The current Milwaukee County Executive is Chris Abele.
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Finance Chair Moves To Block Courthouse Referendum
Politics of midterm elections influence debate over $897 million courthouse project.
Jul 18th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Reenters Governor’s Race With Evers’ Endorsement
Outgoing governor makes dramatic endorsement. Mayor Johnson, others add their backing.
Jul 18th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez Ends Campaign For Governor
From establishment front-runner to out of the race in a week.
Jul 17th, 2026 by Jeramey Jannene
Rodriguez Campaign Kept Financial Trouble From Crowley
Rodriguez pursued Crowley endorsement even as campaign finance red flags mounted.
Jul 14th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Democrats Start Attack Ads Against Tiffany
Why did they wait so long? And Democratic primary becomes harder to predict.
Jul 13th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Missed Ad Buy Exposes Big Money Problem For Sara Rodriguez
How a planned $1 million TV blitz became a scramble to reconcile campaign books and fire a top aide.
Jul 13th, 2026 by Jeramey Jannene
Brennan Pitches Experience, People Skills in Race for Governor
Democrat says voters want governor to get things done. 'Joel doesn’t wake up looking for a fight.'
Jul 11th, 2026 by Erik Gunn
Supervisor Wants Referendum on Courthouse Project
Proposal would put $897 million courthouse to referendum in November.
Jul 10th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Overdose Deaths Fall Across Wisconsin As Harm Reduction Efforts Grow
From Narcan in vending machines to new treatment beds, a statewide push is saving lives after record highs.
Jul 9th, 2026 by Evan Casey
Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow Dies At 61
Longtime Republican official led the county since 2015 and battled a rare cancer for two years.
Jul 9th, 2026 by Shawn Johnson
David Crowley Drops Out of Race for Governor
'It has become clear I will not be the Democratic nominee for governor,' county exec says.
Jul 8th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Milwaukee Homeowners Can Get FEMA Assistance for Spring Storms
Federal government approved $22.6 million more funding for Wisconsin on June 30.
Jul 8th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Everyone’s Talking About Francesca Hong
Will all the coverage help or hurt Democratic governor candidate? And beware a new poll.
Jul 7th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Francesca Hong Bets Wisconsin Will Embrace Democratic Socialism
'If it is radical to have free child care and public grocery stores, let’s be radical.'
Jul 5th, 2026 by Baylor Spears
Courthouse Project Cost Explodes
New cost estimate nearly double prior figure.
Jul 2nd, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Hong’s Livestream Push Nets $92,000 And Sparks Antisemitism Backlash
Democratic frontrunner faces criticism for appearing with left-wing streamers Hasan Piker and Mike From PA.
Jul 2nd, 2026 by Anya van Wagtendonk
Board Confirms Crowley’s Budget Director
Crowley's pick, a former MPS official, faced opposition from unusual mix of supervisors.
Jun 26th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Announces Public Safety Initiative
State grant funding violence intervention and coordination among local organizations.
Jun 25th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
What Does Hughes Quitting Tell Us About Governor’s Race?
A top tier of liberal candidates emerging. Will there be more Democratic dropouts?
Jun 24th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Democratic Governor Candidates Address Criminal Justice, Inequality
WISDOM forum provides chance for in-depth answers by candidates.
Jun 24th, 2026 by Isiah Holmes
State Sen. Kelda Roys Hopes to Shake Up Democratic Governor Race
'I have by far the most experience in and around state government.'
Jun 23rd, 2026 by Baylor Spears
All Candidates for WI Governor Vow to Revive Land Conservation Program
All Democrats and Tiffany say they will restore the Knowles-Nelson stewardship program.
Jun 22nd, 2026 by Rich Kremer
New Budget Director Faces Pushback in Second Hearing
Powerful Finance Committee approves confirmation, but not without some sharp comments from supervisors.
Jun 19th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
County Opens Temporary Senior Center Sites
Two sites on northwest side will provide services programming after McGovern Park center's closure.
Jun 18th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
State Democratic Leader Lays Out Policy Plans If Party Wins Trifecta
Senate Minority Leader Dianne Hesselbein points to school funding, property taxes and more.
Jun 17th, 2026 by Baylor Spears
Mandela Barnes Tours Northside Community Hub
Democratic candidate for governor cites Milwaukee program as model for needed job training.
Jun 16th, 2026 by Sophie Bolich
The Elevator Speech for Democratic Governor Candidates
Boiling down their pitch to voters, why do they deserve your vote?
Jun 15th, 2026 by Steven Walters
Rodriguez Wins Democratic Straw Poll for Governor
Hong takes second. But conventiongoers also consider: who is most electable?
Jun 15th, 2026 by Brittany Carloni and Audrey Lopez-Stane
Democratic Candidates for Governor Pitch The State Party Convention
Plus: Evers farewell speech. And hopes to flip even more Republican Senate seats.
Jun 15th, 2026 by Baylor Spears
Crowley’s New Budget Director Aces First Confirmation Hearing
'A person who likes torture'? Committee backs Nick Sinram, former MPS budget director.
Jun 13th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
We’re Changing, County Transit Officials Say After Scathing Audit
New bus system leader says 'we're making progress' on finances and transparency.
Jun 9th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Democratic State Convention Could Narrow Field for Wisconsin Governor
Delegates will be looking for which of 7 candidates 'stand out' in their speeches.
Jun 8th, 2026 by Brittany Carloni
A Democrat Will Again Oppose Rep. Ryan Clancy
Challenger Bridget Maniaci promises more focus on local issues, not global conflicts
Jun 6th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Barnes Touts Statewide Experience in Run for Governor
Politics is a challenging 'endurance sport,' says best known Democrat running for governor.
Jun 5th, 2026 by Baylor Spears
10 Candidates Make Wisconsin Governor’s Ballot As Filing Closes
Democrats crowd the field with eight hopefuls, while Tom Tiffany is the lone Republican to qualify.
Jun 2nd, 2026 by Anya van Wagtendonk
Openings Set For Milwaukee Pools, Splash Pads and Aquatic Centers
Milwaukee County Parks opening 39 pools and splash pads after unseasonably cold spring.
Jun 1st, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Milwaukee Officials Celebrate Beginning of Pride Month
County Executive, Mayor issue Pride Month proclamations at flag raising event.
Jun 1st, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Outside Money Jumps Into Crowded Wisconsin Democratic Governor Primary
New TV ad buys back Sara Rodriguez and David Crowley as most Democratic voters remain undecided.
May 28th, 2026 by Anya van Wagtendonk
Airport Receives $8 Million for International Terminal Project
Federal grant boosts support for $92.5 million terminal project.
May 21st, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Seeks to Mend Fences With Mental Health Board
His administration asks board to help choose new head of Behavioral Health Services.
May 20th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
This Photo Hurt Mandela Barnes in 2022, But Public Opinion Has Shifted
His views on ICE hurt Barnes against Ron Johnson, but may help in governor's race.
May 17th, 2026 by Peter Cameron
How Milwaukee’s Bus System Saves Drivers Millions of Dollars
Report estimates MCTS saves region more than $340 million annually.
May 15th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
FBI Visits Milwaukee County Elections Director
Visit follows reports that FBI is investigating results of 2020 presidential election.
May 14th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
County Bus Shuttles Returning to Summerfest
Shuttle fares now higher for trips to and from Summerfest.
May 13th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Legendary Doctor William Finlayson Dies at 101
Trailblazing doctor delivered an estimated 10,000 babies in his career.
May 12th, 2026 by Jeramey Jannene
High Fuel Prices Impact Local Governments Across Wisconsin
Milwaukee County could see $800,000 deficit in fleet operations, Green Bay officials worried.
May 12th, 2026 by Evan Casey
Tony Evers Revived Commutations; What Will Wisconsin’s Next Governor Do?
Most Democratic candidates support it. Barnes excludes those convicted of murder.
May 5th, 2026 by Brittany Carloni
Democrats Running for Governor Agree Healthcare Costs a Problem
How to fix this is where there was disagreement at candidate forums.
May 4th, 2026 by Erik Gunn
The Inside Story of Democratic Race for Governor
Was a white centrist male candidate seen as the solution?
Apr 30th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Jessica McBride Dumps on Dan Bice
Don’t speak ill of the dead? Not exactly.
Apr 27th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Most Democratic Governor Candidates Support Evers’ Commutations Policy
But not Mandela Barnes. Republican Tom Tiffany also opposed.
Apr 27th, 2026 by Brittany Carloni
Milwaukee’s Overdose Deaths Dropped 42.5% Since 2022
How county's prevention strategies have helped reduce the numbers.
Apr 22nd, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Central Standard Opens at Milwaukee Airport
New location aims to welcome travelers with local spirits.
Apr 15th, 2026 by Sophie Bolich
Mayor, County Executive Raise Concerns About Safety at Train Station
Ald. Bauman calls on state DOT to take over managing Milwaukee Intermodal Station.
Apr 15th, 2026 by Evan Casey
Democrats Vying for WI Governor Take on Data Centers, Climate Change
All 7 want more regulations on data center developments.
Apr 15th, 2026 by Rich Kremer
County Launches Fatherhood Training
New program helps young fathers with parenting, healthy relationships and employment.
Apr 15th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Pyrotechnics Being Added To July 3 Drone Show
Parks director also promises to dial back feature that annoyed viewers last year.
Apr 9th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Wisconsin’s Democratic Gubernatorial Candidates Struggle to Differentiate on Health Care
In a crowded field, candidates sought to differentiate themselves despite shared policy goals.
Apr 9th, 2026 by Anya van Wagtendonk
See Designs for New Courthouse
County close to final conceptual plans for $490 million courthouse project.
Apr 9th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Bus Riders Can Finally Pay With Credit Card
MCTS adds contactless payment system riders can use after boarding.
Apr 6th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Democrats in Governor’s Race Call for Child Care Support
Rodriguez, Hughes have released plans. Every candidate supports the goal.
Apr 1st, 2026 by Erik Gunn
See Inside Construction of Massive Air Cargo Facility
Facility expected to quadruple Milwaukee Mitchell's cargo capacity.
Mar 26th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
After Health Care Contract Fiasco, Board Passes Changes in Process
'We were blindsided by lapses in contracts that are critical,' supervisor warns.
Mar 25th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Poll Shows Taylor Leads Lazar in WI Supreme Court Race
Democrats more excited about voting in April. But many voters haven't made a choice.
Mar 24th, 2026 by Rich Kremer
Sheriff, Clerk Of Courts Win Large Pay Hikes
Supervisors back 15% raises but question process, data used to justify salaries.
Mar 22nd, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Focuses on ‘Building Bridges’ in 2026 State of the County
The county executive promotes major infrastructure projects, policy successes in annual address.
Mar 19th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Hires New Budget Director
He taps Nick Sinram, MPS budget director, to manage county's $1.4 billion budget.
Mar 18th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Tours South Milwaukee Affordable Housing Project
$50 million project creating 134 apartments and a new senior center.
Mar 10th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
The Surprising Campaign of Rep. Francesca Hong
Her dark horse campaign is biggest surprise in Democratic primary for governor.
Mar 9th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
See Inside New Juvenile Detention Facility
New 32-bed facility part of state plan to regionalize juvenile detention facilities
Mar 5th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Seeks to Replace McGovern Senior Center
Administration pushes to close senior center in McGovern Park, find new location.
Mar 4th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
After GOP Snub Of Black History Month, Black Lawmakers Answer With Policy
Caucus pairs a new agenda on housing, education and justice with pushback on symbolic floor fights in Madison.
Feb 27th, 2026 by Baylor Spears
Hong, Barnes Lead Democratic Primary for Governor In New Poll
Marquette poll shows most voters undecided, with Taylor leading Lazar for high court.
Feb 25th, 2026 by Rich Kremer
Milwaukee Loves Peter Feigin
Outgoing Bucks leader, replaced by the team, showered with praise by community, given rare 'key to the city.'
Feb 24th, 2026 by Jeramey Jannene
Kosciuszko Community Center Gets Federal Funding Boost
County announces federal appropriation for South Side community center.
Feb 23rd, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
County Paying $890,950 to Consultant in Health Care Scandal
Yet the consultant blew off board meeting discussing the contract screwup.
Feb 18th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Sheriff Plans to Acquire Facial Recognition Technology
Plans deal with Biometrica company. 'Kind of shocking,' says board member.
Feb 17th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Small Set of Counties Could Pick Democratic Candidate for Governor
Tony Evers won just 16 of 72 counties in November 2022 election.
Feb 16th, 2026 by Steven Walters
Supervisors Want Audit After Health Care Fiasco
In wake of the contracting scandal, elected officials seek answers.
Feb 13th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
After Leak of Pinch Details, Employee in DA’s Office Resigns
Resignation in latest wrinkle in high-profile case.
Feb 13th, 2026 by Jeramey Jannene
Inside the Police Report on Marty Brooks’ Alleged Pinch of José Pérez
Newly obtained report reveals recorded call, witness statements and why prosecutors closed the sexual assault case without charges.
Feb 10th, 2026 by Jeramey Jannene
‘Lipstick on a Pig,’ Board Passes Health Contract After Process Failure
Supervisors say they had little choice but to approve a flawed health insurance agreement.
Feb 6th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Will County Financial Screwup Affect Governor’s Race?
Opponents now attacking David Crowley for his handling of the situation.
Feb 3rd, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Supervisors Tentatively Approve Suspicious Health Contract
Crowley administration pushes approval though not sure of financial details and employee who oversaw contract was fired.
Feb 2nd, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Crowley Fires Contract Director Over Insurance Debacle
Director was in charge of the lapsed county health care contract that has roiled the courthouse.
Feb 2nd, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
‘Red Flags’ Abound in Suspicious $450 Million County Health Contract
Board members blindsided by massive contract. Attorneys warn of 'catastrophic risk.'
Jan 30th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
After Trump Weighs In, Josh Schoemann Drops Out of Governor’s Race
The Washington County executive announced his decision the day after President Trump endorsed his opponent.
Jan 29th, 2026 by Shawn Johnson
Pretti Killing Becomes Issue in WI Governor’s Race
Republican Tom Tiffany says he hasn't seen video of ICE agents shooting Alex Pretti.
Jan 27th, 2026 by Baylor Spears
Barnes Proposes Grants To Fight Food Deserts
Proposal would fund new stores, support stores near closure and connect farmers with reliable buyers.
Jan 22nd, 2026 by Sophie Bolich
County Board Wants To Freeze ICE Out of Parks
Supervisors draft vague "law enforcement ordinance."
Jan 22nd, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
More Than Policy, Dem Candidates Differ on Style and Tone
The seven-leading gubernatorial candidates participated in a forum Wednesday night.
Jan 22nd, 2026 by Erik Gunn
US Transportation Dept Drops ICE Cooperation Requirement
Attempt to tie transportation funding to ICE cooperation falls apart in federal court.
Jan 21st, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
10 Takeaways From Governor’s Race Donations
How much money was raised, and from who, tells us a lot about the candidates.
Jan 20th, 2026 by Bruce Murphy
Wisconsin Democrats Decry Proposed Constitutional Amendment on DEI
Blasting 'dangerous' Republican proposal that could be on ballot in November.
Jan 19th, 2026 by Evan Casey
Early Fundraising Shows Competitive Democratic Primary for Governor
Crowley leads 7 Democrats who've raised 6-figure sums; Tiffany is GOP leader.
Jan 17th, 2026 by Shawn Johnson
County Awarded $25 Million for Road Safety Projects
Federal grant will fund 67 projects at many locations in the county.
Jan 12th, 2026 by Graham Kilmer
Fatal ICE Shooting Spurs Sharp Partisan Divide Among Wisconsin Leaders
From calls to dismantle ICE to claims of domestic terrorism, state politicians offer starkly different reactions.
Jan 9th, 2026 by Rich Kremer
Priebus Doubts Tim Michels Will Enter Governor’s Race
It's 'a little late,' says Republican who advised Michels failed 2022 campaign.
Jan 6th, 2026 by Rich Kremer
Mandela Barnes Is Democratic Front-Runner In Governor’s Race
The field is large. The key issue may be electability.
Dec 31st, 2025 by Christa Dutton / NOTUS and Jade Lozada / NOTUS, Wisconsin Watch
Top 10 Stories of The Year
In an amazingly newsworthy year, what were top state issues?
Dec 29th, 2025 by Steven Walters
