AGP Executive Report

Gubernatorial race & campaign finance: Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez says she won’t take “any corporate PAC money,” but recent campaign finance records show past donations from corporate-member PACs, including WEC Energy Group and the Wisconsin Mortgage Bankers Association. Congressional primary stakes: In Wisconsin’s 7th District, Michael Alfonso—son-in-law of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy—faces pushback from within his own party over age and experience as the Aug. 11 primary approaches. Elections & voting access: A Votebeat review finds Mequon election workers used an unusually strict, now-illegal standard for absentee ballot witness addresses, with uneven application that may have led to wrongful rejections. School funding pressure: DPI preliminary estimates show more than half of districts will see lower state aid next year, shifting the impact toward property taxpayers even as overall general school aid stays flat. Public safety & emergencies: Lake Geneva storm cleanup continues after a deadly boat capsized during severe weather, with the mayor declaring an emergency and dozens of agencies responding. Local government calendar: Multiple city and county meetings are scheduled across North Central, Southern, Southwest, and West Central Wisconsin this week, including several Rock County committees and multiple city councils. Rural economy & services: A Wisconsin Policy Forum report highlights how volunteer fire and EMS staffing has fallen sharply since 2020, pushing more departments toward paid roles and regional collaborations.

Rare Earth Recycling: A UW-Madison expert says the U.S. may secure rare earth supply chains faster by recycling the “rare” metals already sitting in decades of waste, not just by opening new mines. Medical Education Overhaul: Ghana’s education minister says the government plans to decentralize and expand medical training, aiming to boost doctor supply across regions. UW-Madison Athletics: Shawn Eichorst has been named UW-Madison Director of Athletics, returning to Wisconsin after top roles at Texas, Nebraska, and Miami. Open Records: A Wisconsin piece reiterates that “any person” can request public records, pushing back on limits like redactions and access barriers. Campaign Finance: The U.S. Supreme Court struck down limits on coordinated party spending, a move that could further amplify wealthy donor influence in elections. USPS Voting Rule Fight: Democratic governors, including Wisconsin’s, urged the Postal Service to withdraw a proposed rule tied to a Trump “citizenship list” plan. Milwaukee Gun Violence Research: A study links prior motor vehicle crash injuries with later firearm injuries among kids and teens, pointing to new prevention angles for Milwaukee. World Cup Prediction Markets: Kalshi and Polymarket are posting record volumes, but Wisconsin readers are reminded that state felony bans could make participation risky. Lake Geneva Storm Tragedy: AP reports three deaths and seven rescues after a boat capsized during severe weather on Lake Geneva. Milwaukee World Cup Shooting: A World Cup watch party on the south side turned deadly; a St. Francis man faces homicide charges. Egg Price-Fixing Settlement: The Justice Department and states reached settlements with major egg producers over alleged collusion that inflated egg prices.

Severe Weather & Public Safety: A fast-moving storm on Lake Geneva killed three children and left seven others rescued, with authorities investigating the capsizing after winds and waves overwhelmed a boat; the Lake Geneva community held a Fourth of July tribute and moment of silence as power outages and damage were reported across Walworth County. Elections & Voting Access: Attorneys general—including Wisconsin’s Aaron Ford—are pushing back on a U.S. Postal Service plan tied to election administration, arguing it could restrict mail-in voting; separate reporting also highlights Wisconsin’s ongoing primary-election focus as absentee ballots near the Aug. 11 runoffs. State Government & Policy: Wisconsin’s Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund is set to expire after decades, raising questions about what happens to land and outdoor recreation projects; meanwhile, Wisconsin’s extended postpartum Medicaid coverage continues to roll out statewide. Local Governance & Housing: Dane County’s funding for Madison’s homeless shelter and plans for outdoor sleeping drew criticism as a “shell game,” fueling debate over accountability and public spending. Milwaukee & Civic History: A profile of the Wisconsin Policy Forum shows how it’s packing more than a century of Milwaukee County records ahead of a move—highlighting the nonprofit’s role in shaping local and state policy debates.

Severe Weather & Public Safety: A fast-moving storm over Walworth County turned a Lake Geneva holiday outing deadly, killing three children and leaving seven others rescued after a recreational boat capsized and sank; officials say strong winds and waves overwhelmed the vessel, and the Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency and Wisconsin DNR are investigating. Holiday Disruptions: Across the region, heat and storms marred America’s 250th, with major event adjustments and widespread power outages reported as utilities struggled with downed lines and storm damage. Boating Enforcement: Wisconsin DNR wardens are joining Operation Dry Water to crack down on impaired boating over the July 3-5 weekend, pairing education with compliance checks and increased patrols. Health Policy: Wisconsin’s extended postpartum Medicaid coverage is now in effect, expanding eligibility to a full year after pregnancy for eligible moms, with DHS estimating 16,000 people will benefit in the first year. Local Government & Community Life: Milwaukee’s public debate continues over ICE enforcement and local rules, while communities across Wisconsin marked July 4 with parades and events tied to America 250.

Storm Response: Three children died and seven people were rescued after a boat capsized on Lake Geneva during severe weather, as Walworth County saw downed trees, power lines, and widespread damage; Lake Geneva declared a state of emergency and investigators are still sorting out what happened. Disaster Aid: FEMA approved a major disaster declaration for Wisconsin tied to April storms, tornadoes, and flooding, unlocking recovery help for multiple counties and the Oneida Nation. Election Integrity Fight: Democratic governors, including Wisconsin’s, urged the U.S. Postal Service to withdraw a proposed rule tied to a Trump order that they say could restrict mail-in voting by using federal “citizenship” lists. Tech & Local Impact: Wisconsin residents filed a class-action lawsuit against Microsoft over alleged noise from the company’s Fairwater data center in Mount Pleasant/Sturtevant area. Public Safety & Courts: A Madison man was arrested and charged after threatening the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office, with a court date set for July 8. Community Grants: Theisen’s More For Your Community grants are open for 2026, with nonprofits able to apply through July 31 for projects supporting basic needs for children and families.

Boating Safety Crisis: A fast-moving storm over Walworth County killed three people and left seven rescued after a boat capsized on Geneva Lake during the Fourth of July weekend; authorities say downed trees and power lines slowed response and the Geneva Lake Law Enforcement Agency is investigating. Election & Voting Fight: Democratic governors, including Wisconsin’s, urged the U.S. Postal Service to drop Trump-linked changes that would tighten mail voting and create a federally managed voter list, as lawsuits continue over the rules. Immigration Enforcement Backlash: Milwaukee-area ICE arrests drew renewed outcry, with city officials weighing legal action as advocates push back against detention tactics. Courtroom Watch: Former Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan heads toward sentencing in a federal obstruction case, with prosecutors seeking a serious penalty and the defense asking for time served. First Amendment/Religion Clash: Wisconsin Christian counselors are challenging a state rule limiting certain gender-related counseling, arguing it violates a recent Supreme Court ruling on viewpoint discrimination. Local Governance & Privacy: Wisconsin communities continue grappling with ALPR/“Flock” camera controversies, with Stoughton adding cameras even as critics warn of expanded surveillance.

Student Loan Fight: A multistate AG coalition led by Wisconsin’s Kwame Raoul won a court ruling blocking a U.S. Department of Education rule that would have tightened Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, a move that could affect Wisconsin’s future workforce. Higher Ed Impact: UW-Madison officials warned that proposed federal borrowing limits could worsen rural staffing shortages, with medical students facing especially steep debt. Milwaukee Courthouse Costs: Milwaukee County’s courthouse overhaul price tag jumped to about $897 million, doubling earlier estimates and raising questions about property-tax pressure and timing. City Hall Security: Waukesha approved $319,000 for City Hall security upgrades after threats to staff, including plans for access controls and protective barriers. AI Regulation Clash: Wisconsin lawmakers joined a national push against federal “preemption” that would block state and local AI rules, arguing Wisconsin needs room to regulate. Immigration on the Ground: Milwaukee volunteers held “know your rights” walks amid a surge in ICE activity, while local officials weigh legal responses. Sports Betting Delay: Wisconsin’s mobile sports betting is still waiting on tribal compacts and federal approval, even after state law cleared. America 250 in Schools: A Milwaukee teacher built a year-long America 250 curriculum as concerns grow about declining U.S. history education.

Medicaid Fight: Nevada AG Aaron Ford and 23 other attorneys general sued the Trump administration over new Medicaid work requirements, arguing the rule wrongly narrows exemptions for medically frail people. Voting Rights/USPS: Wisconsin DOJ joined a multistate push urging USPS to withdraw a proposed rule that would create a centralized voter list and restrict mail ballots, after a federal judge struck down the underlying executive order. Milwaukee vs. Federal Agents: A legal question is now front and center after video showed masked federal agents in Milwaukee; city leaders say local rules are being violated, while attorneys argue federal supremacy may decide whether ordinances apply. ICE Pressure in Milwaukee: Milwaukee leaders and advocates are escalating scrutiny as arrests surge, including calls for legal action and disputes over whether federal agents will follow local mask rules. School Funding: DPI released 2026-27 general school aid estimates showing flat overall state funding at $5.58B, with most districts facing decreases under the equalization formula. Public Safety: Wisconsin DNR and law enforcement launched “Operation Dry Water” for the July 4 weekend, targeting impaired boating with extra patrols and sobriety checks. Campaign Trail: Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez unveiled her “Wisconsin Promise” education plan ahead of the Aug. 11 Democratic primary, pitching more school funding and a transparency dashboard.

Immigration & Local Enforcement: Milwaukee and advocates are reacting to a surge in ICE arrests, with the city pushing back on federal tactics and legal fights over local rules. State Budget & Federal Cuts: Gov. Tony Evers is urging Wisconsin’s congressional delegation to oppose Trump’s FFY27 budget proposals, warning they would gut programs tied to clean water, natural resources, infrastructure, and disaster readiness. Elections Administration: The WEC is reviewing a complaint involving duplicate absentee ballots sent to Green Bay voters, adding fresh scrutiny to ballot handling. Sports Policy: Wisconsin’s approach to transgender girls’ participation in girls sports is effectively reinforced after a U.S. Supreme Court decision upheld state authority in the issue. Health Care: Wisconsin’s expanded postpartum Medicaid coverage is now in effect, extending benefits to a full year for new moms. Environment & Public Safety: A potentially record-breaking heatwave has prompted emergency measures and cooling-center plans across the region, with Wisconsin officials urging residents to stay hydrated and limit exposure. Natural Resources: DNR data shows ruffed grouse drumming counts fell in 2026 across Wisconsin’s priority zones, signaling habitat and population pressures.

Egg Price-Fixing Fallout: The DOJ and 17 states reached a $3.3 million settlement with major egg producers accused of colluding to inflate egg prices, with Wisconsin slated to receive eggs for distribution. Disaster Relief Fight: President Trump announced $22.6 million in FEMA disaster aid for Wisconsin after April storms, but local officials say details on which counties qualify remain unclear and Gov. Evers is skeptical. ICE vs. Milwaukee: Milwaukee leaders and police unions are clashing with ICE over a surge of arrests and alleged violations of city rules, including a mask ban. Elections Oversight: The Wisconsin Elections Commission will review a complaint that Green Bay’s clerk likely violated state law by sending duplicate absentee ballots to 152 voters. School Safety & Funding: A Milwaukee Public Schools fire at Lincoln Avenue School highlighted that only 28% of MPS buildings have sprinklers, while state aid estimates show mixed changes for Rock County districts. Health Policy: Wisconsin DHS says federal cuts to teen pregnancy prevention grants left the state scrambling for replacement funding. Sports & Politics Collide: UW-Madison named Shawn Eichorst as athletic director, and Wisconsin-born soccer player Esmir Bajraktarević is in the World Cup spotlight with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Immigration Enforcement: Advocates say ICE arrests in Milwaukee and across Wisconsin have intensified, with reports of at least 18 to 39 people detained in recent days and concerns raised about tactics and due process. Medicaid & Maternal Health: Wisconsin’s postpartum Medicaid extension kicks in, expanding coverage to 12 months for about 16,000 new moms, with DHS highlighting mental health and other postpartum needs. Elections & Voting Rights: A Supreme Court birthright citizenship ruling upheld the standard nationwide, while Wisconsin lawmakers and AG Kaul framed it as a victory and Republicans criticized it; separate coverage also flags ongoing fights over absentee voting rules and ballot handling. Public Safety: DNR wardens join Operation Dry Water July 3-5 to crack down on impaired boating. Environment & Infrastructure: Milwaukee’s $122M “bathtub” storage facility for toxic sediment is nearing completion under the Great Lakes cleanup effort, and regulators respond to an Enbridge Line 5 reroute drilling-fluid spill tied to tribal concerns. Local Politics: Waukesha County voters head to an Aug. 11 partisan primary, with key races including governor and sheriff.

Immigration Enforcement: ICE says it arrested 39 people in Wisconsin during a weekend sweep, with advocates disputing the scope and motives and city officials weighing legal action over detentions and due-process concerns. Homelessness Funding Fight: Wisconsin DOJ and a coalition of states won a court ruling blocking Trump-era HUD conditions that would have restricted billions in Continuum of Care housing funds. Healthcare Pressure: Doctors and community leaders protested Wisconsin GOP lawmakers’ support for Trump’s “big beautiful bill,” arguing it’s driving closures and threatening more cuts. SNAP & Cost Controls: New federal SNAP payment error-rate rules mean some states will have to cover a share of benefits costs; Wisconsin’s broader food-assistance changes also continue rolling out. Citizenship Ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court upheld birthright citizenship, drawing sharp reactions from Wisconsin Democrats and Republicans. Local Elections: With the Jan. 7 filing deadline passed, spring races are taking shape across local government and school boards. Conservation: Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program funding expired after 30+ years, sparking blame and debate over future land and trail protection. Milwaukee Civic Life: Milwaukee dedicated a giant downtown mural honoring Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker.

Wisconsin Supreme Court & elections: The state Supreme Court will hear two major challenges to Wisconsin’s congressional maps on Sept. 16, including arguments that the “least change” process improperly lets partisan mapmakers do the court’s job and that the maps create an anti-competitive gerrymander. Voting rules: A U.S. Supreme Court mail-ballot ruling allowing post–Election Day counting if ballots are postmarked doesn’t change Wisconsin’s stricter approach, where ballots must be in clerks’ hands by 8 p.m. Medicaid & federal power: Wisconsin is among states facing new Medicaid work requirements, with Democratic-led states suing over a narrow “medically frail” exemption. AI & privacy: Wisconsin-area policing and surveillance concerns are rising as AI tools speed up analysis of drone and camera footage, raising worries about bias and harder-to-challenge outcomes in court. Utilities & energy: Oracle is suing Wisconsin over a Public Service Commission financial requirement tied to its Port Washington data center plans. Consumer protection: AG Josh Kaul and DATCP announced a $4.25 million multistate settlement with Menards over deceptive credit-check marketing and COVID-era price gouging. Local governance & infrastructure: Gov. Evers’ Pothole Patrol hit Cedarburg, highlighting new transportation funding for roads and bridges.

Constitutional Amendment Push: Wisconsin Republicans are accelerating plans to lock in conservative policy via constitutional amendments, aiming to make changes harder to undo and sidestep governor control—covering everything from tax-increase supermajorities to limits on how municipalities pay for election costs. Medicaid Work Requirements Fight: A coalition of 25 Democratic-led states (including Wisconsin) sued the Trump administration to block new federal guidance that narrows who qualifies as “medically frail” under Medicaid work rules, arguing it will cut coverage for disabled and ill residents. College Sports Pay Bill: A bipartisan federal college sports compensation bill cleared a key Senate committee hurdle, but faces resistance from major conferences and a tight path before Congress recesses. ICE Enforcement in Milwaukee: Advocates say ICE stepped up arrests across Milwaukee over the weekend, raising concerns about scope, tactics, and how local law enforcement will respond. Childcare Bridge Payments Ending: Wisconsin’s childcare bridge payment program expires June 30, and many providers warn closures and rate hikes are likely without the funding. Local Governance & Free Speech: Milwaukee County changed its chalk-writing rules in parks after free-speech concerns and complaints about political protest chalk. Heat Safety Utility Rules: The Public Service Commission reminded customers that utilities can’t disconnect occupied homes during NWS heat advisories/warnings and must make reasonable reconnection attempts. Sports Betting Case: Former Bucks guard Malik Beasley and ex-NBA Ed Davis were indicted in a federal scheme alleging they manipulated performances for bettors.

Family Law in Wisconsin: Wisconsin courts don’t set a specific age when a child can “choose” which parent to live with; judges weigh the child’s best interests, and older kids’ wishes may carry more weight but aren’t automatically controlling. Election Law Fight: Michigan AG Dana Nessel and allies won a federal court victory blocking a Trump executive order aimed at interfering with states’ election administration, including limits tied to federal lists and mail voting. 988 Mental Health in Wisconsin: Sen. Tammy Baldwin toured a 988 call center in Green Bay, pushing for faster restoration of LGBTQ+ youth access and highlighting rising demand for answered calls statewide. Public Safety—Heat: Extreme heat warnings hit the Chicago area, with “extremely dangerous” conditions expected near parts of Wisconsin. Wisconsin Economy & Business: Twin Disc was added to the Russell 2000 and Russell 3000 indexes, while the Latino Entrepreneurial Network opened fall registration for a Milwaukee and Racine small-business training program. Community & Aid: A Milwaukee group, Voces de la Frontera, ran a donation drive for Venezuela earthquake victims. Wisconsin Courts & Voting: A federal judge blocked key parts of Trump’s attempt to take over mail-in voting rules, keeping Wisconsin’s process intact.

Agriculture & Local Control: Two Polk County residents are threatening to sue the town of Eureka over rules governing large livestock farms, reviving the fight over how much local governments can regulate CAFO operations. Courts & Environment: A Wisconsin Court of Appeals ruling upheld rescinding Kohler Co.’s wetlands-fill permit for a proposed Sheboygan Lake Michigan golf course, a fresh legal setback for the project. Redistricting: State senators are reacting to a Wisconsin Supreme Court decision that legislative maps fail constitutional requirements, with lawmakers now weighing next steps for new Senate and Assembly boundaries. Energy & Public Input: Environmental groups are pushing residents to speak at a July Public Service Commission hearing on Invenergy’s proposed Darien gas plant, arguing the project could harm air and water quality. Elections & Voting Rights: A federal appeals court again rejected a DOJ push to expedite a Wisconsin voter-roll lawsuit seeking unredacted registration data. Education Policy: Gov. Evers signed a bipartisan bill requiring Wisconsin high schools to teach at least one semester of financial literacy starting with the class of 2028. Workforce & Health Care Politics: SEIU Wisconsin held a forum with Democratic gubernatorial candidates focused on affordability, collective bargaining, and Act 10. Disaster Response: Evers asked the U.S. Small Business Administration for a Rapid Disaster Declaration for storm and flooding damage affecting multiple counties.