Alberta Darling

Where Are Act 10 Players Today?

Governor and three-fourths of legislators engaged in 2011 battle over law crushing public unions have moved on.

Will Budget Hearings Be Superspreader Events?

Mask wars pit Democrats against Republicans in Legislature.

11 Bills Would Change State Voting Laws

One is bipartisan. The others are not.

Republican Bill Makes Voting Harder

List of restrictions will make it less likely that disabled, nursing home residents and others vote.

Expunging Records Gets Bipartisan Support

Wisconsin has one of nation’s strictest laws on expunging criminal records.

It’s Kerr and Underly for State Superintendent

Field of seven candidates narrow to two, with Underly the anti-voucher school candidate.

Medical College of Wisconsin Applauds Mental Health Investments

7 Seek State School Superintendent Job

Who are they and what are the key issues in the February primary race?

Criminal Record Expungement Bill Is Back

Bipartisan bill pushed by Rep. Evan Goyke nearly passed in last session.

State Superintendent Candidates Raise $200,000

Which candidates have raised the most and who are the top donors?

LeMahieu Struggles in Vos’s Shadow

New Senate majority leader a surprise choice who's trying to resist the dictates of Robin Vos.

New Finance Co-Chair Expects Challenges

Republican Rep. Mark Born expects partisan disagreements, expects compromises will be reached.

Gwen Moore Positive for COVID-19

The congresswoman is a cancer survivor and recently contracted the virus.

Unemployment System Audited After Pandemic Failures

Massive delays in claims, duplicate payments and an unreliable call center among issues found in report.

State Rep. John Nygren Resigns

Surprise decision by Finance Committee member from Marinette known for his work on opioid crisis.

Kaul Sues Legislature Over Lame Duck Laws

Lawsuits can’t be settled, consumers lose out on potential settlements, AG charges.

Outside Groups Spent $10 Million on Legislative Races

Special interest groups backing Democrats spent more of it, about $5.5 million.

Purple Wisconsin Still Has Dark Red Legislature

Republican legislators continue to win big with minority of state's vote.

Americans for Prosperity-Wisconsin Congratulates Newly Elected and Re-Elected State Lawmakers

No Veto-Proof Majority for Republican Legislators

They flipped two of three seats needed to get two-thirds majority in Senate.

Your Guide to Down Ballot Races

Trump versus Biden isn't the only ballot item. Here's information on 13 other races across the county

$1 Million Legislative Races Now Common

For a job paying $52,000. This year the Democrats are out-spending Republicans.

Neal Plotkin Statement on Alberta Darling’s Comments Regarding Legislative Inactivity

Darling stated, “We don’t need to come in.”

Surplus Property Law Results in Just One Vacant Milwaukee School Sale to Charter School

WILL Policy Brief revisits how state law was thwarted by local actors for the last five years

Did Brad Schimel Break the Law?

He emceed political fundraiser. State law prevents judges from all political activities.

Ron Johnson Positive for COVID-19

Johnson spoke Friday at Republican fundraiser in Ozaukee County, is third GOP senator to test positive since Trump announced he had virus.

State Budget Survives First COVID-19 Test

End of fiscal year budget total shows 1% gain. But more pandemic tests to come.

Republican Senators Offer 8 Police Bills

One requires cities in Wisconsin to maintain current police funding or lose state aid.

Legislative Donors Give Record Amount in 2020

$7.1 million showered on legislative races in first half of 2020, shattering 2016 record of $5.1 million.

Ten Years After Act 10

Most of those who voted for it are gone. How has the Capitol changed?

Darling Dodges 100 Days of Work

COVID-19 Cases and Deaths Rise as Republicans Ignore Crisis

15+ Wisconsin Lawmakers May Attend ALEC Annual Meeting in Orlando Amid Spiking Coronavirus Cases

Senator Darling is Part of the Problem

Co-Chair of Joint Finance Committee history of blocking measures to address racial disparities

Enbridge Energy Looks to Reroute Pipeline

Campaign donor wants to seize private property in North Woods for crude oil pipeline.

Neal Plotkin Announces Historic Nomination Signature Total

Plotkin for Senate campaign gathered over 1,200 signatures to earn a place on the ballot

GOP Lame-Duck Law Blocks COVID-19 Aid

State GOP was warned of unintended consequences to their law in 2018.

Some ‘Tougher on Crime’ Bills Passed

Gov. Evers vetoed most, but signed a few.

Federal Policing Money Flowing to City

Relentless Pursuit grant, Tougher on Crime grant, DNC funding lead the list.

GOP Adds More “Tougher On Crime” Legislation

New bills increase penalties for offenses like car theft and reckless driving.

GOP Lawmakers Push “Tougher on Crime” Legislation

Package of bills draws major criticism and concern from committee, citizens.

Who’s the Most Partisan?

Republican legislators suddenly embrace bipartisan peacemaking, blast Evers as partisan.

Republicans Bash Evers Before He Speaks

Condemn governor as too partisan, but his State of State speech is mostly conciliatory.

Neal Plotkin Announces Endorsement of Campaign by Fox Point Trustee Liz Sumner

Local business owner, citizen-legislator and committed leader endorses

GOP Legislators Push “Tougher on Crime” Bills

Stiffer penalties on variety of crimes even as Evers moves to reduce prison population.

Senator Darling Lacks Compassion Amidst the Christmas Season

Republican Leaves Children, Families and Veterans Out In the Cold

Robin Vos Stonewalls on Public Records

John Q. Public can’t get anything from Assembly Speaker

How Homeless Got Frozen Out

With no explanation, Fitzgerald stopped bipartisan bill providing grants to homeless shelters.

Binge Drinking Cost County $594 Million

New report finds $3.9 billion impact in 2018 for entire state. Wisconsin ranks second in binge drinking.

Senator Darling Leaves Homeless in the Cold

Republican Rejects Her Own Bill to Fund Wisconsin Homeless Centers

State Jobs Will Go Unfilled

Republican Finance Committee co-chairs refuse Evers request for 60 new hires in state government.

Legislators May Hike Public Defenders Pay

Plan would more closely align state public defenders’ pay with that of state prosecutors.

Pipeline Bill Opponents Hope for Veto

Republican-created bill would limit protests of oil, water, fuel pipelines. If it passes, will Evers veto it?

Senate Republicans Choose Special Interest Cash Over Public Safety of Wisconsinites

Lawmakers with history of NRA backing refuse to support Gov. Evers call for legislation to address gun violence

Senate Passes Insurance Industry Bill

Industry gave $1.9 million in campaign donations. Bill allows shorter notice of premium hikes.

A World Without Scott Fitzgerald

Capitol insiders wonder who will be senate majority leader if Fitzgerald wins race for Congress.

Sen. Alberta Darling Plays Politics With Suicide Prevention Hotline

This is the second instance of Sen. Darling playing politics with funds available in the state budget to prevent suicides.

Bill Would Eliminate 6-Month Waiting Period To Remarry After Divorce

Bill has bipartisan support, but is opposed by the Wisconsin Family Council.

Senator Darling Ignores Domestic Abuse Survivors

Republican refuses to close loophole and prevent criminals from purchasing firearms

Supervisors Push Ex-Offender Voting Rights

Resolution calls for restoring the voting rights of people on parole or probation.

Lame Duck Laws Hurting the State

Tying hands of Attorney General stalls 15 lawsuits, could cost taxpayers millions.

Questions Swirl Around State Budget Committee Republicans’ Hiring of Lawyer/Lobbyist at Taxpayer Expense

Republicans’ Proposed Solution to the Mess They Made is a Farce

GOP Legislators Hire Private Attorney In Clash With AG

15 state lawsuits have been stalled by legislators' dispute with Kaul over confidentiality agreement.

Sen. Alberta Darling’s Corrupt Lame Duck Law Puts Settlement Funds At Risk

Attorney General Kaul blocked by Joint Finance Republicans from settling lawsuit

Republicans Reject Attorney General Effort to Comply With Law They Passed

GOP Legislators Agreed to Confidentiality When Leaders Rigged District Lines for Their Benefit, Refuse Request By Democrat to Discuss Legal Action Potentially Benefiting Wisconsin

NRA’s Favorite Wisconsin State Politicians

Former Gov. Walker was Wisconsin’s top NRA beneficiary.

Legislators Urge New Strategy on Budget

Stung by Republican cuts in funds to Milwaukee, city-based legislators search for new approach.

GOP Legislators Delay Funds for Homeless, Farmers

Evers, Democrats push for state spending approved in budget, Republicans want review by Senate.

Did Legislators Work Too Fast?

Apparently had no time to address issues like drunk driving and water pollution.

Senate Sends $82 Billion Budget to Evers

Governor can reject, approve or partially veto the Republicans' revised version of budget.

Accused Polluter a Big Campaign Donor

Johnson Controls International’s subsidiary accused of releasing hazardous chemicals, contaminating drinking water.

Joint Finance Committee Passes Budget

Majority Republicans rejected many Evers proposals. Minority Democrats assail GOP plan.

GOP Budget Jacks Up Auto Fees

Vehicle title fee up 137%; higher fees would raise $393 million for roads.

GOP Approves $558 Million Health Care Hike

But Republican budget rejects Medicaid expansion that would save the state $320 million, Evers notes.

Attack on Milwaukee continues – even with a new occupant of the Governor’s Office

Statement of Alderwoman Chantia Lewis May 16, 2019

Republican Pushes for Medical Marijuana

State Sen. Patrick Testin could be the key man in the success or failure of proposal.

Why Legislators Want Tougher Drunk Driving Law

Wisconsin is the only state that doesn't criminalize drunk driving on the first offense.

Republican Reefer Madness

Aping the old drug-scare film, they back invalidated theories on marijuana’s alleged harm.

Republicans Delaying State Budget Action Until After Fundraiser Hosted by Washington D.C. Lobbying Firm

Delaying Deliberations Until After Special Interest Shakedown a Clear Sign of GOP Budget Priorities

GOP Legislators Kill Medical Pot Proposal

Budget committee snuffs out Evers plan. It's “off the wall scary,” says Sen. Darling.

GOP Legislators Defend Foxconn

They offer positive slant to Foxconn executive expressing doubt about 13,000 jobs.

Bill Speeds Up Health Insurance Appeals

Legislators consider bill in response to citizens' complaints about "step therapy," delays in getting needed pain medicine.

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #19 Relating to the Creation of the Committee to Celebrate the Centennial Anniversary of Wisconsin’s Ratification of the 19th Amendment

Gov. Evers today designated Mrs. Kathy Evers as the Chairwoman of the Executive Committee.

Evers Too Slow on Prison Reform?

His budget expands prisons, doesn’t offer much reform, critics charge.

Legislators Resist Many Evers Proposals

GOP push back on minimum wage, water quality, corrections worker wages, unemployment compensation and more.

Rep. Robyn Vining Supports Safe Harbor Legislation

"The Safe Harbor Bill is a piece of common-sense legislation that helps protect trafficked youth."

Gov. Evers Moves Forward on Plans to Close Lincoln Hills

"We are committed to getting kids out of Lincoln Hills and closer to home as soon as we safely and responsibly can."

Evers Budget Targets Rich Taxpayers

And helps middle class. But Republicans oppose plan.

Governor’s Veto Power Looms Large

What Legislature gives, veto can take away. The battle has begun.

GOP May Resist Kaul on ACA Lawsuit

Attorney General wants to drop lawsuit, Republican legislators hint they won’t let him.

AFP-WI Backs Expungement Reform Bill

The bill makes smart reforms to Wisconsin’s criminal justice system to help provide second chances to people who have paid their debt to society.

Tavern League Still Has Clout in Capitol

Which is why bill to criminalize drunk driving unlikely to get legislative approval.

Senate Majority Leader Fitzgerald Announces Senate Standing Committees, Chairs

"I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate this session as we continue to pass reforms that put hard-working families first."

MacIver Cheers New Revenue Projections, Urges Gov.-Elect Evers To Stay The Course

"Eight years of sound fiscal management by Gov. Walker and the conservative legislature have put Wisconsin back on the right track."

Secrecy Hides State Legislators’ Actions

Anonymous budget amendments and "Body Snatcher” bills reward special interests, limit public input.

Local Leaders Demand Big Store Tax Reform

18 municipal leaders say big box tax loopholes costly, push legislators to change law.

American Heart Association recognizes Sen. Alberta Darling with Friend of Heart award

Lawmaker recognized for efforts on dispatcher-assisted CPR, FoodShare incentives laws

Legislative Committee Approves Highway Funding

“The roads in Illinois are much better,” Republican Sen Alberta Darling charges.

U.S. Supreme Court Nears Decision on Wisconsin Redistricting Case

Ruling could impact the nation’s elections and democracy for decades.

A State MPS Reform Proposal. Again

Scott Walker joins a list of governors and others who’ve proposed reforms.

Why Mitchell Street Sun Fair Was Cancelled

Republican law aimed at Milwaukee BIDs made it harder to raise money for fair.

Farm Bill Will Leave Millions of Kids Hungry

Analysis of federal bill show 11% of state food stamp recipients, including 23,369 kids, lose eligibility.

Audit Shows Big Problems at State Fair Park

Management issues, revenue shortfalls, contracts not tracked, environmental laws violated.

Governor Walker Signs Bills to Create and Expand Outdoor Recreation, Attract Talent to Wisconsin, and Improve Medical Assistance

93 bills signed into law at the Wisconsin State Capitol

Combating the Opioid Crisis: Governor Walker Signs Bipartisan Bills on Opioids into Law

All 30 bills signed by the Governor were created as a part of the HOPE (Heroin, Opiate, Prevention, and Education) Agenda.

Supporting Wisconsin’s Children and Families: Governor Walker to Sign 11 Bills to Improve Outcomes for Children in Foster Care

This legislative bill package was created by the 2017 Speaker’s Task Force on Foster Care.

Governor Walker Signs Bills on Improving Family Access to High-Quality Child Care, Creating Transitional Jobs Program for Wisconsin Veterans, and Increasing Funding for Watershed Protection Grants

Governor Walker signs 64 bills into law at the Wisconsin State Capitol

Mayor Tom Barrett Applauds Passage of Bill Prohibiting Straw Purchasing

Senate Bill 408 criminalizes gun purchases on behalf of felons and acting as ‘human holster’

Legislators’ Donations Up 40% in 2017

Most of it to Republicans, who have 3.2 times more campaign cash than Democrats.

GOP lawmakers again embrace anti-Milwaukee stance with BID measure

Statement of Alderman Michael J. Murphy - March 15, 2018

Governor Walker Announces Administration Staff Changes

Governor Scott Walker today announced the following administration staff changes

Sen. Taylor, Bipartisan Legislators, Introduce Bill to Fund Suicide Prevention Text Hotline

“Wisconsin’s suicide rate has increased between 2005 and 2015, and the suicide rate among teens has doubled between 2007 and 2015,” said Senator Lena Taylor.

Landlords Win in the Assembly

Bills makes evictions easier. Real estate industry gave $1.2 million to GOP legislators.

Darling Bill To Restore Historic Tax Credit Has Public Hearing

"Many downtowns throughout Wisconsin owe their revitalization to the Historic Tax Credit."

Senate Committee Approves WINS Act Darling Bill Encourages Business Clusters in Wisconsin

"This bill will help build on the many successes stories in Wisconsin and take our business climate to the next level."

Bill Helps Real Estate Industry

Weakens historic preservation and tenants rights. Realtors big donors to legislators.

Historic Preservation Tax Credits Survive

Republican tax plan changes program, but doesn't eliminate it.

Governor Walker Signs Bill Into Law Designating Richard A. Grobschmidt Memorial Bridge in Milwaukee

"Richard was a dedicated public servant who helped move Wisconsin forward for over 25 years."

Governor Walker Signs 19 Bills Into Law

Acts 65-83.

Why Does GOP Want To Raise My Taxes?

And why do I get nothing back in return but a bigger federal deficit?

Historic Preservation in Peril

Job-creating historic preservation tax credits face cuts again, this time from Congress.

With Elections Just a Year Away, Legislature Abandons Wisconsin Families

Industrial Acid Mining Bill Will Put Public Health at Risk for Generations

Anti-Fraud Law’s Repeal Hurts Taxpayers

State losing millions in federal settlements because Walker, GOP killed whistleblower law.

Leah unveils 100+ Wisconsin endorsements

Elected officials, grassroots activists and business owners unite behind Leah

The Secrets of Foxconn

Walker administration won’t release details of massive subsidy until after contract is signed.

Wisconsin Workforce and Innovation Network for Success

The Act will encourage and expand industry clusters in our state.

The Water Council Supports the Wisconsin WINS Act

The Wisconsin WINS Act will help transform economic growth in communities across Wisconsin.

Leah Vukmir Unveils Finance Committee for U.S. Senate

Long-time Wisconsin GOP Donors Back Leah for Senate

Committee Holds Hearing Today on Regulatory “Sunset” Bill

Americans for Prosperity-Wisconsin today called on lawmakers to approve AB 384, a measure that would require the re-adoption of government rules every seven years under a rigorous review process.

Bill Has $10 Million Giveaway to Fiserv

Included in Foxconn bill. Fiserv employees donated $15,400 to state politicians.

The News That Wasn’t

JS story on I-94 project in danger is six months old. So why was it a banner headline?

We Hate DOT, But Here’s $712 Million

GOP senators would borrow big for Department of Transportation they distrust.

Senate and Assembly Flip on Highway Debt

Senate now likes big increase in debt, Assembly no longer does.

H.O.P.E. for Wisconsin: Governor Walker Signs Four Special Session Bills into Law at Medical College of Wisconsin – Green Bay

"Like many states in our great nation, Wisconsin is experiencing a dangerous trend – a growing number of cases of opioid abuse and overdose."

Walker, Darling Flip Flop on Vouchers

Their new message to school choice supporters: Drop dead.

State Park Fees Keep Rising

New hikes proposed, already higher than in any Midwestern state.

Koch-Funded Group Backs Tax Cut

Cut could reduce state forestry funding.

How MMAC Peddles Influence

Milwaukee business group has spent $2.4 million on campaigns and lobbying.

Republican Legislators Rejecting Student Loan Refinancing Themselves Attended College at One-Fifth the Cost Today

Cost of Their Own Schooling May Explain Ignorance of Student Loan Debt Crisis, But it Doesn’t Excuse Their Refusal to Help

Bill Buries State Regulations

After 7 years they would expire. Kochs and WMC back the bill.

Drunk Driving Bill Costs $15 Million Per Year

Department of Corrections estimates minimum cost of get-tough bill.

Regent Nominees Gave Walker $22,550

The two nominees also gave more than $64,000 to other candidates.

Republican Extremists Eye Fetal Tissue Bill for the Second Straight Legislative Session

"Not only is this proposal out of touch with the needs of everyday Wisconsinites, it does nothing to move our state forward."

Heavy Trucks Cause Most Road Damage

State isn’t enforcing weight limits. Big donors support bigger trucks.

2017 State of the City

As Delivered by Mayor Tom Barrett

Governor Walker Appoints Jay Risch to Serve as Department of Financial Institutions Secretary

Mr. Risch will begin his new duties at DFI on March 6, 2017.

Legislators Could Trim Walker Budget

Does governor expect them to throw out his bag of goodies?

Tavern League Favors Drunk Driving Bill

Big donor to politicians wants tougher penalties but easy on first-time offenders.

The Top 10 Stories of 2016

Readers' favorites? Stories about mansions, rich people, sports stars, politicians.

Governor Walker Appoints New Deputy Chief of Staff for Budget, Legislative, and Intergovernmental Affairs

Governor Walker’s current Deputy Chief of Staff for Budget, Legislative, and Intergovernmental Affairs, Cindy Polzin, will be leaving her role effective November 28, 2016.

Hard Right Dominates GOP Senate

Eight or nine senators could dictate much of Gov. Walker's 2017-19 state budget.

Why State’s MPS Takeover Plan Died

In changing state ratings to protect choice schools, Republicans ended up killing OSPP.

MPS Sets Sights on Increased State Funding

Buoyed by victory on OSSP takeover law, union and parents call for funding equity.

Wisconsin GOP Plan? Tax Giveaways For Not Creating Jobs?

It’s time to stop picking working taxpayers’ pockets for this entitlement for the already entitled.

Support the Blue Day rally to feature President Hamilton, Aldermen Donovan and Borkowski

“I urge citizens to come out and show their support for our brave officers,” said Alderman Bob Donovan.

Opponents Agree New Education Funding Model Needed

Union leader, key Republican and DPI all want a student centered approach to state funding.

MPS Teachers Oppose State Partnership Plan

They demand specifics; Demond Means denies he will “takeover” failing schools.

Governor Walker Signs Bill to Crack Down on Repeat Drunk Drivers

Legislation signed on the anniversary of the tragic loss of three young lives

Governor Scott Walker Signs Legislation Into Law to Expand Teacher Loan Program

It is Act 359.

Near West Side Partners Join Gov. Walker As He Signs AB628 into Law

Legislation will save taxpayer resources, reduce crime and promote economic development

Is the Republican Party of Wisconsin running Judge Michelle Havas and Justice Rebecca Bradley’s campaigns from Madison?

This highly orchestrated coordination is very new and newsworthy.

Another Abele Election Year Conversion: Won’t Follow MPS Takeover Law

The law explicitly requires the commissioner to target a public school for transfer into the separate district and then initiate a request-for-proposal to determine who should run the school.

Governor Scott Walker Signs 46 Bills Into Law

Acts 154 - 199.

Judge Joe Donald slams Rebecca Bradley’s hyper-partisan campaign tactics

Asks other candidates to join in new pledge to forgo special interest money & partisan help

Getting Tough On Drunk Driving

Legislators push to make fourth OWI a felony. But the state corrections costs are high.

Near West Side Partners Testifies in Support of SB528

Legislation will save taxpayer resources, reduce crime and promote economic development

Dr. Sheldon Wasserman’s Lesser Manse

The Democrat's $655,700 Lake Dr. home barely compares to his neighbors' mansions.

The Soaring Cost of Gun Violence

Estimated annual cost in Wisconsin is $2.9 billion, or $508 per person.

Governor Scott Walker Signs 49 Bills Into Law

Governor Scott Walker signed 49 bills into law today at the Wisconsin State Capitol.

21% of Gas Tax Will Go to Repay Debt

Debt level has doubled in a decade, yet legislators approve plan.

WEDC Leaders Resist Reforming Troubled Agency

Top brass of jobs agency miss opportunity to apologize and fix problems.

Questions Remain on “Opportunity Schools”

Republican plan giving Abele power over low-performing MPS schools offers few details.

How Republicans Worked to End Public Records

Planning began last September and would have ended open records for all local governments as well.

Governor Scott Walker Announces Administration Staff Changes

Governor Scott Walker announced the following administrative staff changes today.

Bipartisan talks begin in Senate for Milwaukee arena dea

Governor Scott Walker and Legislative Leaders Make Statement on Government Transparency

Governor Scott Walker, Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, and the Joint Finance Committee Co-Chairs, Senator Alberta Darling and Representative John Nygren, released the following statement

Walker Still Mum On Role Curbing Public Records

Legislature's proposal used language previously crafted by Walker administration, but governor and Vos won't discuss governor's involvement. Update of story published on July 3rd.

Legislators’ Shocking Attack on Open Government

Budget provision with no author will decimate open records rules for legislature. It will pass unless there is an outcry from legislators.

Sen. Darling: Arena deal may go to separate vote

Crunch Time for Bucks Arena Deal

Joint Finance Committee needs nine of 16 members to approve it. That could be tough.

Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abele Statement on the Opportunity Schools and Partnership Program Proposal

Providing the best K-12 education system for the community should be a priority for everyone who lives in Milwaukee

Statement from Milwaukee Board of School Directors President Michael Bonds and MPS Superintendent Darienne Driver regarding the Kooyenga/Darling proposal

Both Bonds and MPS Superintendent Darienne Driver expressed skepticism that the so-called "turnaround district" will do anything to improve outcomes for students.

No Christmas In May For Republicans

Tax collections haven’t risen so GOP lawmakers may have to swallow Walker budget cuts they opposed.

Republicans Target Utility Fighter CUB

Proposal would kill funding for Citizen’s Utility Board, which advocates for consumers.

Legislators Hope Tax Windfall Rescues Them

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

Charter School Leaders Say Oversight Needed

Republican plan for Milwaukee would allow high-performing charter schools to replicate without any approving authority.

Rep. Barca Responds to GOP Finance Co-Chairs’ Attacks

"It almost appears as if Republicans are putting together a Nixon-style enemies list for anyone who dares to disagree with their agenda."

Republican Plan for MPS Attacked

Bonds says plan would be devastating financially and lay off hundreds of staff.

New Arena Plan & Pabst Brewing Returns

Will legislature pass new arena plan? Will city and county have to contribute? Will Pabst brew here again?

Exploring state lawmakers’ “New Opportunities for Milwaukee”

Statement of Alderman Ashanti Hamilton January 30, 2015

Proposal to create inner city opportunities deserves a close look

Statement from Alderman Bob Donovan January 29, 2015

“Jock Tax” Will Actually Increase Your Taxes

Proposal to fund NBA arena is really a Republican Tax Increase to help billionaire owners pay for the facility.

Why Wisconsin Has Weak Laws on Drunken Driving

Legislators reject tougher penalties, even for repeat offenders. First of a series.

Historical record shows high-performing school was always part of Malcolm X redevelopment plan

Legislators' comments show lack of awareness of facts

Malcolm X to house high-performing school

Legislative leaders misstate facts, ignore MPS efforts to place internationally recognized program in school

Is David Clarke “Sheriff Spends a Lot”?

Attack ads blast Clarke. Another targets “dysfunctional” Marina Dimitrijevic. Who’s buying all these nasty ads?

Gimbel Gets Reappointed to Wisconsin Center Board

Will continue after 3 decades as board chair! Did mayor and governor swap appointments to make this happen?

How Republicans Cause Voter Fraud

False claims of rampant voter fraud by GOP and talk radio prompt their followers to vote illegally.

State Freezes Historic Preservation Tax Credits

Worried about the cost, Gov. Walker and WEDC have halted program with big benefits for Milwaukee.

Gun Bill Dies Without Shots Being Fired

Despite overwhelming support for bill toughening penalties for felony firearms offenses, Alberta Darling and Republicans give up on it.

Gun Bills Fail, Shots Fly

Chief Flynn implores legislature to pass bill targeting illegal gun possession. Will Republicans respond?

Attorneys Rush to Chisholm’s Defense

Worried about possible recall, they plan fundraiser for the DA. But will it help him?

Wisconsin Center’s Leadership Adrift?

Many of the board's seats are either vacant or held by legally unqualified individuals.

Gwen Moore “Educates” Ted Cruz

Speaking at St. John's on the Lake, she talks about her conversation with Cruz, earmarks and voter ID.

Walker’s Book is Very Revealing

There are fascinating sections, including Walker giving staff a top ten list ridiculing public workers.

Brookfield Square Welcomes County Buses

Unlike Southridge and other suburban malls, Brookfield Square actually runs ads to attract bus-riding city residents.

Public deserves open process on Malcolm X sale and sales of other public buildings

Alderman Donovan seeks public process involving RFPs

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.

Don’t Take Away Our School Buildings

Republican bill would force MPS to sell buildings used to expand successful schools like Golda Meir.

Milwaukee residents deserve a Milwaukee hearing on MPS buildings bill

Statement of Alderman Ashanti Hamilton October 9, 2013

Schools Want Earlier Start Date

MPS and other districts say it would improve student achievement, but tourism industry opposes change.

Southeast Wisconsin Rules the Capitol

Almost every Republican -- and Democratic -- leader is from a small part of the state.

Wisconsin Ignores Climate Change

Republicans join Koch Brothers, opposing actions to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Republicans Back Anti-Gun Bill

Mandatory three-year term for illegal gun possession has support of Flynn and Barrett. But will it pass?

Republican Dog & Pony Show

Legislators Vos and Darling tour city but offer no solutions. So why did they come?

Alberta Darling Stonewalls on Venture Capital Bill’s Economic Basis

Denies clear and reasonable open records request just ahead of Senate vote, denying public and legislator information needed for informed judgement.

Venture Capital Bill Should Be Delayed Until Evidence of Job Creation Produced

Under the guise of job creation, the State Senate is poised to pass Venture Capital Legislation (SB 169) on Tuesday. The companion bill (AB 181) has already passed the Assembly.

Why Walker Opposes Obamacare

His opposition to more federal dollars for Medicaid will hurt Wisconsin, but help his campaign for president.

Rep. Taylor statement on voucher petition drive

Democratic lawmakers delivered 16,809 petitions to Governor Scott Walker and state budget committee co-chairs.

Transit Outrage

Alberta Darling says my way or the highway. Plus: the return of Jerry Kleczka!

Republicans Move to Kill Milwaukee Streetcar

If the streetcar is killed and federal money for it is lost, it will mean the total amount of federal transit money for Wisconsin rejected by Scott Walker will exceed $1 billion.

Winners and Losers

It was a good election for Scott Walker and conservatives but there were some bright spots for liberals.

Important information from Alderman Michael J. Murphy

The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.

Important information from Alderman Jim Bohl

The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.

Important information from Alderman Joe Dudzik

Dear residents, The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that’s of critical importance to our future. Since 1938, Milwaukee has required all city employees to live within its municipal boundaries. The residency requirement has helped maintain a strong middle class in our neighborhoods, bolstered property values and ensured that municipal employees live among the people they serve. But now, Governor Scott Walker is proposing in his state budget to do away with residency laws, potentially thwarting the local control of cities, villages, towns and counties. If the state legislature signs off on his proposal, it could further destabilize Milwaukee neighborhoods. Right now, our goal is to ask members of the Joint Committee on Finance to recognize the provision as non-fiscal policy and to require that it be heard through the regular legislative committee process, because: 1. Residency is not fiscal policy and should not be included in the state budget. This issue should be fully vetted in the regular committee process so that Milwaukee and other affected communities can fully testify to the impact. 2. Residency concerns are a matter of local control and should be fashioned according to local market conditions and local economic factors that state legislators may not be fully aware of. 3. Residency requirements are a condition of employment. The state would never dictate the terms of employment for a private employer (e.g. Drug testing). Private employers (e.g. Consulting firms) and other public employers (e.g. Military) set location and relocation requirements all the time. 4. In Milwaukee, residency requirements are a valuable economic provision in collective bargaining contracts with Police and Fire employees. If the unions get this change legislatively for free, city taxpayers (including businesses) stand to lose millions of dollars of value that could have been exchanged at the bargaining table. The city is at the table with all three public safety unions right now. 5. The health of the Milwaukee-area economy and the health of the City of Milwaukee’s economy are interdependent. Milwaukee has done a good job of retaining population and middle class residents in comparison with its peer cities. The residency policy helps stabilize and build confidence in our neighborhoods and promotes public safety and property value for our residents and businesses. This serves to strengthen our region as a whole. 6. This is bad timing given the impact of the foreclosure crisis on city property values. Milwaukee has already lost $5 billion in value. Why run the risk of pushing values further down? City property values have a ripple effect on the values of the entire region. 7. Many local business leaders lead companies that are invested in the City through their corporate real estate holdings and client bases. We have a collective responsibility to ensure that the full impact of important policies affecting our region is understood by our policy makers. 8. Police-community relations have recently been strained in Milwaukee with a couple of high profile events. Removing the police officers from living in the community […]

Important information from Alderman Nik Kovac

The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.

Important Information from Alderman Willie C. Wade

The City of Milwaukee needs your help with an issue that's of critical importance to our future.

Who’s the Conservative for Circuit Judge?

The race between Rebecca Bradley and Janet Protasiewicz is hard to call.

County Supervisor Supports New Reform Bill

Milwaukee County Supervisor Deanna Alexander is pleased to announce support for changes made in the drafting process of state legislation aimed at reforming governance in Milwaukee County.

The Money Behind the Mining Bill

Is it $15 million in campaign contributions? The tally is inexact, but it's way more than environmentalists donate.

What’s Stopping Tougher Drunk Driving Laws

The cost of enforcement has been estimated at $200 million annually, but some scoff at this figure.

Community Coalition Announces Support for Legislation to Reform Milwaukee County Governance

Reform would protect critical quality of life services, empower citizen legislators and give voters a direct voice in how they wish to be represented.

Republicans Sneaking Bill on Same Day Registration?

Voters would probably oppose it, so GOP needs to pass the legislation very, very quietly.

The Eternal Stadium Tax

It was originally supposed to end two years ago, but the Miller Park sales tax just goes on and on.

Milwaukee Taxi Cab Medallion Bill Passes Assembly

The City of Milwaukee is working on state legislation to allow the City to profit from the sale of additional taxi cab permits (to be called medallions) and address the perceived shortage of taxi cabs in the city. Currently under Wisconsin law, permit and license fees can not exceed the cost to issue said permits. This gives the Common Council and Mayor little incentive to raise the cap on the number of permits (currently capped at the seemingly random number of 321 since 1992), despite the fact that the permits are changing hands in the private market for between $80,000 to $150,000.

MPS isn’t Coke or Pepsi, it’s Walmart

America's suburban landscape has become littered with empty blight inducing big-box stores. As Walmart uses up a market, the company shutters stores and moves on to the next neighborhood, leaving hulking vacant boxes and thousands of empty, litter-filled parking spots in its wake.

Make a Difference, Help the RTA

The Regional Transit Authority, a solution to Milwaukee’s transit woes that we’ve advocated before, is coming down to the wire in the halls of the state capitol.  For the plan to move forward it needs to be included in the state budget, and for that to happen it needs to be approved by the Joint Finance Committee.  The Joint Finance Committee will vote on the matter on Thursday. The matter is anything but a done deal, and your support is turning a few votes. Please make a call Wednesday if you have the chance.  Even if it’s just a one second “vote for the RTA on Thursday”, it’ll make a difference. Please call, your city needs you. Senator John Lehman (Racine) especially needs to hear from you! (608) 266-1832 (866) 615-7510, Fax (608) 267-6793, Sen.Lehman@legis.wisconsin.gov PO Box 7882, Madison, 53707 Representative Cory Mason (Racine) (608) 266-0634, Rep.Mason@legis.wisconsin.gov PO Box 8953, Madison, 53708 Representative Robin Vos (Racine) 888 534-0063, 608 282-3663 fax, rep.vos@legis.wisconsin.gov PO Box 8953, Madison, 53708 Representative Pedro Colon (Milwaukee) 888 534-0008, 608 282-3608 fax, rep.colon@legis.wisconsin.gov PO Box 8952, Madison, 53708 Representative Tamara Grigsby (Milwaukee) 888 534-0018, 608 282-3618 fax, rep.grigsby@legis.wisconsin.gov PO Box 8952, Madison, 53708 Senator Lena Taylor (Milwaukee) 608 266-5810, 608 267-2353 fax, sen.taylor@legis.wisconsin.gov PO Box 7882, Madison, 53707 Senator Alberta Darling (Milwaukee) 608 266-5830, 608 267-0588 fax, sen.darling@legis.wisconsin.gov PO Box 7882, Madison, 53707 [Full disclosure, Jeramey is a member of the RTA Steering Committee and a passionate advocate for the efficiencies of mass transit.]

Seven Up

Business group holds gala; Website launched

Broadband Quote of the Week

"Well, if I was a consumer I would say, "Why in the hell is the United States No. 13 and heading south in broadband deployment?"

Jim Glynn Dead at 64

I had no idea it would be this soon.

Burke Gets Break

The Supreme Court granted a stay Friday, and Burke’s trial is postponed.

ABC and the Gay Governor

The catch, is that McGreevey announced he was gay, while the lover says he, himself, is straight.

Morales V Darling Race Set

Milwaukee School Board member Jennifer Morales has decided to challenge Alberta Darling and her hold on the 8th Senate District Seat.

Art Dealer in Jail

Don’t bother calling Kennedy Fine Arts in Northbrook, Illinois. Don’t even try to leave a message, because the voice mailbox is full. Of course, it is easy to see why – James F. Kennedy, the art dealer, has been sitting in the Milwaukee County jail without bail since May 7th, and it looks like he’ll be there at least until a hearing date on May 18th, according to a jail spokesperson. (According to the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access, Kennedy’s offense occurred May 10th.) He is charged with a felony under statute 976.03(13), “extradition – arrest prior to requisition.” Milwaukeeworld.com told you two weeks ago that an individual was trying to peddle fake Picassos in the Milwaukee area. Although Kennedy is held on an unrelated out-of-state warrant, he is the fellow who was trying to pass off the fakes in our community. Apparently police did not have enough evidence to charge him with a crime in the matter – mere possession of fake artwork is not a crime, and there was insufficient evidence he had tried to sell the works, they say – Kennedy’s van was seized along with some 300 works of art that were allegedly fakes. He was arrested on Milwaukee Street, and is from Northbrook, Illinois. It is doubtful that Kennedy was the author of the fakes, and it is likely that he is a player in a much larger art fraud ring. So, just to remind you once again, if you have purchased any “Picasso” drawings in the last couple of weeks, contact a reputable art dealer or law enforcement authorities. Kennedy was born on May 17, 1957, so it looks like he will be spending his birthday in jail. Concordia Gets Bush President George W. Bush visited the Ozaukee County megalopolis of Mequon Thursday to deliver the commencement address at Concordia University at the Lutheran school’s very secure lakeside campus. Milwaukeeworld correspondent Patrick C. Horne, a Mequon resident, was at the intersection of Port Washington Road and Highland Road where Bush supporters and detractors hoped the presidential motorcade would pass. Of course, it didn’t, since the president’s motorcade traveled along Lake Shore Drive, far removed from the supporters, detractors, and reality. “We’ve got protestors on one side and the republicans on the other side,” Horne said via cellular telephone while awaiting the motorcade’s non-arrival. “We’ve got TV people on the other side, we’ve got Secret Service, we’ve got Germantown, Milwaukee, Ozaukee County, all sorts of people, all sorts of squads, all sorts of everything. Now, the mystery is which way he’s going to come in. I hope they take our President on LSD.” [Editor’s note: LSD is Mequon slang for Lakeshore Drive.] According to Horne, there was a good deal of “ranting and raving back and forth” between the President’s supporters and detractors. “’Give him four more years.’ ‘No, give him five more months,’” they chanted, he said. “Lot of Republicans,” Horne said. “’Oh! I forgot my flag!’ ‘Oh! Don’t they have anything better to do […]

Carpenter to Run For Congress

Rep. Jerry Kleczka is the son of a machinist. A Carpenter wants to replace him.

Art Jones Pension better than $100K per year

Two other Mayoral candidates eligible soon

Who’s on Fifth?

An $89 billion bank is muscling its way into the Milwaukee market, and you read about it here first.

Is the State Legislature Still a Men’s Club?

It was the gunfight at the Capitol corral and only men were invited.

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.