism, sexism against Harris

Elections

Wisconsin Democrats respond to racism, sexism against Harris

Former President Donald Trump and supporters have made many racist and misogynistic statements about Vice President Kamala Harris — Wisconsin Democrats consider how to handle such comments.

Friday August 23, 2024


Wisconsin young Democrats join in the enthusiasm at 2024 DNC

Elections

Wisconsin young Democrats join in the enthusiasm at 2024 DNC

Among the groups energized by President Joe Biden withdrawing from the 2024 race are younger Democrats, including Wisconsinites attending the DNC in Chicago who hope to make their voices heard.

Friday August 23, 2024


‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day four

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day four

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Democratic National Convention about U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin campaigning for reelection and the Harris-Walz ticket.

Thursday August 22, 2024


McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: Harris, Walz and the 2024 vote

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: Harris, Walz and the 2024 vote

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss the Democratic presidential ticket of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, campaign messages and momentum, and the 2024 race going forward.

Thursday August 22, 2024


‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day three

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day three

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Democratic National Convention to discuss how the party's politicians and activists plan to pivot to campaign in Wisconsin.

Wednesday August 21, 2024


McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: Abortion, economy, immigration

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: Abortion, economy, immigration

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss Vice President Kamala Harris tapping Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate and abortion, economic and immigration issues.

Wednesday August 21, 2024


US Rep. Gwen Moore on how lawmakers promote policy to voters

Elections

US Rep. Gwen Moore on how lawmakers promote policy to voters

U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Milwaukee, at the 2024 DNC in Chicago, discusses how Democratic politicians can speak in abstractions and jargon instead of using more direct language when touting policies.

Wednesday August 21, 2024


Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez on speaking at the 2024 DNC

Elections

Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez on speaking at the 2024 DNC

Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez, at the 2024 DNC in Chicago, describes the experience of giving a speech to an audience at a national political convention and policy messages put forth by Democrats.

Wednesday August 21, 2024


US Rep. Mark Pocan on calling on Biden to step aside in 2024

Elections

US Rep. Mark Pocan on calling on Biden to step aside in 2024

U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Town of Vermont, at the 2024 DNC in Chicago, discusses joining efforts to ask President Joe Biden to end his reelection campaign and the uncommon nature of taking that action.

Wednesday August 21, 2024


‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day two

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day two

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Democratic National Convention to consider priorities put forth by Wisconsin lawmakers inside and the Gaza protests outside.

Tuesday August 20, 2024


McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: From Obama to Biden to Harris

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: From Obama to Biden to Harris

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss the Obama-Biden legacy, policy track record of the Biden-Harris administration and political outlook for the Harris-Walz ticket.

Tuesday August 20, 2024


Gov. Tony Evers on the influence of Wisconsin voters in 2024

Elections

Gov. Tony Evers on the influence of Wisconsin voters in 2024

Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, joining the state delegation at the 2024 DNC, discusses the continuing campaign spotlight on Wisconsin and how Democratic voters are fired up for the election.

Tuesday August 20, 2024


‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day one

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 DNC in Chicago: Day one

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Democratic National Convention to examine the Wisconsin delegation and the state's significance in the presidential election.

Monday August 19, 2024


McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: Energy in the Democratic base

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the DNC: Energy in the Democratic base

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss the enthusiasm of Democrats as their 2024 presidential candidate shifted from President Joe Biden to Vice President Kamala Harris.

Monday August 19, 2024


Multiple screens depict Donald Trump standing on a stage and speaking into a microphone.

Elections

Trump speaks to the Republican faithful at the 2024 RNC

Over the course of the four days of the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, political conversations veered from fears of civil war to messages of unity to familiar partisan rhetoric.

Friday July 19, 2024


A still image shows Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross seated in front of a blue background.

Elections

McCoshen & Ross on impacts and implications of the 2024 RNC

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross evaluate the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee and consider the significance of nominating former President Donald Trump.

Friday July 19, 2024


People stand outside with glass windows and green shrubbery behind them.

Elections

Wisconsin young Republicans are energized by the 2024 RNC

Younger members of the Republican Party from around Wisconsin seek to make their voices heard and find leadership opportunities as they gathered at their 2024 national convention in Milwaukee.

Friday July 19, 2024


Five Black Republicans, including Senator Tim Scott, sit on chairs with Trump posters on the wall in the background.

Elections

How Republicans are trying to woo more Black voters in 2024

The Republican Party seeks to extend the reach and visibility of efforts to build support in African American communities and attract more Black voters to back former President Donald Trump in 2024.

Friday July 19, 2024


A still image from a video shows Scott Fitzgerald standing behind a podium with the Wisconsin flag hanging behind him.

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee: Day four

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Republican National Convention to discuss Wisconsin Republicans touting Milwaukee, the state and the Trump-Vance ticket.

Thursday July 18, 2024


Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross sit together around a table in front of a red and blue background.

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the RNC: Trump, Vance and the 2024 vote

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss the Republican presidential ticket of Donald Trump and JD Vance, the phenomenon of Trumpism, and the 2024 race going forward.

Thursday July 18, 2024


John Beauchamp sits on the Here and Now RNC pop-up studio.

Elections

John Beauchamp on younger voices in the Republican Party

Jefferson County Young Republicans Chair John Beauchamp, an alternate attending the 2024 RNC, discusses the energy of younger party members to share their perspectives and ideas around Wisconsin.

Thursday July 18, 2024


‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee: Day three

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee: Day three

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Republican National Convention to consider an incident involving U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden and Ohio police killing a man.

Wednesday July 17, 2024


Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross sit together around a table in front of a red and blue background.

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the RNC: Abortion, optics and the media

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss political optics of the 2024 Republican National Convention, the role of the media, and the importance of the abortion issue.

Wednesday July 17, 2024


County Exec. David Crowley on listening to Black voters

Elections

County Exec. David Crowley on listening to Black voters

Milwaukee County County Executive David Crowley, a Democrat attending the 2024 RNC, considers issues of economic opportunity, racism and outreach to Black voters who live in a segregated community.

Wednesday July 17, 2024


Gerard Randall answers questions in a room with paintings of famous Black figured on the wall behind him.

Elections

Gerard Randall on Republicans and Black voters in Milwaukee

Republican Party of Wisconsin first vice chair Gerard Randall touts efforts at the party's Black Community Center in Milwaukee to sway African American voters to support former President Donald Trump.

Wednesday July 17, 2024


Stephanie Soucek speaks into a microphone behind tabled set up for breakfast.

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee: Day two

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Republican National Convention to gauge business impacts on Milwaukee and police shooting a person past the security zone.

Tuesday July 16, 2024


Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross sit together around a table in front of a red and blue background.

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the RNC: National unity, state politics

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss the Trump-Vance ticket, Republican messaging on national unity, and effects on Wisconsin's U.S. Senate and state legislative races.

Tuesday July 16, 2024


Ron Johnson stands in front of the Wisconsin flag.

Politics

US Sen. Ron Johnson on unifying the nation, electing Trump

Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, speaking to the Wisconsin delegation at the 2024 RNC, calls for unifying the nation and ensuring the state's electoral votes go to former President Donald Trump.

Tuesday July 16, 2024


‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee: Day one

Elections

‘Here & Now’ from the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee: Day one

"Here & Now" senior political reporter Zac Schultz checks in from the 2024 Republican National Convention about bolstered security after the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

Monday July 15, 2024


Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross sit at a table

Elections

McCoshen & Ross at the RNC: Violent rhetoric, Vance VP pick

"Here & Now" political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss political violence and the attempted assassination as former President Donald Trump taps U.S. Sen. JD Vance as his running mate.

Monday July 15, 2024


A row of collapsible voting privacy booths with a plastic base and walls and metal legs stands in a room with a linoleum floor and painted brick wall with a clock and fire alarm.

Elections

Ballot drop boxes legal again in Wisconsin after ruling

A decision by the liberal majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court reversed a near-total ban on the use of ballot drop boxes in elections put in place in 2022 — restoring this voting method could have major implications for the 2024 election.

Friday July 5, 2024


Zac Schultz on the Wisconsin Supreme Court and abortion law

Courts

Zac Schultz on the Wisconsin Supreme Court and abortion law

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz discusses the significance of the Wisconsin Supreme Court agreeing to hear two cases related to the legal status of abortion access in the state.

Wednesday July 3, 2024


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

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Reiko Ramos, Dant’e Cottingham, McCoshen & Ross

Here's what guests on the June 14, 2024 episode said about connections between legislation and threats against LGBTQ communities, what the Waupun prison arrests mean to activists who decry mass incarceration, and the politics of holding the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Monday June 17, 2024


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

Elections

McCoshen & Ross on 2024 presidential politics, conventions

'Here & Now' political panelists Bill McCoshen and Scot Ross discuss federal and state races as Milwaukee prepares for the 2024 Republican National Convention with former President Donald Trump.

Friday June 14, 2024


A still image from a video shows Reiko Ramos seated in front of drawn blinds with a graphic at bottom reading 'Appleton,' 'Reiko Ramos' and 'Diverse & Resilient.'

Social Issues

Reiko Ramos on threats toward, safety in LGBTQ communities

Diverse & Resilient anti-violence program director Reiko Ramos describes the organization's work to support the well-being of Wisconsin's LGBTQ residents as a backlash to acceptance has accelerated.

Friday June 14, 2024


Dant’e Cottingham on prison conditions in Waupun, Green Bay

Courts

Dant’e Cottingham on prison conditions in Waupun, Green Bay

Stop the Torture Coalition organizer Dant'e Cottingham discusses the arrests of Waupun Correctional Institution staff after inmate deaths and calls to close the aging prison and another in Green Bay.

Friday June 14, 2024


Mayor Rohn Bishop on corrections officer jobs in Waupun

Economy

Mayor Rohn Bishop on corrections officer jobs in Waupun

Waupun Mayor Rohn Bishop considers how impacts of Act 10 on unions and lagging pay rates have affected working conditions and morale of corrections officers in the community and around Wisconsin.

Tuesday June 11, 2024


Political fallout from the arrests of Waupun prison staff

Courts

Political fallout from the arrests of Waupun prison staff

After nine employees of Waupun Correctional Institution were arrested on felony charges related to prisoner deaths, ongoing political disputes over the state budget and workers took on new intensity.

Friday June 7, 2024


Zac Schultz and Eileen Newcomer sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Peter Hart-Brinson, Eileen Newcomer, Dr. Keith Poulsen

Here's what guests on the May 3, 2024 episode said about campus protests over Israel and Gaza, rules for election observers in Wisconsin, and tracking the spread of bird flu among cattle.

Monday May 6, 2024


A still image from a video shows Peter Hart-Brinson seated in front of a shelves lined with books with a graphic at bottom reading 'Eau Claire,' 'Peter Hart-Brinson' and 'Eau Claire Dept. of Sociology and Communication.'

Education

Peter Hart-Brinson on the Israel-Hamas war campus protests

UW-Eau Claire sociology and journalism professor Peter Hart-Brinson discusses perspectives among college students around Wisconsin on the pro-Palestinian campus protests in Madison and Milwaukee.

Friday May 3, 2024


A still image shows Eileen Newcomer seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Eileen Newcomer' and 'League of Women Voters of Wisconsin.'

Elections

Eileen Newcomer on rules for election observers in Wisconsin

League of Women Voters of Wisconsin voter education manager Eileen Newcomer discusses state requirements for election observers at polling places and potential changes as the 2024 election approaches.

Friday May 3, 2024


Keith Poulsen on monitoring bird flu in the dairy industry

Agriculture

Keith Poulsen on monitoring bird flu in the dairy industry

UW-Madison Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory Director Keith Poulsen describes tracking the spread of H5N1 avian influenza among herds of cattle in multiple states and genetic testing of milk.

Friday May 3, 2024


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

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: US Rep. Bryan Steil, Peter Barca, Rick Abrams, Ananth Seshadri

Here's what guests on the April 26, 2024 episode said about congressional votes on foreign aid to U.S. allies, nursing home staffing regulations and the status of UW-Madison as a global research institution.

Monday April 29, 2024


Rick Abrams on federal standards for nursing home staffing

Economy

Rick Abrams on federal standards for nursing home staffing

Wisconsin Health Care Association & Wisconsin Center for Assisted Living Executive Director Rick Abrams discusses new federal regulations for nursing homes that require more staff for providing care.

Friday April 26, 2024


A still image from a video shows Peter Barca in front of wooden doors with a graphic at bottom reading 'Kenosha,' 'Peter Barca' and '(D) Candidate for 1st Congressional District.'

Politics

Peter Barca on foreign policy and the 2024 election

Peter Barca, a former U.S. Representative, discusses running for Wisconsin's 1st Congressional District seat when foreign policy related to Ukraine, Israel and more are prominent election year issues.

Friday April 26, 2024


A still image from a video shows Bryan Steil seated in front of a cityscape filter background with a graphic at bottom reading 'Janesville,' 'Bryan Steil' and '(R) Janesville.'

Politics

US Rep Bryan Steil on foreign policy and the 2024 election

U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil, R-Janesville, discusses his positions on congressional votes on aid for Ukraine, Israel and more as foreign policy issues grow more prominent in the presidential election year.

Friday April 26, 2024


A still image shows Ananth Seshadri seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Ananth Seshadri' and 'Center for Research on the Wisconsin Economy.'

Education

Ananth Seshadri on UW-Madison’s rankings and research funds

UW-Madison economics professor Ananth Seshadri, co-director of the Center for Research on the Wisconsin Economy, describes its analysis of the university's global rankings and research funding levels.

Friday April 26, 2024


Steve Board on the Richland School District and defeasance

Education

Steve Board on the Richland School District and defeasance

Richland School District Superintendent Steve Board discusses its Board of Education's decision to prepay debt, called defeasance, to save interest costs while holding its tax levy rate level.

Thursday April 25, 2024


Rob Abbott on Fort Atkinson’s school district and defeasance

Education

Rob Abbott on Fort Atkinson’s school district and defeasance

School District of Fort Atkinson Superintendent Rob Abbott discusses its Board of Education's decision to prepay debt, called defeasance, to save interest costs while holding its tax levy rate level.

Wednesday April 24, 2024


How school districts use ‘defeasance’ to pass referendums

Education

How school districts use ‘defeasance’ to pass referendums

Wisconsin school districts are using a financial tool called "defeasance" — increasing spending to prepay debt that reduces interest costs — to make it look like operating referendums do not raise taxes.

Friday April 19, 2024


Heather DuBois Bourenane on funding schools with referendums

Education

Heather DuBois Bourenane on funding schools with referendums

Wisconsin Public Education Network Executive Director Heather DuBois Bourenane discusses the state's school financing formula setting revenue limits and districts relying on referendums for funding.

Wednesday April 3, 2024


Rob Abbott on school funding and the politics of referendums

Education

Rob Abbott on school funding and the politics of referendums

School District of Fort Atkinson Superintendent Rob Abbott describes the political balancing acts involved with asking voters for their support in referendums to increase local taxes for education.

Tuesday April 2, 2024


Why are many Wisconsin school districts holding referendums?

Education

Why are many Wisconsin school districts holding referendums?

Dozens of school districts around the state are going to referendum in the 2024 spring election, with local educators seeking support for spending priorities while working within state funding limits.

Thursday March 28, 2024


Rep. Scott Johnson on funding for public and private schools

Budgets

Rep. Scott Johnson on funding for public and private schools

State Rep. Scott Johnson, R-Jefferson, discusses the politics of public funding for and oversight of K-12 education in Wisconsin as districts seek voter support for referendums to boost their budgets.

Wednesday March 20, 2024


Zac Schultz on another legal battle over ballot drop boxes

Courts

Zac Schultz on another legal battle over ballot drop boxes

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz discusses implications of the Wisconsin Supreme Court agreeing to reconsider its decision over the use of absentee ballot drop boxes in elections.

Friday March 15, 2024


Wisconsin’s new legislative districts and the 2024 elections

Elections

Wisconsin’s new legislative districts and the 2024 elections

Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers signed into law new legislative districts he proposed and passed by Republican lawmakers — supporters hope these maps will make for more competitive elections.

Friday February 23, 2024


Gov. Tony Evers on consequences of redistricting decisions

Elections

Gov. Tony Evers on consequences of redistricting decisions

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers discusses the recent history of redistricting in the state, recounting actions taken by Democratic and Republican lawmakers that determined the political balance of power.

Wednesday February 21, 2024


A still image shows Zac Schultz standing in front of the state capitol rotunda with a graphic at bottom reading 'State Capitol,' 'Zac Schultz' and 'Here & Now.'

Courts

Zac Schultz on the Wisconsin’s 2024 redistricting map report

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz discusses a report by consultants hired by the Wisconsin Supreme Court to analyze whether legislative district map proposals meet legal criteria.

Friday February 2, 2024


A map shows outlines of legislative districts in different shades of blue and red, with + and - zoom buttons at the upper left a key at the upper right showing options titled Evers, Law Forward (Clarke Petitioners), Legislative Republicans, Petering (FastMap), Senate Democrats, Wright Petitioners and WILL (Johnson Petitioners), with the first option selected.

Elections

What do Wisconsin’s residency requirements mean for incumbents paired in redistricting?

Multiple members of the Wisconsin Legislature are likely to be in the same districts following the adoption of new maps in 2024, but state law and its enforcement have not been strictly followed.

Thursday January 25, 2024


A still image shows Zac Schultz standing in front of the State Capitol rotunda with a graphic at bottom reading 'State Captiol,' 'Zac Schultz' and 'Here & Now.'

Elections

Zac Schultz on redistricting maps, incumbents and elections

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz considers how effects of redistricting on incumbents and partisan advantages in proposed maps intersect with other factors in the 2024 elections.

Friday January 19, 2024


Wisconsin lawmakers on their visions for success in 2024

Politics

Wisconsin lawmakers on their visions for success in 2024

Wisconsin legislative leaders in 2023 — Sen. Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, Sen. Melissa Agard, D-Madison, Rep. Greta Neubauer, D-Racine, and Rep. Robin Vos, R-Rochester — define 2024 political success.

Wednesday January 10, 2024


The U.S. and Wisconsin flags wave while attached to flagpoles, with a clear sky in the background.

Politics

Wisconsin braces for another consequential election cycle in 2024

While the presidential primaries are shaping up to be noncompetitive and there is no high court race on the spring ballot, an enduring swing state status and uncertainties of redistricting litigation once again leave Wisconsin's voters at the center of national politics in a turbulent election year.

Tuesday January 2, 2024


Speaker Robin Vos on the 2024 election cycle in Wisconsin

Elections

Speaker Robin Vos on the 2024 election cycle in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, discusses his preference for the 2024 Republican presidential primary vote and position on the administration of the state Elections Commission.

Tuesday December 26, 2023


A still image shows Zac Schultz seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Zac Schultz' and 'Here & Now.'

Politics

Zac Schultz on the Wisconsin Supreme Court ordering new maps

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz describes the Wisconsin Supreme Court redistricting lawsuit ruling and order that the state use new legislative district maps in the 2024 election.

Friday December 22, 2023


Speaker Robin Vos on Wisconsin politics in 2023 and 2024

Politics

Speaker Robin Vos on Wisconsin politics in 2023 and 2024

Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, discusses the Legislature's work in 2023 and Republican priorities, the governor's vetoes, the redistricting lawsuit and the 2024 election cycle.

Thursday December 21, 2023


Rep. Greta Neubauer on election legislation in Wisconsin

Politics

Rep. Greta Neubauer on election legislation in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, D-Racine, discusses different bills and proposed constitutional amendments that would address how elections and voting are administered in the state.

Tuesday December 19, 2023


Rep. Greta Neubauer on Wisconsin politics in 2023 and 2024

Politics

Rep. Greta Neubauer on Wisconsin politics in 2023 and 2024

Wisconsin Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer, D-Racine, discusses the Legislature's work in 2023, the state Supreme Court and redistricting, the governor's vetoes and the 2024 election cycle.

Friday December 15, 2023


Sen. Devin LeMahieu on impeachment and appointment standards

Politics

Sen. Devin LeMahieu on impeachment and appointment standards

Wisconsin State Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, discusses prospects for the impeachment of state officials and expectation of holding votes for gubernatorial appointees in 2024.

Monday December 11, 2023


Devin LeMahieu sits in front of a green marble wall with a graphic at bottom reading 'Sen. Devin LeMahieu' and '(R) Senate Majority Leader.'

Politics

Sen. Devin LeMahieu on Wisconsin politics in 2023 and 2024

Wisconsin State Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, discusses the Legislature's work in 2023 and Republican priorities, communicating with the governor, and the 2024 election cycle.

Friday December 8, 2023


Rebecca Alper on long-term impacts of early language skills

Education

Rebecca Alper on long-term impacts of early language skills

UW-Madison speech pathology professor Rebecca Alper explains how speech language disorders can affect lifelong outcomes among children and considers the role of education access in providing support.

Tuesday December 5, 2023


Sen. Melissa Agard on the 2024 election cycle in Wisconsin

Elections

Sen. Melissa Agard on the 2024 election cycle in Wisconsin

State Sen. Melissa Agard, D-Madison, the former Wisconsin Senate Minority Leader, discusses the high profile of the 2024 elections and the messages that Democrats in the Legislature have for voters.

Monday December 4, 2023


A still image from a video shows Melissa Agard seated in front of a marble wall and Wisconsin state flag with a graphic at bottom reading 'Sen. Melissa Agard' and '(D) Former Senate Minority Leader.'

Politics

Sen. Melissa Agard on Wisconsin politics in 2023 and 2024

State Sen. Melissa Agard, D-Madison, the former Wisconsin Senate Minority Leader, discusses the Legislature's work in 2023, state Supreme Court and 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Friday December 1, 2023


Tonya Hameister on early speech, literacy and the pandemic

Education

Tonya Hameister on early speech, literacy and the pandemic

Next Door Foundation Director of Education Services Tonya Hameister describes the group's efforts to address how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted communication gaps and literacy among young children.

Thursday November 30, 2023


Megan Bohlken on speech therapy challenges in the pandemic

Education

Megan Bohlken on speech therapy challenges in the pandemic

Platteville School District speech language pathologist Megan Bohlken describes difficulties of providing therapies to children amid the COVID-19 pandemic via telehealth or with physical distancing.

Wednesday November 29, 2023


Wisconsin educators take on the surge in early speech delays

Education

Wisconsin educators take on the surge in early speech delays

The number of children with speech and language impairments has grown in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving teachers and researchers struggling to provide more support for kids and caregivers.

Tuesday November 28, 2023


A large glass jar is filled with hemp flower.

Economy

Wisconsin’s growing market for legal hemp-derived Delta THC

While recreational cannabis and medical marijuana remain illegal in Wisconsin, retailers around the state are selling products with delta-8, delta-9 and delta-10 forms of THC derived from legal hemp.

Wednesday November 8, 2023


A row of lawmakers sit at the front of a committee in the Capitol building.

Politics

Republicans react to Evers lawsuit over joint committees

Republican lawmakers react to Gov. Tony Evers' lawsuit over joint legislative committees and separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches, focusing on pay raises for UW staff.

Friday November 3, 2023


Gov. Tony Evers on separation of powers and the Legislature

Politics

Gov. Tony Evers on separation of powers and the Legislature

Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers discusses his lawsuit against Republican lawmakers over the constitutional authority of the executive branch and joint legislative committees in state policies.

Thursday November 2, 2023


Sen. Melissa Agard on regulation of recreational marijuana

Policy

Sen. Melissa Agard on regulation of recreational marijuana

State Sen. Melissa Agard, D-Madison, discusses her bill to legalize marijuana in Wisconsin and regulate the licensing and labeling of products with THC, CBD, other cannabinoids and related terpenes.

Wednesday November 1, 2023


Sen. Mary Felzkowski on regulating medical marijuana sales

Policy

Sen. Mary Felzkowski on regulating medical marijuana sales

State Sen. Mary Felzkowski, R-Irma, discusses the legalization of recreational cannabis in other states and her intent to establish a regulatory framework in Wisconsin for legal medical THC products.

Tuesday October 31, 2023


Patrick Callahan on growing potency of legal THC products

Economy

Patrick Callahan on growing potency of legal THC products

Marinette County Sheriff's Office narcotics investigator Patrick Callahan describes the marketing and sale of refined THC products, particularly oils and edibles, in states where cannabis is legal.

Monday October 30, 2023


When Wisconsinites buy legal marijuana in neighboring states

Economy

When Wisconsinites buy legal marijuana in neighboring states

Legalization of recreational cannabis in Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota created a cross-border market for Wisconsin residents, impacting law enforcement responses and political debate in the state.

Thursday October 26, 2023


Zac Schultz stands inside of the State Capitol in front of white columns and staircases on either side of him.

Politics

Zac Schultz on politics in Wisconsin’s redistricting lawsuit

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz explains the rhetoric and legal arguments around precedent, recusal and impeachment as the Wisconsin Supreme Court takes up a redistricting lawsuit.

Friday October 13, 2023


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

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Janine Geske, Carmen Ayers, Chris Mokler

Here's what guests on the Sept. 22 episode said about when Wisconsin Supreme Court justices recuse and a petition to the high court about reducing the amount of time eviction records are available online.

Monday September 25, 2023


A still image from a video shows Janine Geske seated in front of a wooden door and blue wall with framed art with a graphic at bottom reading 'Sturgeon Bay,' 'Janine Geske' and 'Former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice.'

Courts

Janine Geske on Republican threats to impeach Protasiewicz

Former Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Janine Geske discusses the creation of a panel of conservative former justices to consider legal issues related to impeaching liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz.

Friday September 22, 2023


A still image from a video shows Chris Mokler seated in front of a black safe and white closet doors with a graphic at bottom reading 'Oshkosh,' 'Chris Mokler' and 'Wisconsin Real Estate Investors Association.'

Social Issues

Chris Mokler on the retention of Wisconsin eviction records

Wisconsin Apartment Association legislative affairs director Chris Mokler describes why landlords oppose a court petition that would limit how long eviction records can be accessed online to one year.

Friday September 22, 2023


A still image from a video shows Carmen Ayers seated in a high-back black chair in front of a blank wall with a graphic at bottom reading 'Racine,' 'Carmen Ayers' and 'Legal Action of Wisconsin.'

Economy

Carmen Ayers on the retention of Wisconsin eviction records

Legal Action of Wisconsin staff attorney Carmen Ayers describes why the organization is petitioning the Wisconsin Supreme Court to limit the length of time eviction records can be accessed online.

Friday September 22, 2023


A wide shot shows the 'American Family Field' stadium from a street view.

Politics

A $614 million Republican plan for the Brewers stadium

A Republican proposal would provide $614 million in public funding to repair and renovate the Milwaukee Brewers stadium and extend its lease to keep the team in Wisconsin through 2050.

Friday September 22, 2023


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