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

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.

Politics

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 former President Donald Trump's nomination.

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


Conservatives target liberal state Supreme Court justices

Courts

Conservatives target liberal state Supreme Court justices

As political fights become more contentious, issues like gerrymandering are coming before state supreme courts, turning once-overlooked questions about who sits on the bench into all-out political battles.

Thursday September 21, 2023


Zac Schultz and Laura Dresser sit facing each other on the Here & Now set.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Steve Vavrus, Pascale Manning, Louise Robbins, Laura Dresser

Here's what guests on the Sept. 8, 2023 episode said about climate extremes, UW-Oshkosh layoffs, an attempt to ban LGBTQ-related books at a public library, and the status of Wisconsin's workforce.

Monday September 11, 2023


A still image shows Laura Dresser seated at the 'Here & Now' set featuring wood paneling, with a graphic at bottom reading 'Laura Dresser' and 'COWS: High Road Strategy Center.'

Economy

Laura Dresser on the state of working in Wisconsin in 2023

Labor economist and UW-Madison COWS associate director Laura Dresser discusses the group's State of Working Wisconsin 2023 report, from record-high job numbers to a decline of women in the workforce.

Friday September 8, 2023


A still image from a video shows Louise Robbins seated in front of wooden cabinets with papers and a framed red and blue art piece with a graphic at bottom reading 'Madison,' 'Louise Robbins' and 'UW-Madison Library and Information Studies.'

Social Issues

Louise Robbins on impacts of book ban clashes on communities

UW-Madison library and information studies professor emeritus Louise Robbins considers the context and consequences of a push to remove hundreds of LGBTQ-related materials from an Iron River library.

Friday September 8, 2023


A still image from a video shows Pascale Manning seated in front of a wooden bookshelf filled with books and a green wall with maps and artwork with a graphic at bottom reading 'Oshkosh,' 'Pascale Manning' and 'UW-Oshkosh Faculty Senate.'

Education

Pascale Manning on a UW-Oshkosh budget deficit and layoffs

UW-Oshkosh Faculty Senate President Pascale Manning shares perspectives of employees about how the university's $18 million deficit and plans for layoffs reflect funding issues in higher education.

Friday September 8, 2023


Steve Vavrus on Wisconsin’s hot, smoky, dry summer of 2023

Environment

Steve Vavrus on Wisconsin’s hot, smoky, dry summer of 2023

Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts co-director Steve Vavrus explains how the summer's extreme heat, wildfire smoke and drought reflect growing challenges for the state in a warming world.

Friday September 8, 2023


Janet Protasiewicz dressed in black robes looks down while seated in front of marbled walls and wooden, ornate seats.

Politics

Protasiewicz takes the bench amid threats of impeachment

Justice Janet Protasiewicz heard her first case on the Wisconsin Supreme Court as Republican lawmakers threaten to impeach her while Democrats launch a campaign to push back against those legislators.

Friday September 8, 2023


Zac Schultz stands in front of the State Capitol rotunda indoors with green marble walls and white columns with a graphic at bottom reading 'Zac Schultz' and 'Here & Now.'

Courts

Zac Schultz on strife among Wisconsin Supreme Court justices

PBS Wisconsin senior political reporter Zac Schultz explores the roots and recent history of increasingly tense relationships between conservative and liberal justices on the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Friday September 1, 2023


A graphic shows three pages from the Fulton County prosecutor's report with portions of the documents highlighted in yellow.

Courts

How is Wisconsin connected to Georgia’s indictment of Trump?

Two high-profile Wisconsin Republicans are included in evidence cited by the state of Georgia's indictment of former President Donald Trump and others over attempts to overturn 2020 election results.

Friday August 18, 2023


Voices of three Wisconsin women who have had an abortion

Social Issues

Voices of three Wisconsin women who have had an abortion

A trio of Wisconsinites share their abortion stories, describe why they chose to end a pregnancy, and explain why they are speaking up at a time when the practice is once again illegal in the state.

Tuesday August 8, 2023


Janet Protasiewitcz dressed in a black gown stands behind a wooden podium and microphone with the U.S. and Wisconsin state flags on each side of her.

Courts

Janet Protasiewicz and Wisconsin Supreme Court expectations

Supporters attending the swearing-in of Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Janet Protasiewicz share thoughts on what they hope to see from the new liberal majority after 15 years of conservative control.

Thursday August 3, 2023


Zac Schultz and Jay Rothman sit at the studio desk facing each other.

Politics

‘Here & Now’ Highlights: Jay Rothman, Josh Kaul

This is what guests on the June 16, 2023 episode said about recent decisions by the Joint Finance Committee to cut funding for the state Office of School Safety and UW System.

Monday June 19, 2023


Jay Rothman on diversity, equity and inclusion in UW System

Budgets

Jay Rothman on diversity, equity and inclusion in UW System

University of Wisconsin System President Jay Rothman on Republican plans to cut $32 million from its proposed budget to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion positions across its campuses.

Friday June 16, 2023


Josh Kaul on potential cuts to the Office of School Safety

Budgets

Josh Kaul on potential cuts to the Office of School Safety

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul on what Republican-backed cuts to the proposed state Department of Justice budget could mean for work by the Office of School Safety and State Crime Lab.

Friday June 16, 2023


Shared revenue deal clears Legislature, heads to Evers’ desk

Budgets

Shared revenue deal clears Legislature, heads to Evers’ desk

After weeks of negotiations, the Wisconsin Legislature passed a bipartisan shared revenue bill to increase funding for municipalities, with both political parties unhappy about aspects of the deal.

Friday June 16, 2023


Randy Griswold on shortages of licensed health care workers

Economy

Randy Griswold on shortages of licensed health care workers

Wisconsin Society of Radiologic Technologists committee member Randy Griswold describes how traveling medical professionals who need licenses to work in the state are filling growing workforce gaps.

Thursday June 15, 2023


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


More Stories

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.