Milwaukee Police Arrests Have Plummeted
New report finds 82% decline in past decade as citizen satisfaction with traffic enforcement has declined.
Dec 18th, 2024
What Are Foxconn’s Employees Doing?
After 7 years and $700 million in taxpayer subsidies, what have we learned?
Dec 17th, 2024
Why Is UW System Punishing Student Protestors?
Pro-Palestinian protestors asking unwanted questions about university investments.
Dec 11th, 2024
Act 10 Ruling Could Be Tough to Overturn
New ruling striking down law is based on argument Republicans have trouble answering.
Dec 9th, 2024
Does Summerfest Get Special Treatment?
Its bar license owned by private company never gets a thorough review by the city.
Dec 4th, 2024
Dane County Judge Overrules 60 Sections of Act 10
Decision largely invalidates 2011 Walker-era law decimating public unions.
Dec 2nd, 2024
State Taking Over County Pension System
After 87 years, all new county employees will become part of state system.
Dec 2nd, 2024
Only 30% of Wisconsin Hospitals Obey Federal Price Transparency Rules
New report shows widespread violation of rules meant to lower hospital costs.
Nov 26th, 2024
City Official Double Dips to Earn $250,000
Department of Administration head Preston Cole awarded $73,700 raise.
Nov 26th, 2024
Will Republicans Support Transparent Hospital Prices?
It could become bipartisan legislation. Or an attack issue for Democrats.
Nov 20th, 2024
Tommy Thompson Shames Himself
His embrace of Donald Trump and RFK Jr. has soiled the ex-governor’s reputation.
Nov 19th, 2024
Utility Hikes, Democratic Losses and the Wealth Gap
As Evers appointees rewarded utility execs, Kamala Harris backed off taxing corporations.
Nov 13th, 2024
Was Jonathan Brostoff Bullied?
Some Democrats point finger at Shepherd Express, others for Brostoff’s suicide.
Nov 12th, 2024
How Trump Will Change Wisconsin
Voters in this state opted for change. What will they get?
Nov 7th, 2024
Understanding the Loss of Jonathan Brostoff
He was someone who considered suicide as a teen and knew how important the issue was.
Nov 5th, 2024
Can Harris Win Wisconsin?
Why Democrats are confident. And how the state's geography could upset expectations.
Nov 4th, 2024
Journal Sentinel Circulation Still Plummeting
'Astonishing' decline in both print and digital readership over last five years.
Oct 9th, 2024
The State’s Richest Get Even Richer
John Menard leads list of Wisconsin's 7 billionaires, but will Diane Hendricks pass him?
Oct 8th, 2024
Why Does Summerfest Run a Private Company?
Its managers Ron San Felippo and Mike White can't explain it. And Summerfest won't say. Third story of investigative series.
Oct 7th, 2024
Did Harbor Commissioner Have Conflict of Interest?
Ron San Felippo has for many years been managing a private company for Summerfest.
Oct 1st, 2024
Did Harbor Commissioner Serve Illegally?
Ron San Felippo has homes in East Troy and Florida while serving on commission and also voting in elections as city resident.
Sep 30th, 2024
Could Haley Voters Decide Election?
They could help Kamala Harris win Wisconsin — and the presidency.
Sep 26th, 2024
New UW Policy Threatens ‘Wisconsin Idea’
Will university departments be constrained from championing ways to improve government?
Sep 24th, 2024
Will Western Wisconsin Shock the Nation?
Republican-held congressional district could elect Democratic challenger.
Sep 17th, 2024
Do Republicans Want Election Chaos?
Refusal to pay for elections commission staff will help fan the flames of conspiracy theories.
Sep 16th, 2024
Is Eric Hovde a Self-Made Man?
Mega-wealthy Republican candidate for US Senate says he rose from nothing.
Sep 10th, 2024
Milwaukee Film Blasted For Funding Changes
Prominent filmmakers cite past support and criticize reduced funding for local artists.
Sep 9th, 2024
Is Milorganite Making People Sick?
Research suggests it’s laced with PFAS or forever chemicals.
Sep 4th, 2024
Bradley Trustee a Gun Rights ‘Superstar’
Attorney, Milwaukee native and Bradley Foundation board member Paul Clement faces questions for his starring role in gun rights.
Aug 29th, 2024
Remembering Cecilia Gilbert
'The Queen' brought joyful passion and a savvy insider's knowledge to her work with city government and many civic boards.
Aug 27th, 2024
We Energies Wants More of Your Money
Monopoly utility wants a 24% hike in residential rates over 4 years. Plus future increases.
Aug 21st, 2024
More Covid Crassness By Menards
EPA complaint just the most recent controversy involving company’s handling of pandemic and aftermath.
Aug 19th, 2024
Rep. Clancy Wins Reelection Despite Democratic Opposition
Incumbent Socialist Democratic legislator defeats challenger Jarrod Anderson.
Aug 13th, 2024
State’s Top CEOs Got Richer in 2023
Fiserv’s CEO got $28 million and Manpower’s CEO earned 1,276 times the average worker.
Aug 13th, 2024
Hovde Blasted for ‘Bigoted’ Comments on Black Men
GOP US Senate candidate says Black men have lived on ‘handouts’ and ‘welfare checks.'
Aug 1st, 2024
County Treasurer Lied About Political Mailer?
More questions about how Dave Cullen charged taxpayers for campaign-oriented literature.
Jul 30th, 2024
Can Kamala Harris Win Wisconsin?
State Democratic chair explains why Mandela Barnes lost and Harris can win.
Jul 29th, 2024
Can Rep. Clancy Win Reelection?
Incumbent Democratic faces heavy opposition from his own party backing challenger Jarrod Anderson.
Jul 24th, 2024
Grothman Keeps Causing Outrage
GOP congressman's latest: says Democrats support Kamala Harris due to 'her ethnicity.'
Jul 22nd, 2024
National Media Discovers Mayor Johnson
Gaining lots of positive press during RNC, now talking of running for governor.
Jul 16th, 2024
Milwaukee Arts Groups in Big Trouble
Huge declines in the percent of earned income are a very worrisome sign.
Jul 10th, 2024
The Plague of Rising Health Care Costs
Wisconsin's a leader in high costs and inflated executive salaries. Is there a solution?
Jul 8th, 2024
UWM Chancellor Mone Plans to Resign
Mark Mone will step down in July 2025 after 11 years on the job.
Jul 3rd, 2024
The Cheaper Candidate For County Treasurer
Reform candidate Ted Chisholm promises to work for less pay than incumbent David Cullen.
Jul 2nd, 2024
Does MPS Need To Be Reorganized?
Crisis points to potential problems with school system’s financial oversight.
Jun 26th, 2024
Bradley Foundation Has Become Less Local
Much less money for Wisconsin, more board members from outside state.
Jun 12th, 2024
Mayor, Democrats Target Rep. Ryan Clancy
Why are they opposing incumbent Democrat? In a word, they hate him.
Jun 11th, 2024
Brad Schimel Is Mr. Anti-Abortion
Conservative candidate for state Supreme Court a national leader in pushing to ban abortions.
Jun 6th, 2024
Healthcare Is Huge in Presidential Race
How Trump’s vow to overturn the ACA could damage Wisconsin and the nation.
Jun 4th, 2024
More Insider Dealing By County Officials?
County Treasurer’s son handed the communications manager job. He was only candidate.
May 29th, 2024
Common Ground Gets National Attention
Group’s battle with city housing authority becoming embarrassing for Milwaukee.
May 28th, 2024
Groundwork Milwaukee Shutting Down?
17-year-old nonprofit helped create and maintain 100 community gardens in city.
May 21st, 2024
Don Smiley Paid $3.3 Million in 2022
Summerfest boss has collected $9.9 million in 6 years for running tax-exempt charity.
May 20th, 2024
Why Right Wisconsin Was Killed
Its editor, stalwart Republican James Wigderson watched as readers and his party went off the rails.
May 15th, 2024
UWM Skillfully Handles Student Protests
Chancellor Mone avoids police crackdown, meets and treats students with respect.
May 13th, 2024
Cowboy Hovde Hurting Candidate Hovde?
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Eric Hovde might want to get off the range.
May 8th, 2024
The Shocking Demise of SDC
Sudden closing of anti-poverty agency Social Development Commission has dire consequences, no easy solution.
May 7th, 2024
Urban Milwaukee Wins Press Club Awards
National journalist James Bennet cites Urban Milwaukee's theater review as fine example of local cultural coverage.
May 6th, 2024
Herzfeld Foundation a Family Fiefdom
Haberman family members have long drawn salaries from local foundation.
May 2nd, 2024
MIAD Faces Huge Shortfall, Staff Cuts
Decisions on $2.8 million budget shortfall made with lack of transparency, some complain.
Apr 30th, 2024
Milwaukee Becoming More Unionized
Unions scoring notable victories, not in manufacturing but in the service industry.
Apr 24th, 2024
Eric Hovde Has Another Bad Week
Even the good news was an issue for Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.
Apr 22nd, 2024
Josh Kaul Investigating Fake Electors?
Wisconsin attorney general's office interviewed Kenneth Chesebro, part of 'active' probe.
Apr 17th, 2024
The Return of County Cronyism
Or maybe it never went away. Push for 36% salary hikes echoes mentality behind infamous county pension plan.
Apr 15th, 2024
Climate Has Changed for Sewerage District
Once trashed by local media and some officials, MMSD now enjoys wide support.
Apr 10th, 2024
State’s 7 Richest People Worth $72 Billion
Up by 28% or a combined $16 billion in just one year.
Apr 8th, 2024
Is Legislature Biased Against Working Class?
Just two of 132 members come from working class backgrounds, report finds.
Apr 4th, 2024
Biden, Trump Easily Win Wisconsin Primaries
But protest votes hint at challenges for both in November.
Apr 2nd, 2024
Associated Press Will Decline in Wisconsin
Decision by Gannett and McClatchey to drop AP will reduce state news coverage.
Mar 27th, 2024
City Attorney Race Is Vitally Important
Incumbent Tearman Spencer has caused countless problems for City of Milwaukee.
Mar 25th, 2024
Bradley Foundation Bankrolls Trump’s Disinformation
Milwaukee group the biggest funder of war to stop social media from purging election lies.
Mar 19th, 2024
How Hovde Evaded Federal Taxes
He has said he wants to stop what the companies he invested in did: paying zero federal taxes on investments.
Mar 18th, 2024
How to Grow Milwaukee to 1 Million
Mayor Cavalier Johnson is missing the key way to grow the city.
Mar 13th, 2024
State Pension System Is a Huge Success
Retirement system that Gov. Walker tried to change is nationally renowned, helps reduce wealth gap.
Mar 12th, 2024
How Utility Rates Hurt State’s Economy
Wisconsin’s once-low electric rates now the highest in Midwest. That’s a big problem for all of us.
Mar 6th, 2024
Top County Jobs No Longer Needed?
Positions of county treasurer, clerk and register of deeds should be eliminated, not given raises.
Mar 5th, 2024
Does ShotSpotter Reduce Crime?
Milwaukee is one of 150 cities that use it. But is there any hard evidence that it works?
Feb 28th, 2024
Can Hovde Beat Baldwin?
Polls suggest Tammy Baldwin is beatable. But Hovde seems to be floundering for a way to do it.
Feb 26th, 2024
Wealthy Health Chain Closing 2 Hospitals
Executives seek to maximize revenue? GOP rejection of expanded Medicaid also at fault?
Feb 14th, 2024
Court’s Redistricting Experts Under Fire
At least from Republicans. Who are the experts and should they be trusted?
Feb 13th, 2024
Even Republicans Praise Tammy Baldwin
Democrat’s ability to court rural vote wins grudging respect — and fear.
Feb 8th, 2024
Mike Gallagher’s Profile In Courage
Republican Wisconsin congressman's vote against impeachment causes furor.
Feb 7th, 2024
Milwaukee Film Faces Problems
Huge shortfall in funding, departure of chief executive, point to challenges for group.
Feb 6th, 2024
No, I-794 Won’t Be Eliminated
Many seem to think state proposal will tear down Hoan Bridge. Nope. Will that change the views of detractors?
Jan 31st, 2024
Democrats Crushing GOP in Fundraising
A 4-1 edge for state Democratic party last year, the biggest ever. And they have Scott Walker and Republicans to thank.
Jan 29th, 2024
Whitefish Bay’s History of Segregated Housing
Its rejection of affordable housing brings back ghosts of the past.
Jan 24th, 2024
State Group Funds National Attack on DEI
The Searle Family Trust, based in Madison, has bankrolled many other right-wing causes.
Jan 22nd, 2024
Who Are These Guys?
Who filed second gerrymandering lawsuit and why? Nine questions the case raises.
Jan 18th, 2024
Local Hospitals Violate Price Transparency Rules
Children’s and Ascension hospitals are the worst, report finds, which causes higher costs.
Jan 10th, 2024
The Anti-Urban Views of Josh Schoemann
Why did Washington County Executive dump on Milwaukee?
Jan 8th, 2024
Can Republicans Delay Redistricting?
They’re certainly trying. How will state Supreme Court respond?
Jan 3rd, 2024
Did Leonard Leo Save Scott Walker?
Federalist Society leader helped elect Wisconsin justices who killed John Doe probe.
Jan 2nd, 2024
How Generous Are We?
New data shows how much Milwaukee and Wisconsin give. And flags a troubling trend of wealthy donors.
Dec 27th, 2023
MAGA Republicans Hate Robin Vos
Assembly Speaker confesses he regrets hiring Gableman: 'He was way wackier than I thought.'
Dec 26th, 2023
Will Women Vote for Brad Schimel?
Former Attorney General a formidable candidate for state Supreme Court. Except for a couple issues.
Dec 20th, 2023
Remembering John Hagedorn
Wide ranging political activist and strategist, professor and expert on gangs was 76.
Dec 19th, 2023
Ron Johnson Looks Foolish on CNN
Claims Democrats have used fake electors, but could provide no examples.
Dec 13th, 2023
Aurora Summerfest Deal Raises Questions
Why is a hospital chain paying for music? And where will money for sponsorship deal come from?
Dec 12th, 2023
Evers Email Issue Pales Compared to Walker
Both as county exec and governor, Scott Walker systematically evaded public scrutiny.
Nov 28th, 2023
Milwaukee County GOP Official Connected to QAnon
Brett Galaszewski uses QAnon podcast to recruit poll workers.
Nov 15th, 2023
Civic Blackmail Works For Brewers Again
It was always an empty threat by Brewers, yet neither the Legislature nor Gov. Evers made any attempt to protect the taxpayers.
Nov 14th, 2023
Republican Bullying Isn’t Working
Tactic is backfiring as Democrats and public officials resist.
Oct 25th, 2023
Utilities Flood Capital With Lobbyists
More than 45 lobbyists, including former legislators, pushing sweetheart deal ending public bidding for transmission lines.
Oct 23rd, 2023
Journal Sentinel Has Lost 81% Of Readers
In last 20 years. Numbers likely to decline even further in January.
Oct 17th, 2023
Why State GOP Turned Against ERIC
Trump and Cleta Mitchell are demonizing elections data system Wisconsin joined via 2016 Republican law.
Oct 11th, 2023
9 Obstacles To a Brewers Deal
No audit. Voter anger. Politicians renegotiating deal. The list goes on.
Oct 10th, 2023
How Rich Are Wisconsin’s Members of Congress?
Most are poorer than average members of Congress. Then there’s Ron Johnson.
Oct 4th, 2023
Flush Times for We Energies
Big profits, big executive salaries. big donations, all paid for by rate payers.
Oct 3rd, 2023
The Legal Trickery of Robin Vos
Using every pseudo-legal tactic to fight fair maps and muzzle Justice Protasiewicz.
Sep 27th, 2023
How Much Do Brewers Benefit Milwaukee?
Vos claims city is the biggest beneficiary. Really? Let’s look at the numbers.
Sep 25th, 2023
Robin Vos Sticks It To Milwaukee
He gives Brewers more than they wanted and makes only Democratic parts of metro area pay for it.
Sep 19th, 2023
Ad Campaign Targets Republicans on Protasiewicz Impeachment
Six-figure ad buy by Republican Accountability Project targets GOP districts.
Sep 12th, 2023
County Voters Oppose Brewers Bailout
Poll finds residents oppose subsidy by 2-1 margin, could make a deal even tougher to sell.
Sep 11th, 2023
Democrats Launch $4 Million Blitz to Oppose Protasiewicz’s Impeachment
Party plans 'multi-pronged statewide campaign' to defend Supreme Court Justice.
Sep 6th, 2023
State’s Top CEOs Got Rich in 2022
Top pay: $43 million for Harley’s CEO. Top pay in U.S.: Google exec’s $225 million!
Aug 30th, 2023
Who Will Blink on Brewers Subsidy?
Vos wants a local contribution and Milwaukee officials oppose this. The issue could get very ugly.
Aug 28th, 2023
How David Crowley Led on Sales Tax
The inside story of how the county exec and mayor helped pass state legislation to save Milwaukee.
Aug 23rd, 2023
Do We Really Need Ravine Road?
And did Olmsted really want cars motoring through Lake Park?
Aug 21st, 2023
The Strange Life of Trump Attorney Kenneth Chesebro
Wisconsin native charged as co-conspirator for role in devising fake elector scheme.
Aug 15th, 2023
Park East Removal Didn’t ‘Devastate’ Downtown
Controversy over its removal offers lessons to those opposing plan to take down I-794 link.
Aug 14th, 2023
Hate Toward Black People Rising?
Recent incidents in Wisconsin raise troubling questions.
Jul 26th, 2023
Time for County Board to Guts Up
If they don’t approve sales tax hike, county will face fiscal disaster and voters will blame them.
Jul 24th, 2023
Starbucks and the American Dream
The battle over unions in Milwaukee and U.S. shows the uncool side of coffee culture.
Jul 19th, 2023
Gov. Evers Keeps Rising in Stature
Becoming a national figure with ever more effective leadership. Just ask the Republicans.
Jul 17th, 2023
Actually, County Comptroller Could Get $1.3 Million Backdrop
Or $815,000 if Scott Manske is not reelected. That would save taxpayers $485,000.
Jul 12th, 2023
State’s Technical Colleges Have Financial Clout
They’re much better funded than the UW System. Why?
Jul 11th, 2023
Foxconn Deal Is Still Costing Taxpayers
6 years after deal made, nothing has been manufactured, but price tag keeps rising.
Jul 6th, 2023
County Comptroller Could Get $1 Million Backdrop
Or about $700,000 if Scott Manske is not reelected for another four years.
Jul 5th, 2023
The Legacy of Matt Rothschild
Leader of Wisconsin Democracy Campaign and former editor-publisher of Progressive Magazine is retiring.
Jun 27th, 2023
Don Smiley’s Latest Paycheck Was $991,154
Summerfest boss has collected $6.56 million in five years for running tax exempt charity.
Jun 21st, 2023
Milwaukee and the Stolen Picasso
Tale from 1969 puts a city with few Picasso paintings at center of an international mystery.
Jun 19th, 2023
The Millionaires of Advocate Aurora
And Atrium Health. 'Nonprofit' health systems are a great place to get rich.
Jun 14th, 2023
Big Delay in Downtown Concert Halls
Will FPC Live ever build $50 to $60 million concert complex? Industry observers have their doubts.
Jun 13th, 2023
Local Hospitals Give Little Charity Care
Stingy numbers for hospitals in the state and county. Should state require more charity care?
Jun 7th, 2023
Brewers Floundering on Stadium Deal
Baseball Commissioner’s threat looks desperate, team’s lobbying looks inept.
May 29th, 2023
We Energies Wants Yet Another Rate Hike
Both consumer and business advocates castigate excess profits of utilities.
May 24th, 2023
National ‘Scam PACs’ Have State Roots
The operatives running them have connections to Scott Walker, Eric O’Keefe, and conservative groups.
May 23rd, 2023
The Wealth Of Children’s Hospital
Nonprofit has $1.5 billion in investments, but still gets many millions in charitable donations.
May 16th, 2023
Is Baldwin Vulnerable? Or Unbeatable?
The pundits disagree. And who is the likely Republican opponent?
May 9th, 2023
State Sales Tax Deal Toughest on City
Deal for Milwaukee County far better than for city. Why? Blame police union.
May 8th, 2023
County’s Debt Relief Program No Laughing Matter
Program with huge 100-to-1 return inspired by comedian John Oliver. Seriously.
May 3rd, 2023
Wisconsin Center Makes Deal to Save Literary Artwork
CEO Marty Brooks agrees to compromise to save installation.
May 1st, 2023
Wisconsin Center Dispute Goes National
The Bulwark condemns decision to remove artwork while WTMJ defends it.
Apr 25th, 2023
Why Republicans Lose Younger Voters
Can Scott Walker lead the way to transforming the party’s aging demographics?
Apr 19th, 2023
Did Brooks Exceed His Authority At Wisconsin Center?
CEO’s decision to remove art works raises questions about governance of public entity.
Apr 18th, 2023
Uihleins Are Now Billionaires
Top Republican donors join state's leading billionaires John Menard and Diane Hendricks.
Apr 17th, 2023
11 Lessons From The Democrats’ Victory
How did Protasiewicz win by so big in such an evenly divided state?
Apr 12th, 2023
Wisconsin Center Accused of Censorship
Eliminating literary art installation in preparation for Republican National Convention?
Apr 11th, 2023
Yes, Protasiewicz Could Be Impeached
And removed from office by Republican Senate supermajority. But then Gov. Evers could step in.
Apr 10th, 2023
Wisconsin Center Won’t Reconsider Removing Literary Artwork
CEO Marty Brooks emails board members to explain why.
Apr 5th, 2023
17 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the election results, who were the other people, groups and trends that won or lost?
Apr 5th, 2023
Geenen Upsets Brash in Appeals Court Race
Incumbent William Brash loses in a landslide to challenger Sara Geenen.
Apr 5th, 2023
Wisconsin Center Will Destroy Literary Artworks
Nationally unique installation done in 1998. Public board didn't vote on its destruction.
Apr 4th, 2023
Controversial Landlord Backs Lena Taylor for Judge
More than half of money for her municipal judge campaign came from Youssef Berrada.
Apr 3rd, 2023
Why Al’s Run Was Canceled
It doesn’t raise much money. So why is Children’s Wisconsin hospital seeking some way to continue it?
Mar 29th, 2023
Geenen Challenges Walker-Appointed Judge
Bill Brash’s campaign email promises he will be a conservative, links him with Dan Kelly.
Mar 28th, 2023
Republican Party Raising Cash for Kelly
Emails from 4th District Republican chairman Bob Spindell shows how partisan the race is.
Mar 22nd, 2023
41% of Milwaukee Workers Have ‘Bad’ Jobs
Study: 100,000 workers in city earn less than $15 per hour, often with no health coverage.
Mar 22nd, 2023
How La Follette Helped Save Democracy
But his sudden retirement as Secretary of State has been blasted by Republicans.
Mar 20th, 2023
Protasiewicz Crushing Kelly in TV Ads
Liberal candidate has run more than three times as many ads as the conservative. Kelly's campaign vows to catch up.
Mar 15th, 2023
Will David Clarke Take On Tammy Baldwin?
"America's Sheriff" may run against Democratic U.S. Senator, national story suggests.
Mar 14th, 2023
Will The Real Paul Ryan Stand Up?
What his tarnished stature as Fox News board member reveals about the once golden GOP leader.
Mar 14th, 2023
Protasiewicz Ahead In High Court Race
All signs suggest Kelly well behind in election for state Supreme Court. Can he catch up?
Mar 7th, 2023
State Home Prices Rose 49% in Five Years
Nationally the average home price rose from $399,700 in 2017 to $535.800 in 2022.
Mar 6th, 2023
Supreme Court Race All About Sex Offenders
Which is strange because the state high court will probably never rule on such cases.
Mar 1st, 2023
Journal Sentinel Circulation a Disaster
A decline of 35% in one year and 75% in 10 years for combined daily and Sunday print and digital circulation.
Feb 27th, 2023
Brewers Subsidy Largest Ever Per Year?
How did Gov. Evers come up with that inflated, $290 million figure?
Feb 22nd, 2023
‘Truth Radio’ Network Now Statewide
Civic Media now has 18 stations covering state, to offer factual news and battle talk radio.
Feb 20th, 2023
Rep. LaKeshia Myers Is a Double Dipper
Working as public school teacher and administrator while serving in Legislature, getting two full time salaries.
Feb 14th, 2023
How Talk Radio Took Over Wisconsin
Most news and talk stations in state are dominated by right-wing voices.
Feb 8th, 2023
Is Judge Dorow Hiding Her Biography?
Supreme Court candidate’s years defending criminals could be fodder for attack ads.
Feb 7th, 2023
New State GOP Chair Involved with Fake Electors
Brian Schimming went on talk radio to defend ‘peaceful protests’ at January 6 Capitol riot.
Feb 1st, 2023
A Right-Wing War In High Court Race
It's getting nasty: Mark Belling blasts candidate Kelly and Justice Bradley attacks candidate Dorow and Belling.
Jan 30th, 2023
Supreme Court Race Could Be Most Expensive in U.S. History
Up to $50 million could be spent, with national money pouring into Wisconsin.
Jan 25th, 2023
The Radical Views of Kelly and Dorow
Both candidates for state Supreme Court got legal training from mediocre Bible-oriented school.
Jan 24th, 2023
Report Finds Huge Charter School Growth
3724% growth over 20 years for more independent MPS charter schools, while regular schools declined by 29%.
Jan 18th, 2023
Ascension Rakes In Charitable Dollars
Raising millions in donations through dozens of separate foundations while cutting care for the poor.
Jan 17th, 2023
Spindell Defends Himself, Spins His Comments
He sends media softening language not in his original email about suppressing votes.
Jan 12th, 2023
The Vast Wealth of Ascension Health
Huge executive salaries, billions in cash and investments, yet cutting services at hospitals.
Jan 11th, 2023
GOP Leader Thrilled to Suppress City Vote
Republican ads targeted Black and Hispanic voters to discourage voting. Did they work?
Jan 10th, 2023
State Is Far Behind on Electric Vehicles
And charging stations. Will federal funding provide enough of a boost?
Jan 4th, 2023
Did Democrats Let Mandela Barnes Lose?
State Democratic chair says big donors wrongly concluded Barnes was far behind and deserted him.
Jan 2nd, 2023
Most Popular ‘Back in the News’ Columns
Ron Johnson, Foxconn, Kyle Rittenhouse and the richest people in Wisconsin all made news.
Dec 28th, 2022
Will Lasry Sell His Bucks Ownership?
"Open" to selling and would make a huge profit, NBA insiders suggest.
Dec 28th, 2022
Most Popular Murphy’s Law Columns
Readers liked stories about Tims -- Michels and Ramthun. And Summerfest, its well paid leader and IRS complaint were hot stuff.
Dec 28th, 2022
Inside the State’s Conservative Bubble
The not-very-surprising views of Mike Nichols and the Badger Institute.
Dec 21st, 2022
Will Vos Kill Shared Revenue Hike For City?
Assembly Speaker's comments blasting Milwaukee worries Mayor Johnson.
Dec 19th, 2022
Bauman Defends Historic Preservation Process
Developer Tim Gokhman complains HPC 'redesigns your project.'
Dec 14th, 2022
Is Historic Preservation Process Broken?
Some feel city's process needs to be reformed. Are they right?
Dec 13th, 2022
The Battle Over ‘Astounding’ State Surplus
Now up to an 'unprecedented' $6.8 billion. But can Evers and Legislature agree on any plans to spend it?
Dec 7th, 2022
Brandtjen, Leading Election Denier, Will Run for Open Senate Seat
Rep. Janel Brandtjen, kicked out of the Assembly GOP, wants to succeed Alberta Darling.
Dec 5th, 2022
Crowley Corrects the County Board
Getting to be a pattern by the county exec, as the board makes questionable decisions.
Nov 30th, 2022
Bucks Owners Continue to Cash In
Team's value now $2.3 billion, a 5-fold increase in value in 8 years, with big help from taxpayers.
Nov 28th, 2022
Will Republicans Legalize Marijuana?
Gov. Evers and two-thirds of voters support it. How long will legislators resist?
Nov 25th, 2022
Loudenback Concedes Loss for Secretary of State
Democrat Doug La Follette wins record 12th term and duties of office won't change.
Nov 21st, 2022
Yet More Staff Cuts for Journal Sentinel?
Parent company Gannett announces 6% staff reduction, coming on heels of November layoffs at Milwaukee paper.
Nov 21st, 2022
Billionaire Seeks to Mend Partisan Divide
Democrat David Einhorn, son of right-wing, north-shore Republicans, funds effort to heal America.
Nov 16th, 2022
Dan Bice Undermines Elections Commission
Journal Sentinel reporter’s attack helps reinforce election lies.
Nov 14th, 2022
21 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the ballot totals, which groups, advocates and trends won or lost?
Nov 9th, 2022
The Curious Candidacy of Joan Beglinger
Out-of-state group spends on ads for independent to help defeat Tim Michels.
Nov 9th, 2022
Kaul Defeats Toney for Attorney General
Incumbent wins reelection by tiny, 33,000-vote margin. Toney concedes defeat.
Nov 9th, 2022
Michels, Johnson Are Threats to Democracy
Both have engaged in or plan actions to overthrow democratic elections.
Nov 7th, 2022
Attorney General Race Is A Brutal Battle
Can Democrat Josh Kaul withstand the attacks? He's cool under fire, but maybe too cool.
Nov 2nd, 2022
Journal Sentinel Loses Six More Veterans
More cuts by Gannett: David Haynes, Bruce Vielmetti and four others taking buyouts.
Nov 1st, 2022
Has Michels Abandoned Trump?
Or has Trump abandoned Michels in governor's race? The silence is deafening.
Oct 31st, 2022
Age of Voters Will Decide Election
Key fact: a vast difference in political views between those under and over age 40.
Oct 26th, 2022
Still More Tax Breaks for Ron Johnson
Paying no state income taxes on trust fund that pays for his million-dollar home.
Oct 25th, 2022
Catholic Hospitals Dominate State, Restrict Women’s Choices
Hospitals restrict reproductive procedures, contraception — more than in nearly any state.
Oct 25th, 2022
Poll Shows Barnes Nearly Even With Johnson
CNN's new poll on US Senate race has Johnson with 50%, Barnes with 49%.
Oct 24th, 2022
Will Deer District Concert Halls Hurt City?
Will proposed venues bring more concerts to town or crush its current concert promoters?
Sep 28th, 2022
Does City Need Another War Memorial?
It’s being offered for free to the county. But will it junk up the lakefront?
Sep 26th, 2022
How the Calatrava Changed Milwaukee
Good for the city, yes. But how good for the Milwaukee Art Museum?
Sep 20th, 2022
Will Candidates Accept Election Results?
Evers and Barnes say they will honor November results. Michels and Johnson refuse to say.
Sep 19th, 2022
Johnson’s Wealth Grew From China Deal?
Senator criticizes Hunter Biden for China connection while his family's company makes big haul.
Sep 17th, 2022
The Startling Decline in Child Poverty
Study finds it's down 65% in Wisconsin and 59% nationally since 1993, driven by government aid.
Sep 12th, 2022
Big Surge in Women Registering to Vote
Wisconsin has third biggest surge in U.S. since Roe overthrown. Could help decide election.
Sep 6th, 2022
Michels Calls For ‘Pitchforks and Torches’
Republican candidate for governor attacks media. Democrats accuse him of 'encouraging violence.'
Sep 3rd, 2022
Michels Blasts Media, Defends Donations
GOP candidate for governor has supported anti-LGBT, anti-abortion, anti-contraception groups.
Aug 31st, 2022
Will Trump Help State’s Democrats Win?
His disapproval rate is way high in Wisconsin, yet Michels, Johnson have embraced him.
Aug 30th, 2022
Will Republicans Give Milwaukee a Sales Tax?
Meeting to ‘reset’ relationship between city and state legislators raises doubts, hopes.
Aug 29th, 2022
Which Colleges Give Students Best Return?
MU, MSOE, UW-Madison the highest, MIAD and UW-Superior the lowest in future earnings.
Aug 25th, 2022
The Legacy of Rembert Weakland
A once revered giant of the Catholic Church dies with a tarnished reputation.
Aug 24th, 2022
How Johnson Avoided Paying Tons of Taxes
Meanwhile his backers are running an ad claiming Mandela Barnes didn't pay his taxes.
Aug 22nd, 2022
The Little Urban Group That Could
Urban Anthropology, Inc. has become a go-to organization for Milwaukee ethnic history
Aug 17th, 2022
More Layoffs for Journal Sentinel?
Parent company Gannett faces financial issues, announces coming staff cuts, which may include Milwaukee paper.
Aug 15th, 2022
Everyone Wants to Be Lt. Governor
10 candidates in all, including just two Democrats. Who stands out?
Aug 6th, 2022
Gableman Opposed Decertifying Election
Private memo by attorney doing election review contradicts his call to decertify 2020 election.
Aug 2nd, 2022
Lasry’s Quitting Race Raises Questions
Did Democrats miss a chance to vet Mandela Barnes in primary for US Senate?
Aug 1st, 2022
The Long Reach of Cleta Mitchell
Bradley board member’s role in the Big Lie keeps growing as more reported.
Jul 27th, 2022
A Radical Republican Debate
Which of GOP candidates Kleefisch, Michels and Ramthun had most extreme views in debate?
Jul 25th, 2022
Why Steil Supported Same Sex Marriage
Rep. Bryan Steil is only Republican in state to support House bill, as his party swings ever further right.
Jul 20th, 2022
Steven Spielberg Is Backing Tony Evers
And he's not the only notable from out of state who gave the maximum donation to our governor.
Jul 19th, 2022
Report Finds Few Problems With Drop Boxes
No cases of fraud, vandalism or theft that could have affected 2020 election results.
Jul 18th, 2022
Will Senate Democratic Debate Change Race?
No one lays a glove on Barnes. But one surprise winner and some terrible TMJ mikes.
Jul 18th, 2022
Crute Building Statewide ‘Truth’ Radio
Owner of liberal outlet in Madison envisions network of 12 stations in 7 markets with factual news shows.
Jul 14th, 2022
Why Nicholson Quit The Governor’s Race
Did Uihlein pull his funding? And which candidate for governor will benefit?
Jul 12th, 2022
Did Democrats Devise Great Replacement Theory?
So say conservatives like the policy director for 'free market' Badger Institute.
Jun 30th, 2022
Fake Elector Scheme Dogs Ron Johnson
Wisconsin's senator now blames 'radical left' and won't say whether he's being investigated.
Jun 28th, 2022
Poll Shows Ron Johnson Trails Three Democrats, Evers Leads GOP Challengers
MU poll also shows Michels/Kleefisch in virtual tie in GOP primary for governor.
Jun 22nd, 2022
How We Energies Spends Your Money
Profits from ratepayers funds foundation that gave $1 million to UWM and helps utility look like a good guy.
Jun 22nd, 2022
Which Democrat Can Beat Ron Johnson?
That may be the most important question for Democratic voters. And the answer?
Jun 20th, 2022
Brewers Could Lose Money on TIF Deal
Why team may not want tax incremental financed entertainment district.
Jun 15th, 2022
Remembering Stuart Carlson
One of the great editorial cartoonists, who became too controversial for Journal Sentinel, dies at age 66.
Jun 13th, 2022
About That Brewers ‘Entertainment District’
It’s not exactly a new idea. Do the Brewers even want it? Could it help support the team?
Jun 8th, 2022
The Bradley Foundation’s Election Deniers
Board member Cleta Mitchell and Bradley-funded group train army of zealots to watch over elections.
Jun 7th, 2022
Soccer Stadium Will Need Public Subsidy
Developers estimate $160 million cost for development including hotel, apartments and concert venue.
Jun 1st, 2022
The Battle For Downtown Concert Venues
It’s Live Nation and the Bucks vs. Gary Witt and the Pabst. Which proposal will win?
Jun 1st, 2022
The NRA Loves Ron Johnson
Wisconsin U.S. Senator has gotten $1.3 million in donations, just behind Mitch McConnell.
May 30th, 2022
Clancy Runs As Double-Dipping Socialist
Running for Legislature, but would continue as county supervisor, collecting both salaries.
May 24th, 2022
Who’s the Real Outsider for Governor?
Almost every candidate claims to be. But who really, actually is?
May 23rd, 2022
Is Ron Johnson a White Supremacist?
He pushed the great replacement theory that influenced the racist mass shooter in Buffalo.
May 17th, 2022
Gwen Moore Discusses Her Abortion
One of few woman in Congress to talk frankly about the days before Roe, an era that may soon return.
May 16th, 2022
How Are Ethnic Festivals Doing?
Most successful is Irish Fest, most troubled is Festa Italiana. And the rest?
May 10th, 2022
Bucks Subsidy An Issue in US Senate Race
Nelson opposes subsidy, blasts Lasry, Barnes for supporting it.
May 9th, 2022
The Stunning Rise in Anti-Semitism
Nationally and in Wisconsin, the highest in more than four decades. Why?
May 3rd, 2022
Does Tim Michels Live Outside Wisconsin?
Family of GOP candidate for governor owns $17 million mansion in Connecticut and kids have attended nearby schools.
May 2nd, 2022
The Bradley Foundation and ‘Superpredators’
Research it helped fund demonized young Black males, leading to long prison sentences.
Apr 27th, 2022
Barnes, Nelson Argue Over I-94 Expansion
Could it be an issue in Democratic primary for U.S. Senate?
Apr 26th, 2022
Look Out For Tim Michels
He could shake up the Republican primary for governor
Apr 25th, 2022
63% of State’s Corporations Pay No Taxes
New study links huge decline in corporate income taxes paid in states like Wisconsin to less government services.
Apr 20th, 2022
Festa Italiana Actually Canceled Due To Financial Issues
Italian Community Center had $1 million negative fund balance even before the pandemic.
Apr 19th, 2022
Brewers Cost Taxpayers $1.56 Billion
As team prepares to ask for additional stadium subsidy, Urban Milwaukee updates the 40-year cost.
Apr 13th, 2022
State’s 8 Richest People Worth $58 Billion
List of billionaires led by John Menard at $16.6 billion. Super wealthy have helped transform states like Wisconsin.
Apr 11th, 2022
State 11th Worst in Disenfranchising Black Felons
One in nine Black adults in Wisconsin can’t vote. Unique parole policies a key reason.
Apr 6th, 2022
Baldwin, Pocan Deliver for Wisconsin
Both among top members of Congress in getting earmarked federal spending for this state.
Apr 4th, 2022
IRS Complaint Filed Against Summerfest
Complaint challenges festival’s nonprofit status, claiming it now operates ‘as a commercial entity.’
Mar 30th, 2022
Let’s Not Whitewash Bob Donovan
Journal Sentinel offers sanitized version of Bob Donovan's run-ins with the law.
Mar 28th, 2022
About The Public Museum’s Name Change
Changing to a “Wisconsin” museum may be a key to its survival.
Mar 22nd, 2022
Foxconn In Talks for Saudi Arabian Plant
$9 billion facility to make microchips, electric-vehicle parts while promised plant for Wisconsin yet to happen.
Mar 16th, 2022
State Near Top In Slashing County Funding
Only two states have cut county funding more. Huge funding decline has hurt Milwaukee.
Mar 16th, 2022
Brewers Want $100 Million Tax Subsidy?
So claims Journal Sentinel. But where exactly did this figure come from?
Mar 14th, 2022
City-County Sales Tax Proposal Dead
Push for state legislation will have to wait until 2023, MMAC leader says.
Mar 9th, 2022
Supreme Court Shows Ugly Divisions
State high court's redistricting decision prompts nasty attacks on Hagedorn by three other conservatives.
Mar 8th, 2022
A ‘Woke’ Dispute At Concordia University
Professor suspended after writing article blasting lakeside college’s embrace of diversity. WILL’s lawyers jump on the case.
Mar 1st, 2022
The Return of Kyle Rittenhouse
Accused Portland killer wears t-shirt declaring Kyle a patriot, as Rittenhouse launches new group to sue the media.
Feb 28th, 2022
Why Brewers Stadium Conflict Erupted
Legislature has squeezed the five-county ballpark district, leaving it less flexibility.
Feb 22nd, 2022
The Rise of Timothy Ramthun
One-time nobody now a candidate for governor and top demagogue in state Republican Party.
Feb 21st, 2022
15 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the ballots, which insiders, groups and trends were the winners and losers in this election?
Feb 16th, 2022
Reckless Driving a National Problem
Yes, Milwaukee has huge problem, but it's part of a worrisome national trend.
Feb 15th, 2022
Brewers Seek More Taxpayer Dollars
New study of improvements needed for stadium is latest step in team’s strategy.
Feb 14th, 2022
The Myth of the Truck Driver Shortage
GOP bill raises question: Is there a shortage of trained drivers or do companies need to pay more?
Feb 8th, 2022
Veterans Leaving Journal Sentinel
John Fauber the latest, following on heels of Craig Gilbert and Tom Haudricourt.
Feb 7th, 2022
Can Nicholson Beat Kleefisch?
Democrats are thrilled about what could be a bruising Republican primary for governor.
Feb 2nd, 2022
Evers Takes a Page from Republicans
His push to give tax rebate to taxpayers was first used by Lee Dreyfus to win office.
Jan 31st, 2022
Who Will Win Mayoral Primary?
Voter turnout may decide which two candidates get through primary.
Jan 25th, 2022
Is Rebecca Kleefisch a ‘Hypocrite’?
Her voting as “indefinitely confined” was something done in many Republican-leaning districts.
Jan 24th, 2022
Mount Pleasant Charged For Foxconn Water Shortfall
Village paid more than $1 million for 2019 and 2020, but officials say this won't continue.
Jan 21st, 2022
Summerfest CEO Collects $2.49 Million
Don Smiley gets total compensation of 1.19 million in 2019 and $1.29 million in 2020.
Jan 18th, 2022
How Absentee Ballot Boxes Became Illegal
Used in 40 states and backed by Republicans, until their new push to make them illegal.
Jan 17th, 2022
6 State Newspapers End Saturday Edition
Gannett cuts back all of its Wisconsin papers except Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Jan 14th, 2022
Will Evers’ Pardons Hurt Him In Election?
He’s bragging about setting a record. Will Republicans use it in attack ad?
Jan 10th, 2022
State Far Behind on Minimum Wage
30 states have increased the minimum wage, leaving Wisconsin ever further behind.
Jan 5th, 2022
Why Is Summerfest Helping Live Nation?
National ‘monopoly’ company’s proposed music halls in Third Ward target local companies.
Jan 4th, 2022
Liberal Talk Coming to Waukesha
Mike Crute’s new talk radio station, WAUK 540 AM, will compete with local right-wing talkers.
Jan 2nd, 2022
Evers Might Consider Changes in Bail
But only "if everybody sits back and takes a breath" and "every stakeholder" involved.
Dec 27th, 2021
County Pension Bonds Saved Up To $269 Million
Could the city use this financial mechanism to lower costs?
Dec 21st, 2021
Pension Costs Decimated County Services
New generation of leaders has inherited government unable to pay for parks, buses, buildings and basic services.
Dec 14th, 2021
County Pension Reforms Have Done Little
Officials have often resisted reforms. Main relief has come from state passage of Act 10. Part II of a series.
Dec 7th, 2021
County Pension Plan’s Costs Still Rising
Annual costs rose by 163%, may not be paid off until 2040s. First story in a series.
Dec 1st, 2021
After Rittenhouse, Expect More Vigilantes
Self defense laws and lack of gun control at issue. Is reform possible?
Nov 22nd, 2021
The Journal Sentinel’s Drastic Decline
Sunday and daily subscription numbers continue to plummet.
Nov 16th, 2021
The Arrogance of Aaron Rodgers
His deceitful, irresponsible handling of COVID-19 protocols has become a political issue.
Nov 8th, 2021
About Those Election ‘Irregularities’
Is there any truth to Republican complaints about the 2020 election?
Nov 3rd, 2021
Nation’s Worst Prison Gerrymandering?
Wisconsin’s a leader in counting prisoners to inflate rural areas and rob urban areas of representation.
Nov 1st, 2021
Why Foxconn Jilted Wisconsin
Plans electric car plant in Ohio, which offered no state subsidy. Why?
Oct 27th, 2021
Are Unvaccinated Police Endangering Community?
No one knows what percentage of Milwaukee officers has been vaccinated.
Oct 26th, 2021
How Tax-Exempt Property Hurts The City
Your tax bill would be lower -- much lower -- without all those tax exemptions.
Sep 29th, 2021
College Grads Are Leaving Republican Party
While less educated voters ditch the Democratic Party. How is that changing the state?
Sep 22nd, 2021
State Trails Most In Renewable Energy
Just 10 mostly southern states are doing less. Wisconsin also has more expensive electricity.
Sep 20th, 2021
The Rise of Rep. Janel Brandtjen
A leader in election lies and demagoguery has become a state Republican power.
Sep 14th, 2021
How Kleefisch Failed On Foxconn
As Lt. Governor she recruited the Taiwanese company and failed to protect taxpayers.
Sep 13th, 2021
State Imprisons More People Than Any Nation
Wisconsin ranks 24th among states but is more punitive than every nation in the world.
Sep 8th, 2021
Brandtjen Looks Foolish on Election Audit
Even Robin Vos wouldn't support her lame attempt to subpoena election data.
Sep 7th, 2021
How The City Lost the Medical Center
New mental health center on near West Side of city a change from decades of hospitals moving to Wauwatosa.
Sep 2nd, 2021
Evers’ Search for Lt. Governor Hits Snag
His top choices to run for post don't seem to be interested.
Aug 31st, 2021
Mayor’s Race Looks Like a Wild One
Wide open, with lots of candidates, no obvious favorites and so much at stake.
Aug 30th, 2021
Kleefisch Calls Democrats ‘Pure Evil’
Former Lt. Governor and Republican candidate for governor appealing to far right?
Aug 24th, 2021
Johnson Opposes Ventilators, Pushes Horse Medicine
FDA warns against using ivermectin: "You are not a horse."
Aug 23rd, 2021
Police Were Defunded Before George Floyd
253 municipalities in state cut police funding in 2019 for budget reasons, report finds.
Aug 18th, 2021
Anti-Vaxxer GOP Senator Has COVID-19
Republican state Sen. André Jacque and some family members have tested positive.
Aug 17th, 2021
Entire State Has Become More Diverse
All 72 counties increased their percentage of people of color since 2010, Census data shows.
Aug 17th, 2021
City Ranks Higher In Solving Murders
Many cities don't solve the majority of murders. Milwaukee does far better.
Aug 6th, 2021
Bradley Foundation Spreads The Big Lie
Foundation gets ever more radical, using tax exempt funding to bankroll groups undermining democracy.
Aug 3rd, 2021
Wisconsin Outpaces Most States in LGBTQ Elected Officials
17% hike nationally in LGBTQ elected officials in last year, but still a long way to go.
Aug 2nd, 2021
SNAP Food Benefits Fall Short in State, Nation
In 27 counties and 40% of the nation benefits fall short of average cost of a meal.
Jul 27th, 2021
Foxconn Wants a New Subsidy?
Deal to build electric cars for Fisker may depend on yet another taxpayer giveaway.
Jul 26th, 2021
Barnes Gets National Endorsements for Senate Bid
Endorsements by three progressive groups could help him win the party activists.
Jul 21st, 2021
The Remarkable Growth Of The GMC
Julia Taylor grew the budget and staff and grants. But what exactly was accomplished?
Jul 21st, 2021
Johnson Race Now Rated a ‘Tossup’
Top political report finds race now closer as Johnson wins "Four Pinocchios" rating for misinformation on COVID-19
Jul 19th, 2021
City’s Urban Forest Fights Climate Change
Unlike in some cities Milwaukee’s urban forestry program is not in decline.
Jul 13th, 2021
Evers Is Flush With Cash
More cash on hand than Walker had at this point in last campaign for governor.
Jul 13th, 2021
Ron Johnson Vs. Journal Sentinel
A battle royal between senator and newspaper. Who’s gotten the worst of it?
Jul 12th, 2021
Kaul Announces Run For Reelection
Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul predicts a tough race against Republican challenger.
Jul 12th, 2021
The Secrets of Mike Huebsch
He’s been a leader in evading and undermining Wisconsin's open records laws.
Jul 7th, 2021
State Ranks Higher in Virtual Classrooms
Students of color most likely to get virtual instruction. Racial gap 14th highest in Wisconsin.
Jul 6th, 2021
Kapenga Letter “Sad and Pathetic”?
Wisconsin Republicans' groveling to Trump wins national ridicule.
Jun 30th, 2021
Republican Class Warfare
It hurts their own voters in Wisconsin. How do they get away with it?
Jun 29th, 2021
Evers Is the Pro-Science Candidate
Why has that description become so controversial?
Jun 28th, 2021
Music Venues Still Await Pandemic Aid
Summerfest got $10 million in federal funding. The Pabst and thousands of other groups: nothing.
Jun 24th, 2021
Tammy Baldwin Is All About The Beer
Senator wins attention with Wisconsin beer, not for the first time.
Jun 22nd, 2021
What Is Archdiocese Afraid Of?
Archbishop Listecki strongly opposes state investigation of clergy sex abuse. Why?
Jun 15th, 2021
Lasry Revises His Minimum Wage Story
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate's campaign issues correction. But it's far from complete.
Jun 14th, 2021
Lasry Misleads Voters On Minimum Wage
U.S. Senate candidate’s claim to back family supporting jobs exaggerates, distorts truth.
Jun 8th, 2021
State Ground Zero for Vaccine Hesitancy?
Wisconsin trails 20 states in percent vaccinated. Hesitancy could prolong pandemic.
Jun 7th, 2021
No More County Government Bickering
Relationship between County Executive Crowley and Board Chair Nicholson is the best in decades.
Jun 2nd, 2021
How Vos Pushes The Big Lie
Claiming election irregularities, undermining election officials, hiring a GOP expert in smears.
Jun 1st, 2021
Evers Will Run For Reelection
But will Barnes be his running mate? If not, who will Evers pick?
May 18th, 2021
Sickle Cell Excuses Killings By Police?
3 of 47 such deaths nationally were in Milwaukee, but county medical examiner defends his decisions.
May 17th, 2021
Bill Punishes Milwaukee, Madison
GOP bill backed by Lena Taylor gives police power in FPC disciplinary actions of cops.
May 12th, 2021
The Vanishing Courage of Mike Gallagher
Wisconsin congressman took a stand against Republican lies and then turned chicken.
May 11th, 2021
Kaul Probe of Clergy Abuse Is Historic
Unprecedented state-wide investigation could uncover many crimes, lead to legal reforms.
May 10th, 2021
The Push For a New U.S. Constitution
Scott Walker, Eric O’Keefe, Republican legislators part of scary national movement.
May 4th, 2021
Ron Johnson Looks Like Russian Tool
He once condemned Russia and Vladimir Putin. What explains the turnabout?
May 3rd, 2021
The True Costs of New Foxconn Deal
Evers new deal is a huge improvement but will still cost taxpayers $523,000 per job.
Apr 28th, 2021
The New Gerrymandering Scheme
Republicans charge taxpayers for private attorneys to defend secret legislative scheme before it’s even been created.
Apr 27th, 2021
Remembering Bill Durkin
He helped create Urban Stables, other philanthropic projects and was an anti-war activist, member of Chicago 15.
Apr 26th, 2021
Conservative Group Loses Suit Against Evers
Federal court rejects MacIver Institute's demand for access to governors's press briefings.
Apr 21st, 2021
County Micro-Managing At Its Worst?
Board proposal to oversee all county parks bike trail changes is a head scratcher.
Apr 20th, 2021
Hot Democratic Contest for U.S. Senate
Several impressive candidates looking to defeat Ron Johnson. Who's the front runner?
Apr 19th, 2021
Johnson’s ‘Presidential’ Speech Fizzles
Senator gets no coverage of Mar-a-Lago speech, but working hard to get national attention.
Apr 13th, 2021
WILL’s Harvard Lawyers Fail at Voter Purge
Supreme Court decision strikes down voter suppression effort, rejects conservative group's weak argument.
Apr 12th, 2021
Quagga Mussels Still Rule Lake Michigan
New study shows how mussels have transformed the lake.
Apr 7th, 2021
Fiserv Paid No Federal Taxes in 2020
Not a dollar of taxes on $1.1 billion in pre-tax earnings. Among 55 corporations that paid nothing.
Apr 6th, 2021
Republicans Look Silly on Andrea Palm
Former state health secretary they hated was success with state vaccine plan, and got picked as Biden's deputy health secretary.
Apr 5th, 2021
About That Foxconn Venture Capital Fund
Another big money promise for Wisconsin. Will this one pan out?
Mar 30th, 2021
Belling Doing His ‘Final’ Cruise
Conservative radio talker, 64, had stroke in 2019, but says he has no plans to retire.
Mar 29th, 2021
8 Ways Police Mishandled Protests
From Los Angeles to New York, Milwaukee and Wauwatosa, police made similar mistakes.
Mar 24th, 2021
Meet the Pandemic Profiteers
Menard, Hendricks, Kohler among top 100 plutocrats getting richer during pandemic.
Mar 23rd, 2021
Is Ron Johnson the New Trump?
The nation's new leader in peddling conspiracy theories. Is he planning a run for president?
Mar 22nd, 2021
Kleefisch Spokesperson Compares Evers to Dahmer
The former Lt. Governor, who plans a run for governor, gets caught in controversy.
Mar 17th, 2021
Foxconn Could Invest $13 Billion
$3 billion more than original promised investment. But only if it decides to build electric cars. Which looks iffy.
Mar 16th, 2021
RonAnon Courts National Infamy
Why all the conspiracy theories? It’s Ron Johnson’s calculated reelection strategy.
Mar 15th, 2021
We Energies Reduces Electric Cars’ Impact
Batteries charged on coal power aren’t so good for the environment.
Mar 10th, 2021
Gun Sales Are Soaring in Wisconsin
Up 114% since 2000. A change in who owns guns, what kind they own and why they own them.
Mar 9th, 2021
GOP Leader Supports Dead People Voting
Huh? That’s a switch for Repubicans. But it might actually be a good idea.
Mar 8th, 2021
Fiserv Had ‘Most Overpaid’ CEO
Jeffery Yabuki was 15th most overpaid CEO in 2020, study finds, making 428 times the average worker.
Mar 3rd, 2021
Hupy & Abraham Face Political Storm
Hupy’s donations to Ron Johnson attacked by Minocqua brewer and law firm losing business.
Mar 2nd, 2021
Uline Workers Suffer Higher COVID-19 Rates
Owners and Trump donors the Uihleins have downplayed pandemic, worker complaints.
Mar 1st, 2021
The Foxconn Real Estate Show
There are now four buildings on Mount Pleasant campus. But what exactly are they for?
Feb 25th, 2021
Bipartisan Bashing of Ron Johnson
His latest hoax, that ‘fake Trump protesters’ led Capitol riots, called 'disgraceful.’
Feb 24th, 2021
Will Legislature Support WisconsinEye?
Its coverage of all legislative and committee hearings is critical to a democracy.
Feb 23rd, 2021
$15 Minimum Wage Would Help 831,000 State Workers
38% of Milwaukee workers would benefit from minimum wage hike, versus 22% nationally.
Feb 22nd, 2021
Let Us Now Praise Rush Limbaugh
What was his impact on Wisconsin? Praise and condemnation and silliness offered.
Feb 18th, 2021
The Hoax Master of Wisconsin
Ron Johnson has become a national leader in hoaxes and conspiracy theories.
Feb 17th, 2021
10 Republicans Accused of Voter Fraud
Meet the folks who wanted to overturn Wisconsin’s election. Legal complaint says they committed crimes.
Feb 16th, 2021
Uline Faces Blowback on Capitol Riot
Northwestern reviewing contract with company, which gave $4 million to group pushing uprising.
Feb 15th, 2021
Sykes Is No Longer a Republican
National Public Radio stands corrected. He is not -- roll the drums -- a Republican any more.
Feb 9th, 2021
Local Costs for Foxconn Cut By 2%
Annual update by Mount Pleasant still leaves total state-local costs at $1.32 billion.
Feb 8th, 2021
Ron Johnson’s Latest Conspiracy Theory
Senator now blaming House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for Capitol riot.
Feb 8th, 2021
Milwaukee A Leader in CCTV Snooping
City has 8 cameras per 1,000 people, more than 28 of 39 large cities studied.
Feb 3rd, 2021
Billionaire Sports Owners Get Richer
Report shows 64 billionaire owners gained $99 billion during pandemic, helped by billions in tax subsidies.
Feb 3rd, 2021
Robin Vos Will Solve Foxconn Fiasco
Assembly Speaker has toured the plant and Foxconn is definitely, probably manufacturing… something.
Feb 2nd, 2021
Poor Dan O’Donnell Feels Persecuted
Right-wing radio host claims his free speech being abridged. Really?
Jan 26th, 2021
Bucks Franchise Worth $1.86 Billion
A four-fold increase in value since new arena built. Taxpayers helped the rich get richer.
Jan 25th, 2021
Wage Theft ‘Rampant’ in State
10% of construction workers bilked of $23,500 per year on average. Will Legislature address problem?
Jan 20th, 2021
Will State Republicans Abandon Trump?
Many have in other states. Will Wisconsin’s GOP get off the Trump crazy train?
Jan 18th, 2021
State Residents Taxes Down 22% Since 2000
Federal, state and local taxes have all declined during that period, new report finds.
Jan 13th, 2021
Johnson Tainted by Ukrainian Official?
Wisconsin's GOP Senator peddled 'malicious' disinformation by foreign operative sanctioned by Trump Administration.
Jan 12th, 2021
Brewery Super PAC Targets Johnson, Tiffany
Minocqua Brewing Company seeks donations to ‘free the Northwoods of sedition.’
Jan 11th, 2021
Everyone’s Dumping on Ron Johnson
A recall effort, attacks by the Lincoln Project, angry editorial and much more.
Jan 6th, 2021
Cleta Mitchell Resigns from Foley Firm
Partner in Milwaukee-based firm helped Trump in phone call asking Georgia election officials to "find" more votes.
Jan 5th, 2021
Foley Firm Faces Blowback on Trump Call
Criticism of Milwaukee firm whose partner Cleta Mitchell helped Trump effort to "find" votes in Georgia.
Jan 5th, 2021
Foley & Lardner Lawyer Helps Trump “Find” Votes
Milwaukee law firm’s attorney Cleta Mitchell is Washington insider and ex-liberal feminist.
Jan 4th, 2021
John Menard Loves Universities
With conditions. They get donations. He gets recognition and an honorary degree.
Dec 30th, 2020
Will Vos Expose Legislators to COVID-19?
He demands Assembly meet in-person. That “could kill me,” Rep. Jimmy Anderson says.
Dec 28th, 2020
Scott Walker’s Pizza Problems
His attempts to win attention for eating pizza bring viral merriment to a weary nation.
Dec 28th, 2020
Most Popular Murphy’s Law Columns
Amid a historic pandemic, Vos and Fitzgerald fail to lead, David Clarke returns and Foxconn deal gets worse.
Dec 27th, 2020
Why So Many Police Chiefs?
Milwaukee's police leadership has become a surreal version of musical chairs. What’s going on?
Dec 23rd, 2020
9 Reasons a New Foxconn Contract Is Unlikely
Foxconn says the new deal is “within reach.” On the contrary, it’s far from settled.
Dec 21st, 2020
‘I Am Not a Republican Justice’
State Supreme Court Justice Brian Hagedorn discusses his decisions and right-wing attacks on him
Dec 21st, 2020
Gasp, Sykes Recants on Rojo
Stop the presses! Charlie Sykes has changed his view of Senator Ron Johnson.
Dec 16th, 2020
Has Defunding Police Movement Failed?
Not entirely, but it’s fallen well short of its goals.
Dec 16th, 2020
Why Republicans Won’t End Election Complaints
It’s no longer about electing Trump. It’s laying the groundwork for voter suppression.
Dec 14th, 2020
Residents Outraged by Foxconn Fiasco
Many forced to relocate from Mount Pleasant. And Foxconn faces a $34.6 million ransomware demand.
Dec 8th, 2020
Ron Johnson’s Reelection Campaign
Running for 2022 as a peddler of COVID-19 conspiracy theories?
Dec 8th, 2020
The Hating of Justice Hagedorn
As promised, he’s upholding the law as written. So why are right wingers so angry?
Dec 7th, 2020
State Faces $2.1 Billion Budget Shortfall
And it could grow even bigger in the next six months, new report warns.
Dec 7th, 2020
Beware the GOP Redistricting Proposal
Republicans want 10 more years of gerrymandering. To do this they would hand all power to state Supreme Court.
Dec 2nd, 2020
Johnson Privately Concedes Biden Won
But Senator won't declare it publicly. Democracy can withstand the attacks on election he says.
Dec 2nd, 2020
Drivers Going Crazy During Pandemic?
Report finds higher fatalities in state despite fewer accidents during pandemic; crashes often involve alcohol, speeding.
Dec 1st, 2020
Local Unions Confront The Wealthy
It's all about the wealth gap for workers at Colectivo and Milwaukee Art Museum.
Nov 30th, 2020
Wauwatosa’s Identity Crisis
Is it a harbor for white nationalists or a place that cares about racial equity?
Nov 25th, 2020
Ron Johnson More Trumpian Than Trump?
Wisconsin’s senior senator has become one of America’s leading crackpots.
Nov 24th, 2020
Foxconn Landing Google Contract?
Deal could mean something gets manufactured at Racine County plant.
Nov 23rd, 2020
Right-Wing vs Left-Wing Lawyers
WILL has more funding, more staff, more Harvard. Can a new liberal law group compete?
Nov 18th, 2020
We Want More Money For Schools
Across the state, in both blue and red counties, voters are approving more money for schools.
Nov 17th, 2020
Are Parties Realigning In Wisconsin?
Lots of new voters for both parties in election. What it means for the future.
Nov 16th, 2020
Abortion Could Become a Felony
If Roe v. Wade is overturned as expected, Wisconsin is among states with punitive abortion laws.
Nov 11th, 2020
How Suburban Voters Defeated Trump
A decisive switch, both in Wisconsin and nationally.
Nov 10th, 2020
Republicans Cry Foul About Election
Ron Johnson, Robin Vos and Mark Belling get aboard the Trump crazy train.
Nov 9th, 2020
19 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the vote totals there were so many other winners and losers.
Nov 4th, 2020
Judge Rules Against Marsy’s Law
Circuit Court rules amendment passed by referendum didn't fully inform voters of constitutional changes.
Nov 4th, 2020
Republicans Alienating Youth Vote
College voter suppression in Wisconsin, other states could lose those voters forever.
Nov 3rd, 2020
Study Finds Trump Rallies Spread Virus
Caused 30,000 COVID-19 cases, may have led to 700 deaths, report estimates. Oshkosh rally a kay part of study.
Nov 2nd, 2020
What Foxconn Will Cost Taxpayers
Total expected costs are $1.23 billion for a project that’s a total bust.
Oct 28th, 2020
Trump Tells 131 Whoppers in Janesville
In 90 minute speech, President Trump made 131 false or inaccurate statements.
Oct 27th, 2020
Will Black, Latinx and Young Voters Turn Out?
Three groups are working hard -- and spending big -- to turn out these voters.
Oct 26th, 2020
Why Foxconn Won’t Leave Wisconsin
It's spent hundreds of millions and gained nothing. Why not fold up its tent and leave?
Oct 21st, 2020
Biden Buries Trump in State’s TV Ads
Big advantage in all five markets in state. Wisconsin getting 4th most ads in the U.S.
Oct 20th, 2020
The Foxconn Deal Was Never Real
The Verge interviews employees who describe nightmare-like conditions and a completely phony project.
Oct 19th, 2020
Larson Letter Urges More Days to Count Votes
Democrats cite massive absentee vote, call for extraordinary legislative session to extend time for ballot counting.
Oct 14th, 2020
Did David Clarke Inspire Michigan Militia?
He was a prominent speaker urging rebellion against Michigan governor.
Oct 13th, 2020
Foxconn Won’t Get State Tax Credits
State informs company it must revise contract or there will be no tax credits awarded.
Oct 12th, 2020
Milwaukee Trails Most Cities in Growth
Much slower growth in population, businesses and jobs than most cities, study finds.
Oct 12th, 2020
Not Many Approve of Ron Johnson
What did we learn from new Marquette Poll? Not a lot. But how about those Rojo numbers?
Oct 7th, 2020
Wisconsin’s Legislature Laziest in U.S.?
Other states with full-time legislators have met 18 times more frequently than in Wisconsin.
Oct 6th, 2020
Judge Schimel Won’t Self-Quarantine
Exposed to Sen. Ron Johnson who tested positive, but won’t wear mask in court. Attorneys fear risk for themselves and clients.
Oct 5th, 2020
Did Brad Schimel Break the Law?
He emceed political fundraiser. State law prevents judges from all political activities.
Oct 3rd, 2020
The Decline of Wisconsin’s Republican Party
A conservative and Republican writer offers a scathing inside look. Not pretty.
Sep 30th, 2020
Is Robin Vos Scared of Voters?
Republican legislators condemn Evers' mask mandate, but won’t override it as the law allows. Why?
Sep 29th, 2020
Why Defunding Police Is Tough To Sell
Minneapolis politicians are abandoning the idea. What will happen in Milwaukee?
Sep 28th, 2020
Ron Johnson Report a Hatchet Job?
Media condemn report on Hunter Biden for proving "no evidence of wrongdoing."
Sep 23rd, 2020
Should Sheriff’s Budget Be Cut?
When it comes to defunding police, the county sheriffs are an obvious place to start.
Sep 22nd, 2020
Wisconsin Ranks Low in Gun Suicides
At least compared to other states. Compared to other developed nations, horribly high.
Sep 22nd, 2020
State’s Richest Get Even Richer
New Forbes 400 list includes eight Wisconsinites, led by John Menard, with Diane Hendricks not far behind.
Sep 15th, 2020
Trump Isn’t Scaring Wisconsin
His law-and-order scare tactics against Biden aren't working. So far.
Sep 14th, 2020
Wisconsin Behind on Solar Rooftops
Just 0.2% of viable rooftops in state have rooftop solar, far behind national average.
Sep 10th, 2020
Sykes Backs Biden, Blasts Fox News
Fox News, Rush Limbaugh offer an "alternative reality silo," Sykes says. No mention of his own show.
Sep 9th, 2020
State Voters Less Undecided Than in 2016
Polls show Biden's lead in Wisconsin safer than Clinton's was in 2016. But how safe?
Sep 8th, 2020
Norquist Says City Not ‘Most Racist’
Milwaukee is very diverse, Wisconsin’s least racist city, he tells Washington DC radio station.
Sep 2nd, 2020
Republicans Angry Yet Asleep on Policing
Unwilling to meet yet offering legislation to micro-manage police reforms in Milwaukee and Madison.
Sep 1st, 2020
Will Kenosha Unrest Help Trump Win State?
His planned visit to Kenosha seeks to make urban unrest the key issue of campaign.
Aug 31st, 2020
David Clarke a Key Part of Bannon Scam
Ex-sheriff not indicted but was key fundraiser for We Build the Wall group accused of fraud.
Aug 26th, 2020
Jacob Blake’s Spinal Cord Severed
Shooting by police also left holes in his stomach, and damage to his kidney, liver and arm.
Aug 26th, 2020
Father Says Jacob Blake Is Paralyzed
He has "eight holes" in his body. "What justified these shots?"
Aug 25th, 2020
Will Biden’s DNC Snub Hurt Him In State?
Republicans gleeful. Is Biden's blowoff of Milwaukee convention Hillary-like or smartly strategic?
Aug 24th, 2020
CEO Pay Has Risen 1,167% Since 1978
That’s 85 times faster than rise in average workers’ pay, new report finds.
Aug 20th, 2020
12 Takeaways on DNC Day One
Milwaukee was all but invisible. The format rocked, but Michelle disappointed.
Aug 18th, 2020
Hendricks Abandoning Trump Campaign?
She's among many big 2016 donors who haven't given this year. But the Uihleins are all in.
Aug 17th, 2020
Foxconn Hasn’t Given 99% of UW Pledge
Company promised $100 million to UW-Madison, has given $700,000.
Aug 17th, 2020
Black Leadership Group Hires First President
Milwaukee native Deneine Powell will run the African American Leadership Alliance.
Aug 12th, 2020
LaTonya Johnson Blasts Lena Taylor
Taylor’s aide Michele Bryant ran against Johnson and lost. Taylor is “toxic”, Johnson charges.
Aug 12th, 2020
Can City’s Dismal Ranking for Blacks Improve?
New study suggests city couldn’t get any worse. New effort aims to improve that.
Aug 12th, 2020
9 Takeaways on Change of Police Chiefs
What's the impact of Morales firing, Brunson hiring, and where is the city headed on police?
Aug 10th, 2020
Report Claims ‘Corruption’ by Ron Johnson
Newly formed Democratic research group finds senator made millions through self-dealing.
Jul 29th, 2020
The Curious Campaign of Michele Bryant
Why is a Democratic state senator’s chief of staff running against another Democratic senator?
Jul 28th, 2020
State’s COVID-19 Level Worse Than Entire Developed World?
Wisconsin worse off than 31 states and probably every developed country.
Jul 27th, 2020
Mr Pension Scandal Wants Your Vote
John Weishan, who supported infamous pension plan that gouged taxpayers, is running for Register of Deeds.
Jul 22nd, 2020
Ron Johnson Gets “F” For Leadership
Republican leaning group ranks him among the worst in Congress running a committee.
Jul 21st, 2020
Could Milwaukee Get Federal Troops?
Trump's chief of staff says administration prepping plan to send troops to Democratic-run cities like Milwaukee.
Jul 20th, 2020
Who Has Power Over Chief Morales?
Given the shambles at the Fire & Police Commission the answer may be nobody.
Jul 15th, 2020
Zamarripa Defends Her Double Dipping
Alderwoman will collect second full-time salary as state legislator for eight months.
Jul 14th, 2020
Wisconsin Behind on COVID-19 Testing
How state compares to other in testing, rate of positive cases and rate of hospitalization.
Jul 14th, 2020
Wisconsin’s Wealth Gap Grows Worse
Pandemic devastates lower and middle class while billionaires get wealthier.
Jul 13th, 2020
Chief Morales Looks Bad in FPC Report
And FPC Chair DeVougas looks even worse. 12 takeaways on what report did and didn't find.
Jul 8th, 2020
Council Okays Funding for Indigent Defense
Many Milwaukee Municipal Court defendants are poor and lack an attorney.
Jul 8th, 2020
Faculty Group Condemns UWM Lecturer
And then withdraws its slap at Betsy Schoeller. Her firing is now supported by 146,00 people.
Jul 7th, 2020
Rush To Judgment on UWM Lecturer?
Fire her! !38,00 people declare, after her Facebook post is misconstrued.
Jul 6th, 2020
Remembering Yaakov Sullivan
Former Milwaukee and New York actor and political activist passes away at age 73.
Jul 6th, 2020
Suit Challenges ‘Marsy’s Law’ Amendment
Opponents of victim rights amendment argue voters were deceived about its provisions.
Jul 1st, 2020
Milwaukee 6th Most Diverse City in US?
More diverse than nearly 600 other cities, says new report. Should we believe it?
Jun 30th, 2020
Trump Tariffs Slam Wisconsin Economy
Bad for companies, workers, consumers — and probably for Trump's reelection chances.
Jun 29th, 2020
What Happened at Madison’s Protests
State Sen. Tim Carpenter assaulted, two Capitol statues toppled, windows broken, Evers condemns violence.
Jun 24th, 2020
Journal Sentinel Website Goes Generic
New site even more USA Today-like, a cookie cutter version of other Gannett papers.
Jun 23rd, 2020
Wisconsin Has a Speeding Problem
More speeding related fatalities than 32 states. And Milwaukee is 10th worst county in US.
Jun 23rd, 2020
Spending on Police Up 30% Since 1986
Study shows municipal governments in state spending far more on policing today.
Jun 22nd, 2020
Chief Morales Drops Internal Investigation
He promised internal probe of who leaked video to media that embarrassed FPC leader.
Jun 18th, 2020
Brewers Franchise Spirals In Value
Now worth $1.2 billion. Players union demands financial records from Brewers, all MLB teams.
Jun 16th, 2020
Did High Court Order Hike State’s COVID Cases?
They’re definitely up since state Supreme Court ruling, and a faster rate than the nation.
Jun 15th, 2020
Could Biden Pick Baldwin for Vice President?
Tammy Baldwin still on Biden's short list, has survived considerable scrutiny.
Jun 15th, 2020
Can the Police Union Prevent Reform?
Milwaukee’s powerful union has long gotten its way. But this time may be different.
Jun 10th, 2020
Tear Gas Is Dangerous, Experts Say
And may increase risk of getting COVID-19. Mayor, others have urged police to stop its use.
Jun 9th, 2020
State Has Third Least Restrictive Pandemic Rules
Only South and North Dakota are less restrictive, study finds.
Jun 9th, 2020
Why the Protests Won’t End
9 reasons why the protests are different this time.
Jun 8th, 2020
Is Chief Morales Doing a Good Job?
Council members ask for citizens' views in preparation for performance review of police chief.
Jun 6th, 2020
Are Police Overreacting to Protests?
So says ACLU, others. Others want a tougher response. What’s the proper balance?
Jun 2nd, 2020
More Than 150 Catholic Churches Opened
Many in Milwaukee Archdiocese offered Mass Sunday, in violation of city shutdown order.
Jun 1st, 2020
Wealthy Hospitals Grab Pandemic Payouts
Ascension Health and 19 other health care giants grab $5 billion in federal funds while smaller hospitals get little.
May 27th, 2020
John Menard and Trump, Together Again
One-time friends had falling out, but now Menard will help president plan economic rebound.
May 26th, 2020
Journal Sentinel Ads Will Drive Stories?
As ad sales plummet, Gannett wants stories to support advertising initiative.
May 25th, 2020
Robin Vos To Face Opponent After All
Last opponent quit after nasty personal attacks. Democrat Joel Jacobsen will now run.
May 25th, 2020
State’s Liberal Talk Radio Chain Growing
Mike Crute’s stations, audience growing, so why the resistance from Democratic leaders?
May 20th, 2020
County Executive College Dropouts
For 20 years voters have elected college dropouts to run Milwaukee County. What gives?
May 19th, 2020
Foxconn’s Profits Plunge By 90%
Factories in China shut down for weeks, sales down, still hoping for subsidy for Wisconsin operation.
May 19th, 2020
Why Vos, Fitzgerald Refused to Lead
They took away Gov. Evers’ power to oversee pandemic and then did nothing. Why?
May 18th, 2020
State’s COVID Growth Slower Than Nation
Wisconsin below most states and all of Midwest in per-capita COVID-19 cases and deaths.
May 13th, 2020
Vos, Fitzgerald Cost Taxpayers Billions
Their latest mistake adds $25 million more lost to taxpayers.
May 12th, 2020
State’s Early Infections Came From New York
78% of early COVID-19 infections in Wisconsin linked to New York City.
May 11th, 2020
Cudahy Coronavirus Controversy
Is Patrick Cudahy safe for workers? Are Cudahy officials protecting the community?
May 6th, 2020
Did Trump, Ron Johnson Endanger Lives?
Promotion of unproven drug resulted in millions of pills being delivered to cities like Milwaukee.
May 5th, 2020
The Incredible Decline of Wisconsin Unions
Once one of leading states for unions, now well behind the nation.
May 4th, 2020
Scott Walker Loses Again
Federal court rejects his group’s challenge of non-partisan redistricting in Michigan.
Apr 29th, 2020
Up From 53206
New generation of leaders in their early 30's, Crowley, Nicholson, Johnson, all raised in poorest ZIP code.
Apr 28th, 2020
The Quack Science of Robin Vos
He’s “not a doctor,” he says while repeatedly rejecting medical experts amid a deadly pandemic.
Apr 27th, 2020
How Hamilton Lost Council Presidency
Will bad feelings linger over Cavalier Johnson’s victory?
Apr 22nd, 2020
Republicans Suppress Their Own Voters
Because they thought even more Democrats would be discouraged. They were wrong.
Apr 21st, 2020
Give Me Liberty and Give Me Death
Brookfield rally rejects both state and federal health experts, while likely spreading disease.
Apr 20th, 2020
Foxconn Squeezes Evers
Demands $45 million from the state and for what? Probably nothing.
Apr 15th, 2020
21 Winners and Losers
Beyond the candidates, what was the election about, who were the other winners and losers?
Apr 14th, 2020
Trump Campaign Sues State TV Station
Claims ad, with excerpts of Trump speaking, used technology to create false statement.
Apr 13th, 2020
Foxconn Plant Will Make Ventilators
New partnership with Medtronic. How many ventilators and by how many workers? Unknown.
Apr 8th, 2020
Vos Ridiculed Across the Nation
Not to mention the UK. Looking like Dr. Death he declares it "incredibly safe" to vote.
Apr 8th, 2020
Lena Taylor’s Aide Suspended by WNOV
Michele Bryant accuses station’s owner of selling out to Mayor Barrett.
Apr 7th, 2020
New York Times Blasts State Republicans
"You Shouldn’t Have to Risk Your Life to Vote," editorial declares.
Apr 7th, 2020
Republican Hypocrisy on Election
Why wouldn’t Vos, Fitzgerald postpone the election? Because they were safer.
Apr 6th, 2020
Republicans Risk Public Health With Election
Refusal of Vos and Fitzgerald to postpone election could cause more disease, deaths.
Apr 1st, 2020
Will Trump Help State Get Medical Supplies?
Still won’t use Defense Production Act to ramp up production. Baldwin pushes for action.
Mar 31st, 2020
More Budget Cuts for Journal Sentinel?
Gannett revenue down due to pandemic, announces budget cuts, furloughs.
Mar 30th, 2020
Wisconsin Behind on Social Distancing?
Many states doing better, data suggests. Milwaukee County looks behind, too.
Mar 30th, 2020
Will Legislature Delay Election?
Life-and-death issue poses the most danger for Milwaukee. Only the Legislature can act.
Mar 25th, 2020
Baldwin Plan Needed for Pandemic
Using Defense Production Act could save lives, but Trump won’t act.
Mar 24th, 2020
Media Food Pantry List Can Mislead?
Hunger Task Force warns people to double check, some “food pantries” listed can’t handle demands.
Mar 21st, 2020
Wisconsin Now the Reddest State?
No state in America has been more opposed to federal coronavirus relief package.
Mar 18th, 2020
David Clarke Is Still Crazy
Or maybe crazier. Just ask Charlie Sykes.
Mar 16th, 2020
Was Act 10 Necessary?
Nine years ago today Act 10 was signed by Gov. Walker. This classic column exploded the myths about the union-crushing law.
Mar 11th, 2020
Aurora Health Care Merger is Bad News
Expect skyrocketing costs, poorer care, and bigger salaries for fat cat executives.
Mar 10th, 2020
Foxconn Contract Has Huge Loophole?
“Ironclad” contract may allow company to count seasonal employees for tax credits.
Mar 3rd, 2020
329% Jump in State’s Antisemitic Incidents
Skyrocketing rise since 2015 in report by local Jewish Community Relations Council.
Mar 2nd, 2020
About that Miller Park Economic Impact
New study greatly exaggerates the benefits — as it was expected to do.
Feb 25th, 2020
City’s Dining Scene Is Nationally Unique
Fewer restaurants per capita yet more are independently owned than in other cities
Feb 24th, 2020
14 Election Winners, Losers
Beyond the ballot totals, behind the scenes, who were the other election winners and losers?
Feb 19th, 2020
Mystery Deepens on Leaked Police Video
More than the video was leaked. Police Department avoids comment. City Attorney helping FPC investigation.
Feb 18th, 2020
Poll Shows Surprising Support for MPS
Most think MPS needs more funding and would back it in the referendum, poll shows.
Feb 12th, 2020
Crowley Rising in County Exec Race
He and Chris Larson look likely to make it through the February primary.
Feb 11th, 2020
Summerfest Flush With Cash
Festival has $47 million net fund balance. Aldermen say it can afford to pay for police services.
Feb 4th, 2020
Barrett, Hamilton Demand Probe of Leaked Police Video
Chief Morales says he didn’t leak it; mayor, council leader want investigation, find out who did.
Jan 29th, 2020
State’s ‘Hidden Deficit’ Lowest in 30 Years
Great news except… it’s still higher than in 49 other states.
Jan 28th, 2020
Foxconn’s 1 Million Square Feet; Of What?
Despite media claims, new facility unlikely to be a Gen 6 manufacturer. So what will it be?
Jan 23rd, 2020
Did Chief Morales Target His FPC Boss?
Common Council concerned. “Borderline frightening” use of police power, Bauman charges.
Jan 21st, 2020
Why a Voter Purge Is So Critical
The goal is to reelect Trump. Even if that means purging some Republican voters, too.
Jan 14th, 2020
Consultants Make $5.3 Million on Foxconn
Consultants and firms paid millions by state, county and village governments.
Jan 13th, 2020
State Tax Burden Lowest in 50 Years
Huge change, combined state-local taxes down by 22% or $8.5 billion annually since 1994.
Jan 9th, 2020
Langley Has Raised Just $2,500
Incumbent city attorney way behind his challengers in campaign donations.
Jan 8th, 2020
Remembering John Pawasarat
UWM researcher had huge impact with his studies.
Jan 7th, 2020
Journal Sentinel Promotes Long-Gone Writer
Readers urged to read Michael Wolff’s “brutally honest’ column. It hasn’t run in two years.
Jan 6th, 2020
Most Popular Murphy’s Law Columns
Foxconn, Scott Walker, Aurora and more.
Dec 26th, 2019
Foxconn Deal Looks Dead
Company’s revised plan ineligible for subsidies and Foxconn opposes contract rewrite.
Dec 19th, 2019
The Mess at Fire & Police Commission
Key city agency seems to be in very big trouble. Why?
Dec 17th, 2019
Could Strauss Plant Deal Be Revived?
Ald. Johnson working to save deal, Barrett holds out hope, community meeting planned.
Dec 12th, 2019
Journal Sentinel Veterans Vanishing
Seven more journalists leaving, including some big names, as paper shrinks further.
Dec 11th, 2019
Bobot Will Attack Langley. Sort Of
Vince Bobot has (mostly) changed his mind about going negative in race for city attorney.
Dec 10th, 2019
Foxconn May Cut State GDP By $6 Billion
Loss could have been as high as $19 billion under original plan, study says.
Dec 5th, 2019
Grant Langley Will Run for Reelection
City attorney's decision sets up race against his old friend, attorney Vince Bobot.
Dec 2nd, 2019
Who Lost the City Residency Rule?
Lena Taylor blames Mayor Barrett. But did she fight the state law killing residency?
Nov 27th, 2019
Summerfest Pays No Net Rent
Charges ethnic festivals more rent than it pays city, like “a greedy landlord,” alderman charges.
Nov 26th, 2019
Summerfest Got $48 Million in Gifts
Total donations from 2010 to 2018 helped pay for CEO Don Smiley’s "caviar lifestyle"?
Nov 21st, 2019
10 Ways Journal Sentinel Will Change
GateHouse purchase of Gannett is dreadful news for local and national journalism.
Nov 19th, 2019
Should Summerfest Pay Higher Rent?
Harbor House pays at least 7 times more than Summerfest per acre of lakefront land.
Nov 14th, 2019
Poll Shows Barrett Way Ahead
Zielinski, Taylor do poorly and more voters favor streetcar.
Nov 12th, 2019
Journal Sentinel’s Huge Mistake
Newspaper vastly inflates growth of Summerfest CEO Don Smiley’s compensation.
Nov 11th, 2019
Summerfest CEO Awarded $2.33 Million
Don Smiley’s 2017 pay package includes $1.3 million deferred from prior years. City officials “shocked.”
Nov 8th, 2019
Summerfest Blows Off City Meeting
No festival official attends scheduled meeting. Partnership with city “broken”, Ald. Murphy says.
Nov 7th, 2019
How Hispanics Have Saved Milwaukee
Acid attack against man for “invasion” of Hispanics couldn’t be more wrong about their impact.
Nov 5th, 2019
Campaigning on the Taxpayer’s Dime?
Changes in state law open door to abuses, campaigning by government workers.
Oct 31st, 2019
Business Leader Blasts Council on Strauss Deal
Hamilton and council members are to blame for losing hundreds of jobs, Sheehy says.
Oct 28th, 2019
Who Lost the Strauss Brands Deal?
State Sen. Lena Taylor helped kill a deal bringing hundreds of jobs to depressed Century City area.
Oct 24th, 2019
Who Will Run for County Executive?
The list is long and could get longer. Handicapping the favorites.
Oct 22nd, 2019
Women Cracking State’s Executive Suites
Report finds highest percent ever of women in boardrooms, but state still trails the nation.
Oct 17th, 2019
What Walker Cost Wisconsin
New report shows big decline in federal aid for state while he was governor.
Oct 15th, 2019
Why Trump Could Lose Wisconsin
Politico says Trump in trouble because WOW counties never fully embraced him.
Sep 19th, 2019
State Far Behind on Renewable Energy
Report finds Minnesota has 5 times more wind power, 16 times more solar than Wisconsin.
Sep 19th, 2019
Bradley Foundation Works to Kill Food Aid
And reduce Medicaid. Working with Koch groups, they push Trump to slash safety net.
Sep 17th, 2019
UWM Hits New High in Fundraising
$251 million is highest fund drive ever; endowment grows by 74%.
Sep 12th, 2019
Foxconn Will Make Coffee Houses!
Er, make that coffee hauses. Run by robots. And made to order in “Wisconn Valley.”
Sep 12th, 2019
State Helps Fund Murky Pro-Life Group
What exactly does Choose Life Wisconsin do with the money it gets?
Sep 10th, 2019
Key Foxconn Executive Steps Down
Ever-shrinking project loses second key executive this year.
Sep 5th, 2019
Lame Duck Laws Hurting the State
Tying hands of Attorney General stalls 15 lawsuits, could cost taxpayers millions.
Sep 4th, 2019
Should Barrett Worry About Reelection?
Another easy win seems certain. Which may not be so good for Milwaukee.
Aug 29th, 2019
Journal Sentinel Slams “Liberal” News Site
Claims Wisconsin Examiner is “partisan” and “slanted” but provides not one example.
Aug 27th, 2019
Foxconn’s Gift from Electric Customers
Why are state customers paying $117 million -- or more -- for unneeded power upgrades?
Aug 22nd, 2019
Penzeys Uses Facebook to Attack Trump
Local company one of leading political spenders on Facebook, analysis shows.
Aug 21st, 2019
Flip-Flop on Mine Threatens State Waters
Why the sudden change to approve copper-zinc mine? Will it pollute Lake Michigan?
Aug 20th, 2019
State Life Expectancy Declines for Second Year
Wisconsin's rate of death due to suicide, drugs, or alcohol has risen steadily since 1999.
Aug 19th, 2019
Milwaukee Commute Time Ranks Low
Lower than 102 cities in the nation. And hasn’t increased much since 2008.
Aug 15th, 2019
CEO Pay Has Risen 940% Since 1978
While average worker pay rose only 12%, new study finds.
Aug 14th, 2019
Why the Journal Sentinel Won’t Die
And why it may not matter to news readers.
Aug 13th, 2019
13 Takeaways on Foxconn’s Birthday
Two years after project announced, what’s left of that world-shattering deal?
Aug 1st, 2019
About Those Good Guys With a Gun
Cop killer Jordan Fricke is the latest case undermining that theory.
Jul 30th, 2019
Will Wisconsin Decide the 2020 Election?
All signs suggest this state could determine whether Trump wins reelection.
Jul 25th, 2019
The New Paul Ryan
That’s how admirers view Rep. Mike Gallagher. Can Democrat Amanda Stuck beat him?
Jul 23rd, 2019
Trump Picks Walker for Smithsonian
Ex-governor and college dropout will join board of International Center for Scholars.
Jul 17th, 2019
A New State “Progressive” Publication
Wisconsin Examiner adds to Capitol press corps, with a "people's" perspective on policies.
Jul 16th, 2019
Walker’s New Job Will Pay Plenty
National group he will run has lots of money. But Walker won’t be able to run for office.
Jul 15th, 2019
The Truth About Busing
Is Harris or Biden right? The impact of busing in Milwaukee and other cities.
Jul 11th, 2019
Why the Minimum Wage Won’t Rise
It's all about the stories we’re told and who is getting paid to tell them.
Jul 9th, 2019
State’s Loss on Federal ACA is $1.3 Billion
State loses $1.3 billion in federal funds for medical care under Republican two-year budget.
Jul 3rd, 2019
Vos Wants Medical Marijuana Bill
Assembly Speaker wants to push this bill in fall. Will Senate oppose it?
Jul 1st, 2019
Why GOP Opposes Federal Medicaid Funds
It’s cost state taxpayers $1.1 billion. Why won’t Republicans accept the money?
Jun 26th, 2019
City Attorney Grant Langley Retiring?
Vince Bobot announces for job, leading to speculation Langley may retire after 36 years.
Jun 18th, 2019
Why Republicans Hate the Gas Tax
Once they promoted this user fee, now they’d rather roads fall apart. Why?
Jun 13th, 2019
The Incredible Shrinking Foxconn Plant
New specs show its vastly smaller than the original plan. And not the LCD plant promised.
Jun 11th, 2019
The New Conservative Heavyweight
Wisconsin Institute of Law & Liberty is on the rise, pushing a right-wing agenda.
Jun 6th, 2019
Trump Tariffs Killing Wisconsin
In just three years state changed from net exporter to suffering a massive trade deficit.
Jun 4th, 2019
State Ranks 2nd for Black Homicide Victims
Study finds Wisconsin has nearly double the national rate and 91% killed with guns.
May 30th, 2019
EPA Scientists Opposed Foxconn Ruling
Emails show senior EPA scientists complained smog exemption for company wasn’t supported by data.
May 28th, 2019
CEO Salaries Hit Historic High
Average top exec earned $34.4 million in 2018, 660 times the average worker's pay.
May 28th, 2019
Foxconn Plays Politics for Trump?
Both Trump and its CEO need Foxconn to look successful for the 2020 election.
May 23rd, 2019
Republican Pushes for Medical Marijuana
State Sen. Patrick Testin could be the key man in the success or failure of proposal.
May 14th, 2019
Journal Sentinel Bets on Harder Paywall
Making it tougher for casual readers to get access. Will that help or hurt?
May 9th, 2019
How Walker Wrecked State’s Prisons
Overworked staff, high turnover, rising overtime costs and violence plague the prisons.
May 2nd, 2019
Average UWM Student Debt Rose 194%
New study shows Wisconsin has more students in debt than 44 states. Any solution?
Apr 30th, 2019
Are Police Pursuits Out of Control?
Massive increase in high-speed chases under the new policy. Results are scary.
Apr 25th, 2019
Walker’s Costly War on the Poor
Former governor’s “trampoline” for SNAP recipients is a high-cost failure, report finds
Apr 23rd, 2019
Mount Pleasant Biggest Foxconn Loser?
Village incurred massive costs for Foxconn’s ever-smaller plant that it may never recoup.
Apr 19th, 2019
Taxpayers Make Bucks, Brewers Rich
Forbes sees huge growth in value of franchises since taxpayer-financed stadiums built.
Apr 16th, 2019
Did Kavanaugh Ad Elect Hagedorn?
Republican group says its ads killed front runner Lisa Neubauer in Supreme Court race.
Apr 12th, 2019
Foxconn As High Comedy
Tech publication The Verge tries to figure out what Foxconn is actually doing here. LOL.
Apr 11th, 2019
Republicans Scared of Trucking Industry?
They oppose fee on trucks that destroy roads, while getting big money from the industry.
Apr 9th, 2019
10 Lessons of Supreme Court Race
Anger drives votes, media in decline, traditional judicial campaigns are dead, and more.
Apr 4th, 2019
More Doubts About Foxconn Project
Compressed gravel base can’t support LCD fabrication plant. So what’s being built?
Apr 2nd, 2019
The Trashing of Shirley Abrahamson
Why is Brian Hagedorn attacking a legal giant, rather than his opponent in high court race?
Mar 28th, 2019
Gov. Evers Plays Hardball
Too-nice Tony looks to beat the Republicans -- repeatedly -- at their own game.
Mar 26th, 2019
The Arrogance of Robin Vos
The latest: uses taxpayer-funded lawyer to shield him from revealing how he gerrymandered districts.
Mar 21st, 2019
The Lessons of Baltimore
A city falling apart, its police department dysfunctonal. Can Milwaukee learn from this?
Mar 19th, 2019
What Milwaukee Means to Democrats
The city’s selection for Democratic Convention is symbolic. But of what?
Mar 14th, 2019
Did Business Leaders Fail on Foxconn?
None raised any doubts about a deal that always seemed suspect.
Mar 12th, 2019
Kiley’s Chestnut Grove Provokes Hot Debate
Should it be saved? Or past its prime? At stake is the past and future of a changing city.
Mar 7th, 2019
The Disappearance of Sheriff Clarke
Fox News no longer wants him. Does anyone?
Mar 6th, 2019
Who Will Win State Budget Battle?
Right now it looks like an endless standoff. But appearances can be deceiving.
Mar 5th, 2019
The Disastrous Candidacy of Brian Hagedorn
After weeks of negative press, his Supreme Court campaign is reeling. Who vetted him?
Feb 21st, 2019
Republicans and Colin Kaepernick
Legislators opposition to honoring the NFL star is part of an ugly, historic pattern.
Feb 19th, 2019
Republicans Discover the Middle Class
But their proposed tax cut is unfunded and doesn’t address state’s tax inequity.
Feb 14th, 2019
Walker and the Russian Connection
Ex-governor got more from Russia-connected tycoon than first reported. Why?
Feb 12th, 2019
Foxconn Project in “Chaos”
Foxconn workers, insiders say Racine project is failing in Bloomberg story.
Feb 7th, 2019
The Many Ads of We Energies
They’d rather spend on ads to make the company look good than lower your rates.
Feb 5th, 2019
12 Reasons The Foxconn Deal Is Dying
The company is cutting back plans. Will it walk away entirely?
Jan 31st, 2019
Republicans Oppose Gerrymandering
Voters overwhelmingly favor fair maps, yet Vos spends millions in taxes to fight this.
Jan 29th, 2019
Death Watch at the Journal Sentinel
Yet more layoffs, Gannett cuts nationally, facing buyout bid.
Jan 25th, 2019
The Wealth Gap and Miller Park’s Deal
American Family's deal for stadium naming rights shows how the rich get richer.
Jan 24th, 2019
The Rise of Special Interest Spending
Nationally and in Wisconsin it’s exploded since Citizens United. What’s the impact?
Jan 22nd, 2019
How Aurora Makes Us Poorer
Health care giant’s market power drives up your medical costs as executives get richer.
Jan 10th, 2019
The Eternal Campaign of Scott Walker
He’s earned $2.3 million from government, and is already running for office again.
Jan 8th, 2019
Journal Sentinel Loses Six More Staff
All veterans taking buyout, as staff continues to be purged.
Jan 3rd, 2019
Top 10 Stories of 2018
Foxconn's outrages, Walker's decline, white nationalism's rise. Most popular columns of 2018.
Dec 31st, 2018
Evers Embraces Expertise
Hiring talented people, appointing expert advisors, who knew you could govern that way?
Dec 20th, 2018
State Facing Endless Lawsuits?
Suits by governor, legislature, citizens coming on lame duck laws, gerrymandering.
Dec 18th, 2018
What Do Democrats Stand For?
They can’t just be anti-Trump or anti-Walker, they need a clear theme. Like what?
Dec 13th, 2018
Republicans’ Plan for Permanent Power
They began plotting last spring to retain power even if a Democrat won for governor.
Dec 11th, 2018
What Will Scott Walker’s Legacy Be?
Remembered for his accomplishments? Or his “poor loser” legislation?
Dec 6th, 2018
Foxconn Covets Intellectual Property Rights
Besides $4.1 billion subsidy, it seeks IP rights of students, faculty, other companies.
Dec 4th, 2018
State Ruling Threatens City Health?
Killing city’s restaurant rating system could increase food-borne illness in Milwaukee.
Nov 29th, 2018
Is Foxconn Contract Illegal?
Attorneys may sue, but urge Evers and Kaul to pursue a suit to overturn contract.
Nov 27th, 2018
Journal Sentinel Abandons Print Readers?
Paper’s circulation plummets as owner Gannett pushes switch to digital.
Nov 20th, 2018
About That Republican Victory
Voters rejected Democrats for the Assembly, Robin Vos declares. Er, not exactly.
Nov 15th, 2018
Why Walker Lost
He seemed to have the perfect strategy. The top 10 reasons he failed.
Nov 13th, 2018
33 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the vote totals, who were the election’s other big winners and losers?
Nov 7th, 2018
Young Voters Could Decide Election
Vote by 18- to-29 year-olds surging in some states. What about Wisconsin?
Nov 6th, 2018
City a Leader in White Nationalism
New Berlin is headquarters for neo-Nazi party founded by George Lincoln Rockwell.
Nov 1st, 2018
The Fight Against Gerrymandering
Advocates hope their Supreme Court case -- now being rewritten -- will succeed.
Oct 30th, 2018
Early Voting by Democrats Is Higher
Madison turnout high, new Milwaukee system attracts bigger early vote.
Oct 25th, 2018
Black Workers Losing Transit to Jobs?
End of county bus routes 61 and 6 means no connection to jobs in other counties.
Oct 17th, 2018
Walker Mum About Medicaid Changes
He was going to get tough on Medicaid recipients, now runs away from the issue.
Oct 16th, 2018
Norquist Bashes Inspector General Idea
Council wants its own watchdog. Former mayor says post is unnecessary.
Oct 12th, 2018
Milwaukee County on a Crash Course
Without more funding of programs it runs for the state, county will soon face fiscal ruin.
Oct 11th, 2018
Schimel Suit Cost Workers $23 Million
Suit he joined stopped 165,000 Wisconsin workers from getting overtime pay.
Oct 9th, 2018
Sewerage District Is National Leader
Milwaukee leads nation in reclaiming water, but rise in extreme rains a challenge.
Oct 5th, 2018
Was Barrett Asleep on Health Department?
Problems may go back a decade and mayor deserves much blame, some alderman say.
Oct 2nd, 2018
Is John McAdams a Bully?
MU professor calls it free speech. But faculty seeks new policy against cyberbullying.
Sep 27th, 2018
Young Voters, Black Voters Key to Election?
Two separate groups working on voter turnout could have big impact.
Sep 25th, 2018
The Best Governor Money Can Buy
Just about every Walker policy was bought by special interests.
Sep 20th, 2018
Schimel’s Spoils System
DOJ gag order on his employees shows the impact of ending civil service protections.
Sep 18th, 2018
How Republicans Helped Tammy Baldwin
They picked the wrong candidate. That could hand election to Baldwin.
Sep 12th, 2018
More Foxconn Bells and Whistles
They want a new venture fund and UW-Madison fund -- all subsidized by our taxes.
Sep 5th, 2018
Why Wisconsin Resists Clean Energy
State lags the Midwest in renewable energy, yet suddenly making great progress.
Aug 30th, 2018
Why Walker Must Go Negative
Governor is so unpopular he must bludgeon his opponent or change his identity. Or both.
Aug 28th, 2018
Foxconn’s Story Changes. Yet Again.
Nearly all the manufacturing will be done by robots, company says.
Aug 23rd, 2018
Did Abele, Newspaper Cover Up Schmidt Pension?
Decisions by county exec, Journal Sentinel, suppressed news of his lucrative pension.
Aug 21st, 2018
Are Journalists Your Enemy?
29% of Americans say yes, many support shutting down free press. Disagree? You can help.
Aug 16th, 2018
23 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the vote totals, who were the other winners and losers in yesterday’s election?
Aug 15th, 2018
Schmidt’s Pension An Issue for Deputies
Co-workers know he’s getting $1 million pension, say issue is divisive for department.
Aug 13th, 2018
Schmidt Will Get $1 Million Pension
Acting Sheriff doesn’t deny it, refuses to say whether he will sign waiver of backdrop benefit.
Aug 2nd, 2018
Schmidt Pension At Issue In Sheriff Race?
Acting Sheriff could collect a lot from taxpayers. Will he waive lucrative backdrop benefit?
Aug 2nd, 2018
Urban Milwaukee Changes Policy On Comments
Historic change in publication will accept comments from members only.
Aug 1st, 2018
Are Democratic Candidates Too Liberal?
Walker is very vulnerable, but his challengers are blowing it with far-left campaigns.
Jul 31st, 2018
Foxconn Plays Politics for Walker?
Company's iffy "innovation centers" in Eau Claire, Green Bay could help reelect governor.
Jul 26th, 2018
The Anti-Union Governor
Scott Walker may be the nation’s leading union killer. What’s the impact on Wisconsin?
Jul 24th, 2018
Brad Schimel Soft on Crime?
New data shows AG not just slow to go after rapists, but drugs and firearms cases.
Jul 20th, 2018
Who Will Win Democratic Primary?
Eight challengers for governor, primary just weeks away, who are the favorites?
Jul 19th, 2018
Foxconn Deal Allows Low-Ball Wages
Documents show state will allow 93 percent of workers to earn less than $15 hour.
Jul 17th, 2018
Who Now Has Power Over Police Chief?
Common Council may regret stripping mayor’s power over Police-Fire director.
Jul 12th, 2018
High Court Sticks It To Milwaukee
Roggensack’s political decision gives police and fire unions more power over pension fund.
Jul 10th, 2018
Is Foxconn Double Crossing Walker?
Latest admission by company gives the game away.
Jul 3rd, 2018
“I’m not Republican,” Arlo Guthrie Says
Contacts Urban Milwaukee to discuss -- and clarify -- his politics.
Jul 2nd, 2018
Barrett Will Run for Reelection
Mayor calling supporters, plans to run for 5th term in 2020, they say.
Jun 28th, 2018
Is State Suffering Walker Fatigue?
One clear sign would be if Leah Vukmir loses U.S. Senate primary.
Jun 26th, 2018
George Will Blasts Paul Ryan
Calls House Speaker Trump’s “poodle,” urges people to vote Democratic.
Jun 25th, 2018
Brad Schimel’s Dreadful Record on Rape Kits
Attorney General is anything but tough on crime by serial rapists.
Jun 21st, 2018
Candidates for Governor Hold Debate
But not on TV. And not every Democratic candidate. So who won?
Jun 19th, 2018
Police Video Gets National Attention
Police confrontation with Bucks player gets national headlines, raises troubling questions.
May 24th, 2018
CEOs Paid 1,000 Times More Than Average Workers
Study finds local companies Manpower and Kohl's near the top of obscene U.S. pay gap.
May 22nd, 2018
The Anti-Roads Governor
Why would a Republican governor be as anti-highways as Scott Walker?
May 17th, 2018
Can City Solve Its Turnout Problem?
It badly trailed voter turnout in Madison and other areas in 2016.
May 15th, 2018
Lena Taylor Against the World
Democratic legislator’s press conference was a declaration of war -- against everybody.
May 10th, 2018
About That Deficit, Sen. Johnson
Debt was Ron Johnson’s obsession -- until he helped Trump create the biggest deficit in 75 years.
May 8th, 2018
Pruitt Ruling Allows Foxconn Pollution
EPA head overrules his own staff to deliver victory for Walker and Trump.
May 3rd, 2018
The Racial Gap in Homeownership
Milwaukee’s black/white gap is a dismal 40.7%. It’s even worse in 8 other cities.
May 1st, 2018
Why St. Joseph Hospital Is Targeted
It’s all about greed by “non-profits,” chasing revenues and big salaries.
Apr 27th, 2018
Why Fire-Police Chief Was Axed
FPC botched police chief search and nice guy Mayor Barrett decided to get tough.
Apr 24th, 2018
The Whacko Primary for Governor
Seriously, a dozen or more Democratic candidates? It’s beyond the Republicans’ dreams.
Apr 19th, 2018
The Full File on Foxconn
City report on Foxconn’s history is eye opening. Why didn’t state do its due diligence?
Apr 17th, 2018
The Incredible Potential of Paul Ryan
Destined for greatness, so many said. Why didn’t he realize it?
Apr 13th, 2018
City’s Evictions Far From Worst
New data on evictions shows a huge national problem with lessons for Milwaukee.
Apr 11th, 2018
Should Walker Be Worried?
Does he face an unstoppable “blue wave”? Maybe.
Apr 5th, 2018
MPS Losing Superintendent Driver
Will become CEO of Southeastern Michigan United Way in Detroit in July.
Apr 3rd, 2018
How Foxconn Will Pollute Wisconsin
And why the company may get away with it.
Apr 3rd, 2018
Scott Walker’s Big Lie
Not doing special elections hasn’t saved money, it’s actually cost taxpayers. A lot.
Mar 29th, 2018
The Strange Race for Supreme Court
Look carefully. Both candidates are not what they claim to be.
Mar 27th, 2018
Vukmir’s Prison Bill Dies in State Senate
Would have jailed 1,800 more people per year at annual cost of $57 million.
Mar 23rd, 2018
Where Are Wage Gains Ryan Promised?
Companies aren’t delivering -- and never promised -- the salary hikes Republicans touted.
Mar 22nd, 2018
Miller Park Tax Ends in 2020. Not.
Despite “sunset,” taxpayers will subsidize stadium until 2040, with total costs unknown.
Mar 20th, 2018
Abortion Issue Dogs Vinehout in Governor Race
Her past views against abortion and birth control haunt her campaign.
Mar 15th, 2018
Menard Hit With Class Action Suits
One of the world’s richest plutocrats faces multiple suits for chiseling his workers.
Mar 13th, 2018
Flynn’s Hit Job on FPC Director
Evidence now shows he had cops digging for dirt on MaryNell Regan. Why?
Mar 8th, 2018
Foxconn Deal Gets Even Worse
$4.1 billion handout will deliver even less benefits, more costs than imagined.
Mar 6th, 2018
Why Walker Opposes Special Elections
He's not serving the voters. He's serving his party.
Mar 1st, 2018
Should State Divest Gun Stocks?
Wisconsin pension fund invests in companies making guns that kill students.
Feb 27th, 2018
The Governor of Giveaways
Instead of building a real economy, Walker is trying to buy one.
Feb 20th, 2018
The Mystery of Flynn Vs. Regan
Is the police chief or Fire & Police boss guilty of official misconduct?
Feb 15th, 2018
Ron Johnson’s Growing Credibility Gap
Even conservative media questioned his latest "report."
Feb 13th, 2018
Mayor Barrett’s Power in Decline?
Council taking more power, mayor taking a beating.
Feb 8th, 2018
The World According to Paul Ryan
He’s taking flak for just one tweet. Perhaps it’s a teachable moment.
Feb 6th, 2018
Majority Now Backs Fair Redistricting
37 counties, two-thirds of state’s population, have passed “Fair Maps” resolution.
Feb 5th, 2018
Flynn Blasts Police Chief Search
Two-fold process could hurt department, he says. Other cities don’t do this, experts say.
Feb 1st, 2018
Walker’s Hands Dirty on Political Purge
Why didn't he oppose axing Elections, Ethics heads? Because he wanted revenge.
Jan 30th, 2018
The Senator Who Cried Wolf
Ron Johnson backs off claim about FBI, refuses to provide evidence.
Jan 26th, 2018
RoJo Is Now Trump’s Hit Man
Sen. Johnson assails FBI with no evidence, supporting Trump and Russia.
Jan 25th, 2018
Dark Money’s High Court Candidate
Michael Screnock blows off candidate forums, bets on special interest money.
Jan 23rd, 2018
Can Dallet Win Supreme Court Primary?
Outspoken Madison liberal Tim Burns stands in her way.
Jan 18th, 2018
The MPS Agency Superintendents Hate
Efficiency office created in 2010 reports to board members. But is it needed?
Jan 16th, 2018
The Strange Rage of Scott Fitzgerald
His call to fire elections commission leader defies the law and common sense.
Jan 12th, 2018
School Board Restricts MPS Raises
Committee adopts rule requiring board approval for all raises.
Jan 10th, 2018
State’s New Top Policy Wonk
Rob Henken will run merged WisTax and Public Policy Forum. Oh, the attacks he will face.
Jan 9th, 2018
Sykes, Clarke Still Hate Each Other
Sykes keeps attacking his old pal, while Clarke is muzzled by Twitter.
Jan 5th, 2018
11 Sure-Fire Predictions For 2018
How crazy will 2018 be? Let us count the ways.
Jan 3rd, 2018
Foxconn Subsidy Now Exceeds $4 Billion
Government subsidy keeps increasing while Foxconn’s required investment has declined.
Dec 21st, 2017
17 Biggest Mistakes by Brad Schimel
Media feasting on problems in John Doe report. Here’s a scorecard of biggest goofs.
Dec 19th, 2017
22% of City Workers Live in Suburbs
Nearly 1,000 workers have left city since state ended residency rule.
Dec 14th, 2017
Brad Schimel Strikes Out Again
His 11-month investigation of John Doe leaks yields no charges but lots of anger.
Dec 12th, 2017
Lasry Sued for “Weinstein Sexual Enterprise”
Bucks owner, other Weinstein board members knew Harvey was a predator, suit claims.
Dec 7th, 2017
Seager Dumped as Fire Fighters Leader
Controversial president had served for seven years. Mike Bongiorno elected to replace him.
Dec 6th, 2017
We Energies Embraces Solar Power
State moving away from coal -- but still has a long ways to go.
Dec 5th, 2017
Will Roy Moore Embarrass Kevin Nicholson?
The Republican Senate candidate depends on Moore contributor Richard Uihlein.
Dec 1st, 2017
Council Okays Lawyers for Muni Court
Will help defendants who can be jailed when they can’t afford to pay fines.
Nov 30th, 2017
The Fall and Rise of WEAC
Once mighty state teachers union has lost its clout, yet many members stick with it.
Nov 28th, 2017
Journal Sentinel’s Post-Gannett Decline
As feared, it’s mostly become a local carrier of USA Today stories.
Nov 21st, 2017
Walker, Vukmir Court the Israel Lobby
A great way to get donations from billionaires like Sheldon Adelson.
Nov 16th, 2017
Brad Schimel’s Opioid Problem
Attorney General has been reluctant to pursue opioid manufacturers. Why?
Nov 14th, 2017
Seager Out as Fire Fighters Head?
Sources say controversial leader took second in vote, faces runoff election.
Nov 10th, 2017
Walker Retreats From Foxconn Deal
It was supposed to assure his reelection. What happened?
Nov 9th, 2017
WEDC Shifts on Foxconn Contract
After saying board members could now see contract, they will allow vote only on staff review of it.
Nov 8th, 2017
The GOP Sales Tax Hypocrisy
Favored Republican towns allowed to levy a local sales tax. But not Milwaukee.
Nov 7th, 2017
Voter Suppression Hurts Everyone
New research shows votes -- for both blacks and whites -- were suppressed in 2016.
Oct 31st, 2017
The Secrets of Foxconn
Walker administration won’t release details of massive subsidy until after contract is signed.
Oct 26th, 2017
Barrett Versus the Backdrop Boys
Or how police-fire benefits are driving the city budget crisis.
Oct 24th, 2017
Wisconsin One of Cheapest States
Gives little to charity, report shows. Milwaukee is much more generous than state.
Oct 19th, 2017
Abele Battles Board on Budget
Once again. Even if it means swapping their old ideological positions.
Oct 17th, 2017
Can Democrats Beat Ryan, Grothman?
Odds are slim. But the added turnout for those races could help reelect Tammy Baldwin.
Oct 12th, 2017
Is Mayor Barrett Playing With Fire?
Actually, his reduction in fire stations may have no impact on safety.
Oct 10th, 2017
Will City Reform Municipal Court?
Too many judges, indigent defendants treated badly, reform needed.
Oct 5th, 2017
How to Buy a University Department
Bradley Foundation and Kochs buy a new UW-Madison economics institute.
Oct 3rd, 2017
The City’s Most Curious Lobbyist
Why is fire fighters’ president quietly lobbying on issues unrelated to his job?
Sep 14th, 2017
Leah Vukmir Welcomes Your Hate
Or how to run for U.S. Senate in the land of scorched-earth politics.
Sep 12th, 2017
Flynn Blasts “Incompetent” Report
“We want to talk about reform,” police chief says, not DOJ report’s many errors.
Sep 7th, 2017
9 Reasons Why Barrett Recall Failed
Recall effort falls far short of number of signatures needed. Why?
Sep 6th, 2017
Why Did Sheriff Clarke Resign?
It’s all about his love of Donald Trump -- and the media spotlight.
Sep 1st, 2017
The Hit Job on Chief Flynn
Someone leaks incomplete report to Journal Sentinel, which slams chief with it.
Aug 31st, 2017
Newest Deal Shows Foxconn Flaws
Walker spends 11 times more per job on Foxconn than Haribo candy company?
Aug 29th, 2017
Paper Peddles Bogus Foxconn Report
Puffed-up report by Walker crony swallowed whole by Journal Sentinel.
Aug 23rd, 2017
Richard Uihlein, GOP Kingmaker
Should one billionaire dictate the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate?
Aug 17th, 2017
Right-Wing TV News Kingdom Rising
Sinclair Broadcasting could become biggest player in state’s top media markets.
Aug 15th, 2017
Walker’s Desperate Deal With Foxconn
No governor in state history would have offered such a massive giveaway.
Aug 10th, 2017
Wisconsin A Key State for Russian Hacking
And Ryan, Johnson, Duffy may have many questions to answer.
Aug 8th, 2017
Diane Hendricks, Savior of Beloit?
New York Times glowing story on billionaire doesn’t mention her tax breaks.
Aug 7th, 2017
City’s Revenue Structure Is “Broken”
Milwaukee’s over-reliance on property tax, state aid threatens its future, study warns.
Jul 25th, 2017
WTMJ Move Threatens Liberal Talk Station
“They’ve picked a fight with the wrong guy,” WRRD owner warns.
Jul 20th, 2017
The Fire Fighters’ Selfish Agenda
The union’s backing of Barrett recall is all about driving up their wages and benefits.
Jul 18th, 2017
Walker Building Yesterday’s Economy
GOP throws ever more money at declining manufacturers, gets nothing back.
Jul 13th, 2017
City Is Unequal for Bike Users
Report finds poorer residents have far less access to bike trails. Is there a solution?
Jul 11th, 2017
Barrett Recall Announced
Curious cast of characters behind effort, which will require 52,000 signatures.
Jul 7th, 2017
Walker’s Dreadful Dilemma on Health Care
Why is he so vague on Obamacare? Because its repeal could kill his reelection.
Jul 6th, 2017
We Couldn’t Find Any Voter Fraud
Ex legislator Dale Schultz exposes Republican scam on voter fraud.
Jul 5th, 2017
Will the Real Ron Johnson Stand Up?
His draconian stance on health care was obscured by lazy media coverage.
Jun 29th, 2017
The Bradley Foundation’s New Pope
New chairman James Arthur Pope could turn foundation further right.
Jun 27th, 2017
Sykes Unloads Right Wisconsin
Wigderson is new owner/editor. But don’t worry, Sykes is a still a “conservative.”
Jun 26th, 2017
How Trucks Destroy Our Roads
And how a fee on trucks could solve state’s transportation problem.
Jun 22nd, 2017
Why Gableman Is Stepping Down
And how will that affect the race for Supreme Court?
Jun 20th, 2017
Why Is CEO Pay Still Soaring?
Up 8.5% last year, hitting obscene levels in state and nation. Why?
Jun 6th, 2017
Hendricks’ Home Is Reassessed
Assessment and taxes on home have been tripled in response to our story.
Jun 1st, 2017
Should Cops Do More High Speed Chases?
Common Council says yes. Chief Flynn says no. Who’s right?
May 26th, 2017
Ryan, Priebus on a Sinking Ship
Paul Ryan and Reince Priebus may go down with the USS Trump.
May 23rd, 2017
Mistakes Made on Hendricks Home
Town lawyer says assessment too low, should be reconsidered.
May 22nd, 2017
Bradley Foundation Breaking the Law?
Hacked files show foundation may violate ban on political activity.
May 16th, 2017
The Bogus Studies of Miller Park
How we've been misled -- repeatedly -- about Brewers “economic impact.”
May 10th, 2017
The Incompetence of Brad Schimel
AG's handling of a voter fraud claim is an epic case of ineptitude.
May 2nd, 2017
The Greed of American Family
Jury finds insurance company underpays agents, as execs get rich.
Apr 27th, 2017
The Lobbyist Governors Loved
The late Bill Gerrard was part of “permanent government” voters decry.
Apr 25th, 2017
Would Walker Trim Tuition Benefit?
Tax break mostly benefits wealthy. Walker might back changes.
Apr 21st, 2017
The Failed Promise of Miller Park
It didn’t make Brewers more competitive, yet its price tag keeps rising.
Apr 20th, 2017
The Tax Handout for Rich Kids
State's “neo-vouchers” reimburse wealthy for kids at elite private schools.
Apr 18th, 2017
Why Republicans Couldn’t Beat Evers
The incumbent superintendent was vulnerable. Why the GOP stumbled.
Apr 13th, 2017
Hidden Loaded Guns And No Training
Republican bill to end permits and training for concealed carry is dangerous.
Apr 4th, 2017
Can Holtz Beat Evers?
Incumbent Superintendent Evers worries that dark money will rescue Holtz.
Mar 30th, 2017
Sykes’ War Against Sheriff Clarke
Their bromance has gone bitter, the love has turned to hate. Why?
Mar 28th, 2017
The Remarkable Clout of We Energies
Year after year the company jacks up prices with bipartisan approval. Why?
Mar 21st, 2017
The Muzzling of the DNR
Gagged by the Walker administration, its staff no longer provide any information.
Mar 16th, 2017
The Worst Governor Ever For Workers?
Six years later, Gov. Scott Walker’s impact on unions, worker rights and jobs.
Mar 14th, 2017
Pat Roggensack On the Warpath
Supreme Court chief justice slams Journal Sentinel, Janine Geske, and others.
Mar 9th, 2017
Who’s To Blame for Pension Mess?
County’s countless expensive mistakes go back at least 15 years -- and still no solution.
Mar 7th, 2017
Sue Black Faces More Controversy
Former county parks director investigated for management of Arizona Parks.
Mar 3rd, 2017
Wisconsin Is a Global Trade Winner
Trump’s protectionist trade policies will hurt state far more than others.
Feb 28th, 2017
The Rise of Anti-Semitism
Study finds three-fold increase in metro area. Jewish leaders blame Trump.
Feb 23rd, 2017
Walker Exports Union Busting
Governor advises Iowa legislators on bill to decimate unions.
Feb 16th, 2017
Milwaukee Subsidizes The State
The city gets only 66 cents in state spending for every dollar in state taxes paid.
Feb 14th, 2017
Taking Aim at Voucher Schools
A JS reporter’s story details disturbing problems -- but not in her own newspaper.
Feb 9th, 2017
The Many Faces of Charlie Sykes
He’s spent his whole career changing his views. So which should we believe?
Feb 7th, 2017
Can Liberal Talk Radio Succeed?
A new Milwaukee radio station with a unique approach is about to find out.
Jan 31st, 2017
Journal Sentinel Shrinks Further
Plummeting circulation, shrinking news coverage, closing government pressrooms.
Jan 26th, 2017
John Menard, the Self-Made Man
Forbes ranks him near the top in that category, though below Oprah.
Jan 24th, 2017
Sheriff Clarke’s Meltdown?
He threatens to eliminate a citizen, uses vicious racial slur against another.
Jan 20th, 2017
How Milwaukee Handled “Flint” Crisis
Were city officials asleep? Should they be doing more?
Jan 19th, 2017
Scott Walker, the King of Coal
Businesses and GOP voters are embracing alternative energy. Not Gov. Walker.
Jan 17th, 2017
City’s $1 Home Program a Great Idea
But you’d never know it, given how some of the media covered it.
Jan 12th, 2017
Ron Johnson Asleep on Russian Hacking?
He was informed of problem, did nothing, then misled public about it.
Jan 10th, 2017
State Justice System Uses Racially Biased Test
Wisconsin Corrections uses test with bias against blacks in sentencing, parole.
Jan 5th, 2017
Dollars For Docs From Drug Companies
State doctors, hospitals raked in $50.4 million and tend to prescribe those drugs.
Dec 22nd, 2016
Why Ryan Opposed Buy American Plan
Baldwin plan echoed Trump’s doctrine, got killed by lobbyists for foreign companies.
Dec 22nd, 2016
Symphony Move Huge for Downtown
A big win for the orchestra and Downtown, with a minor impact on Marcus Center.
Dec 20th, 2016
Paul Ryan’s Patriotism At Issue?
House Republicans he oversaw used illegally hacked information from Russians.
Dec 15th, 2016
Trump Vs. Rexnord, Who Will Win?
Wisconsin could loom large in Trump’s effort to save manufacturing jobs.
Dec 13th, 2016
State Democrats Could Sink Still Lower
Yes, they’re at a historic low. But things could get worse.
Dec 8th, 2016
The Rise of Scott Walker
Journal Sentinel’s lo-o-ng series struggles to explain it -- but omits the newspaper's role.
Dec 6th, 2016
10 Strangest Things About State Recount
Crazy cost estimates, murky legal issues, Green Party spats, and much more.
Dec 1st, 2016
Sheriff’s History Of Inmate Mistreatment
Problems at county jail just the latest incidents of mistreatment under Sheriff Clarke.
Nov 30th, 2016
Maybe We’re Not So Bad At Startups
Conflicting studies raise doubts about state’s “worst in nation”rating for new companies.
Nov 29th, 2016
Stein Will Pay For Presidential Recount
Green Party wants recount of narrow Trump wins in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Michigan.
Nov 23rd, 2016
The Council’s Battle Over Police
Donovan and several aldermen demand more, Hamilton slaps them down. Who’s right?
Nov 22nd, 2016
An “Epidemic” of Voter Suppression
Experts say it's a massive problem in the state and may have swung election nationally.
Nov 17th, 2016
Why Schools Are Increasingly Unequal
Act 10 and era of school referendums causes bigger gap between haves and have nots.
Nov 15th, 2016
Did Trump Steal Wisconsin?
Some point to voter suppression as a factor in this state and others.
Nov 11th, 2016
Early Voting Shows Hillary Leading
Early voting edge in five key states, including Wisconsin. But oh, was that misleading.
Nov 8th, 2016
The Legend of Leah Vukmir
Once considered a horrible legislator, she’s now one of the Capitol’s “heaviest hitters.”
Nov 8th, 2016
Schimel Patrols Only Democratic Voters?
AG’s “Election Integrity Unit” will monitor polls, but targets urban or Democratic areas.
Nov 3rd, 2016
Why State’s MPS Takeover Plan Died
In changing state ratings to protect choice schools, Republicans ended up killing OSPP.
Oct 27th, 2016
Is a County Wheel Tax Needed?
Abele says yes, board members are opposed. Who’s right?
Oct 25th, 2016
Sylville Smith’s Killer Charged With Sex Assault
Officer Dominique Heaggan-Brown's fatal shooting of Smith had set off near-riot in city.
Oct 20th, 2016
Rojo On The Rebound
Ron Johnson is fired up and rising in the polls. Can he beat Feingold?
Oct 20th, 2016
David Clarke the Demagogue
A sheriff who once represented law and order has sold his soul to become a media star.
Oct 18th, 2016
GOP’s New Way to Suppress Votes
States like Wisconsin change voting rules, cause confusion, lower Democratic turnout.
Oct 13th, 2016
Paul Ryan’s Losing Bet on Trump
He finally deserted The Donald, but is it too late to avoid damaging his own career?
Oct 11th, 2016
The Hypocrisy of the WMC
Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce wants no judge recusals -- except when it benefits them.
Oct 6th, 2016
13 Lessons The Guardian Taught Us
Or how Scott Walker corrupted Wisconsin, as the leaked Doe documents reveal.
Oct 4th, 2016
Why Wisconsin Needs Mexico
And how Trump’s get-tough policies will hurt the state.
Sep 13th, 2016
The New Charlie Sykes
He's confessing his errors and getting lots of publicity. Could there be a connection?
Sep 6th, 2016
Journal Sentinel Archive Will Return?
JS President blames computer mixup, pledges return of 120-year archive, won't say when.
Sep 2nd, 2016
Did Walker Raid Veteran’s Home Fund?
Cap Times story on nursing home shows funding was diverted while care declined.
Sep 1st, 2016
Errors Embarrass Journal Sentinel
Washington Post finds problems in James Causey’s work, which JS editors try to hide.
Aug 30th, 2016
Sylville Smith Probe Looks Suspicious
AG Brad Schimel’s links to Milwaukee Police raise questions about his investigation.
Aug 25th, 2016
The Battle Over Charter Schools
NAACP declares opposition and is criticized by charter supporters like Howard Fuller.
Aug 23rd, 2016
Where Are Top CEOs on City’s Unrest?
The silence is deafening. But Mayor Barrett says they want to help.
Aug 18th, 2016
Role Of Police Questioned in Unrest
Was violence a reaction to years of mistreatment by police?
Aug 16th, 2016
19 Election Winners and Losers
Beyond the candidates, behind the scenes. who won, who lost?
Aug 10th, 2016
Can Chisholm Be Beaten?
The DA pleads for help as dark money from outside the county blasts him.
Aug 8th, 2016
Walker’s Bizarre Choice for High Court
From a state with countless judges, he picks a crackpot lawyer named Daniel Kelly.
Jul 28th, 2016
The King of Subprime Lending
How Bucks owner Wes Edens makes millions off troubled homeowners.
Jul 27th, 2016
Chisholm Far More Experienced Than Opponent
He’s handled 14 times more cases than Swanigan. He also shows up for debates.
Jul 25th, 2016
Will Clarke Hurt GOP With Black Voters?
His speech adds to anti-black tone at Republican convention, but heightens sheriff’s fame.
Jul 21st, 2016
Radio Ad Blasts John Chisholm
Secretive group blames DA for carjackings, lauds his opponent Verona Swanigan.
Jul 20th, 2016
Why Rocky Marcoux Is In Trouble
New Common Council leaders want to ax the DCD leader. But why? Few will say.
Jul 18th, 2016
“Do something about guns,” Flynn Pleads
Flynn calls for gun control at Obama's national town hall, demands action from legislature.
Jul 15th, 2016
Koch Brothers Recruit State’s Latinos
But efforts by their shadowy Libre Initiative may be undercut by Trump.
Jul 14th, 2016
10 Lessons After Dallas
How can Milwaukee and the nation assure that black lives and blue lives matter?
Jul 12th, 2016
Journal Sentinel Sanitizes Trump Disaster
It offers only Paul Ryan’s positive account of Trump’s ugly tussle with Congress.
Jul 8th, 2016
Will Wisconsin Matter in Presidential Race?
If not, that’s bad news not just for Trump but for Ron Johnson, too.
Jul 7th, 2016
Racism Issue Dogs Bradley Foundation
Does foundation still support research on racial inferiority?
Jul 5th, 2016
State Lottery Preys on the Poor
Even winners lose from this hugely inefficient tax on the poor.
Jun 30th, 2016
Chisholm Challenger Skips Debate
Verona Swanigan objects to moderator and drops out of debate with DA John Chisholm.
Jun 22nd, 2016
Journal Sentinel’s Bias Against Feingold
The coverage of Russ Feingold suggests they’ve truly become a Republican newspaper.
Jun 21st, 2016
The Bizarre War Against John Chisholm
What’s more peculiar, his opponent, or the complicated plot to defeat him?
Jun 14th, 2016
The World According to Janel Brandtjen
Republican lawmaker is angry about crime in the city. Here’s how she could help.
Jun 10th, 2016
Does Anyone Oppose Bus Rapid Transit?
The idea is very unsexy, yet has gained amazingly wide support.
Jun 7th, 2016
Study Ranks Wisconsin’s Economy 28th
With low rankings for “economic activity” and business startups, new analysis finds.
Jun 6th, 2016
GOP Goal Less Access for Democratic Voters
But you have to sift through media coverage of trial testimony for the story.
Jun 2nd, 2016
John Menard vs. Donald Trump
Their friendship and later feud gets titillating coverage from Indianapolis Monthly.
May 26th, 2016
How to Destroy a Transit System
County board's free bus ride program triggers huge deficits that could overwhelm system.
May 24th, 2016
Why Urban School Chiefs Fail
The lessons of former MPS superintendent Gregory Thornton’s firing in Baltimore.
May 19th, 2016
How CEOs Leave Workers Behind
CEOs Rich Meeusen and Tim Sullivan get rich while workers get nothing.
May 17th, 2016
The Report That Walker Killed
Its warning: Ending civil service means less qualified will serve. Why didn’t legislators see it?
May 16th, 2016
The Plot Thickens In John Doe
Did State Supreme Court try to sabotage appeal of its Doe ruling to US Supreme Court?
May 12th, 2016
Is Sheriff Clarke the Black Trump?
And a possible running mate? Atlantic Mag charts the rising star of Milwaukee’s sheriff.
May 10th, 2016
The Generosity of Donald Baumgartner
The manufacturing CEO shares the wealth with those who made him rich: his employees.
May 5th, 2016
State Drags Feet On Lead-Tainted Water
Its program underfunds Milwaukee while pushing for upgrades that residents can't afford.
May 3rd, 2016
Two MPS Schools in State’s Top 10
U.S. News ranks Reagan and King above most suburban high schools.
Apr 28th, 2016
How Walker is Killing the Meritocracy
Talented workers are leaving or discouraged from applying, as party loyalists win favor.
Apr 27th, 2016
New Study Shows Teacher Shortage
The problem exists statewide, but is the worst in metro Milwaukee.
Apr 26th, 2016
Why Republicans Love Photo ID
It may not make a huge difference in the vote. Just enough to win.
Apr 19th, 2016
Why Miller Park’s Tax Never Ends
Perhaps because the stadium’s public board cares more about the team than taxpayers.
Apr 12th, 2016
John Menard’s Anti-Union Rules
A Menards manager leaks a copy of adamantly anti-union contract used by the company.
Apr 7th, 2016
Will Murphy Lose Council Presidency?
Race could be wide open and Ashanti Hamilton might have surprising supporters.
Apr 6th, 2016
Who Will Win the Elections?
The turnout will be massive. And could result in upsets.
Apr 5th, 2016
Trump Vs. The Wisconsin Establishment
Journal Sentinel joins talk radio and GOP party in battling The Donald.
Mar 31st, 2016
The Plot to Defeat Bob Bauman
His opponent has two names, lives outside the district, and is part of anti-streetcar clique.
Mar 29th, 2016
It’s Official, Sculpture Wasn’t Anti-Semitic
Jewish Federation’s annual audit of anti-semitism absolves the Shorewood sculpture.
Mar 25th, 2016
Chris Abele Is In Deep Trouble
A year ago he was a shoo-in for reelection. Now he's in the fight of his life.
Mar 24th, 2016
Milwaukee Not Among Most Racist Cities
So says new study, which also ranks state as among the most tolerant in America.
Mar 22nd, 2016
Journal Sentinel Bias In Mayor’s Race?
And was its story on Rebecca Bradley’s affair “offensive garbage”?
Mar 17th, 2016
The Mystery of Rebecca Bradley
Who exactly is she? And why didn’t Walker vet his choice for Supreme Court?
Mar 15th, 2016
Can Art Museum Afford O’Donnell Park?
Deal sounds almost too good to be true. Here's a reality check.
Mar 10th, 2016
Will Priebus Destroy The Republican Party?
Decisions by the RNC chairman from Wisconsin could fatally wound the party.
Mar 8th, 2016
More Suburban Firms Moving Downtown?
It’s all about attracting millennials, new story suggests.
Mar 7th, 2016
County Pension Scandal Poster Boys
Six veterans seeking re-election voted for infamous pension plan that ripped off taxpayers.
Mar 3rd, 2016
Milwaukee’s Economic Challenge
A new study shows Milwaukee is among the ten most distressed cities. Is it accurate?
Mar 1st, 2016
Where City’s Crime is Rising
The biggest hike is in Ald. Donovan’s district. No wonder that’s his major issue.
Feb 18th, 2016
Why Walker Allowed Lincoln Hills Abuses
His staff knew about it for years. Why didn’t the governor act?
Feb 16th, 2016
Did Democratic Debate Help Milwaukee?
And did Clinton or Sanders win? Morning-after reflections.
Feb 12th, 2016
Stealth Campaign Targets Mayor Barrett
He would easily win the April election. But could he take third in Tuesday’s primary?
Feb 11th, 2016
The Plague of Urban Evictions
New Yorker reports on evictions of poor renters in Milwaukee. The numbers are shocking.
Feb 9th, 2016
8 Problems With Privatizing Water Utilities
Media has now jumped on the issue, adding more info on why proposed bill is a mistake.
Feb 2nd, 2016
Will Bill Privatize Water Utilities?
Proposed law opens door to companies like Aqua America running local water utilities.
Jan 28th, 2016
The Myth of Democratic Gerrymandering
They all did it in Wisconsin, Republicans declare. Just ask Christian Schneider.
Jan 26th, 2016
The Lonely Journey of Mark Borkowski
New alderman’s crazed comments leave him only (and barely) the police union's support.
Jan 21st, 2016
Barrett Vulnerable, Says Governing Mag
At least the headline says so. But the story is, well, a different story.
Jan 20th, 2016
Wisconsin Student Debt Is Soaring
It rose 74% in 10 years, faster than all but six states. What is Walker's solution?
Jan 19th, 2016
What Has Mayor Barrett Accomplished?
After nearly 12 years in office, his impact can be seen -- if you look hard.
Jan 14th, 2016
Walker’s Secretive Governing Style
Since he was County Executive, Walker has devised ever more ways to operate in secret.
Jan 12th, 2016
Maybe Karl Kopp Was Right
I criticized him for letting a historic building rot, but he’d planned a stunning replacement.
Jan 7th, 2016
The Man Who Cried Anti-Semitism
How the media amplified dumb attack on public sculpture and why Shorewood took it down.
Jan 5th, 2016
Great News for Grand Avenue Mall
A smart new team of local owners is poised to revive the mall and W. Wisconsin Ave.
Dec 22nd, 2015
Walker’s Assault on Open Records
Walker and Republicans are methodically working to end any scrutiny of their actions.
Dec 17th, 2015
Do Millennials Oppose the Streetcar?
Not really, but a new survey is fueling misunderstandings. What do millennials really want?
Dec 15th, 2015
Did Karl Kopp Let Historic Building Rot?
Unique 1871 building on river was “irreplaceable.” Bauman blames Kopp for its destruction.
Dec 10th, 2015
Chisholm Considering Appeal of John Doe Ruling
Four DAs discussing whether to appeal state high court decision to U.S. Supreme Court.
Dec 9th, 2015
“The NRA’s Vision for America is Anarchy.”
Chief Flynn say legislature’s “insane” concealed carry law causes crime and threatens police safety.
Dec 8th, 2015
Milwaukee’s Massive Pedophile Priest Problem
Boston gets all the attention in the movie ‘Spotlight’, but Milwaukee’s problem may be just as bad.
Dec 2nd, 2015
Does Milwaukee Need More Police?
Mayoral candidate Bob Donovan thinks so. How does this city compare to others?
Nov 24th, 2015
Still Controversy Over Art Museum Addition
Journal Sentinel offers inaccurate account of how new addition got built. Here's the real story.
Nov 17th, 2015
GOP Circus Puts Spotlight on Milwaukee
Protestors protested as Republican presidential candidates debated. So who won?
Nov 11th, 2015
How Dark Money Will Rule Wisconsin
Two Republican bills about to pass could make this a vassal state of wealthy special interests.
Nov 10th, 2015
Abele Faces Attack on Free Bus Rides
Though his challenger for county exec, Chris Larson, is undecided on issue, it could still impact the race.
Nov 4th, 2015
How Schools Are Over-Testing Students
New study of big city schools, including Milwaukee, shows way too many standardized tests being given.
Oct 29th, 2015
The Revenge of Scott Walker?
Law killing John Doe law assures no more such probes targeting him. But was reform needed?
Oct 27th, 2015
The Real Meaning of the John Henson Affair
Does one racial profiling incident prove this is America’s most hypersegregated city?
Oct 21st, 2015
Gov. Walker Did Have Secret Email System
Report shows state business conducted through 300 personal emails, confirms Urban Milwaukee story.
Oct 19th, 2015
Chris Larson’s War Against Abele
State senator running for county executive blasts Abele with personal attacks, will divide Democrats.
Oct 15th, 2015
How Gannett Will Shrink the Journal Sentinel
New owners will drastically diminish the size and scope of state’s largest newspaper.
Oct 13th, 2015
The Republican Spoils System
The bill to kill civil service aims to create a one-party government, from top to bottom.
Oct 8th, 2015
The Walker Campaign “Scandal”
Something went wrong. And everyone’s blaming campaign manager Rick Wiley. Why?
Oct 6th, 2015
8 Reasons Why Walker’s Campaign Failed
Media analysts nationally have mostly missed the real story.
Oct 1st, 2015
Milwaukee, the Land of Duplexes
City is a national leader, which helps explain its surprising strength: density.
Sep 29th, 2015
The Plague of Lead Paint Poisoning
The problem persists, with more impact on Milwaukee than many cities. Is there a solution?
Sep 10th, 2015
Walker “Worst” Candidate on Wind, Solar?
State is worst for home solar and stagnant on wind power, Bloomberg story suggests.
Sep 9th, 2015
The Meltdown of Scott Walker
Onetime frontrunner for Iowa primary is “finished,” most covering presidential campaign say.
Sep 3rd, 2015
Minority Women-Owned Firms Rise 97%
State still ranks low in entrepreneurship but new firms by women and minority owners soar.
Sep 2nd, 2015
Common Ground’s $30 Million Victory for City
Pressure on Bucks owner Wes Edens results in Nationstar’s $30 million pledge to prevent foreclosures.
Sep 1st, 2015
Anti-Streetcar Petition Dies
Paging General Bob Donovan, what happened?
Aug 28th, 2015
How Walker Wasted Pricey Legal Help
He ignored $2.2 million report concluding Kenosha casino had no legal risks.
Aug 27th, 2015
The Twisted Tale of Talgo
Settlement forces state to pay more for trains it didn’t get, leaving it with slower Amtrak trains.
Aug 25th, 2015
Wisconsin’s Growing Teacher Shortage
The number of education majors and teaching candidates is drastically declining. Why?
Aug 20th, 2015
Milwaukee Municipal Court Under Fire
It imprisons debtors and seems bloated with staff. Will city demand changes?
Aug 18th, 2015
Walker Flubs First GOP Debate
His tepid style hurt him. Who won and where does this leave Walker?
Aug 7th, 2015
The Most Gerrymandered State in America
Study shows Wisconsin most gerrymandered in 42 years. Case is filed in federal court.
Aug 6th, 2015
The Tragedy of David Prosser
Recusal ruling adds to his image as the symbol of a dysfunctional Supreme Court.
Aug 4th, 2015
Did Bucks Investors Pay Off Walker?
One publication says yes. But most donors to his presidential campaign are secret.
Jul 30th, 2015
Is Abele Dumping the Marcus Center?
Its takeover by new “Super District” running Bucks arena looks fishy.
Jul 28th, 2015
Residency Rule Upheld But For How Long?
Appeals court overturns law killing city residency rule. State high court may review decision.
Jul 24th, 2015
Cost for Taxpayers In Latest Bucks Deal?
Bucks gave ground. But it’s still a huge bite for taxpayers.
Jul 23rd, 2015
Why Crooks Opposed Court’s John Doe Ruling
He votes 90% of time with conservatives, but blasted Gableman’s majority opinion.
Jul 21st, 2015
Who is Scott Walker?
The real, profusely documented story of the man who would be president.
Jul 16th, 2015
Why Bucks’ Entertainment District May Fail
Across the country these mega-projects have hurt cities with generic development that banishes local charm.
Jul 14th, 2015
The Attack on Government Pensions
The most shocking budget provision was a little-understood change in the pension system which lays bare the Republicans’ goals.
Jul 9th, 2015
Walker Admits Role in Curbing Open Records
Fitzgerald says governor involved and Walker’s office admits his role. Legislative drafting notes hid the authors.
Jul 8th, 2015
Abele Bids to Be King?
Proposal increasing county exec’s authority is a naked power grab with no public discussion or hearings and dangerously unforeseen consequences.
Jul 7th, 2015
Who’s To Blame for Bus Strike?
The union? Chris Abele? John Weishan? Scott Walker? A frank assessment.
Jul 2nd, 2015
Wisconsin’s Rotten Return on Federal Taxes Paid
New report shows we’re the fourth worst state in federal spending received. Walker’s policies don’t help.
Jul 1st, 2015
Bailing Out the Bucks Is Old News
Back in 2001, Bruce Murphy reported on the Greater Milwaukee Committee's plan to subsidize the Bucks.
Jun 25th, 2015
More Staff Changes at Journal Sentinel
Some being let go, but a big name reportedly hired: Biz Times Editor Steve Jagler set to join the JS.
Jun 24th, 2015
The Incredible Rise of CEO Pay
Their pay has risen 997% since 1978, driving the wealth gap nationally and in Wisconsin.
Jun 23rd, 2015
The Strange Politics of Anti-Streetcar-ites
So when is that referendum coming, and where are those aldermanic opponents?
Jun 18th, 2015
Was Act 10 Necessary?
New analysis by bipartisan expert on good government explodes the myths about Walker’s signature achievement.
Jun 16th, 2015
How Abele Bailed Out Walker
Governor made fatal error on Bucks arena, but Abele volunteered county taxpayers to solve the problem.
Jun 11th, 2015
Michael Grebe, Stealth Warrior
Is the Bradley Foundation CEO the real thinker behind Scott Walker’s policies?
Jun 9th, 2015
Walker Approach To Jobs Growth Failing?
National story for Reuters contrasts Wisconsin's Douglas County with next door Minnesota county, which is doing much better.
Jun 8th, 2015
Abele Plan for Bucks Arena Won’t Work
The county has nowhere near $4 million in annual debt for state to collect -- and Abele may lack the power to deliver it.
Jun 4th, 2015
Walker Bets on the Radical Right
He plans to beat Bush and Rubio from the far right. But his success could make him unelectable in the general election.
Jun 2nd, 2015
Bucks Bailout Gets Even Bigger
And the proportion paid by local taxpayers keeps rising, which the Journal Sentinel still doesn't report.
Jun 1st, 2015
Arena Plan is Massive Tax Shift to Milwaukee
County taxpayers will pay far more than predicted, as state legislators back away from the deal.
May 29th, 2015
Why Russ Could Beat Rojo
As the polls suggest, Johnson hasn't really tried to connect with voters. That could be fatal.
May 27th, 2015
Race for State Democratic Chair Gets Muddier
Bruce Murphy adds an update to his story on mudslinging in the race for party chair.
May 26th, 2015
Race for Democratic Chair Gets Dirty
Some mudslinging at the candidates may stick to Democratic insider and consultant Thad Nation. This story was updated at 6:30 p.m., May 26.
May 21st, 2015
We Must Imitate Other Cities
New study says we must build a Bucks arena and bigger convention center. But its data actually tells a much different story.
May 19th, 2015
The Disappearance of Dan Bice
The state’s top political reporter has disappeared. Is the Journal Sentinel killing his column?
May 14th, 2015
Gas Tax Insanity
Bipartisan opposition to the gas tax is causing potholes and rising car repair bills, and hurting the state economy.
May 12th, 2015
Lady MacBeth of the Supreme Court
Pat Roggensack has shamed herself and the high court in the ugly way she’s handled her elevation to chief justice.
May 7th, 2015
How Chisholm Is Reducing Black Imprisonment
A New Yorker story portrays the Milwaukee DA as a super-hero of reform. Hm. Is that true?
May 5th, 2015
MMAC Plays Hardball on Bucks Arena
A misleading poll, pressure on legislators and more misinformation are all used to sell the NBA arena.
May 5th, 2015
Does Milwaukee Run a Debtor’s Prison?
Study finds Milwaukee Municipal Court jails thousands of poor people for failing to pay fines. Why?
Apr 30th, 2015
What Makes Scott Walker Run?
A recent story about his upbringing may shine a sad -- and revealing -- light on Walker’s personality and political views.
Apr 28th, 2015
State Bucks Arena Plan Fleeces Milwaukee
Proposed sports district gives all legal protection to the state and sticks it to Milwaukee, both financially and politically.
Apr 23rd, 2015
Walker Gets Backed by Koch Brothers?
David Koch says he prefers Walker to other Republicans, NYT and New York Observer report.
Apr 21st, 2015
Why Businesses Are Moving To The City
Many are moving from suburbs to Downtown and Walker's Point, seeking younger workers.
Apr 21st, 2015
Shirley Abrahamson Against the World
Chief Justice’s fight against a constitutional change to demote her is a minor issue. So why such a juicy battle involving so many conservatives?
Apr 16th, 2015
The Secret Tax Subsidy Society
Republicans and Democrats conspire to create stealth taxes to fund the NBA arena. Will they succeed?
Apr 14th, 2015
Too Pure for Pork
Gov. Walker is a latest of state politicians from both parties who have an aversion to federal funds.
Apr 9th, 2015
Scott Walker, The Anti-Jeb
In just a few months, Gov. Walker has become the leading alternative to Jeb Bush.
Apr 7th, 2015
John Doe Supported by Many Republicans
Supreme Court candidate James Daley was among many GOP judges and prosecutors involved in alleged "partisan witch hunt."
Apr 2nd, 2015
Wisconsin’s Shrinking Middle Class
No state has seen a bigger decline in the percent of middle class households than Wisconsin, new data shows.
Mar 31st, 2015
Can Daley Beat Bradley for Supreme Court?
Challenger could get lots of right-wing money, but that may not be enough in this case.
Mar 26th, 2015
Did Menard Buy Protection From Walker?
Billionaire business man and frequent environmental violator gave $1.5 million in dark money to governor.
Mar 25th, 2015
Should City/County Donate More to NBA Arena?
Actually, local taxpayers will be donating $450 million. But the press won’t report the details.
Mar 24th, 2015
Is Milwaukee Becoming Gentrified?
Analysis of big cities shows Portland is most gentrified, with cities like Milwaukee also changing, but more slowly.
Mar 19th, 2015
A Whole New Class of Poor People?
Walker plan to quietly slash Food Stamps for 62,000 people will cost state $58 million to lose $92 million in federal funding.
Mar 17th, 2015
The Quick-Law Governor
Countless sweeping changes have been proposed almost overnight, with no study, no rationale and no known author.
Mar 12th, 2015
Bucks Owners Must Build Without Subsidy
Unique financial situation of Bucks owners suggests they may have to build a new arena, even with no taxpayer support.
Mar 10th, 2015
Anti-Streetcar Petition Drive Fails
Streetcar opponents failed to get enough signatures in 60 days; now say they’ll relaunch drive in May.
Mar 5th, 2015
Dale Schultz’s Last Hurrah
The retired Republican lawmaker dumps on his party and explains how Walker snookered him on Act 10.
Mar 5th, 2015
Is Walker Crazy Like a Fox?
His campaign for president seems ridiculous. So why is he rising in the polls?
Mar 3rd, 2015
Journal Sentinel Jumps on Sinking Ship
Prospectus shows all 13 newspapers the new Journal company absorbs are losing money.
Feb 26th, 2015
Hey, Let’s Drug Test Food Stamp Recipients
Walker and Vos love the idea. So what will it cost and what will it accomplish?
Feb 24th, 2015
Supreme Court Justices for Sale
There may be no supreme court in America that’s more corrupted by conflicts of interest.
Feb 19th, 2015
Walker’s UW Cuts Get National Press
It’s probably helping his presidential run, but also raising questions about Walker as a person.
Feb 18th, 2015
The County Board’s Anti-Environmental Boondoggle
Its Estabrook Dam decision will cost taxpayers millions and harm environment.
Feb 17th, 2015
How Could Walker Refuse Incredible Deal?
Kenosha casino would pay entire taxpayer bill for NBA arena and up to $275 million for any (unlikely) litigation costs. And Walker says no?
Feb 12th, 2015
Why Walker Had to Cut UW Funding
His presidential ambitions left him with no other option.
Feb 10th, 2015
Is Paul Ryan Becoming a Moderate?
Yet another “new” Ryan, this time ready to make bargains with Obama.
Feb 9th, 2015
Who is “Lobbying” For the Streetcar?
Money is being spent and wild rumors are flying. So what’s the truth?
Feb 5th, 2015
Will County Pass Another Pension Giveaway?
Board members favor a “grandfather clause” protecting retirees with illegal payments that could cost taxpayers $10 million.
Feb 3rd, 2015
City Attorney Says Streetcar Petitions Might be Moot
Legal opinion says Common Council approval of streetcar in July 2011 might make petition drive demanding a referendum irrelevant.
Jan 30th, 2015
Does “Broken Windows” Theory Hurt Milwaukee?
Police Chief Ed Flynn is one of the foremost practitioners of aggressive policing getting national criticism.
Jan 29th, 2015
MMSD Settles With Boston Store
Suit posed question: is Deep Tunnel depleting water table and causing downtown buildings to sink?
Jan 28th, 2015
How Walker’s Presidential Bid Hurts Wisconsin
On a wide range of policies, Walker may be serving his career more than his constituents
Jan 27th, 2015
Koch-Funded Group Backs Anti-Streetcar Drive
Americans for Prosperity has provided paid staff for petition drive, its state director says.
Jan 20th, 2015
Who Is Funding the Anti-Streetcar Effort?
Ald. Bauman and others are certain that dark money is pouring in for this, which streetcar opponents deny.
Jan 20th, 2015
National Media Jumps on “College Dropout” Walker
Walker’s presidential run brings on stories about the hole in his resume.
Jan 16th, 2015
Does Milwaukee Need an Aerotropolis?
Many cities have embraced concept of airport centered growth. Is Milwaukee falling behind?
Jan 15th, 2015
The Property Tax Scam for Brewers, Bucks
Odds are, the Bucks arena will get many secret tax subsidies, as Miller Park does.
Jan 13th, 2015
Will Anti-Streetcar Referendum Succeed?
The process is far more complicated legally than has been reported. Which will make it harder for opponents.
Jan 9th, 2015
State Is a Leader in Women Workers
New York Times analysis shows Wisconsin is one of the leading states in the percent of women working.
Jan 8th, 2015
Milwaukee’s Miraculous Water Hub
Almost overnight, the city has become an international leader in water technology, says the national media. Are they right?
Jan 6th, 2015
How Wisconsin Punishes the Poor
National Public Radio reports how poor people who can’t pay fines lose their drivers licenses.
Jan 5th, 2015
Scott Walker, Master of Deception
Whenever the governor insists a policy is “not a priority,” you can probably assume the contrary.
Dec 23rd, 2014
Chisholm Decision Triggers Controversy
DA decides not to charge officer who killed mentally ill man, leaving community divided over issue.
Dec 22nd, 2014
Avalon Theater’s Grand Opening is a Winner
Barrett salutes the theater’s and Bay View’s redevelopment, but is upstaged by the facility’s lovely redesign.
Dec 19th, 2014
Foundation Helps Herb Kohl Get $20 Million Windfall
His “$100 million gift” to Greater Milwaukee Foundation will gain him huge tax break for supporting new NBA arena.
Dec 18th, 2014
Walker’s Battle Against Birth Control
State audit that could shut down family planning clinics may be latest of his anti-contraception efforts.
Dec 16th, 2014
We Hate You Steve Smith
No, reporters at the Journal Sentinel are not happy about all the layoffs. And they clearly blame the company’s CEO.
Dec 11th, 2014
Will Journal Sentinel Become a Right-Wing Paper?
Marty Kaiser’s retirement and replacement by managing editor George Stanley will likely mean a more conservative paper.
Dec 11th, 2014
America’s Newest Hero, David Clarke
He’s in the news everywhere and conservatives are falling all over themselves in adulation.
Dec 9th, 2014
The Bizarre Politics of Ald. Tony Zielinski
Once a hard core conservative, he’s now a Bay View liberal. Except when opposing things like the streetcar.
Dec 4th, 2014
How Will NBA Arena Benefit the City?
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver promises a new arena will launch a Downtown renewal. Is he right?
Dec 2nd, 2014
GMC Wins $725,000 Grant to Help City
Kresge Foundation grant would help build city's Artery trail and revive depressed Harambee neighborhood.
Dec 1st, 2014
Is O’Donnell Purchase a Sweetheart Deal?
Northwestern Mutual won’t sign full deed restriction for county deal, leaving it free to develop a high-rise development on lakefront land.
Nov 25th, 2014
Grand Opening of Avalon Theater Announced
Refurbished, 1929, Spanish-Moorish theater reopens December 18 with The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies.
Nov 21st, 2014
How Does Wisconsin Rank in LGBT Friendliness?
Our two biggest cities and many top companies rank high in studies, but state schools rank low, as does Kohl’s Corp.
Nov 20th, 2014
The Economic Madness of Robin Vos
His stance on “prioritizing” research could hurt our universities and the state economy.
Nov 18th, 2014
Let Us Now Blame Mike Tate
Hatred for the state Democratic Chair is flowing. But is he at fault for the election debacle or was the party’s message lacking?
Nov 13th, 2014
The Ed Flynn Factor
Politico Magazine concludes Milwaukee is an innovator in policing. Why? Chief Flynn’s leadership.
Nov 12th, 2014
The Legacy of Annette Polly Williams
The author of school choice later became its opponent. Williams was controversial -- and misunderstood -- right to the end.
Nov 11th, 2014
Why Republicans Hate Kevin Kennedy
The GAB director is an “embarrassment,” Assembly Speaker Robin Vos says. Embarrassing to who?
Nov 6th, 2014
Why Burke’s Loss Was Inevitable
Burke's impact as a candidate was so negligible that Walker was almost running against himself. He had to hope the Walker lovers outnumbered his haters.
Nov 4th, 2014
MPS Board President Demands Reporter Be Replaced
Bonds demands Erin Richards get pulled from MPS beat, Journal Sentinel refuses, and whole thing descends into a bizarre comedy.
Oct 31st, 2014
The Six Wives of Edo de Waart
Our classic story on the man who may be the most married conductor in musical history.
Oct 30th, 2014
The Tragedy of O’Donnell Park
The proposed sale to NML suggests the city has yet to learn from its folly in building this eyesore.
Oct 30th, 2014
Wisconsin, the Land of Diversity?
Turns out we beat most states in the percent of women and minorities elected. Who knew?
Oct 28th, 2014
The Battle Between Walker and Burke
They are two wildly different personalities with quite different agendas. A frank look at both candidates for governor.
Oct 24th, 2014
Dispute Over Bucks Arena Goes National
New York Times dumps on Milwaukee business leaders, and city becoming divided on issue.
Oct 23rd, 2014
Walker Won Second Debate
But neither candidate can close the sale in election. Why?
Oct 21st, 2014
More Journal Sentinel Buyouts
At least a dozen more journalists are being let go. And insiders expect some editors will be added to list.
Oct 17th, 2014
The Decline of ALEC
The right-wing American Legislative Exchange Council, long a big influence on state legislatures and Wisconsin, is bleeding business support.
Oct 16th, 2014
Walker’s Curious Debate Strategy
His strategy was to “largely ignore” Burke. That may have been a mistake.
Oct 14th, 2014
10 Reasons To Build Bucks Arena on Wisconsin Ave.
Building the new arena where Boston Store is located could have huge advantages for the team and the city.
Oct 8th, 2014
The Lt. Governor Nobody Wanted
Few on Scott Walker’s team wanted Rebecca Kleefish to win or had any respect for her. Yet she could be the next governor.
Oct 7th, 2014
The Massive Gender Gap in Gov’s Race
Walker does terrible with women. But Burke does far worse with men. Why?
Oct 2nd, 2014
Another Newspaper Attack on Chief Flynn
Has the Journal Sentinel renewed its war against the police chief or was its Sunday story simply botched reporting?
Sep 30th, 2014
The Inevitable Decline of the Journal Sentinel
The newspaper has unique strengths, but will that be enough to stop it from going out of print?
Sep 16th, 2014
Will Joe Davis Run For Mayor?
He probably has a better chance of beating Barrett than Bob Donovan. But what exactly does Davis stand for?
Sep 4th, 2014
The Unbearable Loudness of Harley Hogs
Why are they allowed to violate noise ordinances? No one seems to know.
Sep 2nd, 2014
Will Republicans Support a Bucks Bailout?
It can’t get done without GOP legislators, but they have deeply felt reasons for opposing any deal.
Aug 28th, 2014
Potawatomi Plays Hardball
Gov. Walker delayed decision on Kenosha casino, so tribe is delaying $25 million payment owed to state.
Aug 27th, 2014
Is Walker Guilty — Or the Law Meaningless?
After the latest Doe document dump, no other conclusion is possible.
Aug 26th, 2014
The Gathering at Fondy Farm
Sunday’s fundraiser for the Fondy Farmer’s Market was a memorable salute to local food.
Aug 26th, 2014
Is Milwaukee One of the World’s Greenest Cities?
So says OnEarth magazine. Is it right?
Aug 22nd, 2014
Why Bob Donovan Can’t Beat Barrett
No alderman will back him. Why he’s so disliked -- and so certain to lose.
Aug 21st, 2014
Clarke Blasts Abele, Bloomberg
His rock was talk radio, he writes in Washington Times.
Aug 20th, 2014
The Remarkable Clout of Sheriff Clarke
A stunning election increases his power. What does it mean for Milwaukee?
Aug 19th, 2014
Why Steve Smith Sold the Journal Sentinel
Did debt -- and Smith’s broadcast purchases -- force sale of newspaper?
Aug 8th, 2014
Handicapping the Democratic Race for Attorney General
Jon Richards is the favorite. But is he the best choice?
Aug 7th, 2014
Is David Clarke “Sheriff Spends a Lot”?
Attack ads blast Clarke. Another targets “dysfunctional” Marina Dimitrijevic. Who’s buying all these nasty ads?
Aug 5th, 2014
How Buyout Could Hurt the Journal Sentinel
10 ways the deal will impact the newspaper, the media world and this city.
Jul 31st, 2014
Has School Choice Led to Less Arts Funding?
Donations to arts groups have plummeted while giving to education has soared. Why?
Jul 30th, 2014Media Thrilled, Donovan Will Run for Mayor!
Colorful, combative foe of Mayor Barrett will oppose him in 2016, which means far more fun for reporters covering the race.
Jul 29th, 2014
“Controversy” Over Swing Park?
Architect blasts city for altering her design. Are her complaints valid?
Jul 25th, 2014
Why Walker’s Liberal Campaign Tactics?
His ads target Burke for not being liberal enough. Is he desperate -- or crazy like a fox?
Jul 24th, 2014
The Sheer Ambition of Marina Dimitrijevic
She’s running for assembly but wanted to continue as county supervisor and collect two full-time salaries.
Jul 22nd, 2014
Does Milwaukee Have Too Many Non-Profits?
Yes, says new report. But there’s reason to doubt its conclusions.
Jul 18th, 2014
Why Mary Nohl Home Must Be Moved
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel picks up on the controversy, but the story and its handling is rather bizarre.
Jul 17th, 2014
A Tale of Two Cities
New city report reveals huge split between Milwaukee’s desperate poverty and wonderful amenities, neighborhoods. What are its solutions?
Jul 15th, 2014
Will Uber Bring Cheaper Rides?
As ride sharing service slashes rates, Milwaukee Common Council mulls changes in rules.
Jul 14th, 2014
County Board Goes Crazy Over Referendums
Board wants to put 4 advisory referendum questions on the ballot, at a cost of more than $100,000. Why?
Jul 10th, 2014
The Cheap Schools Solution
Wisconsin’s spending on education has dropped drastically. Long-term, that could be a big problem.
Jul 8th, 2014
How UWM Deal Will Affect the Bucks
UWM’s naming rights for old U.S. Cellular Arena could change where new NBA arena is built -- and what happens to Bradley Center.
Jul 3rd, 2014
How Republicans Cause Voter Fraud
False claims of rampant voter fraud by GOP and talk radio prompt their followers to vote illegally.
Jul 1st, 2014
“We Have Criminals Shooting Criminals!”
And bystanders getting shot. Chief Flynn calls on legislators to get tougher on felons with guns.
Jun 26th, 2014
How Conservatives Screwed Walker
They supported releasing damaging Doe documents because they have bigger goals than Walker’s reelection.
Jun 24th, 2014
National Media Crucify Walker
Even the conservative press jump all over the charge that Gov. Walker was at center of a criminal conspiracy.
Jun 20th, 2014
Walker, Sykes and Belling
The New Republic feature story on Scott Walker and talk radio is juicy stuff. But is it true?
Jun 19th, 2014
Four Ways to Slash Carbon Emissions
The EPA requirement that Wisconsin cut carbon emissions could be easily met, through these four approaches.
Jun 17th, 2014
The Remarkable Impact of the Deep Tunnel
Once widely maligned, the project was the key to transforming the Milwaukee River.
Jun 12th, 2014
John Chisholm Crushes Sheriff Clarke
The sheriff takes some pot shots at DA, only to get mowed down, in an entertaining -- and very revealing -- exchange.
Jun 11th, 2014
Lessons from the Public Market
Could its success provide a model for the Grand Avenue Mall?
Jun 6th, 2014
Climate Change and Lake Michigan
A recent scientific conference detailed all the problems -- and got no coverage from the Journal Sentinel.
Jun 3rd, 2014
Why Walker Has Split With Conservatives
He’s at odds with the right-wing and Wall Street Journal over John Doe probe. But why?
May 30th, 2014
The Last Train from Talgo
Talgo moved its last trains from Milwaukee last night, ending this city’s dream of becoming a hub for state-of-the-art rail transit.
May 29th, 2014
Why Millennials Love Cities
There are many reasons, but a key one may be their crushing student debt loads.
May 28th, 2014
Who’s To Blame For Yet Another Pension Giveaway?
Abele wants some 200 retirees to stop getting illegal pension benefits, but board members are outraged.
May 20th, 2014
JS Critic Likes New Art Museum Addition
Schumacher gives it thumbs up but big issues remain.
May 19th, 2014
Four Plans to Save the Bucks
But can any of the plans create the new NBA arena they need?
May 15th, 2014
The Underwater City
New study ranks Milwaukee as 16th hardest hit city, with 40% of homes underwater. But that may understate the problem.
May 13th, 2014
Attorneys Rush to Chisholm’s Defense
Worried about possible recall, they plan fundraiser for the DA. But will it help him?
May 8th, 2014
Art Museum Drops Design, Re-Hires Shields
In a remarkable turnabout, the Milwaukee Art Museum scraps its controversial design and brings back the city's leading museum architect.
May 6th, 2014
State PSC Gives Huge Giveaway to Businesses
Electric ratepayers in one-half of the state will subsidize downtown Milwaukee businesses.
May 6th, 2014
Newspaper Critic Says Don’t Build Art Museum Addition
Schumacher, Journal Sentinel critic, calls Milwaukee Art Museum’s design a “dose of dullness.”
May 5th, 2014
Voter Fraud Issue Gets Its Day in Court
The federal court gave the state a chance to show voter fraud was rampant. So what did they prove?
May 2nd, 2014
Another Journal Sentinel Purge
Veteran county reporter Steve Schultze is among those who may leave.
Apr 30th, 2014
Scott Walker’s Health Care Dilemma
His rejection of federal Medicaid dollars either costs Wisconsin lots of money or lots of lives.
Apr 29th, 2014
10 Key Issues in NBA Arena Debate
Will the new owners get tax support? It all depends on these ten issues.
Apr 24th, 2014
Let Them Take Taxis…or Uber or Lyft
City may lift cap on cabs and embrace upstart ride sharing services. There will be rides for everyone!
Apr 22nd, 2014
More Evidence John Doe is Bipartisan
Court filings release more information showing investigation of Walker and conservative groups is not partisan.
Apr 21st, 2014
Why Moderates Are Extinct
The retirement of Petri, Ellis and Cullen suggests neither party has room for moderates.
Apr 17th, 2014
Why the Milwaukee Art Museum Changed Its Design
Museum staff wanted more gallery space, even if it meant ruining Jim Shields design for the new addition.
Apr 15th, 2014
Michigan May Get Talgo Trains
Trains still in storage in Milwaukee could go to high speed line in Michigan -- if the Talgo lawsuit against Wisconsin is ever settled.
Apr 14th, 2014
The Extraordinary Fiscal Liberalism of David Clarke
It’s difficult to find anyone who increases his budget faster than Sheriff Clarke.
Apr 10th, 2014
Top Architect Quit Project for Museum Addition
Architect Jim Shields had falling out with Milwaukee Art Museum; new addition was designed by committee, not Shields.
Apr 7th, 2014
Will Waukesha Be Less Hostile to Milwaukee?
Defeat of Mayor Jeff Scrima could mean better relations between the two cities.
Apr 3rd, 2014
Why UWM Matters
It could be the key to transforming Wisconsin’s economy, but state leaders don’t seem to realize it.
Apr 1st, 2014
New Study Shows Milwaukee’s Income Inequality
Research shows huge and probably growing gap between high and low incomes in Milwaukee County.
Mar 27th, 2014
Dan Bice’s Role in the John Doe
What did he know, when did he know it, and how has he affected the probe of Scott Walker?
Mar 25th, 2014
The New Paul Ryan
In his efforts to separate himself from Mitt Romney, Ryan has provided some scary insights into his politics.
Mar 20th, 2014
Who Is Mary Burke?
After meeting and interviewing her, I still find Burke something of an enigma.
Mar 18th, 2014
The Republican Voter Suppression Bill
Cities already have less turnout and lower percent of early voters than rest of state, but bill will cut that even more.
Mar 13th, 2014
The Troubled Legacy of Tom Ament
Former county exec’s lucrative pension plan caused scandal, transformed Milwaukee politics, and led way for Scott Walker.
Mar 11th, 2014
Everybody Wants to Drive A Cab
The city has 1,706 applications for 100 cab licenses. Milwaukee is suddenly becoming far more cab-friendly.
Mar 11th, 2014
Why Didn’t Chisholm Go After Democrats?
Republicans say the John Doe probe proves bias. So does the federal suit against DA. Are they right?
Mar 6th, 2014
The Long Arms of Uber
The upstart ride service company could replace cab companies across the globe, some predict. How will it change our city?
Mar 4th, 2014
Private Email System Built in 2002 for Walker Staff?
County’s human resources assistant director tells State Journal Walker’s staff installed system in 2002.
Mar 3rd, 2014
Walker’s Sweet Revenge Against John Doe Prosecutors
Walker’s office gets to choose the attorneys defending John Chisholm and company from a federal suit.
Feb 27th, 2014
Did Gov. Walker Have a Secret Email System?
A Walker administration insider says some staff used private emails and personal laptops in the office.
Feb 25th, 2014
Why Did Thornton Leave?
The loss of MPS superintendent raises troubling questions about public education in Milwaukee.
Feb 20th, 2014
Why Southridge Doesn’t Want Your Business
Its owner, Simon Property, has a history of relocating bus stops and discouraging certain kinds of customers.
Feb 18th, 2014
The Wrath of Eric O’Keefe
He’s under investigation in John Doe II but turning the tables on the District Attorney and making him sweat.
Feb 13th, 2014
Stealth Investors Target City’s Foreclosed Homes
Somebody wants to buy all of Milwaukee’s foreclosed homes. Should we be glad -- or worried?
Feb 11th, 2014
Recall Effort Targets John Chisholm
DA targeted by right wingers outraged by John Doe and liberal blacks angered by suspects killed in custody.
Feb 6th, 2014
John Doe II Is Anything But Partisan
Scott Walker’s defenders call the probe a partisan witch hunt. But newly released court documents say otherwise.
Feb 4th, 2014
County Officials Delay Solving Bus System’s Woes
Contractor chosen would save taxpayers $15 million a year. So why the delay?
Jan 30th, 2014
Can City Save Boston Store?
City subsidy will keep declining store open, but leaves controversial questions about its downtown strategy.
Jan 28th, 2014
Will Walker Change State’s School Standards?
Once again, Walker threatens to replace Common Core standards. Is he bluffing?
Jan 27th, 2014
The War Against Wind
Wind power is booming in surrounding states but declining in Wisconsin. Why?
Jan 23rd, 2014
Will Taxicab Issue Ever Be Settled?
City Attorney’s legal opinion helps clarify things, but it’s still a contentious issue.
Jan 21st, 2014
Democratic Wedge Issues
Republicans are out of step on issues like same sex marriage and medical marijuana.
Jan 16th, 2014
Republican Spat Exposes Party’s Divisions
Fight between Sensenbrenner and Ron Johnson over Obamacare is fascinating, revealing.
Jan 14th, 2014
Does Downer Avenue Need a Tax Subsidy?
Developer Joel Lee claims the buzzing retail strip needs help from the city.
Jan 9th, 2014
Telephone Company Rip-Off
Now that the telecom industry is deregulated, AT&T can gouge customers with late fees.
Jan 7th, 2014
Crystal Ball for 2014
25 predictions that are certain (well, maybe) to come true this year.
Jan 3rd, 2014
Crazy Casino Politics
Both Gov. Walker and Mary Burke have mishandled the Kenosha Casino issue.
Dec 30th, 2013
The Disconnected City
New study shows no way for workers to get to jobs. What are its solutions?
Dec 19th, 2013
Why Walker Didn’t Graduate
Journal Sentinel adds more to story, but still leaves some mystery.
Dec 18th, 2013
Tom Ament Strikes Again
Author of infamous pension plan also devised a 1990 measure giving supervisors unconstitutional power over executive appointees.
Dec 17th, 2013
$1 Billion Needed for Milwaukee Facilities
Public Policy Forum study says $400 million needed for NBA arena, $300 million for convention center and rest for other facilities.
Dec 12th, 2013
The Legacy of Betty Quadracci
Her impact on local journalism and the creation of Quad/Graphics was great -- and greatly underestimated.
Dec 10th, 2013
Why the Minimum Wage Should Be Increased
It could do more than anything to reduce the income gap in this state.
Dec 5th, 2013
The New Non-Profit Kingpins
As SDC declines, groups like Community Advocates and Next Door are on the rise.
Dec 3rd, 2013
Can Burke Beat Walker?
The 2014 campaign may depend on which candidate has the best story to tell.
Nov 26th, 2013
The Glass Ceiling for Women
Latest report shows little progress for women in state’s corporate boardrooms.
Nov 25th, 2013
Can County Board Solve Taxicab Problem?
The board's resolution got media play, but will probably accomplish nothing.
Nov 21st, 2013
New Probe is Big Trouble for Walker
Both the first and second John Doe have focused on his campaigns, suggesting a disturbing pattern.
Nov 19th, 2013
Who Will Run the County Buses?
You need a scorecard to follow all the bizarre changes on this issue.
Nov 14th, 2013
Police Scam Artists
Why does the cop’s union protect officers who rip off taxpayers?
Nov 12th, 2013
Talgo Files Claim Against State
State would have to pay $136 million for canceling train contract.
Nov 8th, 2013
The Nuclear Option
Supervisors nuke Chris Abele’s staff salaries. Will this hurt the county?
Nov 7th, 2013
Milwaukee’s Most Underestimated Leader?
MPS superintendent Gregory Thornton has quietly righted a ship that once looked ready to sink.
Nov 5th, 2013
The Decline of Local Control
Republicans favor local control. So why are they passing so many laws ending it?
Nov 1st, 2013
Why a Regional Tax is Needed
A regional tax for amenities like Milwaukee’s zoo and art museum is needed. Will they benefit from effort to help the Milwaukee Bucks?
Oct 30th, 2013
Why Governments Never Cooperate With Each Other
Chris Abele seeks to improve efficiency through cooperative ventures with municipal governments. Will the county board resist?
Oct 24th, 2013
The New Right-Wing Media
The state is a national leader in creating new conservative publications.
Oct 22nd, 2013
How Republicans Will Hurt City Real Estate
Reacting to a smelly deal involving one school building, legislators are pushing a badly-flawed bill that worsens the problem.
Oct 17th, 2013
New Moves to Bail Out the Bucks
Bradley Center and business leaders search for a clever way to subsidize the NBA team.
Oct 15th, 2013
How to Nab Bad Guys
ShotSpotter has become a key tool for city police, but Walker says no to funding and Abele says yes.
Oct 10th, 2013
How to Kill a Democracy
Glenn Grothman’s proposal would shield 96% of all political donations, ending transparency in campaigns.
Oct 8th, 2013
David Clarke the False Conservative
Sheriff Clarke claims the right to spend as much as he wants, while the media ignores this and simply reports on his rants.
Oct 3rd, 2013
The High Cost of Calatrava
Overruns on his projects are killing other cities. The impact on Milwaukee and its art museum was more positive.
Oct 1st, 2013
The Problem of Poverty
Poverty is rising faster in Wisconsin and the city of Milwaukee than nationally.
Sep 26th, 2013
Will Paul Ryan Be Romney Redux?
He’s a favorite of Republicans, but Democrats may be secretly cheering for him as well.
Sep 24th, 2013
Wisconsin, Land of the Plutocrats
Forbes 400 list offers more evidence of wealth gap in Wisconsin.
Sep 19th, 2013
Capitol Sex Scandal Confirmed
Judge confirms affair between state DHS secretary and his legal counsel, and jealously abusive husband gets off with a misdemeanor.
Sep 17th, 2013
The Debtor Governor
Figures from non-partisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau figures show Walker’s debt level the worst since 1970.
Sep 10th, 2013
The Media’s Declining Clout
As newspaper readership declines, government officials increasingly ignore stories that once would have embarrassed them.
Sep 6th, 2013
Casino Wars
The Potawatomi have spent millions to lobby against a Kenosha casino. Is Gov. Walker their latest ally?
Sep 4th, 2013
How MPS Is Improving Instruction
Common Core Standards are changing schools here and statewide, but Tea Party Republicans object.
Aug 29th, 2013
WI Could Still Get Higher Speed Rail
Minnesota is hatching a Twin Cities-to-Milwaukee-to-Chicago plan, putting Gov. Walker on the spot.
Aug 27th, 2013
Republican Dog & Pony Show
Legislators Vos and Darling tour city but offer no solutions. So why did they come?
Aug 22nd, 2013
Who’s Building Milwaukee?
Not minority workers, it seems. New study shows non-whites not very welcome in construction trades.
Aug 20th, 2013
Can Wisconsin Avenue Be Saved?
A city task force hopes to revive the street but the obstacles are many.
Aug 8th, 2013
Milwaukee Medical Costs Finally Declining?
Long known for globally high costs, Milwaukee show signs of a relative decline in prices.
Aug 6th, 2013
Global Warming Cover-Up
Journal Sentinel’s coverage of Lake Michigan’s decline is bizarrely slanted. Why?
Aug 1st, 2013
Abele Dumps County Transit Company
Public bidding process awards bus contract to for-profit company.
Jul 29th, 2013
The Truth About State Taxes
They were never lower than under Jim Doyle, as new data shows.
Jul 25th, 2013
Is Milwaukee the Next Detroit?
Analyzing this city’s key strengths and weaknesses.
Jul 23rd, 2013
The $1 Million Art Project
Steve Marcus’ plan to bring world class sculpture to Milwaukee is expensive. Is it a good idea?
Jul 18th, 2013
Concealed Carry Craziness
Road rage and guns? Does concealed carry really make us safer?
Jul 16th, 2013
The Myth of the Welders Shortage
Journal Sentinel claims it’s because MATC does a poor job of training workers. Is that true?
Jul 11th, 2013
Why We Lag in Kids’ Dental Care
Study says WI is 2nd-worst state in America. It’s not true, but there are ways we could improve.
Jul 9th, 2013
Can Old Warner Theater Be Saved?
Journal Sentinel picks up on our story, and Marcus Corp. says it will consider selling building.
Jul 8th, 2013
The Curious Case of Kimberly Walker
The board is angry at Abele so they fired Walker. Go figure.
Jul 2nd, 2013
Milwaukee County Great Place to Lose Your Job
Both the county exec and county board have made the courthouse a perilous place for appointed staff.
Jun 27th, 2013
Jim Sensenbrenner, Civil Libertarian?
Will Wisconsin’s congressman protect us from Obama’s NSA surveillance?
Jun 25th, 2013
The Strange Life of John Menard
A lurid legal suit against him is the latest chapter in the retail billionaire’s bizarre life.
Jun 20th, 2013
The Decline of Sheriff Clarke
The weirder and crankier he gets, the more unlikely his reelection.
Jun 18th, 2013
Why Walker Opposes Obamacare
His opposition to more federal dollars for Medicaid will hurt Wisconsin, but help his campaign for president.
Jun 13th, 2013
Does Wisconsin Really Have a “Skills Gap”?
Journal Sentinel stories continue to insist we do, but a new study says no.
Jun 11th, 2013
Don’t Mess with the Press
The state budget bill has huge consequences, but the media is most concerned about its impact on... the media.
Jun 7th, 2013
GOP Fast Tracks a Smelly Bill
The elections bill will suppress voting by average folks while giving corporations and lobbyists more clout.
Jun 5th, 2013
In Defense of Goo Goos
Why we need the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign and Wisconsin Taxpayer’s Alliance.
May 29th, 2013
Newspaper Wears Blinders on Global Warming
In eight years of stories on Lake Michigan’s water level, the Journal Sentinel has never mentioned global warming.
May 24th, 2013
Bail Bond Bill Will Create Debtor’s Prisons
Why are Republicans pushing a bill opposed almost unanimously by criminal justice professionals?
May 21st, 2013
Don Smiley’s Ever-Higher Salary
His salary rose by $114,000, to more than $886,000, and the explanations keep getting thinner.
May 20th, 2013
The Not-So Fiscally Conservative Governor
Scott Walker hasn’t solved the state’s longterm fiscal deficit. He may actually make it worse.
May 16th, 2013
Does MACC Fund Give Enough to Charity?
The high-profile group spends a lot on administration, including a salary for Jon McGlocklin.
May 14th, 2013
The Voucher Lobby
Lobbying for school choice provides big money for Republicans.
May 9th, 2013
The Arrogance of Summerfest
Mayor Barrett met with Summerfest board members, who agreed to share more information about its finances and director’s compensation.
May 7th, 2013
Did Sue Black Pay Nothing to “Buy” Wave Team?
The Milwaukee Wave has been a money loser, which might explain why she paid little, and why she's under pressure to turn the team around.
May 7th, 2013
The War Between Steve Schultze and Chris Abele
County exec tries to undermine county reporter because of his slanted stories.
May 2nd, 2013
The Mystery of Sanfelippo’s Taxicab Empire
Why is Rep. Joe Sanfelippo the registered agent for all of his brother’s many companies?
Apr 30th, 2013
No Country for Black Men
New study shows Wisconsin leads the nation in black incarceration, with a shockingly high rate. Why?
Apr 25th, 2013
Terrible Town for Taxis
How a city permit system enabled a cartel to dominate the taxicab business, stifling competition and providing poor service.
Apr 23rd, 2013
County Board Violates Its Own Law
Lobbyists have worked without board approval, which could be a cause for “discharge” of board chair Dimitrivjevic.
Apr 18th, 2013
Myths About a New NBA Arena
In their zeal to build new, publicly-funded arena, proponents are misleading the community.
Apr 16th, 2013
Why Republicans Are Wrong About Recalls
The bill to restrict recalls is a naked attempt by political officials to protect their jobs.
Apr 11th, 2013
The Arrogance of Summerfest
Why the tax-exempt, city-supported non-profit should be transparent about its director’s salary.
Apr 9th, 2013
More Power for Pat?
Roggensack’s reelection solidifies her power and that of the conservative bloc she often leads.
Apr 5th, 2013
County Backdrops
Unions have filed suit to protect the infamous backdrops, which made many county employees wealthy.
Apr 4th, 2013
Winners and Losers
It was a good election for Scott Walker and conservatives but there were some bright spots for liberals.
Apr 4th, 2013
Sheriff Clarke’s New Buddies
The conservative lawman and liberal county board have suddenly gotten very friendly. Why?
Apr 2nd, 2013
Who’s the Conservative for Circuit Judge?
The race between Rebecca Bradley and Janet Protasiewicz is hard to call.
Mar 28th, 2013
Journal Sentinel Story Doesn’t Hold Water
Story slams Milwaukee water utility though it’s actually cheaper than others in the region.
Mar 26th, 2013
Can Fallone Beat Roggensack?
Pat Roggensack leads the Supreme Court's conservative bloc and may be its most powerful justice. Ed Fallone blames a "dysfunctional court" on her.
Mar 21st, 2013
Paul Ryan Most Overrated Politician?
The media has anointed him a policy wonk. But none of his numbers add up.
Mar 19th, 2013
Wisconsin a Tax Heaven for Businesses
The evidence suggests taxes are low on businesses, and have been for many years.
Mar 14th, 2013
Democrats in Disarray
The firing of its state spokesperson is just another sign the party has lost its way.
Mar 12th, 2013
The World According to Tim Sullivan
The business leader's unproven idea of a “skills gap” is misleading state policymakers.
Mar 7th, 2013
Mystery Around Dennis Smith Deepens
Departure of state health department secretary leaves many questions unanswered -- and lots of secrecy.
Mar 5th, 2013
Super Scott
Democrats continue to underestimate Walker, even as he radically transforms the state.
Feb 28th, 2013
Voucher Madness
Gov. Walker wants lots more choice schools, except in Republican districts. Why?
Feb 26th, 2013
The Dennis Smith “Affair”
State health secretary resigns after legal motions filed by accused murderer claiming his wife had affair with Smith.
Feb 22nd, 2013
How to Crush Milwaukee
Ending the residency requirement will deal a devastating blow to Milwaukee’s property tax base.
Feb 21st, 2013
The Not-So-Straight Story
Journal Sentinel coverage of county board downsizing misleads folks on both sides of issue.
Feb 19th, 2013
The African American Advantage
The county’s black residents have $3.6 billion in annual income and black neighborhoods have far more purchasing power than suburbs.
Feb 14th, 2013
The Return of Sue Black
How she got the new job. And will she run against Chris Abele?
Feb 12th, 2013
Republican Plan to Steal Elections
Priebus and others push strategies to win presidency with a minority of votes.
Feb 7th, 2013
County Lobbyists Asleep on the Job?
They should be working to get more state funding. But they’re too busy protecting the county board.
Feb 5th, 2013
Rep. Sanfelippo Says Full-Speed Ahead
His bill to downsize county government will be introduced next week and he predicts it will pass.
Jan 31st, 2013
America Discovers Sheriff Clarke
Clarke appears on Piers Morgan with Tom Barrett and gets beat up by both Morgan and the mayor.
Jan 30th, 2013
Hines Would Reduce Fire & Police Commission Power
Council appears to back radical change, Barrett seems lukewarm.
Jan 29th, 2013
Sheriff David Clarke
His radio ads says he needs the help of armed homeowners, but Clarke has almost nothing to do with combating violent crime.
Jan 28th, 2013
The Incomplete Story
How the Journal Sentinel slants the story on venture capital -- and on downsizing the county board.
Jan 24th, 2013
Act 10 Could Still Be in Trouble
Federal appeals court decision looks shaky, and state lawyers made mistakes defending anti-union law.
Jan 22nd, 2013
Bill to Cut Supervisor Pay Likely
Despite Republican delays and opposition by the board, the bill has a good chance of passage.
Jan 17th, 2013
Biggest Taxer in Town
Over the last five years property taxes have been driven by just one of the five local taxing units: Milwaukee Public Schools.
Jan 15th, 2013
Robin Hood in Reverse
Republicans’ tax plan assures that Wisconsin follows other states in the race to the bottom.
Jan 11th, 2013
Why We Need a Part-Time County Board
For 125 years, the board was part-time. Then Tom Ament and company nudged it up to full-time. Why?
Jan 9th, 2013
Wisconsin’s Rising Wealth Gap
In the last decade all $4.8 billion in income gains went to the wealthiest 20 percent. All boats aren’t rising.
Jan 8th, 2013
Going Easy on Drunk Drivers?
Journal Sentinel wouldn’t report a CEO’s drunk driving, but Patch.com did. Who’s right?
Jan 3rd, 2013
Still Defending the Infamous Pension Plan
County Exec Abele wants to cut back the lucrative backdrop provision. Why are supervisors delaying this?
Dec 19th, 2012
Women Need Not Apply
Led by MGIC, seven of Wisconsin’s top companies are men’s clubs, with no women in the executive suite.
Dec 18th, 2012
The Curious Case of Stephen Einhorn
The man who “feared” for his family’s privacy is a political activist and capital insider grabbing government funding for his company.
Dec 13th, 2012
Republicans Sneaking Bill on Same Day Registration?
Voters would probably oppose it, so GOP needs to pass the legislation very, very quietly.
Dec 11th, 2012
Land of Corporate Blackmail
A bombshell story shows Wisconsin is a national leader in tax handouts to business.
Dec 7th, 2012
Mayor Backs Flynn, Slams Newspaper
Journal Sentinel’s series on data errors “takes crime fighting officers off the street,” Barrett charges.
Dec 6th, 2012
How State Aid to Cities Has Plummeted
Milwaukee is getting killed by declining shared revenue, violating a century-old state agreement.
Dec 3rd, 2012
How Coal Hurts Minorities
A new study finds Wisconsin a leader in environmental racism. But is the state improving?
Nov 29th, 2012
The Rise of Chris Larson
Is he a young liberal heavyweight? Or a punching bag for Republicans?
Nov 27th, 2012
The Anti-Health Care Governor?
Even as Scott Walker throws people off health care, he opposes federal programs that would increase coverage and lower costs.
Nov 21st, 2012
Journal Sentinel’s Circulation Problem
The statistics point to underlying problems. Meanwhile, some stories are undermining the brand.
Nov 19th, 2012
The High Cost of the County Board
We could save millions and improve efficiency by cutting the county board and its huge staff.
Nov 14th, 2012
Deaths in Custody Decline Under Flynn
Journal Sentinel story criticizing department doesn’t report data showing decline.
Nov 12th, 2012
It’s the Middle Class, Stupid
How Romney and Ryan alienated average Americans.
Nov 9th, 2012
25 Winners and Losers
The list is long (and fun). This was a campaign with real consequences.
Nov 8th, 2012
Will Art Museum Dump Stephen Einhorn?
The wealthy funder of voter fraud billboards creates negative publicity for Milwaukee Art Museum.
Nov 6th, 2012
Did Journal Sentinel Censor Story?
Conservative columnist Christian Schneider hides his erroneous story, hurting his -- and the paper’s -- credibility.
Nov 1st, 2012
Who’s Right in County Budget Battle?
County Board Chair Marina Dimitrijevic trashes Abele’s budget. But did she improve it?
Oct 30th, 2012
How to Prevent Gun Rampages
No one is talking about the real legal changes that might have prevented the Brookfield spa shootings.
Oct 26th, 2012
Radical Surgery by Journal Sentinel
Its decision to end candidate endorsements is a huge change that could reshape the newspaper.
Oct 24th, 2012
Sykes’ Suspicious Smokescreen
Charlie Sykes uses anonymous interview to claim the “family” putting up voter fraud billboards fears for its safety.
Oct 23rd, 2012
The Rise of MU Law School
How it became the state's leading pollster and a high profile place for public forums.
Oct 19th, 2012
The $74 Million Gamble
Can Milwaukee become a world water hub? It’s betting $74 million it can.
Oct 17th, 2012
Is Chief Flynn Off the Hook?
The federal investigation could cool calls for Flynn's resignation.
Oct 14th, 2012
Stealth Conservatives
Bradley-funded think tank changes its polls and subsidizes Journal Sentinel’s right-wing columnist.
Oct 11th, 2012
The public is “understandably horrified.”
Chief Flynn frankly discusses the death of Derek Williams in police custody.
Oct 9th, 2012
Should Chief Flynn Resign?
The city is divided over the chief. But is it all his fault?
Oct 5th, 2012
Too Many Cops in Milwaukee County?
The high cost of a huge sheriff’s budget and 19 local police departments.
Oct 3rd, 2012
Journal Sentinel Swallows GOP Propaganda
It was the nation’s only daily newspaper to fall for an anti-Obama business "survey."
Sep 30th, 2012
Why Romney Can’t Win Wisconsin
Romney's misunderstanding of the Republican base could kill him.
Sep 27th, 2012
The Mighty County Board
A doormat a decade ago, the board is now far more powerful -- much to Chris Abele’s chagrin.
Sep 25th, 2012
The Six Wives of Edo de Waart
Little old Milwaukee seems to have the most continental conductor in the world.
Sep 21st, 2012
The Latest Journal Sentinel Purge
Some big names could be leaving the ever-shrinking newspaper.
Sep 18th, 2012
Did Republicans Blow It?
The court decision striking down collective bargaining law exposes obvious constitutional problems with it.
Sep 17th, 2012
Rich Park, Poor Park
Milwaukee County Parks is increasingly a two-tier system, with the worst maintained parks in poor areas.
Sep 14th, 2012
Capital Sex Scandal
Strange but true: Star member of Gov. Walker’s cabinet is accused of an affair that led to attempted murder.
Sep 12th, 2012
Can Tammy Beat Tommy?
She wouldn’t have a chance against the old Tommy, but the newer edition could be beat.
Sep 9th, 2012
Why Voter Fraud Is So Rare
What the experts know that the scaremongers are deliberately ignoring.
Sep 6th, 2012
Are Republicans More Generous?
A new study shows blue states give far less to charity than red states.
Sep 4th, 2012
Will State Screw Milwaukee?
Expert condemns state for switching Milwaukee’s foster care funding to help other counties.
Aug 31st, 2012
Abele Under Fire
Has the Johnny Thomas situation poisoned relations between the county exec and county board?
Aug 29th, 2012
City Defies Journal Sentinel
Fire & Police Commission will hire consultant the newspaper repeatedly claims is biased.
Aug 27th, 2012
The Tragedy of Chris and Sue
How the friendship of Abele and Black turned into bitter enmity.
Aug 24th, 2012
The Journal Sentinel’s Attack Dog
Two stories this week continue its relentlessly biased coverage of Chief Flynn and the police department.
Aug 22nd, 2012
Myths About Black’s Firing
Strip away the myths and you begin to see why Abele dumped her.
Aug 20th, 2012
Election’s Winners and Losers
An insider's look at who's up -- and who's down -- as a result of the August primary.
Aug 17th, 2012
Why Was Sue Black Fired?
The development is a shocker as Abele was a friend and supporter of the highly regarded parks director.
Aug 16th, 2012
Is the Journal Sentinel for Sale?
The sale could be a disaster for employees -- and for the city.
Aug 15th, 2012
Why Ryan Won’t Help Romney
He’s sexy, charming, articulate -- but exactly the wrong choice for Republicans.
Aug 13th, 2012
Will Herb Kohl Blackmail Milwaukee?
The Bucks need a new arena. Time to start threatening to move the team.
Aug 6th, 2012
Fitzgerald’s Strangely Sleepy Campaign
Is Jeff Fitzgerald running for U.S. Senator or top lobbyist?
Aug 2nd, 2012
Monopoly Greed
We Energies grabs big profits and big executive pay while driving electric rates into the stratosphere.
Jul 31st, 2012
The Eternal Stadium Tax
It was originally supposed to end two years ago, but the Miller Park sales tax just goes on and on.
Jul 27th, 2012
The Voter Suppression Game
Both parties are devising strategies to discourage voting. But Republicans are using government power.
Jul 25th, 2012
Why Photo ID is Dead
The Republican law will never become legal, because of Wisconsin’s unique constitution
Jul 23rd, 2012
Richie Rich
Republican Senate candidate Eric Hovde’s basic message is simple: elect me because I’m wealthy.
Jul 20th, 2012
The Chicago Challenge
Economic cooperation with our massive neighbor could help Milwaukee. But Gov.Scott Walker stands in the way.
Jul 18th, 2012
Tommy the Taxer
The old tax-and-spend governor Republican may be far too moderate to win the Republican Senate primary.
Jul 16th, 2012
Abele vs County Board — Again
Someone leaked the info on Abele's plan for a 44 story lakefront tower, leaving him apologizing to the board.
Jul 12th, 2012
Dumping on Milwaukee
How a Pulitzer-Prize winning reporter distorted data to bad rap the city.
Jul 10th, 2012
Rocky Road
Some aldermen want to dump DCD head Rocky Marcoux, but Mayor Barrett disagrees.
Jun 26th, 2012
“Indignant” Police Chief Defends Department’s Integrity
Chief Flynn provides data that calls into question the Journal Sentinel’s reporting.
Jun 21st, 2012
Will Allen Goes Viral
From ABC News to Colbert, everybody is celebrating Will Allen.
Jun 20th, 2012
The War Against Chief Flynn
Why is the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel trashing the city’s best police chief in decades?
Jun 18th, 2012
Why Walker Won’t Compromise
He now says he will bring us together. But don’t bet on it.
Jun 14th, 2012
The Trial of Chris Abele
Sued by Shepherd Express editor Lou Fortis, Abele goes on the stand for allegedly stealing a film festival.
Jun 12th, 2012
Why Walker Won
Democrats blame money, but might examine their muddled message.
Jun 8th, 2012
The Democrats’ Secret Weapon
Lt. Governor candidate Mahlon Mitchell could help turnout more black voters -- so why haven’t Dems made more use of him?
Jun 5th, 2012
The Farley Fiasco
Is the County board punishing Abele’s aide Patrick Farley for whistle blowing?
Jun 4th, 2012
Did the State Screw Talgo?
The train company's stunned CEO blasts Wisconsin for breaching its contract “like a Third World country.”
May 31st, 2012
Did Walker or Barrett Win Debate?
Barrett was punchy, Walker was cool. Which strategy will convert more voters?
May 29th, 2012
Milwaukee Could Decide Race
Without a high county turnout, Tom Barrett is toast.
May 25th, 2012
The Invisible Man
The chief opponent of the art museum’s $25 million repair plan has stood by while the War Memorial rotted away.
May 23rd, 2012
The Barrett-Walker ‘Hood
The candidates are worlds apart politically -- but practically neighbors.
May 22nd, 2012
The Media’s $10 Million Error
The art museum’s plan to repair the War Memorial will cost $25 million, not $15 million. And that’s not all the errors.
May 21st, 2012
Bob Donovan’s Shadowy Charity
Operation Impact raises money to combat crime. But where are its records?
May 17th, 2012
Will Abele Run for Mayor?
That's one way to consolidate city and county government, by grabbing both executive positions.
May 15th, 2012
The Anti-Recall Patriots
Suddenly it’s become patriotic to oppose recalls. Wouldn’t Tom Ament be surprised.
May 14th, 2012
Senator Wanggaard’s Double Dipping
State Sen. Van Wanggaard cuts benefits for workers while getting ever more for himself.
May 10th, 2012
Karen Ordinans’ Role in Shaping the Pension Plan
One of the remarkable stories in local government is the continuing survival of County Board chair Karen Ordinans.
Apr 21st, 2002
The Embarrassing Failure of Miller Park
The Milwaukee Brewers have begun the season with a horrendous start, one that is setting franchise records for futility.
Apr 16th, 2002
Why Unions Don’t Like Scott Walker
Given that Jim Ryan has not closed the door completely on privatizing some government functions, you might wonder why he was endorsed by labor for county executive.
Apr 12th, 2002
Why Jim Ryan Could Be In Trouble
Speaking as someone who predicted the one-two finish of Scott Walker and Jim Ryan, the big surprise of the county executive race was Tyrone Dumas' strong fourth place finish, just behind Tom Nardelli.
Apr 3rd, 2002
Why Scott McCallum Is In Big Trouble
It was amusing to see the photo of Gov. McCallum that ran on the front page of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel last week.
Mar 25th, 2002
Has the Teacher’s Union Taken Over the GOP?
It was not long ago that the state teacher's union was the designated villain for Republicans.
Mar 19th, 2002
Why Gov. McCallum’s Spending Priorities Were Wrong
As the legislature wrestles with the state budget deficit, there has been talk of cutting every level of government except the schools.
Mar 14th, 2002
Is Nardelli Qualified To Be County Executive?
Nothing should surprise us about county government at this point, but it does seem odd that the two favorites in the race for county executive are Scott Walker and Tom Nardelli, neither of whom has a college degree.
Mar 6th, 2002
Is Scott Walker Qualified To Be County Exec?
Rep. Scott K. Walker (R-Wauwatosa) was the first candidate to announce for county executive, and is widely considered one of the front-runners for the position.
Feb 27th, 2002
Which County Board Members Only Work Part-Time?
It was 9 a.m. on a Friday morning in late October of last year when I began calling county supervisors for a story in Milwaukee Magazine.
Feb 22nd, 2002
Dobbert’s Folly: How His Errors Will Cost Taxpayers More
It was sometime in the winter of 1999/2000 that Gary Dobbert went to a conference on the West Coast where he learned about pension plans with a lump sum pay out.
Feb 17th, 2002
Why Ament Will Lose And How Taxpayers Will Suffer
Tom Ament's suit against the recall petitions will probably fail. That's the prediction of George Dunst, legal counsel for the state elections board.
Feb 7th, 2002
Can Falk And Thompson Play Spoilers in the Governor’s Race?
I'm hard pressed to think of a more interesting state race than the upcoming campaign for governor.
Feb 3rd, 2002
Is Ament’s Pension Deal Biased Against Blacks?
In the wake of the pension controversy, County Executive F. Thomas Ament has attempted to woo the black community in hopes that strong support there might keep him in office.
Jan 31st, 2002
Ament’s Sweetheart Insurance Deal For An Old Crony
Accusations about cronyism in the Ament administration just keep coming.
Jan 25th, 2002
Could Bob Ott Be Investigated For Ethical Conflicts?
Milwaukee County is beginning to resemble the plot of And Then There Were None. One by one, top officials are disappearing from the courthouse.
Jan 24th, 2002
The Real Story Behind The Sheriff’s Departure
There is bad smell surrounding the retirement of Sheriff Lev Baldwin.
Jan 19th, 2002
How Ament Prevented Any Research of the Pension Plan
Over and over the question has recurred: why would county supervisors, most of whom will not get the more lucrative pension payoff for veteran workers, approve this deal?
Jan 16th, 2002
Did Ament’s Aides Conspire to Replace the Chair of Personnel?
Did Tom Ament's aides scheme to replace the chair of the county board's personnel committee so they could get their blockbuster pension plan passed?
Jan 15th, 2002
How Gary Dobbert’s Buddies Got Yet Another Pension Benefit
It's hard to believe there could be any more scandal associated with the Milwaukee County, but it turns out there was yet another group of insiders handed a neat pension boost by the administration of County Executive F. Thomas Ament.
Jan 15th, 2002
What Karen Ordinans Really Thought About Ament’s Pension
It’s been amusing to hear County Board chair Karen Ordinans declare her outrage about the county pension plan.
Jan 11th, 2002
How To Kill Ament’s Pension
Now that the mainstream media is having a feeding frenzy over the pension story I first broke back in October, Milwaukee County Executive F. Thomas Ament has gotten religion.
Jan 10th, 2002
Is The Legislature Giving Free Money To Fat Cat Investors?
Glenn Grothman is not a happy camper.
Jan 5th, 2002
The Bitter Feud Between the Bradley Center and Wisconsin Center
The "negotiations" by the Bradley Center and the Wisconsin Center District have begun to resemble the feud between the Hatfields and McCoys.
Dec 14th, 2001
Why Did Chief Jones Protect a Man With a Violent Record?
Earlier this week, Milwaukee Police Chief Jones used his power to protect Wendell Jones, the husband of County Supervisor Elizabeth Coggs-Jones.
Dec 7th, 2001
The Milwaukee School Board’s Incumbent Protection Plan
Consultant Fred Kessler drew up a redistricting plan that would carve out a Hispanic school board district, but almost no one on the board seems to support the idea.
Nov 29th, 2001
How Scott McCallum Plans to Raise Your Taxes
Sometime in the coming week, Gov. Scott McCallum will be meeting secretly with lobbyists in Minocqua, of all places, to discuss a plan to cut school spending and force property tax increases as a way to balance the state budget.
Nov 24th, 2001
Could The Brewers Benefit If Minnesota Loses Its Team?
Baseball commissioner Bud Selig has scoffed at complaints from Twin Cities newspapers that eliminating a baseball team there would benefit the Milwaukee Brewers.
Nov 19th, 2001
The Truth About the Di Suvero Sculpture
It's been amusing to see all the hand wringing by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel as to whether we dare move the Di Suvero sculpture.
Nov 19th, 2001
How Mayor Norquist’s Salary Cut Lowers Property Taxes
John Norquist styles himself as a budget cutter, but few are aware of how personally he has taken that mission.
Oct 19th, 2001
Could Ed Thompson Get Elected Governor?
It's a wacky idea, but Ed Thompson may turn out to be a real spoiler in the race for governor.
Oct 15th, 2001
How The County’s Pension Fund Grew And Benefited A Few
Last year was a terrible year for stock funds, but it wasn't so bad for Milwaukee County's pension fund.
Oct 10th, 2001
How Tom Ament Gave Himself a Golden Parachute
Observers have often described county government as an "old boy's club," where veteran politicos and long-term county employees get preferential treatment.
Oct 8th, 2001
Can New President Darnell Cole Rescue MATC?
Not long after arriving in town, new MATC president Darnell Cole called Greater Milwaukee Committee President Bob Milbourne and asked to meet.
Oct 4th, 2001
Is Ald. Herron Leaving Town?
City Hall has been rife with rumors that Ald. Terrance Herron is leaving Milwaukee.
Oct 2nd, 2001
Where Have You Gone, Ken Lamke?
Ken Lamke still has vivid memories of the atmosphere in the old Milwaukee Sentinel newsroom.
Oct 1st, 2001
Ameritech Catches Political Fire From Competitors
Open up this month's Ameritech bill and you may find a surprise.
Sep 28th, 2001
Scott Jensen’s Big Shakedown
Rep. Jon Richards was feeling a little lonely.
Sep 25th, 2001
Superintendent Burmaster Slaps The Governor Around
My, how times have changed.
Sep 24th, 2001
Will Taxes Be the Key Issue in the Governor’s Race?
In the wake of the tragedy in New York and Washington, the Democratic candidates for governor have slowed down their campaigning, but they have been strategizing as to what the major issues will be in next fall's election.
Sep 21st, 2001
Secrets of the Bradley Center
There's a lot of money to be made in professional sports.
Sep 19th, 2001
Is There a Local Connection to Arab Terrorists?
For years, some experts have asserted that the United States is harboring Muslim terrorists, and it appears that even Milwaukee may have connections to this network.
Sep 14th, 2001
Why Businesses Are Attacking The State’s Freeway Plan
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation's latest freeway project could "virtually suffocate downtown Milwaukee," a letter from the Downtown Business Improvement District complains.
Sep 12th, 2001
Why Chief Jones Won’t Go Away
Tom Everson has seen everything in the many years he's compiled crime statistics for the state's Office of Justice Assistance, but he is struck by the data he's getting from the City of Milwaukee.
Sep 9th, 2001
The Sad Saga of Rep. Steve Nass
These are not good days for Rep. Steve Nass (R-Whitewater).
Sep 7th, 2001
Why Republicans are Dumping on Jim Doyle
Republicans are squirming about a state investigation of the legislative caucuses, and their attack dogs are going after Attorney General Jim Doyle to try to prevent it.
Sep 4th, 2001
Is Jim Sensenbrenner America’s Cheapest Congressman?
It must be tough being married to James Sensenbrenner.
Aug 30th, 2001
How Three Legislators Committed Highway Robbery
Anyone who's driven to Madison is aware the trip takes about 75 miles from downtown Milwaukee.
Aug 24th, 2001
Is Superintendent Korte In Trouble With The School Board?
At first glance, Milwaukee school superintendent Spence Korte looks like he could be on the chopping block.
Aug 22nd, 2001
Should Wisconsin Get Ready for War?
You may feel very safe and protected, living in cozy Wisconsin, far from America's seacoasts.
Aug 20th, 2001
Figueroa Accused Another Man of Sex Harassment
For months I've been hearing rumblings that Marilyn Figueroa had accused another man of sexual harassment.
Aug 13th, 2001
Rally ‘Round the Convention Center, Boys
It was a mere three years ago that the Midwest Express Center opened, as a state-of-the-art solution to the city's convention needs.
Aug 9th, 2001
Is the State Legislature Still a Men’s Club?
It was the gunfight at the Capitol corral and only men were invited.
Aug 7th, 2001
Antonio Riley’s Campaign Coffer Looks Mayoral
News reports have made much of the money raised by Ald. Marvin Pratt and Ald. Tom Nardelli, speculating about their chances for mayor.
Aug 5th, 2001
Why The Mayor is Not Dead
Back in the early 1980s, Milwaukee Magazine ran a scathing caricature of Mayor Henry Maier with the title "What Does This Man Do All Day?"
Aug 1st, 2001
Why the State Doesn’t Hate Tom Ament Any More
Time was when Milwaukee County was a favorite whipping boy of the state.
Jul 30th, 2001
Will A New Soccer Stadium Help or Hurt the Bucks?
The proposal to build a soccer stadium downtown adds another complication to what has become a political minefield around the proposed Bradley Center renovation.
Jul 27th, 2001
How Sen. Kohl Will Profit From Your Taxes
Everybody knows the Milwaukee Bucks are losing money.
Jul 23rd, 2001
Milwaukee’s Mighty Economy Crushes Other Nations
Milwaukee has a new way to brag about itself.
Jul 18th, 2001
Is the Plankinton Exit Worth $60 Million?
Some months ago the state Department of Transportation announced a plan for rebuilding the mammoth Marquette Interchange that did not include any exits or entrances at Plankinton Avenue
Jul 18th, 2001
Why Are Homeowners Subsidizing Cable TV?
Republican and Democrats can't agree on much, as they squabble over the state budget, but both parties seem to think that AOL Time Warner needs a tax break.
Jul 16th, 2001
Is Wisconsin Short-Changed By Its Top Foundation?
With the resignation of Michael Joyce, the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation is looking for a new president.
Jul 12th, 2001
The Truth About Miller Park
Those looking for a frank assessment of Miller Park are unlikely to find it in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, which rarely criticizes anything connected to the home team.
Jul 10th, 2001
Why Can’t MATC Get A Good President?
Is it possible that no one wants to be president of Milwaukee Area Technical College?
Jul 9th, 2001
Is Mayor Norquist Sleeping on School Choice?
In the London Times, Mayor John Norquist is prominently quoted in a story on Milwaukee's school choice program.
Jul 5th, 2001
Can the New State Superintendent Succeed?
Herbert Grover is not impressed with the credentials of Elizabeth Burmaster, the new State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Jul 2nd, 2001
The Rise and Fall of Polly Williams
Time was when Rep. Annette Polly Williams (D-Milwaukee) was the star of the conservative talk circuit.
Jun 27th, 2001
How Michael Joyce Sold Himself to George W. Bush
The way Michael Joyce recalls it; he was watching his old friend William Bennett, the former secretary of education, on the Evans and Novak TV show one fine day.
Jun 25th, 2001
Gary George’s Plot to Kill the Comptroller
State budget deliberations are a time for mischief making, and state Sen. Gary George (D-Milwaukee) has always had a reputation for quietly slipping pet proposals into this biennial document.
Jun 21st, 2001
Is David Skiles Stalling Efforts to Save the Bucks?
Community leaders seem to agree the Bradley Center and Wisconsin Center should combine forces to save the Milwaukee Bucks.
Jun 20th, 2001
Milwaukee Goes Crazy for Research Parks
Wisconsin is supposed to be suffering from a brain drain, and southeast Wisconsin is said to lack the kind of high technology industries you find in a research park.
Jun 19th, 2001
The Raging Bull of MATC
For eight years, Milwaukee Area Technical College President John Birkholz has terrorized his staff and even the board members who hired him, while alienating members of the business community.
Jun 18th, 2001
Personal Foul – Norquist Loses Points With the Business Community
The Greater Milwaukee Committee thinks it's found a way to get more revenue for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Jun 15th, 2001
Did Marilyn Want Millions From The Mayor?
Marilyn Figueroa never wanted money from the mayor
Jun 11th, 2001
That’s Incredible – Why Marilyn’s Story Can’t Be Believed
I don't claim to know who's right in the vicious dispute between Marilyn Figueroa and John Norquist.
Jun 8th, 2001
