Politics

Data Wonk: The Cult of the Free Market
Data Wonk

The Cult of the Free Market

Adam Smith gets distorted as partisan ideologues increasingly skew data to simplify reality.

Back in the News: Walker Gets Backed by Koch Brothers?
Back in the News

Walker Gets Backed by Koch Brothers?

David Koch says he prefers Walker to other Republicans, NYT and New York Observer report.

The State of Politics: Legislators Hope Tax Windfall Rescues Them
The State of Politics

Legislators Hope Tax Windfall Rescues Them

If state tax collections don’t go up -- soon -- lawmakers must swallow Walker’s unappetizing budget cuts.

Murphy’s Law: Shirley Abrahamson Against the World
Murphy’s Law

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?

State Relents on Squeezing Family Planning Clinics

State Relents on Squeezing Family Planning Clinics

State auditor had demanded millions in repayment from clinics offering birth control, but now backs off.

A Tale of Two Health Plans

A Tale of Two Health Plans

A private company's managed-care plan is far less costly than the state employee health care plan. What can we learn from that?

Why City Workers Can’t Get to Suburban Jobs

Why City Workers Can’t Get to Suburban Jobs

Milwaukee County Transit has reduced service by 14% since 2000, and 13% of city households lack a car.

Did Judge Violate Disclosure Law?

Did Judge Violate Disclosure Law?

Circuit Court judge rules on case involving city police he was paid to give training sessions, yet he didn't disclose this.

Murphy’s Law: The Secret Tax Subsidy Society
Murphy’s Law

The Secret Tax Subsidy Society

Republicans and Democrats conspire to create stealth taxes to fund the NBA arena. Will they succeed?

The State of Politics: The Capitol’s Biggest Soap Opera?
The State of Politics

The Capitol’s Biggest Soap Opera?

An obscure state agency that could loan money to Bucks arena is beset by squabbling.

Mexican Consulate Will Open in Milwaukee

Mexican Consulate Will Open in Milwaukee

The 51st such consulate in U.S. will serve city's growing Mexican population.

Bipartisan Majority Favors Conservation Program

Bipartisan Majority Favors Conservation Program

Survey shows nearly 90% in Wisconsin favor state stewardship program; will legislature protect program Walker wants to kill?