WISCONSIN (MacIver Institute) -- The state Assembly has wrapped up its session and the state Senate is not too far behind. But there is still plenty of news going on. Read on for this week's MacIver Monday.
Spotlight
Speak Now Or Forever Hold Your...
Richard Moore sees free speech in the United States facing a growing threat from European-style online censorship. Because social media platforms often adopt global moderation policies, rules imposed by the European Union may end up restricting what Americans can say and see online. According to Richard, that protecting the First Amendment will require vigilance — and a willingness to push back before those limits become the new normal.
Deep Dive
Wisconsin Energy Policy: Innovating Within the Regulated Monopoly
Andrew Weiss of the Weiss Energy Policy Institute partnered with us for a report looking at dire state of Wisconsin's energy infrastructure. According to Andrew's study, Wisconsin faces a potential energy crisis, with new reports projecting a high risk of blackouts by the winter of 2028. Residents are currently paying more for electricity than the rest of the Midwest, as energy prices continue to outpace inflation even as residential consumption has decreased.
Read this important report here.
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Coming Soon
The Assembly wrapped-up for the year on Friday, but Assembly Speaker Robin Vos said he is still talking with Governor Evers about a tax relief deal. Wisconsin has a $2.5 billion surplus, and Vos said Republicans are looking for a way to use that to pay for either income tax or property tax relief. Gov. Evers, however, continues to insist that some of that money must go to Wisconsin’s public schools.
You Should Know
MacIver's Michael Lucas takes an initial look at the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to curtail President Trump's tariff-setting authority.
We'll have plenty more coverage of tariffs and their economic impact in the coming weeks.
Quick Click
Wisconsin Assembly Quietly Okays Online Sports Gambling Plan
The Wisconsin Assembly on Thursday quickly approved the plan to allow the state’s tribes to open online sports gambling services. The vote was a voice vote, and it was controversial. Voice votes do not take a rollcall, and voters at home will never know how their representatives voted.
The ‘ayes’ carried the vote, but you could hear several lawmakers vociferously yell “no” during the vote.
Many lawmakers don’t like the plan. They fear giving the tribes a monopoly, and they fear the social ills of more gambling. Gov. Tony Evers has said he will sign the plan.
For Your Commute
MacIver's Richard Moore joined Vicki McKenna to discuss his recent article on PFAS and state Supreme Court action that is infringing on legislative oversight of the executive branch. Watch it below.
About MacIver Institute: The MacIver Institute is a Wisconsin-based think tank that promotes free markets, individual freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government. Through research, analysis, and community engagement, we work to advance these principles and positively impact the lives of all Wisconsinites.
Last Update: Feb 23, 2026 2:43 pm CST
