WISCONSIN (MacIver Institute) -- It’s another busy week in Wisconsin. From government programs that backfire to new debates over censorship, civility, and health care spending, we’re tracking how policy decisions in Madison — and beyond — continue to shape freedom and accountability. Plus, don’t miss the return of the MacIver Report Podcast, diving into campus free speech and other controversies making headlines.
Spotlight
How Government Manages to Make Problems Worse
Government often steps in to fix problems — and somehow makes them worse. In this special presentation, Bill Osmulski breaks down how bureaucratic “solutions” tend to create new crises, using examples from right here in Wisconsin.
Watch his interview with Will Martin of WNOV radio in Milwaukee below.
Deep Dive
Call Gender Therapy Bans What They Are: Government Censorship
Richard Moore examines how bans on certain counseling practices aren’t protecting minors — they’re policing speech. When the government tells therapists what they can and can’t say, it’s not health care policy. It’s censorship.
As we draw closer to 2026, MacIver’s independent research and analysis are more essential than ever. We’re planning for a big finish in 2025 and an even bigger 2026, so if you believe in our mission, please consider donating to support our work today.
You Should Know
Dems Just Can’t Bring Themselves to Be Civil
Dan O’Donnell highlights how Democrats’ refusal to denounce harassment and intimidation undercuts their claims of moral high ground. When civility depends on party affiliation, it’s not civility at all.
Watch below.
Coming Soon
Liberal Firm Wants Wisconsin Gerrymandering Case Decided by Three Judges
A liberal legal group is pushing the Wisconsin Supreme Court to kick a major gerrymandering lawsuit to a three-judge panel, instead of deciding the case itself. They argue it’s procedural precedent, but opponents say it’s a shortcut to delay or manipulate outcomes. This could dramatically affect how redistricting disputes are resolved in Wisconsin going forward.
Quick Click
Republicans Demand Answers from DPI on Predatory Teachers
Republicans, led by State Sens. John Jagler and Romaine Quinn, are demanding answers and demanding changes after an explosive report from The Capital Times on how some Wisconsin teachers are allowed to walk away from grooming investigations. The report found that 200 teachers have been investigated for grooming or sexual misconduct, and were in many cases allowed to keep their teaching licenses.
For Your Commute
In this week’s episode of the MacIver Report, hosts Bill and Courtney unpack several key stories, including how universities are mishandling diversity of thought, how a five-year span saw nearly 200 teachers under investigation for misconduct (including grooming concerns) and what that means for trust in public education, and why Planned Parenthood’s decision to to suspend abortion services in the state may reflect not only mission-shifts but market and regulatory pressures.
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: Oct 20, 2025 3:34 pm CDT
