Mandela Barnes

GOP Gerrymandering and School Choice

Republicans proclaim vouchers for minorities while seeking ways to disenfranchise their votes.

DNC Chair Talks Healthcare in Milwaukee

Chair Tom Perez is touring 2020 battle ground states discussing health care.

500 Media Members Get DNC Preview

Officials host national media for first look at city and convention venues.

State Residents Cross Border for Legal Pot

Hundreds of Wisconsin buyers heading to Illinois now that it has legalized marijuana.

Back From Madrid, Barnes Pushes Climate Policy

Lt. Governor attended international climate conference, envisions state as a climate policy leader.

Who Lost the City Residency Rule?

Lena Taylor blames Mayor Barrett. But did she fight the state law killing residency?

Evers Commits to Paris Climate Accords

Lt. Gov. Barnes joins a call with experts and city leaders ahead of UN COP25.

9 Questions About the 2020 Census

It can take as little as 10 minutes. But the results matter so much.

Warren Plan Gives Needed Help to MPS

Would mean a massive new federal investment in public schools.

Two Efforts Target Climate Change

State and county task forces are separate but overlapping efforts responding to crisis.

Paging 402,000 People Lacking Health Care

Evers administration urges enrollment in state health insurance marketplace. You have until December 15.

Gov. Evers, Lt. Gov. Barnes, Sen. Baldwin, and State and Local Officials Announce Beginning of Open Enrollment for Health Insurance Market

State officials announce the launch of “From Confused to Covered” campaign to educate Wisconsinites on health care options

Bill Would Decriminalize Pot Possession

Democratic plan ends criminal penalties for up to 28 grams of marijuana.

Senator Larson Continues to Support Legalization and Decriminalization of Marijuana

"Support for legalizing and decriminalizing marijuana in Wisconsin has grown to be popular for many reasons."

Rep. Stubbs, Lt. Gov. Barnes Announce Legislation Decriminalizing Marijuana

"The mass incarceration of African American men who have been disproportionately charged and imprisoned for low-level marijuana offenses is something that must be urgently addressed."

Risser Calls for Decriminalizing Marijuana

Wisconsin marijuana laws have a disproportionately negative effect on communities of color.

Barrett, Moore to Lead Growing DNC Team

19 honorary chairs round out Milwaukee 2020 leadership.

Pipeline Bill Opponents Hope for Veto

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

Evers Calls Special Session on Guns

Governor says only Vos and Fitzgerald prevent common sense gun reforms.

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #52 Relating to Climate Change in Wisconsin

"For too long we've been ignoring science, and frankly, we can't afford to do it any longer."

#KeepYourPromise Governor Evers

One month after pledge, Evers shows no progress on government transparency

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order Declaring Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Wisconsin

"Through this executive order, we recognize and appreciate our tribal nations and Indigenous people and their resilience, wisdom, and the contributions they make to our state."

Hesselbein Visits Octopi Brewing for Craft Brewery Day

"Octopi has been a great part of our community."

Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes to Speak at Political Open Mic Tomorrow

Free Event Hosted by NEWaukee and Bridge the City to Include Speakers from BLOC, Democracy Found, Marquette Democracy Lab and Fair Elections Project

Study: Evers, Barnes, & Agencies Failing to Follow Walker Open Government Executive Orders

Evers’ administration is dysfunctional and disorganized, threatens to move Wisconsin backwards on transparency.

Lena Taylor Announces Run for Mayor

"We need leadership and an office that is not corrupt," she declares.

Press Release: Gov. Evers Welcomes Students, Educators, and Staff Back to School

Rep. Jason Fields Will Run for Comptroller

Fields joins Aycha Sawa and Alex Brower in race to replace retiring Martin Matson.

The Mishaps of Mandela Barnes

The state’s first black lieutenant governor has a target on his back.

Gov. Evers Opposes USDA’s Proposal to Boot Kids, Farmers, Families From Food Assistance

"We cannot afford to have nearly 12,000 children in our state go hungry."

Rep. Shankland: First Wisconsin Legislator to Attend Clean Energy Legislative Academy

"It was an honor to be selected to attend the 2019 Clean Energy Legislative Academy."

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #41 Recreating the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

Evers Wants Carbon Neutral State by 2050

New plan includes creating Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy.

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #38 Relating to Clean Energy in Wisconsin

“A transition to a clean energy economy will generate thousands of family-supporting jobs in Wisconsin.”

Rep. Gordon Hintz: Statement on Universal Background Checks

"The public has an expectation that government should do everything possible to reduce the likelihood of gun violence, which has become far too common across the country."

Representative Lisa Subeck Joins Governor Evers, Democratic Colleagues Introducing Universal Background Check Legislation

"No family should have to worry that they or their children will be harmed by gun violence."

Wisconsin Democrats Announce Universal Background Checks Bill, Call on Republicans to Act

Gov. Evers, Lt. Gov. Barnes, Attorney General Kaul join Rep. Sargent and Sen. Johnson in supporting universal background checks.

About That Mandela Barnes Controversy

Media firestorm about college degree part of wide-ranging Isthmus feature story.

The Milwaukee Kitchen Cabinet to Host “Back to School Celebration”

Local restaurant community organization hosting carnival for MPS students

State Teachers’ Union Still Has Clout

Its membership more than cut in half, but still one of biggest donors to Democratic candidates.

Evers Wants State Health “Lead Czar”

Also supports bill to provide $40 million in loans for home owners to replace lead laterals.

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order 36 Relating to Measures to Abate and Prevent Lead Exposure in Drinking Water

"Lead poisoning is a statewide risk not just in Kenosha and Milwaukee, but in communities around the state."

One Year Out: Milwaukee 2020 Host Committee Releases Video to Mark Countdown to Democratic National Convention

Video highlights diverse city undergoing economic transformation

A $1 Million Fund To Support Northwest Side Startups

State contributes $500,000 match to Northwest Side CDC loan fund targeted at early stage companies.

The Flag Stands for LGBTQ People, Too

On July 4th, remembering those Milwaukeeans who stood up for LGBTQ rights.

Planned Parenthood Lacks Capitol Clout

Millions spent on campaign donations and lobbying since 2010, but many laws it opposed passed.

Evers Uses 78 Partial Vetoes on Budget

Vetoes will help pay for $65 million more in education funding in revised budget.

Juneteenth Day 2019

State and local leaders join community for Juneteenth Day celebration.

Gov. Evers Proclaims June 19th ‘Juneteenth Day’ in Wisconsin

"This is a time to recognize the struggles of African Americans in our country’s modern history."

Lt. Governor Barnes to speak to two Marquette Upward Bound groups

The session runs from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and is not open to the public.

Gov. Evers Announces $100,000 Coastal Grant for Green Bay

"This grant for the City of Green Bay means more opportunities for everyone to recreate and appreciate the beach at the Bay Beach Amusement Park, and I believe will be economically beneficial to the entire region."

PrideFest Boasted 120 LGBTQ Artists

45,787 people attended, making it the largest pride event ever held in Wisconsin.

15th Annual Pride Parade

Milwaukee's most colorful parade had tons of floats and a one-block-long rainbow flag.

The Curious Job of Lieutenant Governor

Mandela Barnes finding out there is no manual — and few certainties — for the job.

Rep. Robyn Vining Supports “Wear Orange” for Gun Violence Prevention

"Gun violence is a crisis that our country is facing."

GOP Budget Jacks Up Auto Fees

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

Gov. Evers Announces Grants for Wisconsin’s Coastal Communities

Wisconsin Conservation Voters Spends Big

Since 2010, group spent $3.2 million on elections, mostly for Democrats, and $1.2 million on lobbying.

Wikler Is New Democratic Party Chair

MoveOn leader Ben Wikler defeats David Bowen, will replace Martha Laning.

Democratic Party of Wisconsin Welcomes New Leadership Team

Ben Wikler elected Chair of Party by delegates, Felesia Martin and Lee Snodgrass 1st Vice Chair and 2nd Vice Chair

Press Release: Gov. Evers Delivers Democratic Weekly Radio Address on Education

Will Lena Taylor Run for Mayor?

Group attempting to draft Democratic Senator to run in crowded field.

Fishing and Fun at the Washington Park Pond

Dozens of Milwaukee children learned about the joys of fishing and the great outdoors at a how-to event at Washington Park.

Rep. Robyn Vining Responds to GOP Rejection of Medicaid Expansion

"This is a blatantly partisan move from the Republicans, and one that does not reflect the will of the people."

Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Former State Representative Ed Brooks

"Our hearts are with Barbara as well as Ed’s three daughters and their friends and family as we mourn the loss of an exceptional husband, father, friend, and public servant."

Gov. Evers, Lt. Gov. Barnes Release Joint Statement Commemorating Earth Day

"Earth Day is a time to be thankful for our planet and the natural resources it provides us."

Evers Wants Study of Student Loan Debt

Average grad has $30,000 in debt, state's total student debt is $24 billion.

Common Council Candidate Justin Bielinski

Organizer Justin Bielinski discusses his campaign to replace Bob Donovan at City Hall.

Gov. Evers Proclaims April 14 as ‘Milwaukee Day’ throughout Wisconsin

“As the home to some of our state's favorite teams and businesses, Milwaukee continues to be not only a cultural hub but an economic driving force in Wisconsin.”

Trump Backer Running for Donovan’s Seat

Pentecostal church pastor Eduardo Loera latest to run for south side district where Ald. Donovan retiring.

Evangelicals Won Race for Hagedorn

And liberals made it happen by waving a red flag: ads decrying his anti-abortion, anti-gay views.

Justin Bielinski Will Seek to Become the Next Alderman of Milwaukee’s 8th District

8th District Alderman Announcement

Gov. Evers Proclaims April 3, 2019 ‘Recovery Alignment Day’ in Wisconsin

"This day signifies that we must use every pathway available to treat addiction."

SEIU Biggest Labor Union Campaign Donor

Public-private employees union spent $718,700 on Evers, $131,140 on Neubauer.

Gov. Evers, Lt. Gov. Barnes Complete 2019 NCAA Tournament Brackets

Why Did Democrats Choose Milwaukee?

Choosing this city for 2020 convention is about winning and signaling Democratic values.

City Wins 2020 Democratic Convention

Barrett and other leaders help city beat out Miami and Houston for national convention.

Milwaukee Named Host City for 2020 Democratic National Convention

Convention will generate $200 million in economic impact; shine global spotlight on city

Statement by IBEW Local 494 Business Manager on Milwaukee being selected to host the 2020 Democratic National Convention

"Milwaukee is on the move, and our success in building the future represents the best of America."

Barrett Offers Upbeat State of City Speech

Mayor touts employers coming to city, The Hop's launch and a friendly governor.

Donovan Won’t Run for Re-Election

Fightin' Bob is walking away. Zamarripa and Bielinski likely to run for council seat.

Gov. Evers and Lt. Gov. Barnes Delivers Democratic Weekly Radio Address

Gov. Evers Announces Tribal Initiatives in State Budget

"I’m excited that our budget will make investments that will help Native American children, families, and communities thrive."

Wisconsin Working Families Party Congratulates Megan O’Halloran on Commanding Primary Victory in Distrcit 8 School Board Race

O’Halloran garnered more than 65 percent of the vote in the three-way race and will face Kathryn Gabor in the spring election on Tuesday, April 2.

Legislators Clash on Black History Month

Republicans remove Colin Kaepernick from resolution, Rep. Bowen cries foul.

WISN 12 Hosts 34th Annual Black Excellence Awards

2019 Gala event recognizes local entrepreneurs

Gov. Evers Announces Plan to Join U.S. Climate Alliance

"By joining the U.S. Climate Alliance, we will have support in demonstrating that we can take climate action while growing our economy at the same time."

Walker Far Outspent Evers in Election

Record $93 million spent on governor’s race, with nearly $58 million for Walker.

New Marquette Law School Poll finds some issues less divisive amid continuing partisan divide

Special education increases and accepting more federal Medicaid money are drawing broader support than many other current issues

Ex-Inmates Group Pushes Criminal Justice Reform

Asks Evers for increased accountability, mental health resources and re-entry support.

State Rep. David Bowen Applauds New Governor Evers Visit to Lincoln Hills, Copper Lake

Highlights the contrast with leadership of the past

Wisconsin Working Families Party Endorses Slate of Candidates for Milwaukee Board of School Directors to Create Strong Pro-Public School Majority

Electing a school board to serve MPS students; strengthen and fund public education; fight back against ineffective charter programs

Co-Chairs of the Milwaukee 2020 DNC Convention Host Committee Announced

Milwaukee is currently a finalist, along with Houston and Miami, for hosting the convention to be held July 13-16, 2020.

One Wisconsin Now Statements on Inauguration of Gov. Tony Evers and Newly Elected Statewide Officers

New Focus on People of Wisconsin, Not Partisan Political Gain Makes it a Great Day for Wisconsin

Governor-elect Evers and Lt. Governor-elect Barnes Announce Cabinet Members

"This talented group of leaders will help our administration address the issues Wisconsin residents asked us to focus on."

Governor-elect Evers and Lt. Governor-elect Barnes Announce Additions to Administration Team

"The team members we are announcing today will help our administration connect the dots on important issues facing our state."

Barnes to Focus on Equity, Sustainability

Democrat Lt. Gov-elect says he wants to fix issues impacting the entire state of Wisconsin.

Lt. Gov.-Elect Barnes Confident Funding Will be Secured to Host DNC

City will know soon if it will host the 2020 Democratic National Convention.

Treasurer-Elect Godlewski Identifies Additional Responsibilities For Office

Treasurer's office survived an April 2018 referendum aimed at elimination

Governor-elect Evers Announces Additional Cabinet Appointments

"As Governor, my focus will always be the people of our state, and a key part of that is bringing together a cabinet that shares my goal of solving problems rather than picking political fights."

Contribution to Khalif Rainey of $300