Wisconsin Today

Follow Wisconsin Today
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Start your day by getting up to speed on the biggest Wisconsin stories with WPR's Morning Edition host, Alex Crowe. Find "Wisconsin Today" Monday through Friday wherever you get your podcasts.

Wisconsin Public Radio


    • Apr 1, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 8m AVG DURATION
    • 612 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Wisconsin Today podcast is a captivating and informative show that delves deep into the important issues facing the state of Wisconsin. Hosted by seasoned journalist Sarah Johnson, this podcast offers insightful discussions, interviews with experts, and in-depth analysis of current events. With its well-researched content and engaging presentation style, The Wisconsin Today stands out as a must-listen for anyone interested in staying up-to-date on local affairs.

    One of the best aspects of The Wisconsin Today podcast is its dedication to providing balanced and unbiased reporting. Sarah Johnson consistently strives to present all sides of the story, ensuring that listeners are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of each issue. This commitment to journalistic integrity fosters a sense of trust between the host and the audience, making this podcast a reliable source for news and information.

    In addition, The Wisconsin Today excels at highlighting lesser-known stories that often go unnoticed in mainstream media. By shedding light on these overlooked topics, the podcast brings awareness to important issues affecting Wisconsinites' daily lives. Whether it's exploring environmental concerns, healthcare challenges, or educational reforms within the state, The Wisconsin Today covers a wide range of subjects that are relevant to its audience.

    However, one aspect that can be improved upon is the frequency of episodes. While each episode is well-produced and thoroughly researched, there are often long gaps between releases. This irregular schedule may leave some listeners craving more frequent updates on pressing matters in Wisconsin. A more consistent release schedule would greatly enhance the overall listening experience and keep the audience engaged on a regular basis.

    In conclusion, The Wisconsin Today podcast is an exceptional source of news and analysis for those interested in Wisconsin's local affairs. Through its commitment to balanced reporting and exploration of underreported stories, this show provides valuable insights into important issues affecting the state's residents. Although improvements could be made regarding episode frequency, these minor setbacks do not detract from the overall quality of this informative podcast. Anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Wisconsin's current events should definitely tune in to The Wisconsin Today.



    More podcasts from Wisconsin Public Radio

    Search for episodes from Wisconsin Today with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from Wisconsin Today

    Redistricting lawsuit dismissed, Cold case murder solved

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026 13:34


    Wisconsin is unlikely to get new congressional voting maps ahead of this November’s elections after a lawsuit challenging the maps was thrown out. A troubled Green Bay nonprofit has abruptly closed […]

    ‘Delinquent’ landlord sued, Butterfat debate

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 9:39


    Early voting numbers ahead of next week's Supreme Court election are way down compared to 2025. Milwaukee is suing an out-of-state landlord the city says has hundreds of violations and owes thousands in taxes. And, dairy farmers have bred cows to produce milk with more fat. That excess fat is now causing problems for some Wisconsin cheesemakers.

    No Kings: Thousands protest in Wisconsin, Cow vision tool

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 13:08


    Thousands of Wisconsin residents turned out at dozens of No Kings rallies around the state over the weekend. The chair of the state Elections Commission is warning that residents who bet on elections could risk having their ballots tossed.  And we'll hear about a new tool to help people who work with cattle get a cow's eye perspective on the world. 

    Racist housing language, the life of an undocumented immigrant

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 14:02


    Racist housing language remains on hundreds of deeds in Wisconsin despite laws against racial housing discrimination. Plus, an excerpt from the podcast Status Pending, where we take a look at the life of an undocumented immigrant in Wisconsin.

    Supreme Court debate postponed, Brewers Opening Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 1710:00


    The only debate between candidates for Wisconsin Supreme Court has been postponed after one of the candidates fell ill. And the Milwaukee Brewers start their 2026 season at home on Thursday.

    Election fraud conviction in Racine, voter enthusiasm gap

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 1350:00


    A Racine man has been convicted on two counts of voter fraud for ordering ballots that were not his. Plus, a big gap in voter enthusiasm heading into April's Supreme Court election.

    Democrats outraise Republicans, Chris Taylor profile

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2026 14:28


    Federal fundraising figures show Wisconsin's Democratic Party vastly out raised their Republican counterparts last month.  Gov. Tony Evers has proposed a constitutional amendment to ban partisan gerrymandering. Some experts say this proposal could stand a chance.  And, hear the second of WPR's two profiles of Wisconsin's state Supreme Court candidates - this one a look at liberal Appeals Court Judge Chris Taylor.

    Women Badgers win 2026 NCCA championship, Maria Lazar profile

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 13:47


    A conservative group from out of state is spending big money supporting candidates in Wisconsin's upcoming school board elections. The Wisconsin Badgers are national champions in women's hockey after beating Ohio State in the championship game yesterday. Plus, in an era where Supreme Court races have become fiercely political, one candidate says she hopes her judicial record speaks for itself.

    Ice arrest: Wisconsin family seeks release, “Inside Wisconsin Politics” preview

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 11:56


    A Wisconsin family is calling for a woman's release from ICE after she was taken into custody last week.Cesar Chavez Day events planned for later this month in Wisconsin are being canceled following a New York Times investigation. And, a preview of Inside Wisconsin Politics, the new show from WPR and PBS Wisconsin.

    Roadside saliva testing, Work Opportunity Tax Credit could return

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 12:09


    A new law will soon let Wisconsin police conduct roadside saliva testing for marijuana and other illegal substances. The governor also signed a new law that will extend postpartum Medicaid coverage. And there's talk in Washington about bringing back a “Work Opportunity Tax Credit” for employers, even though data shows it failed to increase worker pay.

    Online sports betting passes, Data center regulations

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 13:50


    The state Senate passed a bill Tuesday that would legalize online sports betting in Wisconsin. And Republicans needed help from Democrats to do it. The Speaker of the state Assembly criticized his GOP counterparts in the Senate for not taking up a bill to regulate data centers. And, a story about an Appleton native whose business helps produce game broadcasts for Deaf people.

    Blizzard: Nearly 3 feet falls, Legalizing sports betting

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 13:12


    Thousands of Wisconsinites experienced whiteout conditions on Monday after a historic storm brought nearly 3 feet of snow to some parts of the state. The Wisconsin Senate could wrap up its business for the year Tuesday, with majority Republicans divided on big issues like legalizing online sports betting. And, hear about the WPR voter guide, focused on the open seat for the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

    Historic snowfall hits Wisconsin, Trump targets invasive carp

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 14:00


    Wisconsin got walloped by a major snowstorm Sunday. That included record-breaking snow totals in some parts of the state. President Donald Trump says he'll target invasive carp to "save" the Great Lakes. But his administration is holding up funding for the project. In Racine, a group of citizens is involved in "participatory defense." They say they can make a difference in the criminal justice system.

    ICE: Wisconsin mother detained, Snowy weekend ahead

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 12:40


    A Wisconsin woman with no criminal record is being held in ICE detention after she was taken into custody at a routine immigration check-in. Wisconsin officials are fighting a federal lawsuit that's seeking voter information. And, here's snow on the way this weekend and forecasts say up to a foot and a half could fall in some parts of the state.

    Ongoing sexual abuse at Wisconsin high school, Public lands sale could prevent bird flu

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 13:47


    Three former students, now adults, from Oconto Falls High School are accusing the school district of overlooking sexual abuse by staff members over more than a decade. Wisconsin's Supreme Court justices heard oral arguments in a case pitting Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul against the Republican-controlled state Legislature. And, some legislators want to allow the sale of a state-owned wildlife area.

    Brad Schimel out as US Attorney, High diesel fuel prices

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 12:49


    Former Republican Supreme Court candidate Brad Schimel's temporary appointment as U.S. Attorney ends next week. Now, federal judges in Milwaukee say they will not extend his term. A survey of faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found fewer than 10 percent described themselves as conservative. And, a new postmark rule adopted by the U.S. Postal Service could affect Wisconsinites who register to vote by mail

    Annette Ziegler will not run for reelection to Wisconsin Supreme Court, Childhood vaccination rates fall again

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 14:30


    Conservative State Supreme Court Justice Annette Ziegler will not run for a third term. She says she plans to retire in 2027. The number of Wisconsin toddlers receiving their recommended childhood vaccines is continuing to decline. And, Wisconsin's universities may soon begin offering three-year degree programs.

    Two large Wisconsin poultry farms hit with avian flu, Crypto ‘staking’ bill moving through Legislature

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 12:07


    Another outbreak of avian flu hits two commercial poultry farms in Wisconsin. Meanwhile, state lawmakers consider a bill to deregulate what's known as cryptocurrency "staking." And, how one Madison family navigated the presidential order that ended gender-affirming care for minors at the state's largest pediatric hospitals.

    Baldwin and Johnson at odds on Iran, Wisconsin joins new lawsuit against tariffs

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 12:30


    Wisconsin's U.S. Senators sound off about the war in Iran. And they couldn't be further apart. Wisconsin has joined another multi-state lawsuit against the Trump administration's tariffs. And, how algae could be part of the solution to getting micro-plastics out of our water.

    Pocan says White House lacks plan for Iran, DNR approves major land purchase

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 8:30


    As the House prepares to vote on a war powers resolution, a Democrat from Wisconsin says the White House has no answers to what comes next with Iran. The Department of Natural Resources approves a major land purchase. And, some legal advocates are worried about a bill at the state Capitol that would let Wisconsin courts use AI interpreters.

    Evers calls special session to ban gerrymandering, Lawmakers look to expand school cell phone ban

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 12:53


    Gov. Tony Evers is calling on lawmakers to pass a ban on political gerrymandering in state legislative races. Lawmakers already passed a law banning cell phone use during instructional time. Now they're looking to expand it. And leaders in Milwaukee are passing new rules to prepare for any future visits from federal immigration officials

    Wisconsin National Guardsmen stationed in Middle East, Online gambling companies oppose Wisconsin bil

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 13:21


    Wisconsin National Guardsmen stationed in Middle East, Online gambling companies oppose Wisconsin bill.  why some of the biggest companies in online gambling oppose a bill that would legalize the industry in Wisconsin.And nearly half of Wisconsin's lowest-performing schools are all located in one part of the state. What's being done to change that?

    Wisconsin leaders react to Iran attack, Utility ordered to release data center information

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 10:01


    Members of Wisconsin's congressional delegation reacted to U.S. and Israeli bombing in Iran. State regulators said a utility's application for special data center rates hid key information from the public And, former presidential candidate Kamala Harris was back in Wisconsin for a book event.

    JD Vance stumps for Van Orden, Vos says tax bill negotiations in ‘early stages’

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2026 16:36


    Vice President JD Vance told a crowd in central Wisconsin to re-elect Republican Derrick Van Orden. The state's 3rd Congressional District is a top target for Democrats. Wisconsin voters tell a pollster they're unlikely to support new school referendums.  And, Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos says negotiations with the governor on a tax deal are still in the early stages. But he's optimistic.

    Respiratory illness dip may be due to new vaccine, New poll shows Democratic primary wide open

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2026 9:35


    A new vaccine introduced two years ago may be reducing childhood respiratory illnesses in Wisconsin. Health officials say they're optimistic. A new poll shows the Democratic primary for governor is wide open. And, a new state rule would ban people from adopting wild reptiles.

    Lawsuit says legislature broke law by not boosting school funding, GOP bill would reinstate death penalty

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 25, 2026 14:05


    Parents in a new lawsuit say a lack of school funding by the state is a violation of the law. A Green Bay housing nonprofit faces an investigation into its CEO's spending. And, a GOP bill proposes to bring the death penalty back to Wisconsin.

    Wisconsin congressional candidates with out-of-state voter registrations, Wisconsin Olympians shone

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026


    Four candidates for a northern Wisconsin congressional district changed their voter registration in recent months. Two had been living out of state. The state Assembly ended its session about passing new public school funding. And, we hear from a Wisconsin Olympian who had a run-in with a leaf blower.

    Lac du Flambeau road dispute, Tariff decision reaction

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 13:53


    U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi may be getting involved in the dispute over road access on tribal land in Wisconsin. That's at the request of GOP Congressman Tom Tiffany. Plus, Wisconsin farmers have mixed reactions to the federal strike down of President Donald Trump's tariffs. And, businesses and sports that depend on wintry weather faces challenges with climate changes.

    Vos retires, Assembly passes Medicaid change for new moms, Wisconsinites win Olympic medals

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 16:01


    The longest-serving Speaker in the history of the Wisconsin Assembly says he's retiring from the Legislature. Robin Vos, the powerful Republican from Rochester, announced his plans during an emotional speech from the Assembly floor.

    Ice caves close, Nuclear study identifies potential power plant sites

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2026 9:39


    The Apostle Islands ice caves opened on Monday, but shut down after just one day. Meanwhile, a study is underway to find potential sites to build nuclear power plants in Wisconsin. And, the state Assembly plans to wrap up its work for the year. That includes votes on two high profile women's health bills that have been blocked for years.

    Gov. Evers State of the State address, GOP budget surplus plan

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 12:40


    In his final State of the State address, Gov. Tony Evers highlighted the accomplishments of the last eight years but said there is more work to be done. A Wisconsin bill would create a path for victims of sexual extortion to sue in state courts. And, the state's top GOP leaders have agreed on a plan to spend down the state's $2.5 billion dollar budget surplus. 

    Apostle Islands ice caves open, Study faults Marquette for financial aid

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 15:24


    For the first time in more than a decade, the Ice Caves are open at the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. And, a national study named Marquette University as one of 41 colleges with large percentages of low income students taking out high-interest loans. Then, we hear from two 70-plus athletes who have been skiing in the American Berkebeiner every year for decades.

    EPA greenhouse gas change could cost billions, Fostering youth entrepreneurship

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026


    A dramatic move by the Trump administration to undo regulations of greenhouse gases could cost Wisconsin billions. A judge's ruling upholds state permits for a controversial oil and gas pipeline. And, we hear from a high school student who says Wisconsin should do more to foster youth entrepreneurship.

    GOP candidate involved in ‘Ponzi scheme’ settlement, Foraging the land

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2026 15:44


    A Republican candidate for Congress in Wisconsin was legal counsel for a company alleged to have run a Ponzi scheme. Community members are rallying behind a Madison restaurant owner now in ICE detention. And, WPR's Danielle Kaeding tells us about a Wisconsin native on a year-long quest to eat only what he can forage from the land.

    GOP split on terms of property tax deal, Why hasn’t Wisconsin legalized weed?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2026 13:15


    Will Wisconsin's leaders strike a deal to reduce property taxes? Republican leaders in the Senate and the Assembly have different ideas. The state Supreme Court hears arguments about a race-based student retention program. And, state lawmakers have introduced bills to legalize marijuana for the past 13 years, including this year.

    Utilities seek special electric rates for data centers, Cottage cheese industry

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2026 14:08


    A Wisconsin utility is seeking custom electric rates for a data center project. The application hides key details from the public. A Republican leader says a deal on property taxes […]

    Kenosha DA used AI ‘hallucinations’ in court filing, UW-Madison lost $27M in federal funds

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2026 12:30


    A judge had harsh words for the Kenosha County District Attorney after he failed to disclose the use of artificial intelligence in court filings.  The chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Madison said the university has lost nearly $30 million dollars in federal funds in Donald Trump's second term. And, team USA women's hockey includes six current or former Badgers.

    La Crosse group supports Hmong elders fearful of ICE, Eau Claire native competes in Olympic Nordic event

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 8:56


    A community group in La Crosse is getting care packages to local Hmong elders who are fearful of immigration enforcement agents. Dual enrollment has been growing in Wisconsin but remains low in Milwaukee. And an Eau Claire native is representing Team USA in three Nordic combined skiing events at the Winter Olympics.

    Bills would put age restrictions on apps, PFAS down in Great Lakes

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2026 11:43


    Bills advancing at the state Capitol would impose age-related restrictions on digital apps and social media platforms. A new study shows PFAS are down in the Great Lakes. And, the search for the owner of an antique photo album that was left at the airport.

    Lawmakers block DPI funding, Proposed restrictions on AI chatbots

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2026 13:22


    A panel of GOP lawmakers has blocked a million dollar payment to the Department of Public Instruction following news of four day "junket" to the Wisconsin Dells. A proposal at the state capitol would put guardrails on A-I chatbots when kids are using them. And, we hear from a Wisconsin native who's the premier American athlete in the Olympic biathlon.

    Mining company closer to drilling in Northern Wisconsin, Ron Johnson opposes Trump call to ‘take over’ elections

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 4, 2026 12:36


    A mining company is one step closer to drilling for copper, gold and other metals in Northern Wisconsin.Republican Senator Ron Johnson says he's not onboard with President Donald Trump's call for Republicans to "take over" elections in some states. And, a Madison author explores the question of why we write.

    Milwaukee County officials in shock over health insurance lapse, new marijuana legislation

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 12:09


    Milwaukee County officials say they were caught off guard when they found out their health insurance contract had lapsed. Democrats introduce a new bill that would legalize marijuana, but it's likely doomed in the state Legislature. And, former Judge Hannah Dugan's lawyers are raising constitutional questions as they look to get her felony conviction overturned.

    Claim Wisconsin Today

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel