WISCONSIN (MacIver Institute) -- This week, we take a close look at the growing financial strain on public schools, the troubling rise of anti-capitalist sentiment among young people, and continued questions about election integrity. Read on for more.
Spotlight
The Crisis in Wisconsin Public Schools
Rebecca Draeger details the escalating financial pressures facing Wisconsin school districts as property taxes surge to cover more than $1 billion in new local spending. Rising costs tied to special education, behavioral issues, staffing, and administrative growth are driving referendums and straining taxpayers already squeezed by inflation and high living expenses. The piece underscores how throwing more money at the system without meaningful reforms in classroom management, accountability, and school choice options continues to burden families without delivering better outcomes for students.
Deep Dive
Why is Gen Z so Anti-Capitalist?
Courtney Graves explores a troubling new poll showing record support for socialism among younger Americans and what’s driving this shift in Wisconsin and nationwide. From one-sided classroom instruction and social media influence to economic pressures and changing cultural narratives, the analysis highlights how free-market principles are losing ground with the next generation — and why restoring economic education and opportunity is essential for Wisconsin’s future prosperity.
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Coming Soon
The SAVE America Act: Common-Sense Protection for Every Legal Voter’s Voice
Even one illegal vote cancels out the voice of a legal voter, and with Wisconsin voters overwhelmingly approving a constitutional amendment banning noncitizen voting in 2024, the SAVE Act simply takes that common-sense principle nationwide. It offers practical options like REAL ID, passports, or birth certificates paired with photo ID, while emphasizing the need to make citizenship documents more accessible — not to lower standards. The House has already passed the bill; it’s time for the Senate to act and ensure every legal citizen’s vote counts.
You Should Know
Why Trump (Rightly) Fired the National Science Foundation Board
Richard Moore defends President Trump’s decision to remove all 22 members of the National Science Foundation board, arguing it was a necessary step to curb politicization and restore focus to genuine scientific inquiry rather than ideological agendas.
Quick Click
Milwaukee Mayor Latest to Comment on FBI Elections Investigation
Benjamin Yount reports that Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson criticized the FBI’s outreach to Wisconsin election officials, claiming the Trump administration is trying to “alter reality.” The push for greater election scrutiny continues to spark strong reactions from Democrats.
For Your Commute
The MacIver Report was off this week.
Last Update: May 18, 2026 4:25 pm CDT
