WISCONSIN (MacIver Institute) -- Hello everyone! We start out this week talking about the policy failures of the Evers administration that are affecting each and every Wisconsinite by announcing our "It's Not Working" scorecard... then read on for a few examples of just how exactly it's not working. Have a great week!
Spotlight
Years ago, the MacIver Institute partnered with Americans for Prosperity on an educational campaign called “It’s Working" to highlight the successes of Gov. Scott Walker's agenda. Now, as a result of Gov. Tony Evers' policies and liberals across the state government, things are definitely NOT working. And so, it’s time for MacIver to take up a very different kind of campaign called “It’s Not Working.” This time around, we taking a more objective, data-driven approach which allows us to more completely describe the situation that Wisconsin is facing. This is done using the “It’s Not Working” scorecard.
Check out the entire scorecard and more details at by reading the full piece, but for a sneak preview, check out the map below. It's BAD.
Deep Dive
Climate Change Experts Spar at UW-Madison Diversity of Thought Forum
UW-Madison's Center for Research on the Wisconsin Economy (CROWE) hosted yet another thought-provoking event this week, hosting The Hoover Institute's Dr. Steven Koonin for a conversation on his recent book about the unsettled science around climate change. During the event, UW researcher Dr. Jonah Shaw challenged some of Koonin's assertions, and the two engaged in a lively debate on the issue. Koonin emphasized that forums like this help move beyond echo chambers and toward real clarity.
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. If you would like to learn more about how you can support MacIver and our upcoming projects, please email info@maciverinstitute.com and we will get in touch with you.
Coming Soon
Monday Count Legislation on Hold, Republicans “Not Fully There” Yet
State Rep. Scott Krug told reporters that efforts to pass legislation to would allow the counting of absentee ballots on the Monday before Election Day are stalled. According to Rep. Krug, his caucus doesn’t yet have enough support in the Senate to proceed. Some Senate Republicans worry it could give Democrats early insights into voting trends, complicating the chances of reform passing this session.
You Should Know
Legislative Audit Rips Wisconsin DPI Over “Material Weaknesses” in Financial Reporting
A scathing audit from the Legislative Audit Bureau found 182 school districts, 9 charter schools and 136 Parental Choice schools demonstrated “material weaknesses” in the FY 2022-23 financial reporting required by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI). It's another scandal for DPI that isn't going away any time soon. Read more.
Quick Click
Auditors Find Another Sloppy Evers Admin Grant Program
The Legislative Audit Bureau this week delivered a new audit on the Dairy Processor Grant and Meat Processor Infrastructure Grant programs. And like past state grant audits, the LAB found sloppiness, including that DATCP had not created a monitoring plan for the program, grant recipients did not consistently submit the required performance reports, and DATCP inappropriately paid reimbursement requests without proper documentation.
For Your Commute
This week we bring you a panel discussion featuring several conservative UW-Madison professors and State Rep. Dave Murphy highlighting how universities became dominated by liberal politics and why are they so hostile towards any conservative representation on campus. Give it a listen.
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: Nov 10, 2025 3:02 pm CST
