Wisconsin

In Wisconsin's Democratic gubernatorial primary, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley narrowly defeated socialist state Rep. Francesca Hong by about 3,000 votes (39.8% to 39.4%), defying polls that had Hong as the front-runner. The establishment, including outgoing Gov. Tony Evers, campaigned heavily against Hong, citing her past calls to defund the police and "cancel Thanksgiving" remarks as unelectable against Republican nominee Tom Tiffany. Hong lacked endorsements from prominent progressives like AOC and Bernie Sanders. Crowley now faces Tiffany in the general election.

15 reports · 6 sources · Updated Aug 13, 05:08 PM UTC

On August 11-12, 2026, primary elections in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and South Carolina set the stage for the November midterms. In Minnesota, progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan won the Democratic Senate primary, while Sen. Amy Klobuchar secured the gubernatorial nod. Trump-endorsed Mike Lindell lost the GOP gubernatorial primary. In Wisconsin, progressive Francesca Hong narrowly lost the Democratic gubernatorial primary to establishment candidate David Crowley. The results highlight ongoing intra-party divisions ahead of the general election.

11 reports · 5 sources · Updated Aug 12, 02:37 PM UTC

A Marquette University Law School poll released Wednesday shows Democratic socialist Francesca Hong leading the Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor with 38% support, holding a comfortable double-digit lead less than two weeks before the contest. Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes trails in second place in the crowded field. The poll indicates Hong's strong position as the primary approaches, signaling a potential shift in the race dynamics. The survey was conducted among likely Democratic primary voters and has a margin of error of ±4.2 percentage points.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 05:21 PM UTC

Prairie Farms Dairy is permanently closing two cheese manufacturing facilities in Shullsburg, Wisconsin: the Shullsburg Creamery and White Hill Cheese facility. The closures, announced via WARN notices, will result in the loss of 43 jobs at Shullsburg Creamery and 54 at White Hill Cheese, totaling nearly 100 positions. Most layoffs are immediate or scheduled for mid-August, with some employees retained temporarily for shutdown activities. The retail Cheese Store at Shullsburg Creamery will remain open. Prairie Farms acquired Shullsburg Creamery in 2020, which was founded in 1934. The company, based in Edwardsville, Illinois, operates 48 plants and over 100 distribution hubs with $4.6 billion in annual revenue. The closures follow similar moves by Dairy Farmers of America and Danone, reflecting ongoing consolidation in the US dairy industry.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 01:52 PM UTC

On July 27-28, 2026, U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez issued a preliminary injunction halting Minnesota's ban on prediction markets (e.g., Kalshi, Polymarket), which was set to take effect August 1. The judge ruled the ban likely preempted by federal law under the Commodity Exchange Act, siding with the CFTC and platforms. This marks a major win for the prediction market industry and may impact similar state efforts in Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin.

6 reports · 3 sources · Updated Jul 29, 10:00 AM UTC

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits Washington to meet President Donald Trump, warning that Russia may deploy 30,000 North Korean troops to the war. Zelenskyy also claims Russia is providing Iran with satellite surveillance of Gulf states and US bases. Ukraine struck an Iranian cargo ship in the Caspian Sea, accusing it of carrying military supplies from Iran to Russia. The article notes Trump's domestic struggles and his potential need for a diplomatic win, as he also prepares to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Domestically, the article covers New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani's proposed city-owned grocery stores, the Fed's uncertain rate decision, and Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong's progressive platform.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 01:30 PM UTC

C&S Wholesale Grocers announced on Monday that it has reduced prices on thousands of products at supermarket chains it operates across eight Midwestern states, including Family Fare, VG's Grocery, Martin's Super Markets, and Piggly Wiggly. The reductions, which began rolling out in May 2026, range from 6% to 15% and focus on fresh produce, meats, and household essentials like condiments and trash bags. The price cuts are part of a broader industry trend as grocers seek to attract inflation-weary shoppers amid declining volumes. C&S CEO Eric Winn stated the investment reflects the company's commitment to helping shoppers stretch budgets without compromising quality. The company did not specify how long the decreases would last, noting they are intended to provide value throughout the summer. Other retailers including Giant Eagle, Stop & Shop, Walmart, Albertsons, and Kroger have also announced similar price reduction strategies.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 10:09 AM UTC

A tornado swept across Wisconsin on July 28, 2026, causing severe damage in the cities of Menasha and Appleton. Thousands of households are without power as a result of the storm. Local police have issued warnings about falling power lines and are advising residents to remain indoors for their safety. The full extent of the damage and any potential casualties are not yet known, but emergency services are responding to the situation.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 28, 08:51 AM UTC

Residents of Dowagiac, Michigan, have filed a lawsuit against Alliance Cloud Services LLC, a subsidiary of Hyperscale Data, over a data center that has emitted a high-pitched whining noise 24 hours a day for over two years. The facility, originally a cryptocurrency mining center, is now pivoting to AI computing and advanced robotics. The city has fined the company for violating its industrial noise ordinance (65dB daytime, 55dB nighttime), but Hyperscale Data is challenging the readings. The company has offered to buy affected homes, but residents—some with deep family roots in the area—reject the offer, citing disruption to their lives and health. The case echoes similar noise pollution lawsuits against data centers, including a Microsoft facility in Wisconsin. The CEO stated the company is spending $100 million on expansion and noise mitigation, but residents accuse the firm of failing to act promptly on complaints.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 12:02 PM UTC

The National Weather Service has forecast major and extreme heat risks for parts of the central United States through Monday, with roughly 70 million people affected. 'Hazardous heat' will build into the Great Basin and Northern Plains, with widespread major risks from the Rockies toward the Mississippi Valley and south to the Gulf Coast. States including North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida face major heat risks, with isolated extreme risks. High temperatures will range from the upper 90s to lower 100s, with isolated areas in the Southwest reaching up to 120°F. Humidity could push heat indices to 105-115°F, posing health risks to those without adequate cooling or hydration. The NWS warns that temperatures could be deadly for those without air conditioning. The seasonal outlook for August through October calls for above-normal temperatures across much of the U.S., influenced by a developing El Niño pattern.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 09:18 PM UTC

Prairie Farms, an 88-year-old farmer-owned dairy cooperative based in Illinois, is permanently closing two cheese-making facilities in Shullsburg, Wisconsin: the historic Shullsburg Creamery and the nearby White Hill Cheese facility. The closures, effective July 20 and August 14 respectively, will eliminate 97 jobs. The company cited a careful review of its manufacturing network and long-term operational needs. Shullsburg Creamery, dating back to 1934, produced award-winning cheeses including cheddar, Colby Jack, and specialty flavors like Cranberry Chipotle Cheddar. White Hill Cheese employed 54 workers. Prairie Farms products reach 30% of the U.S. market and are sold at major retailers like Target and Walmart. The company won 55 awards at the 2025 World Dairy Expo. The closures do not affect the Shullsburg Creamery retail cheese store, and the company assured no supply disruptions for customers.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 09:03 PM UTC

Prairie Farms, an 88-year-old Illinois-based dairy cooperative, is permanently closing two cheese-making facilities in Shullsburg, Wisconsin, eliminating 97 jobs. The closures affect the historic Shullsburg Creamery, which dates back to 1934 and has won multiple dairy awards, and the nearby White Hill Cheese facility. Production at Shullsburg Creamery ended July 20, affecting 43 employees, while White Hill Cheese will cease operations by August 14, impacting 54 workers. The company stated the decision followed a careful review of its manufacturing network and long-term operational needs, similar to ongoing evaluations by many manufacturers. Prairie Farms products, including milk, cheese, and ice cream, are sold by major retailers such as Target and Walmart and reach 30% of the U.S. market. The closures do not affect the Shullsburg Creamery retail Cheese Store, and the company assured no disruption in customer supplies.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 25, 09:03 PM UTC

Custom Health Holdings Inc (TSX:CHLT) received a Buy rating from Stifel with a C$12 price target and potential upside to C$18. The analyst highlights the company's pill-dispensing platform (Spencer device) and AI-powered AdhereNet system, which achieves 98% medication adherence, addressing the $0.5 trillion US cost of non-adherence. Custom Health has over 100,000 patients contracted with major insurers like Humana and BlueCross BlueShield. Separately, the company signed a binding letter of intent to acquire Wisconsin-based Evergreen Pharmacy LLC for US$3.5 million, adding over US$78 million in annual revenue and expanding its Midwest footprint. Stifel projects nearly tripling active patients to 17,000 next year and 4x revenue growth over 2-3 years, with high-margin recurring revenue from the Spencer device and improving EBITDA margins.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 04:28 PM UTC

Custom Health Holdings Inc (TSX:CHLT) received a Buy rating from Stifel with a C$12 price target and potential upside to C$18 per share. Stifel highlighted the company's pill-dispensing platform, including the Spencer device and AdhereNet AI, which achieves a 98% medication adherence rate, addressing the $0.5 trillion US healthcare cost from non-adherence. Custom Health has over 100,000 patients contracted with major insurers like Humana and Elevance. Separately, the company signed a binding letter of intent to acquire Evergreen Pharmacy LLC for US$3.5 million, adding over US$78 million in annual revenue and expanding its Midwest footprint. Stifel projects nearly tripling active patients to 17,000 next year and 4x revenue growth over two to three years, with high-margin recurring revenue from the Spencer device.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 04:28 PM UTC

Protests erupted in Madison, Wisconsin, following a fatal police shooting of a man on the city's east side. According to the Madison Police Department, the incident occurred at Baldwin and Williamson Streets after an officer was injured with a knife. The man was shot and killed by police. In response, protesters gathered in the area, leading to tensions. A community listening session scheduled to address the shooting was subsequently postponed. Multiple news outlets, including The Washington Post, USA Today, and local media, reported on the event, highlighting ongoing community concerns about police use of force.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 02:27 PM UTC

A new Marquette Law School poll conducted from July 8-16 shows Democratic socialist Francesca Hong leading the Wisconsin Democratic gubernatorial primary field with 26% support among 430 registered Democrats. Hong, a state assembly member since 2021, holds a narrow lead, though a plurality of respondents remain undecided. The poll indicates a fragmented race ahead of the primary, with Hong's progressive platform gaining traction but significant voter uncertainty persisting. The survey highlights the competitive nature of the primary as candidates vie for the nomination to challenge the incumbent Republican governor.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:18 PM UTC

Larry Ellison's net worth has plummeted by $66 billion to $181 billion this year, driven by Oracle's mounting financial pressures. The company faces a potential $7 billion collateral requirement from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin for a data center deal, which Oracle has committed to providing. Oracle's stock has fallen sharply from $240 to $126 per share since June, down 34% year-to-date, while the S&P 500 rose 9%. The company invested $55.7 billion in AI data centers in the last fiscal year and plans to raise another $70 billion, pushing its debt toward $100 billion. Analysts express concern over Oracle's ability to compete with larger rivals like Microsoft and Amazon, given its relatively modest revenue of $19.2 billion and net income of $4.3 billion in the most recent quarter. Moody's has a Baa2 rating with a negative outlook on Oracle, and the company has dropped from the top 20 most valuable companies to 37th place.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 03:15 PM UTC

The Czechoslovak Group (CSG) is establishing an advanced propulsion manufacturing facility in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, through its US subsidiary CSE USA and new unit Firecrest Aerospace. The project involves an initial investment of up to $15 million and is expected to create about 125 skilled jobs over three years. Initial assembly will begin within months, with full-scale manufacturing targeted for 2027. The facility will produce small turbojet and turbofan engines for unmanned aircraft systems, precision defense systems, target drones, and loitering munitions. The move reflects the growing importance of drones in modern warfare, highlighted by the war in Ukraine, and positions CSG to better serve US and allied defense customers while reducing reliance on European supply chains.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 02:32 PM UTC

Oracle laid off approximately 21,000 employees (13% of its workforce) during its fiscal year 2026 as part of a restructuring driven by massive AI infrastructure spending, including a reported $300 billion contract with OpenAI. The job cuts reduced headcount from 162,000 to 141,000. Meanwhile, Oracle faces a significant financial hurdle in Wisconsin, where regulators require a $7 billion collateral guarantee before powering a nearly one-gigawatt data center in Port Washington. The requirement stems from Oracle's S&P credit rating downgrade to BBB- (one notch above junk), triggered by heavy AI spending and uncertain profitability. Oracle is challenging the requirement in court, arguing it could deter investment, but regulators insist on protecting residential ratepayers from financial risk. The issue reflects broader tensions as at least 24 states adopt similar large-load tariffs for data centers.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 11:45 AM UTC

Oracle cut 21,000 jobs (13% of its workforce) during a massive AI infrastructure spending spree, including a $300 billion contract with OpenAI. The company's financial strain worsened after Wisconsin regulators demanded over $7 billion in collateral to secure electricity for a planned data center in Port Washington. The requirement stems from Oracle's BBB- credit rating (two notches below the threshold for reduced safeguards), which S&P downgraded due to heavy AI spending and uncertain profitability. Oracle is challenging the requirement in court, arguing it could deter future investment, while regulators insist on protecting residential ratepayers. The case reflects broader tensions as at least 24 states adopt similar tariffs for large data center customers amid the AI boom.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 11:45 AM UTC

The Wisconsin Election Commission (WEC) issued a warning on Tuesday stating that it is illegal for residents to place bets on election outcomes in which they also cast a ballot. WEC Administrator Meagan Wolfe emphasized that voters must understand they cannot legally make a wager on an election and vote in the same election. The statement serves as a preemptive reminder ahead of upcoming elections, warning that violators could face legal consequences, including potential loss of voting rights. The announcement highlights growing concerns over the intersection of prediction markets and electoral integrity, as online betting platforms have expanded into political events. The WEC's directive aims to clarify state law and deter voters from participating in such activities, which could undermine public confidence in election results.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:02 PM UTC

Corn futures saw midday gains of 1 to 3 cents on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, following strength in the market. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price rose by a nickel to $4.18 ¾. The weekly USDA Crop Progress report indicated 59% of the US corn crop was silking by July 19, 5 percentage points ahead of the 5-year average, with 13% in the dough stage. Overall US condition ratings slipped 1% to 67% good to excellent, with notable declines in North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Wisconsin, Kansas, Missouri, and Minnesota, while Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, and Ohio saw improvements. NOAA's 7-day precipitation forecast showed 1-2 inches of rain expected in parts of Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, and Ohio, while the Dakotas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Indiana remain drier with less than 0.5 inches. Separately, President Trump announced 50% tariffs on certain Canadian goods, excluding energy and potash, citing trade discrimination.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 05:01 PM UTC

Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) could be required to provide more than $7 billion in financial guarantees for its planned Wisconsin data centre after state regulators declined to ease credit requirements intended to shield electricity customers from higher energy costs. According to the Financial Times, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission has decided not to revise the conditions imposed on utility provider We Energies. Under the current framework, Oracle may need to secure a letter of guarantee worth approximately $7 billion, a requirement that could cost the company more than $100 million each year. The planned data centre in Port Washington, Wisconsin, is expected to deliver nearly one gigawatt of computing capacity and forms part of Oracle's $300 billion computing infrastructure agreement with OpenAI. Under We Energies' tariff for very large electricity users, developers of major data centres with an S&P credit rating below A-minus must provide collateral. Oracle held a BBB credit rating, two levels below the threshold. Last month, Oracle asked a county court to invalidate the rule. A spokesperson for the Wisconsin regulator confirmed the commission had decided not to move forward with Oracle's petition. Oracle told the Financial Times that it remains optimistic the commission will eventually reconsider its position after evaluating the employment opportunities and economic benefits expected from the $15 billion investment.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:48 AM UTC

Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) may be required to provide over $7 billion in financial guarantees for its planned Wisconsin AI data centre after the Wisconsin Public Service Commission declined to ease credit requirements. The rule, designed to protect electricity customers from higher energy costs, requires developers with an S&P credit rating below A-minus to post collateral. Oracle, which holds a BBB rating, challenged the policy in county court but the regulator decided not to proceed with the petition. The data centre in Port Washington is part of Oracle's $300 billion computing infrastructure agreement with OpenAI and is expected to deliver nearly one gigawatt of capacity. Oracle argues the requirement could impose excessive costs and discourage investment, but remains optimistic the commission will reconsider based on economic benefits.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:48 AM UTC

Environmental activist Erin Brockovich has launched a crowd-sourced registry (brockovichdatacenter.com) for Americans to report data center construction in their communities. Speaking on a podcast, she said she received 30 emails about data center issues, prompting her to create the site. Within 72 hours of its April 27 launch, the website crashed twice due to high volume. Over 8,200 people have reported data centers near them, with 41% concerned about water supply impacts. Other concerns include electricity supply, health effects, and harm to wildlife. Brockovich criticized local governments for keeping residents uninformed, often due to non-disclosure agreements with developers. Business Insider notes over 1,400 data centers were built or approved in the US by end of 2025, with hotspots in Virginia, West Texas, and Wisconsin.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 08:34 AM UTC

Douglas County health officials have reported a rapid surge in Cyclospora infections, with Taco Bell identified as a primary exposure source. The outbreak is part of a larger national trend, with new cases also reported in Jefferson County, New York, and Alabama, which has confirmed 28 cases. In Wisconsin, a Milwaukee restaurant has reinstated COVID-era protocols to combat the spread. Health authorities are advising the public on how to lower infection risk, emphasizing proper food handling and hygiene. The outbreak has prompted multi-state investigations as cases continue to rise.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 03:24 AM UTC

Bank of America has reiterated its Buy rating and $500 price target on Microsoft stock ahead of the company's fiscal Q4 2026 earnings on July 29. The bank emphasizes that Azure revenue growth, guided at 39-40% year-over-year in constant currency, is the critical metric for the stock's near-term performance. A miss could intensify investor concerns about returns on Microsoft's massive AI infrastructure spending, estimated at $42 billion in capex for Q4. The bank notes improving data center capacity, with Microsoft's Fairwater facility in Wisconsin now operational, which could help convert part of its $627 billion backlog into recognized revenue. Bank of America also highlights Copilot adoption (20 million paid seats) and $37 billion in AI annual recurring revenue as positive signals. The stock has underperformed in 2026, down about 20% year to date, making its valuation attractive according to the bank.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 07:13 PM UTC

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley has reentered the Wisconsin governor's race, receiving an endorsement from outgoing Governor Tony Evers. This development comes amid turmoil in the Democratic primary, as Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez abruptly quit the race after firing her campaign manager over financial inaccuracies. The scandal has sent Wisconsin Democrats into a state of alarm, fearing it could weaken their chances in the general election. Crowley's entry reshapes the primary field, positioning him as a key contender with establishment backing. The race is critical for Democrats aiming to retain the governorship in a key battleground state.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 07:02 PM UTC

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers (D) has endorsed Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley's revived gubernatorial campaign, following the abrupt exit of Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez (D) from the race. Evers stated he is 'all in' on ensuring Wisconsinites have a governor who stands up for the people. The endorsement consolidates Democratic support behind Crowley, who had previously suspended his campaign but is now re-entering the race. The move reshapes the Democratic primary field for the 2026 Wisconsin gubernatorial election, with Crowley now positioned as a leading candidate backed by the sitting governor.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 05:27 PM UTC

Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez has suspended her campaign for the Democratic nomination for governor, citing campaign finance issues. Her campaign reportedly owes $45,000 to a public relations firm, Kane Communications. Rodriguez's exit upends the race for the open seat, as incumbent Governor Tony Evers is not seeking re-election. Following her withdrawal, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley has restarted his own bid for the governorship. The development reshapes the Democratic primary field and the broader fight for control of the Wisconsin governor's office.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 11:26 PM UTC