Morning Headlines - Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2026

Start your day informed with today’s must-read headlines from around Wisconsin and the world. And don’t forget to check out our Meme of the Day at the end for a little humor to go with your news.

U.S. and World Headlines

Key Takeaways From Tuesday’s Primaries In Florida, Alaska And Wyoming

As Florida voters prepare to replace term-limited Gov. Ron DeSantis, Republicans on Tuesday chose a close ally of President Donald Trump, while Democrats nominated a party-switcher who left the GOP because of the president.

Meanwhile, democratic socialists once again demonstrated their growing influence with state Rep. Angie Nixon's victory in Democrats' Senate primary in Florida. But two of the party's House incumbents, running for the first time in newly redrawn districts, survived challenges from the left.

Trump Says He Paused 50% Tariffs On Some Canadian Goods As Deal Being Finalized

President Trump said Tuesday he has paused the 50% tariffs on a range of Canadian goods that were set to take effect Wednesday.

"I have paused the 50% Tariffs against Canada that were scheduled to kick in tomorrow morning for a three day period, based on the fact that Canada and the U.S.A., subject to the finalization of documents, have a DEAL!" Mr. Trump said in the Truth Social post.

Car Dealerships Are Relying More On Parts And Service For Profits

U.S. vehicle dealerships are seeing parts and service departments and finance and insurance arms become more important sources of profit.

A dealer is a pretty well hedged business, since it can make money by either selling vehicles or servicing them.

But there are potential threats, as chain repair shops are grabbing a larger slice of the pie.

DOJ Secures Indictment Of 17 Iranians Accused Of ‘Massive’ Cyber Theft Campaign

The Justice Department (DOJ) on Tuesday unsealed an indictment charging 17 Iranian nationals with targeting American and foreign institutions via a cyber theft campaign on behalf of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The 14-count indictment charges 17 members of the Mabna Institute, an Iran-based company that has allegedly conducted a “coordinated campaign of cyber intrusions” into the computer systems of at least 144 U.S.-based universities, 178 foreign universities and 42 U.S.-based private companies.

Gayle King 'Not Happy' About Plan For New Host On CBS Mornings As Overhaul Looms – Reports

Gayle King is 'not happy' about a possible overhaul of CBS Mornings that could include a new host amid declining ratings, according to media reports.

King, 71, could soon be joined by Norah O'Donnell, 52, who appears to be on the uptick at CBS News since Bari Weiss began serving as editor–in–chief of the broadcaster.

King was 'not happy' with the possibility and 'does not want Norah to return to the show,' according to a source cited by the outlet.

Wisconsin Headlines

2 Rural School Districts Could Consolidate As Leaders Feel The Rest Of The State Is Watching

Two school districts in rural Wisconsin are facing a tough choice — consolidate and improve opportunities and finances — or stay separate and risk going it alone.

“I believe for the survival of our districts — but I also believe the survival of many rural districts — something needs to be done,” Lindner said.

Lindner said they’ve consistently heard something from other district leaders: “’A lot of eyes on you two.’ Because it seems like whatever happens here, if it does go forward, we’ll be the poster boy.”

Wisconsin Lawmakers Examine Cryptocurrency Regulations As Scams Grow

A bipartisan Wisconsin legislative committee spent hours at the Capitol examining whether the growing cryptocurrency industry needs more regulation.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, Wisconsin residents over the age of 60 lost $46 million to cryptocurrency scams in 2025.

Insurgent Republicans Lose Northern Wisconsin Primaries For Legislature

In 74th Assembly District, a rematch between Scott Harbridge and Rep. Chanz Green.

In the 25th Senate District, Erik Severson defeats Angie Sapik, who previously championed Jan. 6 rioters.

UW Proposes $730 Million In Additional State Aid

Universities of Wisconsin leaders are proposing to seek an additional $730 million in aid over the next two years with an offer to freeze tuition over that period — if the state comes up with the money to cover the lost revenue.

UW Board of Regents President Kyle Weatherly and interim system President Renee Wachter said yesterday if state lawmakers take them up on the offer for $190 million to fund the freeze, the system would also keep tuition increases at or under the rate of inflation for the 2029-31 biennium.

Measles Outbreak Grows To 36 Cases Across Southwestern Wisconsin Counties

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services and Grant County Health Department confirmed two cases of measles in Grant County residents.

The two new cases are related to confirmed cases in Lafayette and Iowa counties and are part of an outbreak in southwestern Wisconsin, according to public health officials. Based on ongoing investigations, cases in the region have now increased to 36 confirmed and three probable cases.